The Hamilton AM Rotary club has accumulated a nice collection of tents, tables fundraising supplies and decorations over the years used to host high quality, successful fundraising events over its 38 year history. The last two years, this growing collection of goods was stored at Tennier Sanitation, thanks to the generosity of member Darren Slemko, I am sure Darren didn't know what he was in for when he extended this generous offer but as the say, "all good things must come to an end". Darren's warehouse space was needed for expansion of his growing business so a move was necessary. There was not big fight to secure additional space for about 400 square feet of goods, Mark Ewer, Past-President took up the initiative to research three local options and on September 20, a new home was secured for these items. The club chose Public Storage on Hess Street North as a reasonable option for the new home for this rag tag collection of boxes and bins and more. On September 20, members Don Grennan, John Mokrycke, Mark Ewer and his son Paul Ewer moved everything in one move to the new location less than 5 kilometers away. We were a little surprised when Don showed up with a Mustang convertible for the move but when he put the top down, we saw the wisdom for those taller decorations. John contributed his Volvo wagon and Mark brought a borrowed truck and in one trip, the transfer was completed! We may have not done the neatest job of storing all these items but we were able to close the storage unit door when we were done. As they say, "the rest is history"! Thanks boys!
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Hamilton AM Rotary "On the Move"!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-09-20 04:00:00Z |
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At the regular morning meeting of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM on September18, guest speaker, Jeff Mahoney shared his deepest insights into the "good, the bad and the ugly" of working in the newsroom of the Hamilton Spectator newspaper. Jeff recently retired after 36 years at "The Spec" where he was renowned for his feature stories primarily on human interest and community issues. Jeff spoke for 20 minutes straight, without notes, but we felt assured he was speaking truth, and from the heart. Jeff was saddened by the gradual reduction in newspapers in Ontario, for example the loss of our weekly community papers, and indicated the newsroom was reduced from about 150 to its present cohort of 15 reporters, editors, photographers and others. Many members realized that the enormous presses in the Spectator flagship at Frid and Main West were now gone and in fact the building has been sold and the business relocated to an almost secret location on Pritchard Road. A number of members, particularly John Mokrycke and Mark Ewer have valued their friendship with Jeff over the years but we are not sure of how long this might last due to advanced age on the part of all the parties! Jeff valued the contribution of Rotary to the community and the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM valued Jeff's contribution to public education and awareness over his many years as an outstanding reporter! Thank you Jeff was the message the club wanted to convey to him!
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Jeff Mahoney unmasked?
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Mark Ewer
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2024-09-18 04:00:00Z |
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At our regular morning meeting, on September 4 Lesia Mokrycke spoke on her Urban Forest Lab and Monument Tree Projects. She started by providing an overview of her art and landscape architecture practice, discussing the origins of her inspiration, in art, architecture and the environment. She talked about how her practice of walking has informed her research, such as for the piece that was recently in the exhibition at the Lister block building in Hamilton titled, "Passage". This piece talked about memory, time and history, detailing how interned Ukrainian-Canadian citizens had cleared roads during internment to build what became Canada’s National Park system. Lesia talked about her interest in buried water in Hamilton and her research on Chedoke Creek, where she explained how a large linear park could be adapted in downtown Hamilton. Some of her influences include performance artwork. Lesia showed how these experiments with space and movement inform her environmental artworks, such as Wind Machine, which was installed at the University of Pennsylvania in 2020. Lesia talked about her exhibition Trees Talking, showing members how the living trees she brought into the exhibition space contrast with the tree photographs that are illuminated in lightboxes: a juxtaposition between media and living things Lastly, she talked about how her research into Hamilton’s oldest trees is informing her urban design. In this work, she creates uses the oldest trees in the city to create a network of linked urban parks (green spaces). Lesia talked about her exhibition Trees Talking, showing members how the living trees she brought into the exhibition space contrast with the tree photographs that are illuminated in lightboxes: a juxtaposition between media and living things Lastly, she talked about how her research into Hamilton’s oldest trees is informing her urban design. In this work, she creates uses the oldest trees in the city to create a network of linked urban parks (green spaces). She almost did not have enough time for her excellent presentation because her proud father, member John Mokrycke, waxed eloquently about the educational and now work achievements of his oldest child, Lesia! One of our "Rotary rules" is the introduction cannot exceed the guest speaker's presentation in length! An appropriate fine will deal with this minor infraction!
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"Tree"mendous Presentation by Lesia Mokrycke
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Mark Ewer
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2024-09-04 04:00:00Z |
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At the Hamilton AM Rotary August 14 club meeting, two major grant cheques of $6000 each were presented. One was to Erin Buckle of John Howard Society of Hamilton and the other to Sheba Khan of Wesley House. Erin explained how valuable this funding was to maintain their “Healthy Relationship Program”. These funds will allow them to expand acceptance into the program of clients badly in need of this kind of counselling support. Sheba described their special efforts to help the age 16- 21 homeless population in Hamilton. The funds will allow them to improve their programming area where they offer this service. These funds were generated through Rotary Club of Hamilton AM fundraising efforts.
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Grants Given to John Howard Society of Hamilton and Wesley House
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Mark Ewer
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2024-08-14 04:00:00Z |
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Hamilton AM club members welcomed 3 outstanding citizens; Nancy McMillan, Kathie Ward and Lee Prokaska who spoke of their personal involvement in Hamilton's Bright Run, a significant local cancer fundraising annual event. Bright Run is a non-competitive, family-friendly 1 km/5 km walk or run held at Christie Lake Conservation Area on the first Saturday after Labour Day The Bright Run is a volunteer led event that has raised more than $5.5 million since its inception in 2008 to fund local breast care research at the Juravinski Cancer Centre and McMaster University. Each of our guests shared their personal story and their path to becoming integral to the Bright Run operation. In recognition of this tremendous example of volunteer leadership, Lee Prokaska and Kathie Ward were given Paul Harris Awards by the Hamilton AM club with Nancy to receive hers at the August 9, Starry Night fundraiser.
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Two Paul Harris Presentations!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-08-07 04:00:00Z |
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At the August 7, 2024 Hamilton AM club meeting, a brief Annual General Meeting was held for the purposes of approving the new club Charitable Corporation. At a previous meeting, PDG Anne Bermingham made an excellent presentation of this major change in club operations. Due to Ontario legislative changes, the club was required to dissolve its old "Trust" program used to host fundraising events and to provide minor and major community grants. The new corporation has now been approved including a slate of board members. Going forward, all club fundraising efforts will be carried out in the name of the charitable corporation and Charitable Tax Receipts will now be issued in that fashion. At the meeting these changes were ratified. The Charitable Corporation board members include club Treasurer, Simon Boucher, Secretary Tim McClemont, Past President MacNeal Lashley and Directors Marita Zaffiro, Clare Freeman and John Baxter.
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Welcome to the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM Charitable Corporation
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Mark Ewer
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2024-08-07 04:00:00Z |
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"Oh, the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear
And it shows them pearly white" OK, so Mac Lashley sure has those pearly whites but that is his only similarity to this historic song by Bobby Darrin about a knife wielding criminal in the London underworld. Maybe that Mack the Knife also wore distinctive foot ware? Who dares wear running shoes to a Rotary meeting or formal event - our Mac does! At the Hamilton AM Club's Wednesday, July 26 morning meeting Mac gave a great review of the highlights of his year as Club President. He and his board team hit many highlights; increased membership, financial stability, engaging club meetings, interesting club socials and of course our historic Imagine Summer Gala which raised over $100,000 for the planned Keaton House Hospice. The Hamilton AM club was founded in 1986 so we have now had 38 club Presidents, each with their own energy and style. I've been a member through 31 of those passages, including one of my own and I have to say I probably enjoyed Mac's year the most (with apologies to the other 12 Past-Presidents still in the club). Mac is dynamic, thoughtful and challenging - just the kind of effort needed to motivate members and keep the Rotary spirit alive! Elizabeth Ward polled members at the meeting; asking them to write down a few adjectives to describe Mac Lashley. The list was amazing - the kind of accolades you often don't hear until the funeral. If it's your funeral you don't get to enjoy them but at this meeting Mac heard them all and "felt the love"! I don't know if Mac can sing (I can hardly hear him talk, he speaks so fast!) but if he can, he can serenade us any time he wants and we will listen. Thanks Mac for a great Rotary year! "Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky's back in town
Look out, old Macky's back" Written by Mark Ewer, Past-President 1997-98
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Mac the Knife does his "Swan Song"!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-06-26 04:00:00Z |
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Hamilton AM club members enjoyed a visit and speech by 7090 District Governor (DG) Scott Marcin at their June 12 morning meeting. Scott previously graced the club's Christmas Breakfast at Hess Street School on December 20 but this was his "Official Visit" to the Hamilton AM Club during his term as District Governor. Scott spoke very eloquently about his fascinating year as DG and his admiration for the many Rotary members he had the pleasure to meet on his visits to each District 7090 club during his term. Scott recognized the contributions to the District by Hamilton AM club members such as Anne Bermingham; a past club President and Past District Governor, Cheryl Gzik who has tirelessly supported the District's Youth Exchange Program and John Dalgleish, a club Past-President who will play the role of District Treasurer for 2024 - 2025. Scott encouraged all members to create their own, personal "Elevator Speech" that they can use with those they meet to spread the good word about Rotary. Scott's presentation was entertaining, warm and well received by Hamilton AM club members. Mark Ewer, Past-President 1997-98
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District Governor Scott Marcin Visits Hamilton AM Rotary
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Mark Ewer
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2024-06-02 04:00:00Z |
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It’s In the Bag (the litter, that is!) The Great Lakes Watershed Clean Up Committee is very pleased with participation by Hamilton area Rotary clubs and their friends and relatives at Hamilton’s Confederation Park on April 20, 2024. We had a great turn out with approximately 55 people and 3 dogs joining in the fun! Local clubs included the Rotary Club of Hamilton, Tonic after 5, the Hamilton Stoney Creek club and of course the Hamilton AM club. Also participating was the Hamilton Community Rotaract Club. This crew collected 26 bags of garbage plus some unusual finds: a hockey stick, a hand saw, fifteen feet of plastic weeping tile and 1 cell phone. We thank everyone for some fine picking and we look forward to seeing everyone again this time, next year!
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Great Lakes Clean Up a Big Success!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-04-20 04:00:00Z |
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This story was submitted by club member, Simon Boucher (Clarification: the title by the Editor refers to altitude, not drug use). On October 1, 2023, Hamilton AM club member Paul Lakin and I had a great afternoon out at the SOSA gliding Club in Rockton, ON. With warm weather and clear skies, we couldn't have asked for a better day to try gliding for the first time. We each enjoyed about 30-60 minutes of flying with our pilot, Dale. The views @ 4200 ft were fantastic, and we each had the chance to steer the glider for a few minutes (personally, my favourite part of the afternoon). Although Paul didn't take up the offer to steer, he did encourage Dale to take him on a more adventurous flight; banking the glider at flight, encouraging Dale to take on 45° turns and mimicking some of the hawks flying nearby. No matter the case, a great time was certainly had by all. Special thanks to our host, Dr. Dale Guenter, who donated the prize and took each of us up in his state-of-the-art Arcus glider. Dale's expertise and finesse as a pilot really brought the whole experience to a new level. Special thanks also to the Imagine Gala Planning Committee and those involved in the Golden Ticket raffle! Winning the Golden Ticket this year has been an unforgettable experience.
Submitted by Simon Boucher
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Gliding High - Simon and Paul's experience
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Mark Ewer
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2024-04-15 04:00:00Z |
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What a wonderful Wonka evening on Friday, April 12 in the Son's of Italy Hall, Hamilton. The Wonka Team "knocked it out of the park" as they say in baseball! The decorations, the entertainment, the food and a great red wine made for a night to remember. I am asking those with pictures and comments to submit them to Mark Ewer by email and this posting will be updated as they are submitted. Let's see what you got! Mark First out of the gate is an offering by Past-President and Past-District Governor, Anne Bermingham who writes: "Just a note to say you THANK YOU for putting together such a wonderful event on Friday night. It was a fantastic theme - and a lot of fun to be part of it. The decorations were fantastic. And the fact that so many people got into the mood by dressing up was also an added bonus. The whole evening went by fast and there was one fun thing happening - one after another! I have no idea of the hours and effort and collaboration it took but it was spectacular. I hope the Wonka Team is able to rest and relax and know you have done us all proud. Thank you so much." Marta Stiteler, one of our Wonka Team leaders shared: "I just want to say that we had an AMAZING team from start to finish - great participation from the Club and were so fortunate to receive such generosity from attendees. My guests loved that there was so much to do, with the colouring, games, costume contest and entertainment (Great job Abi Veenstra) and just loved it." Club member Jayne Eastwood, star of stage and screen and accomplished artist added her thoughts: "My favourite thing was Marita not letting anybody go home until Julia's painting went for $3000. I want Marita on my side all the time. And God bless her she bought my painting!". One of the key Wonka Team members, Yolanda Czyzewski-Bragues adds: "Greetings ALL! Let me start by saying the event was great! Our committee was eager and driven. Everyone did exactly what they are good at and made it all happen. I loved every moment, but one that stood out for me, was the moment our club gave Joe Mongiardi the Paul Harris Award. Over the years- when we started this minor fundraising "party" back in 2017...Joe was always a huge part of making it so successful. His award was SO well deserved. Wonka Team member, Celine Legret, added: "I loved the overall comraderie and seeing the very diverse and creative costumes that our team and guests came in, the Oompa Loompas winning team totally deserved it! Not everyone has the long history of planning special events such as this as was mentioned by Wonka Team and club member Elizabeth Ward in her note: "As a fairly new Rotarian, I knew virtually nothing about organizing a fundraiser such as this. Many thanks to all the hardworking, experienced folks on the committee who taught me so much about what it entails ( including having a good time along the way). 
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Wonka Wonderland Wocked (rocked!)
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Mark Ewer
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2024-04-12 04:00:00Z |
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On Saturday, March 23rd, our Hamilton AM Rotary members had the opportunity to contribute volunteer time with Gore Park Community Outreach (C.O.)right here in downtown Hamilton, serving our community. Throughout the day, club members had the chance to connect with our various communities in need by helping Gore Park Community Outreach serve hot meals and hand out rescued and repurposed foods. These ranged from dairy products, produce, non-perishables and drinks served to 800-1000 people as they do every Saturday! If you think it stops there, you’d be wrong! Gore Park C.O. has other areas setup that give out baby food; you can get your haircut, and even get food for your furry pet companions if needed. The hot meals served were all prepped on that very Saturday and include friendly options for vegetarians, Halal meals and specialty meals for individuals with Diabetes. There is significant planning so they can produce as much as they can based on the food that is donated and repurposed. During our Rotary Club team's time with Gore Park C.O., it gave each member another great opportunity to get involved in our community and really understand the gravity of the food waste that occurs in not only Hamilton and Ontario but can said about Canada as a whole. Gore Park C.O. does a fantastic job to ensure nothing goes to waste while they continue with their mission To serve with kindness, compassion and without judgment Team event organized and reported on by Ryan Dorosz
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Joining Gore Park Outreach
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Ryan Dorosz
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2024-03-23 04:00:00Z |
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Hamilton AM Club members were treated to a very inspirational talk at their March 20 morning meeting by Renee, Weselaar, Executive Director of St. Matthew’s House (SMH), Hamilton. Under her leadership, St. Matthew’s House on Barton Street, in the heart of the city, is focused on providing food security, child care and senior’s support programs to Hamilton’s most vulnerable citizens. She is working with her Board of Directors to drive positive change both inside and outside the agency; building an EDI ( Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) lens in all of the work the organization does. Current plans include building 15 units of deeply affordable housing for Black and Indigenous older adults at SMH’s location on Barton. St. Matthew’s historically started with provision of child care and a food bank and these continue to be key programs reflecting strong, community need.
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St. Matthew's House - We rise by lifting others!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-03-20 04:00:00Z |
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At their Wednesday, March 13 morning meeting, Hamilton AM Rotary members were treated to an excellent presentation on this impressive, local success story, told by Cathy Hann, Executive Director. Food4Kids Hamilton is a non-profit organization that provides healthy food for kids with limited or no access to food on weekends or during the summer months. The organization is funded through donations , fundraisers or one-time grants and relies on volunteers to operate as it employs only 3 staff members. There are thousands of children in Hamilton struggling through each weekend without food. While hunger exists around the world, Food 4 Kids goal is to address hunger in our home community. It does this by supplying 1600 children living in families suffering with food insecurity, with a take home bag of food, each weekend. This is done by delivering to the 76 schools that are participating in the program. Each year, a number of children "graduate" out of the program but there are always more identified needing this critical service. The Vision of the organization is to "ensure that any child sustaining weekends without food, will be fed". What an admirable goal for our Hamilton community! 
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Food 4 Kids is a Non-Profit Focused on "Kids First"
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Mark Ewer
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2024-03-13 04:00:00Z |
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It's becoming a habit - Hamilton AM Rotary volunteers helping out at St. Patrick's Church, Hamilton's Friday BBQ for the Hamilton hungry. Organized by club member Elizabeth Ward and promoted by Past-President Irene Stayshyn (this is her church!), 8 of us dressed for the outdoors, helped prepare lunch and then served it in the church courtyard on Friday, March 8. The De Mazenod Door program provides meals 365 days a year - but Friday is always popular as it features a hot dog, cheeseburger a drink and "goodie bag" for all comers. And on this particular day, over 400 individuals were served, a tremendous tribute to St. Patrick's Church and its amazing member volunteers. Other community organizations can join in this much needed program and we guarantee the experience will be very uplifting and valuable to the community. Contributed by Mark Ewer, Past-President.
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Hamilton AM Rotary Volunteers at De Mazenod Door BBQ
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Mark Ewer
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2024-03-08 05:00:00Z |
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At the March 6 club meeting, Hamilton AM Rotary members enjoyed an informative and entertaining presentation by John Howard Hamilton/Burlington Executive Director Donna de Jong. Donna shared and excellent presentation on the organization, its Mission, Vision Core Values and Strategic Priorities.
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John Howard Society - An Important Community Service
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Mark Ewer
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2024-03-06 05:00:00Z |
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At the Wednesday, February 14 morning meeting of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM, Club Past-President, Clare Freeman, made an excellent presentation on the extensive services of the Hamilton Community Legal Clinic where she has been the Executive Director since January 24, 2022. The clinic, founded on April 1, 2010 is funded by Legal Aid Ontario. The clinic aims to be as accessible as possible to those who may need its services. It is committed to adapting its services to meet community needs and working with individuals, groups and service providers to improve legal rights and promote access to justice. The clinic's staff and board members are active in local as well as provincial networks, agencies and coalitions to further this goal. This morning's program confirmed the fact that often the best meeting presentations are made by club members themselves!
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The Many Services of the Hamilton Community Legal Clinic
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Mark Ewer
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2024-02-14 05:00:00Z |
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Most Rotary Clubs have new members complete brief "Classification Talks" as a way of introducing themselves to the membership. In the case of new member, Jayne Eastwood, she has such a storied biography - actress, comedienne, bon vivant, that she was invited to be guest speaker at the January 24, 2024 club meeting. Jayne has been featured in over 300 stage, movie and small screen productions in her career. To get the "full story" and show Jayne's talents at their best, she was interviewed by Past-President, Mark Ewer using "Talk Show" format. Sure enough, facing some probing questions by Mr. Ewer (who was, by the way, dressed resplendently for the occasion), Jayne answered with alacrity, but unfortunately no one really knew how truthfully! When asked if she had ever beat her three children she replied "never" but did admit to some sketchy home cooking! Jayne has offered to help "pump up" Hamilton AM entertainment by members and will be an outstanding contributor to future club events, we are sure. The session ended with a rousing version of "Day by Day", the famous, hit song from one of Jayne's early productions, Godspell!
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Hamilton Actress, Jayne Eastwood - "Secrets Revealed"
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Mark Ewer
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2024-01-24 05:00:00Z |
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Rotary Clubs are always happy to induct new members and the Hamilton AM Club is happy to announce the January 24, 2024 "Trifecta" where three new members were welcomed. Sponsored by Past-President Marta Stiteler and supported by Club Membership Chair and Past District Governor, Anne Bermingham, Valerie Molina and Ted and Diane Greene were presented with their Rotary pins and membership badges. This brings this Rotary year new member total to six, a proud achievement for President Mac Lashley.
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Membership Trifecta Achieved!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-01-24 05:00:00Z |
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The guest speaker at the January 17, 2024 morning meeting of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM was Kris Noakes, the President of the Peel Aboriginal Network, Kris Noakes. Kris is a citizen of the Anishinabek Nation and a member of Nipissing First Nation. Kris currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Hamilton Community Legal Clinic, on the Board of Directors at Theatre Aquarius and has recently finished her second term appointment as a member of the Federal Judicial Advisory Committee for the GTA. As a person living with ALS, she is a member of ALS Canada’s Board of Directors and Chair of the Hamilton based charity event, the Revolution Ride. Kris has a very diverse experience as a First Nation's advocate and spoke passionately about the history of aboriginal related treaties that still have relevance in today's society. They are in fact the basis for "Land Acknowledgement" statements proclaimed at the beginning of many community events, such as today's Rotary Club Meeting. Kris is involved in many important initiatives related to community health and not just in relation to the community's aboriginal citizens. Her past work in law enforcement and education and in the building of needed services that focus on diversity and inclusiveness show a broad, committed and community mindedness not often seen in one person. She has also been a guest speaker at various universities and colleges, national sports events, corporations, governments and at the United Nations General Assembly. Kris's presentation was very well received by the members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM!
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Bringing "Land Acknowledgement" Alive!
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Mark Ewer
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2024-01-17 05:00:00Z |
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At its January 10, 2024 morning meeting, President Mac Lashley chaired the club's Annual General Meeting. One of the first items of business was the presentation of a "Paul Harris" award to Celine Legret for her outstanding contributions to the Rotary Foundation over her 23 years as a Rotarian. This is Rotary International's highest honour in member recognition and is named after Rotary's founder (you guessed it, Paul Harris of Chicago, Illinois, USA). Treasurer Ruth Liebersbach presented the financial statements for the last Rotary year, July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023. The club is on a solid financial footing and copies of the report have been circulated to all members. Of particular note was the success of the "Fly Me to the Moon" dinner in April which raised $35,000 to be used for club community and international grants. President Mac gave a very impressive account of club activities in the first six months of his rein. The Imagine Summer Gala was a very big success, exceeding our target of $100,000 which was donated to the Bob Kemp Hospice for their pediatric hospice project to be called "Keaton's House". The Board of Directors for the 2024 - 2025 Rotary Year was announced and approved at the meeting. The positions on the board will be filled as follows:
MacNeal Lashley - Past President
Celine Legret - President Elect
Tim McClemont - Secretary
Simon Boucher - Treasurer/ President Elect designate
Anne Bermingham - Director
Viren Malelu - Director
Shikha Sareen - Director
Irene Stayshyn - Director
Elizabeth Ward - Director
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Hamilton AM Rotary Hosts Annual General Meeting
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Mark Ewer
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2024-01-10 05:00:00Z |
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Once again, the Hamilton AM Rotary members, family and friends served up an excellent Holiday Breakfast at Hess Street School on December 20. Many thanks to Paul Reardon's cooking skills as four teams served up enough pancakes for 350 students and staff. Place settings for each student were laid out in all the classrooms along with apples, juice boxes and Timbits. Each student also received a "goodie bag" with treats, mittens, a stuffed toy (courtesy of the Salvation Army) and a new book to take home donated by Hamilton Public Library. Of course, Santa made an appearance supported by roving minstrels, Tor Lukasic-Foss and Marta Stiteler. The Bulldogs mascot Bruiser spread cheer along with some Ti-Cat Cheerleaders. We were also honoured by the appearance of Rotary District 7090, Scott Marcin of the Rotary Club of Amerst South who traveled that morning from his home in New York State to join us. This excellent event was led by members Michelle Austin and Irene Stayshyn with most club members in supportive roles the day of or through donations. Special thanks to Hamilton Public Health and Henry Schein Dental for the toothbrushes and toothpaste needed to counteract the sugar load that day! This event has been a heartwarming Christmas project of Hamilton AM Rotary for over 25 years and will continue for years to come!
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Hess Street School Students and STaff "Flipped out" over Pancake Breakfast
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Mark Ewer
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2024-01-09 05:00:00Z |
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Be part of our annual Holiday Pancake breakfast at Hess Street School by contributing a donation and or items so that we can give each child a care package to take home. We are looking for food and drinks. We will be hosting this event on December 13th, 2023. Hess Street School is located on York Blvd near Ray St North/Queen. It has just over 300 students students. Most of the students are from diverse backgrounds and are new to Canada. This school has so many future leaders. Please give what you can.
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Holiday Breakfast December 13th, 2023 for Hess Street School Students and Staff
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Mark Ewer
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2023-12-13 05:00:00Z |
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What a huge success - Hamilton AM Rotary's Imagine Summer Gala held August 11 raised $110,000 for Keaton's House, the planned Pediatric Hospice. Over 400 proud supporters enjoyed a fine dinner at Liuna Station and bid their hearts out in a beautifully displayed Silent Auction. Later in the evening the Live Auction also played a successful role in adding to the donation total. Great hors d'oeuvres, fine wine and some great late night music made the evening truly "Gala"! Hamilton AM partnered with Kemp Hospice staff and volunteers to plan the event, invite sponsors and donors and staff the various elements of this fine evening. All this resulted in a very successful evening for both organizations and the Hamilton community, A cheque presentation by Mac Lashley, Hamilton AM President was made on November 29 to Danielle Zucchet, CEO of Dr. Bob Kemp's House.
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Hamilton AM Rotary Donates $110,000 to Keaton's House!
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-29 05:00:00Z |
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At the November 22, 2023 Hamilton AM Club meeting, a second new member, JoAnne Chalifour gave her Classification Talk. JoAnne is a natural for Rotary, with both her father and brother in Rotary. In 2022-2023 her brother Martin was President of his club and recently her father celebrated 50 years in Rotary! Joanne grew up in a Rotary world and fondly remembers international exchange students staying with them and helping her improve her English skills. In 1994 JoAnne moved from Montreal to Toronto. JoAnne has spent 20 years managing health and social service programs and her interest in developing leadership skills let to a Master's degree in Leadership and Organizational Development, graduating in 2022. Key skills developed included how to plan, structure and operate in the health and social services world with a focus on caring for people. leading staff and managing resources. JoAnne felt that she had found her niche - starting new programs from scratch, identifying needs, searching for resources, planning, implementing and evaluating. She organized many events and pilot projects. This led nicely to a second career as a self-employed consultant in 2018, providing services in both English and French. She has worked with provincial and territory governments, Ministries of Health and health planning entities as they struggled to provide quality services in both official languages. Some of her other specialties are Quality Improvement, Research and Program Evaluation. She has produced a series of podcasts in French for "Dementia Dialogue" and has developed content for online programs. Joining Rotary not only takes JoAnne back to some of her fond childhood memories but also fulfils a need to give back to her community. She has contributed to non-profit boards in the past but Rotary membership provides a new opportunity to give back. With eight local Rotary Clubs in the Hamilton area, the Hamilton AM Club is honoured to have her join our membership. Bienvenue JoAnne!
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And Another New Member - Welcome JoAnne Chalifour
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-22 05:00:00Z |
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At the November 22, 2023 Simon Boucher gave his "Classification Talk". In Rotary parlance, "Classification" is the occupation/profession held by the member. This heralds back to Rotary's first meetings where only one person in each local classification could be admitted to membership. Simon was aware that another new member would be talking about the same classification in the near future so instead, he chose to talk about his penultimate classification, full time clinical support worker for Bethesda Services in the Niagara Region. Bethesda's Vision is to inspire, encourage and empower children, youth, and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and their families, to live their best lives. They take on those individuals that might be considered high behavior, or in need of more specialized care, so this is done through a network of clinical supports. As frontline staff member he worked with an interdisciplinary clinical team to help bring individuals to a healthier place holistically. This is done by engineering an environment were they could help them meet certain goals. This was a very demanding but rewarding role. Members who have met Simon have been impressed with his warm, engaging manner and willingness to help out where he can. In a short time he has achieved some notoriety by winning the raffle at this past summer's Imagine Summer Gala fundraiser. Not only that, he picked as his prize, one of the Live Auction items - a glider ride even though he is afraid of heights! Thankfully he has lived to tell about the experience and looks forward to more Hamilton AM Rotary opportunities. Congratulations on joining our club, Simon - we are very glad to have you as a member!
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Celebrating a New Member - Simon Boucher
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-22 05:00:00Z |
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Hamilton AM Rotary Club President, Mac Lashley and Past-President Clare Freeman welcomed to the the November 22, 2023 meeting District Governor-Elect Dave Alexander and Assistant Governor Paul Gibel. The reason for their attendance was to present the club with a District 7090 "Lighthouse Award" which was earned during the 2022- 2023 Rotary year when Clare was President. All Rotary Clubs are challenged to meet annual goals set out by Rotary International and Districts can add their particular priorities where achievement will result in the Lighthouse Award. Not all clubs manage to operate to such a high standard but the Hamilton AM club does its best to achieve this status every year. You can be sure that Mac Lashley has his eye on one of those plaques!
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Hamilton AM Rotary Receives "Lighthouse Award"
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-22 05:00:00Z |
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At the November 15, Hamilton AM Rotary morning meeting members were treated to an inspirational presentation by Jeffrey Ng, the Volunteer Executive Director of Gore Park Community Outreach. Gore Park Community Outreach started on Feb 13, 2021 with 6 volunteers on a winter stormy day. They served 35 guests around Gore Park, starting with peanut butter and jam sandwiches and a big pot of chicken noodle soup. Hamilton AM club member, Ryan Dorosz is currently a volunteer and arranged for today's speaker.
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The Good News about Gore Park Community Outreach
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-15 05:00:00Z |
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On Wednesday, November 8, Hamilton AM members were graced with the presence of City of Hamilton Mayor, Andrea Horwath who was introduced by member Cheryl Gzik. Previously a City councilor, then MPP where she led the Official Opposition as New Democrat leader, Andrea brings not only a wealth of experience but a deep-down love for the City to this role. Her presentation was just a day prior to the start of the Hamilton Street Railway strike so of course she spent some time talking about the challenge of settling collective agreements with the City's various unions. She explained the City was hoping to continue with "Pattern Bargaining" but the HSR union's demands for a 23% wage increase over multiple years was out of step with the 13% settlements already reached with other bargaining units. At the time of this story's posting, the strike has been on for 5 days with no end in sight. This is particularly aggravating given the entire city is gearing up for Grey Gup festivities starting Thursday, November 9. Club members welcomed Mayor Horwath's expressed approach to improving the relationship between the city operation and its citizens. She is actively promoting transparency and open communication, something not always experienced in the past. A return visit each year would be more than welcome!
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Madam Mayor comes to Hamilton AM Rotary!
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-13 05:00:00Z |
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Terry Odette is living the dream - making films on the topics he likes, in the City of his choice, using his many skills of writing, directing and producing. While maybe not quite as successful as Robert Redford, this man has made many film and TV productions and has earned a living doing it. Introduced by long time friend and club member, Elizabeth Ward, Terry is inspired by the many home-town sights and sounds of his Hamilton. We are hoping he is suitably inspired by his adoring crowd at this morning's meeting that he may help us advance the Rotary vision for our community.
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Local Boy Makes Good ... and Makes Films!
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-01 04:00:00Z |
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At its Wednesday, November 1st meeting, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM, under the leadership of President Mac Lashley, inducted into membership, JoAnne Chalifour. Proposed by long time colleague and Past-President, Clare Freeman, JoAnne is a local Health Care and Social Services consultant and a francophone. She is a welcome addition to the club which is inching toward gender equity with 49% of its 39 members claiming the female gender! Congratulations JoAnne, Clare and Mac!
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New Member Induction - JoAnne Chalifour
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Mark Ewer
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2023-11-01 04:00:00Z |
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The October 25 Hamilton AM Rotary Club social took place at the recently opened Summit Station including a tour of Loewith Farms high tech dairy operation. Summit Station is their new retail outlet on the property.  and an integral part of a new home milk delivery program.
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Summit Station Social- a "Mootiful Evening"
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Mark Ewer
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2023-10-25 04:00:00Z |
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October 15, 2023, Ron J McKerlie, President and CEO of Mohawk College announced this year's Alumni of Distinction Awards. He stated "We are proud to honour these 10 outstanding alumni. Their remarkable achievements show current and future generations of students what is possible with a Mohawk College education.". Among the award winners is Hamilton AM Rotary's immediate Past-President, Clare Freeman. Clare is currently the Executive Director at the Hamilton Community Legal Clinic. All of the Hamilton AM members are proud to be associated with such a distinguished colleague member and citizen!
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Member in the News - Clare Freeman one of Mohawk Colleges' 2023 Alumni of Distinction Award Recipients
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Mark Ewer
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2023-10-15 04:00:00Z |
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At the October 4, 2023 Hamilton AM Club meeting, Bob Morrow, from the Dundas Valley Sunrise Rotary Club made a presentation on the Maktaba Project - creation of local libraries in Nairobi, Kenya. His club is partnering with a local Kenya Rotary Club and was looking for support also from Hamilton Rotary Clubs. The total funds donated in Canada can be matched several times making even a small donation valuable to such a project. Depicted is Bob receiving a symbolic cheque from immediate Past-President, Clare Freeman for $1370 from Hamilton AM's International Project fund.
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Hamilton AM Rotary Donates to Maktaba Project - Kenya
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Mark Ewer
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2023-10-04 04:00:00Z |
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On Friday, September 15, 2023, Mark Ewer, a Hamilton AM Rotary Past-President received the David C. Onley Award for Leadership in Accessibility. In an event hosted by Her Honour, Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Ontario's 29th Lieutenant Governor, at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, 15 individuals were given awards honouring the work of four former Lieutenant Governors, at the First Lieutenant Governors' Legacy Award Ceremony. Along with a distinctive certificate signed by the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, Mark also received a cash prize of $5,000. At the event luncheon, Mark's family including his wife Mary Anne, sons Paul and Mike and Mike's partner Krista Lawrence were joined by Ruth Ann Onley, wife of David C. Onley (who passed away in January of this year), Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility and Sandy Shaw, MPP for Hamilton West, Ancaster and Dundas. Also at the table was Elaine Mamid, one of Mark's nominators for this award. Mark also expresses deep appreciation to Rotarian Paul Lakin and long-time friend Michael Piczak who also participated in the nomination process.
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Member in the News - Mark Ewer receives special award from Ontario's Lieutenant Governor
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Mark Ewer
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2023-09-15 04:00:00Z |
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On Wednesday, May 3, Hamilton AM Club Members were pleased to meet with CEO Sam Campenello of The Eva Rothwell Centre. He took us on a tour of their building and explained how they assist residents in the neighbourhood with education, recreational, social activities, food and clothing support. Eva Rothwell has innovative approaches to learning, and their superior training room and aviation space are transformational learning opportunities. Club Members were so pleased to see how a recent $10,000 donation assisted them with the installation of air conditioning in the gym.
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Club Visit to the Eva Rothwell Centre
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Mark Ewer
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2023-05-07 04:00:00Z |
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On March 15, 2023 The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM was pleased to welcome Nevine Nassa who gave a virtual presentation. Her topic was an International Project on a marginalized community in Egypt called the Zabaleen. They are Cairo's garbage collectors, landless peasants who migrated to Cairo from Upper Egypt in the 1940's.
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Roota - Rising out of the Ashes- an International Project
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Mark Ewer
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2023-03-15 04:00:00Z |
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Good attendance and a very interesting setting for our first club off-site visit of this Rotary Year. The Custom's House is a wonderfully restored heritage building and we were welcomed and entertained by Kat Williams, Outreach and Development Specialist at the Centre. Kat referenced many of the important societal changes that were initiated by worker groups over the year. Pictured below is Kat Williams and club President, Clare Freeman.
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Club Visit to the Worker's Arts and Heritage Centre
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Mark Ewer
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2022-10-19 04:00:00Z |
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July 29-31 hundreds of ribs lovers descended on the Ancaster Fairgrounds for some entertainment and good eats. Hamilton AM Rotary volunteers were there selling water and pop and the new 50/50 Draw tickets. Tickets sales go until October 28 with half of the proceeds to one lucky person! Over 30 volunteers helped staff the sales tent, supported by the current Ribs team of Paul Lakin, Cameron Nolan, Viren Malelu, Grace Davidson and Mark Ewer.
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Summer Ribfest #2 At Ancaster Fairgrounds
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Mark Ewer
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2022-08-01 04:00:00Z |
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Club member, Cheryl Gzik introduced Mathilde Havard at the July 20 morning meeting at William's Fresh Cafe. Mathilde is a 15 year old student from Bully, France staying with Cheryl and family in Hamilton for a 3 week visit to Canada. Mathilde spoke very good English and was able to describe her Canadian trip highlights so far, including tasting a very Canadian favourite; Poutine! She highly recommend the new "Tunnel" attraction at Niagara Falls. She will also get to experience boating and waterskiing in Huntsville on this trip. Cheryl is a very active Rotarian and is the STEP Coordinator for District 7090 (Short Term Exchange Program). This summer, Cheryl's son Nelson is at a Rotary Youth Camp called "On the Sails of Sustainability" and is staying in Milan and Genoa, Italy. Then he travels to Switzerland to visit, Simona, our club's former Youth Exchange student. What a summer of travel for a very involved Rotary family!
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Welcome Mathilde Havard to Ontario and Hamilton AM Rotary!
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Mark Ewer
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2022-07-20 04:00:00Z |
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Our new Hamilton AM President, Clare Freeman, joined 3 Past District Governors in a casual pint and pub lunch at The George Hamilton. Owned by a fellow Rotarian Mike Peters, this restaurant is a perfect gathering place to talk about the year ahead. Also at the event was 7090's new District Governor Lisa Bishop as well as special guests Bryn and Randy Styles. Bryn has been a member of the Board of Directors of Rotary International in 2012-2014. Over this past year, he has been an Aide to our Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta. Bryn brought greetings from new Rotary International President, Jennifer Jones and talked about the wonderful Imagine Rotary cross Canada tour she was currently in the middle of. Also present were inveterate lunchers from Hamilton AM, Paul Lakin, John Mokrycke and Mark Ewer.
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Lunch with Bryn Styles at the George Hamilton Pub
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Mark Ewer
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2022-07-05 04:00:00Z |
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Hamilton AM Rotary hosted "Cold Drinks" at Northern Heat's Hamilton Mountain Ribfest. The key organizers were Paul Lakin, Cameron Nolan and Mark Ewer but 12 other members (some with partners) and five Rotaractors staffed thirty-three, 2 hours shifts in order to cover this event from 1 pm on July 1 to 7 pm on July 3. This is a new form of fund-raising for the Hamilton AM club. The club will participate in three more events this summer: July 29- 31 at Ancaster Fairgrounds, August 19 - 21 at Gage Park and September 99 - 11 at Confederation Park. All club members are asked to join in the fun by volunteering 4 shifts over the course of the four events.
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Hamilton Mountain Ribfest is a Lip Smacking Hit!
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Mark Ewer
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2022-07-03 04:00:00Z |
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Boy, 5000 participants can't be wrong. The first in-person festival in 2 years was also the 10th live event for this annual extravaganza. The 2020 festival was cancelled due to the pandemic and in 2021 the first "Virtual Festival" was created. For 2022, we went all out with a full blown festival and a large number of new videos on the Imagine in the Park website (imagineinthe park.com).
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Imagine in the Park Children's Arts Festival, June 4, 2022 in Hamilton's Gage Park
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Mark Ewer
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2022-06-04 04:00:00Z |
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For over 20 years, Hamilton AM Rotary members hosted a Christmas Pancake breakfast for students and staff at Hess Street School. With COVID restrictions not allowing volunteers in the school, late in 2020 club members started a Christmas Gift Bag program and this was recently repeated on December 16 of this year. Every child took home a bag full of candy, essentials like socks, mitts tooth brush and tooth paste, an apple, a drink and other snacks. The Grade 8 students received a scientific calculator and all received a plush toy. Many club members donated items for the bags and others made cash donations for purchased items. Also, one Grade 8 student selected by lottery took home his or her very own refurbished laptop! A very special thanks to Rami Safi from Shoppers Drug Mart and Maggie Gourley and Casey Neal from Altima Hess Village Dental Centre who made sure we had enough tooth brushes and tooth paste to handle the candy and other treats contained in the gift bags. Other important donors were Frank Raso from Karma Candy, the Salvation Army for wonderful stuffed animals and Good Shepherd for chocolate bars. Finally, we are grateful for the donation of a book for every student due to the generosity of First Book Canada and Hamilton Public Library. Many hands working together resulted in an excellent Christmas surprise for Hess Street School Students! COVID has affected many school programs but has not dimmed the spirit of Hamilton AM Rotary members who wish all the students and staff of Hess Street School a happy and healthy holiday season!
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Hamilton AM Rotary Brings the Spirit of Christmas to Hess Street School
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Mark Ewer
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2021-12-16 05:00:00Z |
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On November 17, members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM had the pleasure of hearing from Paul Takala, Chief Librarian and CEO of Hamilton Public Library (HPL). Although many organizations have struggled with the changes brought as a result of COVID-19 challenges, HPL has continued to innovate using technology so its electronic offerings have made library services more available to the community, even when library doors had to be closed. HPL staff played a special role within the City of Hamilton, in supporting the efforts of Hamilton Public Health during such closures. Many local libraries in Hamilton have been renovated and expanded and service demand remains very strong. Intra-library loans from neighbouring library systems are available, making HPL even more responsive to local need.
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Hamilton Public Library - Beyond COVID - 19
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Mark Ewer
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2021-11-17 05:00:00Z |
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Paul Hawkins was the guest speaker on Wednesday, November 3 and brought an update on business successes and challenges in our community. Paul is responsible for Membership Engagement at the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. He'll also shared information on an exciting new celebration coming up on November 20 called "Hamilton Day" He also gave club members and interesting, insiders' view of the Chamber!
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Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Hamilton Day on November 20
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Mark Ewer
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2021-11-03 04:00:00Z |
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Dave Barry, a multi-talented member of the Niagara Sunrise Club gave an excellent presentation at the October 20 club meeting on how to establish an Interact Club. The Niagara Sunrise club supports 3 Interact Clubs in the Niagara area.
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Interact 101 by Dave Barry
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Mark Ewer
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2021-10-20 04:00:00Z |
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Joyce Leung, a Hamilton food blogger, was trained by her mother and claims that cooking is a part of every day for her. Joyce worked as a line cook and was a manager for Red Lobster for seven years. In 2014 she started her Joyce of Cooking blog; and uses all her own photos and videos in her presentations. She says she is a marketing and events manager at Terra Greenhouses by day and blogger by night. Her colourful website can be reached at: https://www.joyceofcooking.com During the pandemic, she has been able to give tips to businesses on how to market their products, particularly on social media. Her in-person classes have moved online and her success has grown as a result. She provides a grocery list in advance of the 30- 60 minute classes she offers. One of her goals is to teach everyone how to make the very dishes that they often take-out. Joyce also plays a valuable role promoting local restaurants. Truly a "Hamilton gem", everyone one who loves good can benefit from an introduction to the "Joyce of Cooking"!
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The Joyce of Cooking
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Mark Ewer
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2021-10-13 04:00:00Z |
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On September 22, Jen Baker, Land Trust Manager for the Hamilton Naturalist Club presented on the Pollinators Paradise Project. She described the work of her club locally to promote a functional pollinator ecosystem. She listed ways to help:
- garden for nature in your yard and park
- volunteer at annual planting events
- donate to help pollinator habits.
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Pollinators Paradise Project- Jen Baker
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Mark Ewer
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2021-09-22 04:00:00Z |
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For 116 years, Rotary Clubs have been meeting across the world in regular meetings, and often weekly (some say "weakly" if their membership is falling!). Since the start of the Pandemic restrictions on in-person meetings in March of 2020, Hamilton AM club members have been meeting via Zoom and the weekly attendance by about 25 of the "faithful" has been consistent. In fact, weekly attendance has not dropped over the last 18 months.
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First Hamilton AM Rotary "Hybrid Meeting"
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Mark Ewer
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2021-09-15 04:00:00Z |
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On Tuesday, September 14 several Hamilton AM Rotary members gathered at Dumas Verdes restaurant to reminisce and toast to the memory of two members recently passed. Many thanks to club member, John Mokrycke who organized this on short notice.
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In Honour of Dez Miklos and Brian Tisdale
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Mark Ewer
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2021-09-14 04:00:00Z |
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Janice Montour, Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, taught us the history of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School and the ongoing campaign to 'Save the Evidence' so that future generations will know what happened there.
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The Former Mohawk Institute Residential School
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2021-08-24 04:00:00Z |
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The financial results are being tabulated but it is clear our first Hamilton AM Drive-Thru Ribfest was a big success! Six team members, 15 club members and family, 4 Rotaractors and 9 from Hamilton-East Wentworth/Stoney Creek Rotary carried out 63 x 2 hour shifts on duty at the Lime Ridge Mall parking lot.
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Ribfest June 19 - 20 at Lime Ridge Mall
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Mark Ewer
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2021-06-23 04:00:00Z |
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The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM invites organizations to submit funding proposals to support projects that promote the health and development of our community, the City of Hamilton.
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Major Grant Opportunities Available
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2021-05-11 04:00:00Z |
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Major Grant |
Boy, is it rewarding to see Hamilton AM fundraising resulting in big improvements! A recent "Update Report" from Carol Cowan-Morneau from Mission Services explains how our recent donation was put to good use by creating warm and inviting spaces that are conducive too helping women and children heal from trauma and learn how to prevent violence in the future. Carol writes "Your gift of $10,000 enabled us to purchase new flooring, furnishings, and lights needed to create
refreshed and more appealing program areas.
When spaces look safe and cared for, those who enter are more likely to feel safe and cared for as well.
Since the renovation and refresh was completed, LEAF staff have heard many positive things from women and children, such as “the space is so relaxing”, “I could stay here all day”, and “It’s so pretty!” Staff also get people knocking on their door often, just to ask to hang out in the rooms now!
All of it is thanks to you! Thank you for giving families safe, beautiful areas to feel more open to
learning, healing, and growing.
Gratefully,
Carol Cowan-Morneau
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Mission Services thanks Hamilton AM Rotary for $10,000 Donation
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Mark Ewer
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2021-04-16 04:00:00Z |
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In December, COVID-19 restrictions would not allow the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM to host its annual Christmas Pancake Breakfast at Hess Street School. Instead, club member donated time and money to producing Christmas Gift Bags for every one of the over 200 students. On the evening of December 16, club members "stuffed" the bags with goodies that included books, games, snacks and drinks at the home of Rotarian Paul Reardon. The next day they were delivered to the school in time for the last day of class before the Christmas Break. We know that the children loved their special Christmas packages but the depth of their feeling was unknown until the following pictures arrived. They also sent a number of delightful notes with such lovely sentiments and such terrible printing and spelling. Great memories for our club members who were able to express their Christmas spirit in such a caring way!
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Thank you from the students of Hess Street School!
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Mark Ewer
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2021-04-07 04:00:00Z |
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On February 23rd, we mark 116 years since the founding of Rotary. It’s incredible to think about how much has changed since the first Rotary club met in Chicago. Rotary started with the vision of one man — Paul Harris. The Chicago attorney formed the Rotary Club of Chicago on February 23, 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas, form meaningful, lifelong friendships and serve their community and the world. Over 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. Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves. With every project, we’re changing the world for the better We will never know how different the world would have been without Rotary, but we do know that the world is a far better place with Rotary and that Rotary itself is stronger because of everyone's joint efforts. We thank our members, families and friends for being a part of Rotary serving humanity We hope that all our members will take time not only to reflect on all that we have accomplished together the past 116 years, but also celebrate our recent accomplishments.
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Happy Birthday Rotary!
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Mark Ewer
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2021-02-23 05:00:00Z |
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 At today's Rotary Club of Hamilton AM meeting we were pleased to welcome Effie Triantafilopoulosco, MLA Member for Oakville North- Burlington. Effie's current government responsibilities include: Vice-Chair, Standing Committee on Justice Policy Member, Select Committee on Emergency Management Oversight, Member, Standing Committee on Social Policy and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care. Effie spent most of her time updating club members on the current government's efforts to strengthen the long-term care system in Ontario. Of particular importance is the plan to dramatically increase the number of hours of direct care that are provided to residents. There are plans to update the existing older LTC homes that have more than 2 residents to a room. Also, in tandem with home modernization, an increase in the number of LTC beds in Ontario is being implemented. Club members appreciated Effie's willingness to include a visit to a Hamilton AM meeting in her busy schedule
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Provincial Government focusing on Long Term Care Improvements
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Mark Ewer
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2021-02-03 05:00:00Z |
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We were fortunate to have Peter Schultz, Past District Governor of District 5060 join us from Kelowna, BC as our speaker on January 27. Peter shared and excellent presentation called "Ideas to Attract and Engage". All Rotary clubs are always trying to bring new members on board so the presentation was very timely for our club members. We owe a special thanks to Peter for getting up at 4:00 am Kelowna time so he could join our 7:30 am meeting! Here is Peter's PowerPoint presentation for your interest:
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Ideas to Attract and Engage Rotary Members
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Mark Ewer
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2021-01-27 05:00:00Z |
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Hamilton Public Library (HPL) has never been as busy and as challenged in trying to operate in a COVID-19 world. Paul Takala, HPL CEO, and his staff are clearly up to the challenge. Knowing the public are dying (poor choice of words I know) to keep active and entertained during the current "Lockdown", HPL continues with a significant online presence and options for pick up of books and drop off. Some other services such as scanning and copying are still available but check the HPL website for the latest offerings. The library has a great "Hold System" so you can search for desired topics and get on the list for hard copy and electronic versions. When its your turn, you will get an automated phone message or email notifying you. They used to say that libraries would be a thing of the past in this growing electronic world but that truly has never come to pass. We appreciate the leadership shown by Paul and his staff and their fine efforts to serve the Hamilton community.
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Hamilton Public Library is up to the Pandemic Challenge!
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Mark Ewer
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2021-01-20 05:00:00Z |
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Rotary Club of Hamilton AM members have always supported the RI Foundation but the "End Rotary Now" Campaign has really energized our members! We supported "Participate for Polio" Day in October and continue to support the "Every Member, Every Year" Campaign. Our gift to our meeting speakers for many years has been a certificate announcing a donation to RI to vaccinate 25 children against polio, in their name. The club recently received this citation from the RI Foundation.
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Rotary Foundation Citation to Rotary Club of Hamilton AM
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Mark Ewer
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2020-12-24 05:00:00Z |
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Under Michelle Austin's leadership, club members from the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM donated enough funds or items to fill a special gift bag for students to take home for the holidays. The Annual Pancake Breakfast the club has hosted at the school for 20 years was cancelled this year due to the pandemic so members quickly switched to the gift bag alternative. Along with significant cash donations, club members, sourced and donated mitts (Janet McNaught and Paul Lakin), juice boxes and fruit snacks (Mark Ewer), apples (Tom Tweedie) and toys (Dan Millar and the Salvation Army team). Special thanks to Darren Slemko from Tennier Sanitation whose donation supplied calculators for the Grade 7 and 8 students and Dr. Mark Shankman from Dundas Valley/Gore Park Dentistry for the tooth paste (to use after eating all the candy!). Many thanks to Irene Stayshyn and Paul Reardon for purchasing many of the snack items and then organizing the packaging for each student. The pictures below show the packaging team who worked for 3 hours to produce the 220+ gift bags at Paul Reardon's home. Pictured below are Irene Stayshyn, Paul Reardon, Celine Legret, Don Grennan and Frank Stechey. Finally, thanks to the delivery team that transported all 220+ bags to Hess Street School on December 17. This included Kerry Jarvi, Anne Bermingham, Irene Stayshyn and Paul Reardon.
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Hess Street School Holiday Gift Bags for Students
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Mark Ewer
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2020-12-19 05:00:00Z |
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Hamilton Arts & Letters writes "Our thanks to Rotary Club of Hamilton for Supporting the "Short Works Prize" and sponsoring "The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM Young Writers Awards"
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Hamilton Arts & Letters- Short Works Prizes
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Mark Ewer
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2020-11-29 05:00:00Z |
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The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM took up the challenge and held a Participate for Polio event on Saturday October 24. Using the Raise for Rotary platform, we collected $2538.00 dollars at last count with a few more donations still coming in.
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Participate for Polio Day - Hamilton AM Rotary's Contribution
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Mark Ewer
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2020-10-24 04:00:00Z |
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A second group of 23 refurbished laptops were presented on September 24, 2020 to Grade 8 students at Hess St School. Once again, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM benefited from the fine work of greenByte, a program of St. Leonard's Society Hamilton.
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Laptops for Hess St School Grade 8 Students
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Mark Ewer
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2020-09-24 04:00:00Z |
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Thanks to greenByte, a program of St. Leonard's Society Hamilton and Hillfield Strathallen College, 9 refurbished laptops were presented on September 18, 2020 to Liberty for Youth (Lf Y). LfY Executive Director Frederick Dryden offered his comments, “these laptops will help youth in our Bright Choices Program complete homework and achieve academic success. We are very grateful!”
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Laptops for Liberty for Youth
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Mark Ewer
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2020-09-18 04:00:00Z |
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Rotary launched PolioPlus in 1985 and was a founding member of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988. Through decades of commitment and work by Rotary and our partners, more than 2.5 billion children have received the oral polio vaccine.
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Polio Eradicated in Africa
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Catherine Jeske
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2020-08-31 04:00:00Z |
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When Dave Gruggen decided to escape his pandemic quarantine, he did it in great style, by air! What a great shot of parts of the harbour and the city.
In his caption Dave says he has never been able to see so far into the distance. Less pollution over Hamilton for sure. For more great shots go to Dave's Facebook page.
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Flying high!
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Mark Ewer
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2020-06-20 04:00:00Z |
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On June 12, Paul Lakin was happy to bring "the big cheque" for $5000 to Hamilton Food Share but Celeste Taylor is even happier to receive it! Club members donated funds they would have spent on breakfast meetings if not for COVID-19 resulting in virtual weekly meetings since March 18 of this year.
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Hamilton AM Rotary donates $5000 to Hamilton Food Share
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Mark Ewer
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2020-06-14 04:00:00Z |
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Minor Grants
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Mark Ewer
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2020-01-23 05:00:00Z |
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Up to $30,000 is available for funding in 2019 - 2020 for Large Projects which meet the club's criteria as outlined below. Requests for multi-year project funding will also be considered. Up to $10,000 is available for smaller projects that come up throughout the year and are above the small donations $500/project limit and worthy of funding immediately. (Please note that this funding is no longer available as it has been allocated on an emergency basis and has been exhausted)
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Major Grants - 2019 - 2020
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2019-09-24 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Anne Louise Bermingham on Aug 29, 2019
Thank you to Paul and Karen Reardon for hosting a club social in their amazing backyard on August 29.
Lots of tapas and sangria. More importantly, lots of time to chat and catch up with one another. Fun to have alumni members present and soon to be new Rotarians present too. Thank you to John M and David G who help ensure we make time for these socials and also special thanks to David Gruggen for taking some lovely photos of the evening.
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Wonderful Night of Fellowship
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Anne Louise Bermingham
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2019-08-29 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Mark Ewer on Aug 28, 2019
Anne Bermingham, Hamilton AM Club President had the pleasure of welcoming our newest Rotary International Exchange Student, Anna Lechner, to our club meeting on August 28. Anna hails from Croatia and will be here for a year, attending a local high school and living with club members and their families. 
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Welcome Anna Lechner!
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Mark Ewer
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2019-08-28 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Mark Ewer on Aug 28, 2019
Annette Paiement, Executive Director and Dan Fournier, Operations Manager presented at our club meeting to talk about the exciting new role being played by the refurbished Westdale Cinema. You will want to check out their schedule on thewestdalecinema.ca. Annette and Dan are being thanked in the picture below by club member, Ashi Jain.
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The Exciting Rebirth of the Westdale Theatre
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Mark Ewer
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2019-08-28 04:00:00Z |
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Posted on Aug 09, 2019
BBQ at the Bay was a stunning setting for the club's annual, signature fund-raiser, Exclusive use of the Waterfront Trust Building (former Sarcoa Restaurant) and the outdoor patio made for an unparalleled atmosphere for dinner, auctions and socializing. A great meal by Carmen's Group and open bar complimented the hospitality extended by the Hamilton AM club to it's members, family and friends. This may have been a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to use this facility while its future is being determined by the City of Hamilton. Many thanks to the forward thinking folks who planned and approved this wonderful event. 
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BBQ at the Bay Tremendous Success!
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Mark Ewer
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2019-08-09 04:00:00Z |
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With the support of his Rotary and fishing friends, Sandy Marincic pulled in another successful fishing experience for over 500 special needs individuals. For some, the thrill of hauling in a trout or two is the best activity of the year! Thanks to Robin and the stalwarts from the Dofasco Angler's Club for supplying the poles, worms and guidance to the participants. The biggest problem this year was the fish were hungry and were eating every worm in sight. Many caught multiple fish, one person claimed 12 victories! Rotarians stepped up to set up the bbq equipment and to feed all the participants and support staff. Special mention of Springer's Meats for selling us hundreds of tasty beef hot dogs at a wholesale price. Sandy's BBQ team included Mark, Ruth G, Celine, Frank, Paul R, Tim, Joe, John D, John B, John M, John J, Yolanda, Tom, Walter, Norm and Kyle.
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Denny Leeson Memorial Urban Fishing Project
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Mark Ewer
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2019-05-09 04:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 16, 2019
Today Club members received Naloxone training by Faisal Khawaja from Marchese Pharmacy. Members were very impressed with the quality of the presentation and took home Naloxone kits and a training certificate. Marchese Pharmacy is the lead supplier of training and kits in Hamilton. 
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Naloxone Training at Today's Club Meeting
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Mark Ewer
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2019-01-16 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 16, 2019
President Tim McClemont and Assistant District Governor Marta Stiteler were pleased to present President-Elect Anne Bermingham with a Paul Harris Award at today's club meeting. 
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Anne Bermingham presented with Paul Harris Award
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Mark Ewer
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2019-01-16 05:00:00Z |
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The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM has been advised that the second drinking fountain donated by our club was installed in December at the Jose Maria Morelos Pavon primary school in Tesoco, a village within our municipality of Valladolid, Yucatan. Local Rotarian Tey Stiteler , the president and the members of the Club Rotario Valladolid Pueblo Magico attended the inauguration of the drinking fountain which was officiated by Julio Perez Tovar, the governor of our district, District 4195 of Rotary Club International. Our club's contributions to purchase three drinking fountains in the village of Valladolid will provide free, safe, clean, and healthy water on a daily basis to thousands of children over the years.
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Second Drinking Fountain Inauguration - Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico
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2018-01-23 05:00:00Z |
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Many thanks to the Rotary Club of Waterdown for hosting a most excellent Trivia Night on December 9, 2017. Our own "Trebek's Turkeys" took home the $300 first prize which is being donated to Polio Plus to be matched 2:1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. www.endpolio.org. Winning turkeys pictured here: rear left to right: John Blums, Tim MccLemont, Cathy Jeske, Wilmar Jeske, front left to right: Anne Bermingham, Marta Stiteler, Jane Blums and Ronnie Rubin.
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Rotary Club of Waterdown Trivia Night
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2017-12-10 05:00:00Z |
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Susan Creer - Hamilton Rountable for Poverty Reduction Susan has a strong interest in people as well as disability and poverty concerns. Susan has been volunteering since she was a teen and continues to do so. Susan is the Chair of ‘Accessible Hamilton’ a local advocacy group her Canada 150 project. She is a member of her local Ainslie Wood Community group. Susan works part-time teaching acting to children/youth for the City Recreation Department and that contract has just ended. Susan is a speaker with the Hamilton Roundtable for Poverty Reduction ‘Speak Now’ bureau. Hamilton poverty… By the Numbers:
•In December, 2016 there were 12,204 Ontario Works cases in Hamilton (includes individuals or family units)
•In December, 2016 there were 19,695 Ontario Disability Support program cases
•A further 29,335 individuals in Hamilton work but live below Statistics Canada’s low income cut-off
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Susan Creer
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2017-07-17 04:00:00Z |
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Dennis Willms from Salama Sheild provided our group with an update on their project. Salama Sheild was one of our major project beneficiaries in 2016-2017.
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Dennis Willms
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2017-07-17 04:00:00Z |
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On Wednesday, May 22, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM honoured four local individuals for their service to the community, by awarding them Paul Harris Fellowships.
Catherine Bowman was the youth recipient. An active and award-winning student at St. Mary's High School and resident of Dundas, Catherine has a long history of community service, especially when it concerns music and her local parish church, St. Augustines and St. Joseph's Villa.
This year, the Paul Harris Fellow for community partners was awarded to Charles and Margaret Juravinski. The Paul Harris Fellowship for a Rotarian was awarded to Joe Hamilton. Joe is an asset to the Hamilton AM Club and his work is greatly appreciated in the club.
The Paul Harris Fellowship is bestowed upon very deserving individuals that have shown exceptional service. Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary International in 1905. His initial goal was to create a club of professional and business men for friendship and fellowship. However, he soon realized that there needed to be a greater purpose for Rotary. The club was later transformed into the world’s first Service Club after the first public service project which was the construction of toilets in Chicago. Currently, Rotary International has more than 1.4 million members worldwide and the motto of Rotary is “Service Above Self”. It is wonderful to be able to acknowledge those in our community who exemplify this motto; congratulations to Catherine, Margaret, Charles and Joe!
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Honouring Those Who Serve
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John Janisse
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2014-05-27 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on May 07, 2014
This year our club joined the support team of the Denny Leeson Memorial Urban Fishing Project. Through Rotary, Club member Sandy Marincic has been involved in funding the event for the past 25 years, and been its chief organizer for the past seven. Along with the fishermen volunteers and the City of Hamilton, we provided a fun fishing experience to the greater Hamilton region’s special needs community. The derby takes place annually, in the first full week of May, from Monday to Thursday. In all, some 360 participants of all ages get their turn at holding a rod and trying to ‘catch a big one’.
“It was great to see the looks of apprehension turn into wonder and joy as the kids really got into it”, said John Janisse, who cooked hot dogs on Tuesday while a group of 24 young people had their turn at Parkdale Pool.
Our guests wouldn’t have this opportunity without Denny Leeson’s dedication over 30 years. Denny passed away in the summer of 2013, and the project is the product of the loving and the gentle relationship he had with his daughter Donna, who has Downs Syndrome. Sandy remembers Denny's committment. "Denny connected with developmentally challenged people through his heart, and that connection blossomed into an event that the developmentally challenged community looks forward to every year."
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Urban Fishing - who knew it could be so much fun!
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John Janisse
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2014-05-08 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Mar 11, 2014
At our March 12 meeting, Dennis Willms, the founding director of the Salama Shield Foundation was the guest speaker. Dennis spoke about the role that Rotary played in the huge success of this project and how much the money donated has helped the communities in Uganda and Malawi. Rotary’s partnership has allowed communities to restore social bonds, empower women, and decrease marital abuse. The AIDS dilemma was at a great height when Rotary partnered with the Salama Shield foundation but with the club’s support, programs were put in place to assist people in these difficult situations. The 3H grant that was awarded contributed greatly to the success of the programs and a new cheque of $39,362.02 was granted to Mr. Willms. In addition, the Salama Shield Foundation will be holding an event in Toronto on June 12th.
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Helping women in Malawi to improve their lives
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John Janisse
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2014-03-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Feb 05, 2014
Did you know that 74% of adult prisoners were once youth offenders?
It's a very sad statistic; one that Frederick Dryden and the volunteers and staff of Liberty For Youth is committed to changing. On Wednesday February 5, Frederick and Sony, a participant in the mentoring program (and a great basketball player!), spoke at our Rotary meeting. We were inspired by their conviction and impressed by their accomplishments. Our club president John Baxter presented a cheque for $500 to help Liberty For Youth change even more lives, and thanked them for making a difference in the Hamilton Community.
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Helping good kids in bad circumstances
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John Janisse
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2014-02-06 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Mercedes Simon on Jan 21, 2014
Today at our Rotary Club of Hamilton AM meeting we presented a cheque to Charlie Coccaro, a school teacher at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School in the Crown Point West Neighbourhood.
Crown Point West is one of Hamilton’s poorer neighbourhoods, a quarter of residents living in unaffordable housing and a third of residents with only a high school diploma or less. Charlie talked about his school’s difficulty in funding sports programs and lunch programs for their students. Kudos to Charlie for reaching out to our Rotary Club for support and creating awareness of the need for program funding in at-risk neighbourhoods!
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Helping Holy Name of Jesus School
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Mercedes Simon
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2014-01-22 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Jan 08, 2014
We welcomed our newest member, Ashi Jain, at the January 8 meeting. A registered dietitian and a diabetes educator, Ashi is currently working both as a dietitian at McMaster Hospital and as a Care Co-ordinator for the Hamilton CCAC.
Ashi is excited to join the Hamilton AM Rotary Club. "The enthusiasm and dedication of the Hamilton Rotary AM club is so infectious that I could think of no better way to engage with the community and address some of the issues through an organized group effort."
We welcome Ashi, and look forward to working along side her as we serve the north end communities of Hamilton!
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Welcome new member Ashi Jain
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John Janisse
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2014-01-09 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Alexander Lutchin on Dec 17, 2013
Rotary Club of Hamilton AM members Tim Dickins, Ruth Liebersbach and Paul Lakin prepare to make pancakes for students at Hess Street School in Hamilton on December 18. This annual Christmas breakfast event for the 325 students is something students look forward as many have never experienced a Canadian Christmas. The pancakes are cooked fresh by Rotarians starting at 6:30 am and kept warm before being served to the students in their classrooms. The inner city school accommodates students from many countries. Each student also received a tote bag filled with candy and other goodies. Congrats to all Rotarians who participated.
(Photo A. Lutchin, Hamilton AM Rotary)
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The Spirit of Christmas at Hess St. School
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Alexander Lutchin
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2013-12-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Dec 11, 2013
At the December 12th club meeting, we met Helen Dam and Laurel Thompson from the Royal Hamilton Yacht Club. Laurel is the current Commodore of the club, and Helen is a former Ontario Sailing Female Jr. Sailor of the year. The club presented them with a cheque for $500 towards their Able Sail Program.
The Able Sail program at The Royal Hamilton Yacht Club has a great history of putting adults and children with disabilities out on Hamilton Harbour. Laurel is axiously waiting for spring, to get out there once again. "Thank you Rotary for your on-going support to RHYC Able Sail program. You've helped to enrich the lives of many children and adults living with disabilities."
For Helen the gift is more personal. "I've been a participant in the program for the last 11 years. Since the program has outgrown its volunteer capacity the able sail program is hoping to hiring two full time day time staff, and I will be one of them. I think my role will be more administrative/on land and the other role will be a hired coach for on water."
We're honoured to be able to support the Yacht Club in this valuable service they provide.
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Helping the RHYC Able Sail Program
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John Janisse
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2013-12-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Nov 27, 2013
We're getting ready for the annual pancake breakfast at Hess St. School. This year, the breakfast is on Wednesday, December 18th. For many members in our club this event is the highlight of the year; everyone looks forward to it.
Along with breakfast we'll be giving every child a gift bag that will include, among other things, a new book. This year, we aren't collecting books; we'll be buying the books new, and so would welcome any donation towards this from members, or the public. If you would like to donate, please contact Irene Stayshyn.
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Pancake Breakfast at Hess St. School
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John Janisse
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2013-11-28 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Nov 23, 2013
The Rotary Club of Hamilton A.M. is pleased to announce the results of the 2nd Annual fundraiser “An Evening with Bortz, Amato & Friends” in support of ProAction Cops & Kids, Community Child Abuse Council of Canada, McMaster Children’s Hospital and The Rotary Club.
On Tuesday evening, November 12th more than 200 people descended upon the historic Hamilton Club for a magical evening featuring International Artist Jeremy Bortz and Saxophonist Joe Amato & their friends.
“It was an evening that celebrated Art, Music, Fine Food and Good Wine,” said Tim Dickins, Hamilton A.M. Rotarian and Event Chair. “We really tried hard to showcase local and emerging talent. In addition to vocalists Mary Panacci and Anne-Marie Bastien we included two vocal students from Mohawk College, Karin Visser and Grace San Andres. Our photographer for the evening was also a Mohawk College student Jordan Walmsley.
The event was really a big house party with lots of things going on in various rooms of the Hamilton Club. In addition to the Art Exhibit and the Live Entertainment we also had an Auction which included Toronto Maple Leaf & Toronto Raptor tickets packaged with dinner at Gretzky’s, Jewelry, a Custom made suit by Coppley, sports memorabilia and various golf packages.
Then as a surprise and a thank you, we gave away thirty door prizes including two tickets to Cher – Dressed to Kill Tour.
The event generated $34,000 for our charities. “We were thrilled to hit the 200 attendees mark and more than doubled the number of sponsors from the previous year,” Dickins said. A special thank you goes out to our corporate sponsors Rogers Business Solutions; G4S Canada Ltd.; and Old Republic Insurance. Without their support we could not have put this event on! Planning has already started for the 3rd Annual Event slated for November 2014. Our goal in 2014 is to hit the $50,000 mark for our selected charities!
If you would like to join us next year please contact Tim Dickins at 905-466-6587 or email: tim.dickins@rci.rogers.com.
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'House Party' at Hamilton Club a huge success!
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John Janisse
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2013-11-24 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Nov 12, 2013
Our guest at the November 13 meeting was Sandra Strauss, the director of Camp Erin Hamilton. Camp Erin Hamilton is an annual three-day camp experience offered at no charge and facilitated by professional staff and trained volunteers of the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice and Bereaved Families of Ontario - Hamilton/ Burlington. The camp is for children ages 6 to 17 who have experienced the death of someone close to them. Sandra spoke with passion and conviction; we're grateful to learn about this valuable service in our community.
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Camp Erin - helping kids who grieve
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John Janisse
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2013-11-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Oct 22, 2013
At it's Wednesday October 23 meeting, The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM presented a $500.00 donation to Neighbour To Neighbour, a local Hamilton Food Bank and Community Support Centre. Doug Farraway, Director of Development for Neighbour To Neighbour was present to receive the cheque and thank the club.
"Every month at Neighbour to Neighbour we help 1300 families or over 5,000 people get through their own personal food emergencies. You can be assured that every dollar donated will be used to ensure no-one goes hungry on Hamilton Mountain."
The club is pleased to support Neighbour To Neighbour and it's volunteers and staff, and comments them on the important work that they do in our community.
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Club donates to Neighbour To Neighbour
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John Janisse
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2013-10-23 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Sep 17, 2013
For the month of October 2013 our club will move it's meetings from the Waterfront Centre to Williams Fresh Café at 47 Discovery Drive, Hamilton. Expect to see a new menu, a new view of the picturesque Hamilton Harbour, and the same great camaraderie for which our club is known. Come join us!
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We're moving for October
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John Janisse
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2013-09-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Jun 23, 2013
For the fourth year in a row, a number of graduating Grade 8 students from Hess Street School, a Hamilton “inner city school”, now have computers to take home to prepare them for the challenges of High School. Computers have become a necessity to complete school work at the High School and Post Secondary level. Many students at Hess Street School are new Canadians and some families don’t have the resources to provide home computers. On June 21, 2013 at 2:00 pm, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM and its partners in this project presented 20 refurbished computers to Hess Street School students in the school auditorium.
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“Rotary Right Click” project benefits Hess Street School students
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John Janisse
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2013-06-24 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Sharon Levy-Cohen on Jun 16, 2013
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Imagine in the Park Children's Arts Festival
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Sharon Levy-Cohen
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2013-06-17 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Jun 11, 2013
Our club received a Presidential Citation and Peace Award at the 2013 District Changeover Dinner that was held at Salvatores Italian Gardens in Buffalo.
The Presidential Citation recognizes Rotary clubs that achieve an array of accomplishments that help them become stronger, deliver effective service, and enhance their public image.
The Disctrict Peace Award is given to clubs that undertake a successful peace forum or peace-related project during 2012-13.
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Awards
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John Janisse
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2013-06-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Len Lifchus on Jun 04, 2013
On Saturday, June 1, 2013 our President Shikha married the love of her life, Amit in a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony in Montreal, Quebec.
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A presidential wedding
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Len Lifchus
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2013-06-05 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on May 26, 2013
On May 24, 2013 at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, the Governor General of Canada presented Hamilton Police Service Superintendent Mike Shea with the Order of Merit of the Police Forces.
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Club member Mike Shea receives Order of Merit from Governor General
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John Janisse
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2013-05-27 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on May 15, 2013
Our club welcomed its newest member at the May 15th meeting. Sharon Levy-Cohen is a founder and coordinator of Imagine In the Park, a children's arts festival in Hamilton. A former teacher, Sharon is a wonderful addition to our club. Thanks for joining Hamilton AM, Sharon. Welcome!
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Welcome new member Sharon Levy-Cohen
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John Janisse
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2013-05-16 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Mar 27, 2013
Marta Stiteler shares a smile with Iqra, a student at Hess Street School. Marta had just presented Iqra with a copy of 'Charlotte's Web', along with a journal on the last day of the reading program. She later received this letter from Iqra's teacher, Kathryn Tuite.
"Thank You so very much for coming in to spend time reading and becoming friends with Iqra. She was so happy and proud to have you as her special reading buddy.
"She has made amazing strides since arriving in Canada in November 2011. Her life hasn't been easy, yet she is always ready with a sunny smile and a helping hand.
"She loved her book and journal. In fact she kept going to her bag to peek at them. That was such a kind and thoughtful gesture.
"More than anything gifts of time are appreciated by my students. I am delighted to have met you and hope that you will continue working with the students at Hess."
For Marta, the jesture came naturally. "Iqra is such an amazing girl, I wanted to give her something that she could look forward to reading in the future. It touched me to know that such a small gesture made such a large impact."
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Reading Buddies
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John Janisse
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2013-03-28 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Marta Stiteler on Mar 12, 2013
Students in the Mohawk College Financial Services Program invested hundreds of hours raising more than $28,000 for both community and international Rotary Club of Hamilton AM Projects. It was an experience that taught future financial planners, bank representatives and insurance agents how to get out there and support those less fortunate, while at the same time building contacts. Although it was challenging for some, Program Director, Christine DiCarlo, stressed how important it is to be connected to your city and area where you work by belonging to services clubs and other organizations. Being part of the community is good for the community, but it also gets your name out there and gets you networking.
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Mohawk College Financial Services Class Raises Thousands for Rotary Investing Back into Their Community
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Marta Stiteler
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2013-03-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Mar 12, 2013
Our club welcomed its newest member at the March 13th meeting. Al Lutchin is President & CEO of Career Compass Canada, and has a distinguished career serving in senior management roles, including executive positions in both the private and public sectors. His wife Nance is a member of the Rotary Club of Dundas, and has been 'encouraging' Al to become a Rotarian for some time. We're glad you chose our club, Al. Welcome!
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Welcome new member Al Lutchin
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John Janisse
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2013-03-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Jelaine Foster on Mar 03, 2013
Each year the Hamilton-McMaster Rotaract Club hosts a Professional Development Night where they are able to reach out to Rotarians for advice and career guidance. On February 28th, Rotaraians and Rotaracters met at Acclamation Restaurant on James St. N. for great food and even better company. The conversations between Rotaractors and Rotarians were exciting and informative. Rotaract members were able to gain valuable insight into their future career options, while also asking for practical advice on subjects such as their resume. All in all, it was a great event. An invaluable experience for all in attendance.
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Professional Development Night an Invaluable Experience
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Jelaine Foster
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2013-03-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Feb 13, 2013
 Hamilton area Rotary Clubs joined together to host the Paul Harris Fellowship Awards Dinner on Wednesday, February 13, 2013, at Michelangelo’s Banquet Centre, on Hamilton mountain. Three men were honoured for their service to the Community during the evening, which was lead by host Dana Robbins, himself a Paul Harris Fellow.
The nominee for the Hamilton AM club was George McCarter. A successful businessman, George has led the dynamic Pearson Dunn Insurance Inc. company since 2006, as well as serving on numerous boards and committees in Hamilton. Hillfield-Strathallan College, the Hamilton Club, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, McMaster Children's hospital Fundraising Council, and United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton have all benefited from George's tireless efforts.
We congratulate you, George, along with this year's other recipients Colin Millar and Terry Cooke, and honour you for your living example of Rotary's motto 'service above self'.
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George McCarter honoured at Paul Harris Award night
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John Janisse
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2013-02-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Marta Stiteler on Dec 16, 2012
Some 150 people joined the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM and Artist Jeremy Bortz at the Hamilton Club, on November 13, at the first annual fundraiser “An Evening with Jeremy Bortz and Friends,” to benefit local charities.
One month later, The Rotary Club of Hamilton A.M. held a reception on Thursday December the 13, at the Hamilton Club to distribute the proceeds from the event. Members of the Rotary Club, event sponsors, (Rogers Business Solutions, Old Republic Insurance Group, G4S Security Solutions) and the charities took part. The event raised $29,000 with proceeds going to Community Child Abuse Council, Good Shepherd and the McMaster Children’s Hospital.
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Bortz Event a Huge Success!
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Marta Stiteler
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2012-12-17 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Melissa Heffernan on Dec 06, 2012
The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM is proud to present another successful year clowning around in the Hamilton’s Santa Clause Parade.
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Clowns put 'Beautiful Smiles on their Faces'
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Melissa Heffernan
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2012-12-07 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Dec 03, 2012
Over 60 people braved roads clogged from the season's first snowstorm to enjoy a winetasting social at the home of John Janisse, on Friday, November 30. Nine wines were sampled - all provided by wineonline.ca, who also contributed a portion of all wine ordered that evening to the club's Malawi project. Thanks to all who provided the wonderful appetizers, sold raffel tickets, and organized this event!
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Wine Winter Wonderland
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John Janisse
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2012-12-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Nov 28, 2012
On November 28th, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM presented Paul Harris Fellowships to six people in the Hamilton community who have exemplified the Rotary motto of 'Service Above Self'.
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Paul Harris Awards
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John Janisse
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2012-11-29 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Marta Stiteler on Sep 26, 2012
Once again, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM participated in Telling Tales, the largest children’s literary festival in Canada, providing financial support and a number of volunteers. Here is Hamilton AM Club’s own Linna Nguyen getting hugs from Winnie the Pooh and Peter Rabbit.
This year’s exciting event took place on Sunday, September 16th at Westfield Heritage Village in Rockton and featured Canada’s leading children’s authors, illustrators, storytellers and musicians. More than 7,000 visitors attended the 4th Annual Telling Tales Festival. Sixteen local Rotary Clubs were involved.
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Telling Tales 2012
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Marta Stiteler
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2012-09-27 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Sep 12, 2012
Congratulations to the Hamilton McMaster Rotaract club on the launch of their new website! We look forward to seeing the good work you continue to do on campus and in the community.
Visit Hamilton McMaster Rotaract Website.
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New Hamilton McMaster Rotaract Website
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John Janisse
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2012-09-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Daniel Rodrigues on May 05, 2012
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Rotary Spring Clean-up Round-up
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Daniel Rodrigues
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2012-05-06 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Apr 15, 2012
Join us on June 2, 2012 to help build an opportunity for a bright future for Thomas, Josh and James Newman.
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In Support of the Newman Boys
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John Janisse
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2012-04-16 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Janisse on Apr 10, 2012
Our annual BBQ and Auction moves to a new home at the Ancaster Fairgrounds.
Mark your calendars!
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Our 27th Annual BBQ and Auction is Friday, August 17, 2012
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John Janisse
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2012-04-11 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Paul Lakin on Apr 01, 2012
Looking for a rotary club in Hamilton to visit or join? There are 12 clubs in the area, each with it's own character, location and meeting times - there's a club for everyone!
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Do a Make up or contact area Rotary Clubs!
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Paul Lakin
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2012-04-02 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Paul Pageau on Feb 29, 2012
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Reading Program at Hess St. School
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Paul Pageau
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2012-03-01 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Judy Dolbec on Jan 31, 2012
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Annual Euchre Tournament
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Judy Dolbec
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2012-02-01 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Len Lifchus on Nov 30, 2011
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Clowning around for kids
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Len Lifchus
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2011-12-01 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Terry Beaupre on Nov 02, 2011
Rotary wants to thank Henry Mizzi of H.M. Courier Service, Tony Wellenreiter of Wellenreiter & Wellenreiter, Mark Stewart of McMaster Innovation Park and Melissa Heffernan of Sutton Group Realty for supporting Clowns for Kids.
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Clowns For Kids UPDATE
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Terry Beaupre
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2011-11-03 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Terry Beaupre on Mar 03, 2011
Hamilton-McMaster Rotaract Club Raises $2,000 for Mini University Scholarships
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Hamilton-McMaster Rotaract Club
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Terry Beaupre
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2011-03-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Brian Tisdale on Dec 14, 2010
We thank our membership and friends for helping us keep this tradition alive. Special thanks to our head organizer this year, Henry Mizzi.
Story and pictures coming soon.
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Our Annual Hess Street School Christmas
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Brian Tisdale
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2010-12-15 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by John Baxter on Dec 08, 2010
See what our Interact Club is doing to help make Christmas more fun for the less fortunate.
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The Sir John A. Macdonald INTERACT Club's Christmas Drive
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John Baxter
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2010-12-09 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Judy Dolbec on Dec 03, 2010
The Rotary Club's annual bid euchre evening at Rick and Ruth's house. Pictures coming soon.
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Annual Bid Euchre Evening
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Judy Dolbec
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2010-12-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Judy Dolbec on Nov 19, 2010
Hamilton A.M. helps out the Basketeers Group for women's shelters. See PhotoJournals for more information and pictures.
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Baskets for Women's Shelter
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Judy Dolbec
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2010-11-20 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Terry Beaupre on Aug 12, 2010
Hamilton AM Rotary BBQ
in reference to our 25th Annual BBQ and Auction
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Hamilton AM Rotary BBQ News
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Terry Beaupre
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2010-08-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Brooke Hamilton
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November 20th Meeting Minutes
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Brooke Hamilton
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Posted by John Janisse
The regular Wednesday morning meeting will be offsite this Wednesday, October 30, taking place at the Phoenix Restaurant on the McMaster University campus. The guest Speaker will be University President Dr. Patrick Dean.
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October 30 club meeting at McMaster University
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John Janisse
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Posted by John Janisse
Telling tales is a free festival where families can discover stories together, it’s set in a beautiful historic westfield heritage village, it’s a day when we leave our technology behind and stories and history are coming alive.
As a Bronze level sponsor of Telling Tales, our club is thrilled to be participating in the event again this year.
For more information, visit www.tellingtales.org, or watch the video.
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Telling Tales 2013
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John Janisse
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Posted by John Janisse
Join us at the Ancaster Fairgrounds for a wonderful evening of great food, music and fun as we raise money for important community projects.
For more than a quarter century, this signature event – our BBQ Auction - has been one of the city’s premiere fundraising occasions, attracting some 400 guests and raising more than one and a half a million dollars. It is going to be a real barn - burner of a night, full of bidding and good ‘ole down home entertainment and we would love to see you, your friends and family there.
Proceeds from the "Rotary Round Up" BBQ/Auction will be directed to meeting the growing needs of those less fortunate in our community. This year, proceeds will benefit Food for Kids and An Instrument for Every Child, two programs that benefit children in in the North End of Hamilton, one of the poorest areas in our community.
Tickets are available for $95, and include a fabulous meal, open bar, silent and live auctions and music by he Elton Lammie Band. For more information or tickets contact Irene Stayshyn or Ruth Liebersbach.
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Come to the 2013 Rotary Round Up BBQ/Auction
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John Janisse
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Posted by Marta Stiteler
On Friday, August 17, 2012, the Rotary Club of Hamilton A.M. hosted “The Rotary Round Up” 27th Annual BBB/Auction, which for the first time was hosted at the Ancaster Fair Grounds. Participants got into the spirit of the evening, and the room was filled with pistol packing, ten gallon hat wearing cowboys and other varmints. The food was prepared BBQ style and the popular band, “The Relics” returned to entertain the crowd with great dance tunes. A great hit this year was the Photo Booth, where guests could have single or group photos taken.
For more than 25 years, this signature event has been one of the city’s premiere fundraising occasions, attracting over 400 guests and raising more than one and a half a million dollars. As per usual, proceeds from the “Rotary Round Up” BBQ/Auction will be directed to meeting the growing needs of those less fortunate in our community.
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Rotary Round Up BBQ Auction 2012
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Marta Stiteler
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Posted by John Janisse
At one of our meetings this past summer our club had its own version of the Canadian Open - Rotary style! Here, Sargent-at-arms Ruth Liebersbach ensures that golfer Tony Wellenreiter 'plays fair'.
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Putting around at Rotary
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John Janisse
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Posted by Henry Mizzi
Dec. 16, Our annual Christmas breakfast at Hess street school. We need alot of volunteers and donations. Henry will be handing out info in the next meetings coming up.
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CHRISTMAS at HESS ST. SCHOOL
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Henry Mizzi
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Posted by Heather Battles
Hamilton-McMaster Rotaract Club Raises $4,000 for Polio Eradication Efforts
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Rotaract Gala
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Heather Battles
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Posted by Terry Beaupre
Rotary Club of Hamilton A.M. 25th Annual BBQ & Auction In support of the Dr. J. Edgar Davey Elementray School new "Rotary" Children's Play Centre.
The event will be hosted by Linda and Gord Thompson on the grounds of their spectacular home.
SEE DOWNLOADS (BELOW AND TO THE RIGHT OF THIS) FOR A DOWNLOADABLE FILE FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES.
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Rotary Club of Hamilton A.M. 25th Annual BBQ<b/
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Terry Beaupre
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Posted by John Baxter
Mark your calendar for the Rotaract Career Night.
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Rotaract Career Night
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John Baxter
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Posted by Henry Mizzi
Dec. 15, Hamilton Limo is holding its 2nd annual TURKEY FRY 12N-8PM at 114 Catharine St S We are raising food for the food banks. Please come enjoy some deep fried turkey and the fixings, everyone is welcome. Just bring non perishable food for the donations.
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Hamilton Limo TURKEY FRY
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Henry Mizzi
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Posted by Marlee McIntyre
This past weekend, over 400 Rotarians from District 7990 participated in our District Conference in Buffalo, NY. It was a weekend of making new friends and renewing old ones. Plus many terrific speakers on a variety of topics, including The Power of 1, about what one person can start throughout the world. Our luncheon speaker had many of us on the verge of tears while listening to her personal journey with polio.
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District Conference in Buffalo, NY
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Marlee McIntyre
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Posted by Terry Beaupre
A bold new club banner/flag has just been presented and we need your input.
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New Club Banner
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Terry Beaupre
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Posted by John Baxter
Keep in touch with what the McMaster Rotaract Club is doing.
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Link to our McMaster Rotaract Club
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John Baxter
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Posted by Marlee McIntyre
Join in and help support Literacy. September 20, 2009, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Westfield Heritage Village, Rocton, On Free Admission.
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Telling Tales
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Marlee McIntyre
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Posted by Terry Beaupre
The Heart and Soul of Rotary from the Rotary Foundation Newsletter August 2009.
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Every Rotarian Every Year
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Terry Beaupre
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Posted by Marlee McIntyre
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How to do a MAKE UP
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Marlee McIntyre
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