Sunday, September 15, 2024

Our Program. Literacy - The Greatest Treasure of All. September 16 to 22, 2024.

 

WELCOME!!

 to this week's meeting of
The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
For the week beginning September 16, 2024

Scroll down to enjoy the content!

Complete the form for a make-up!


Please leave a donation to assist our club to do Rotary's good works!



Rotary International President – Stephanie Urchik


The Rotary theme for 2024-25 - 


And for our clubs - 


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Greeter this week 
Rotarian Tammy


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Inspirational moment 

Service Above Self

In 2002, my wife and I traveled with another couple to Australia, New Zealand, and then to Tokyo, Japan. Although we met many wonderful travelers and locals, the following two acts of kindness in Japan truly stand out in our minds.


We had made reservations to stay in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese-style hotel) in Old Tokyo (Asakusa). We had been assured that the night manager spoke English and would be available until 11 p.m., so we could call him for directions from the Asakusa train station to the ryokan. The language barrier made it difficult for the four of us to select the train that would take us from the Narita Airport to Asakusa.

Fortunately, because of an observant ticket agent, we were able to catch the last train out that night to our destination.

But because only two of us were in the ticket line, the agent misunderstood how many tickets we wanted and only sold us two instead of four. With what we thought were four tickets, we two men joined our wives and headed to the train platform.

After we had walked about 30 feet, the ticket agent realized we were two tickets short, left her counter, and ran after us to take us back to the ticket counter to sell us the extra tickets. Needless to say, we were ecstatic that the agent had been so thoughtful and observant. (Although perhaps this inconvenienced the people waiting in the long ticket line.) We still wonder today which two of us would have spent the night at the Tokyo airport!

When we stepped off the train in Asakusa, it was raining and close to 10 p.m. I called the ryokan manager for directions, but I couldn't understand a word he said. I passed the phone to my travel companions, but none were any better at communicating than I.

With looks of exasperation and hopelessness, all four of us stood by the phone with one big collective question mark hanging over our heads.

Then a young Japanese girl in her late teens stepped out of the train station crowd. In perfect English, she said, 

"I have time. I want to help." 

I handed her the phone, and she spoke for a few minutes with the manager. After that, she not only explained to us how to get to the ryokan but walked us down the street in the rain to the subway station. She showed us how to buy tickets and took us to the right gate.

We stumbled over our individual versions of domo arigato ("Thank you very much"). She smiled, bowed, and disappeared into the night. We made it to the ryokan with minutes to spare — thanks to her gracious kindness.

Originally published as HeroicStories #647 on January 12, 2006

by Bill Warren - Texas, USA

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Canadiana 
Two national war memorials

Canada has two national war memorials:

1. The National War Memorial in Ottawa: This is the primary and most prominent war memorial in Canada, located in Confederation Square, Ottawa. It commemorates the service and sacrifice of Canadians in all wars since Confederation, including the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and subsequent conflicts. The memorial features a large granite arch and bronze sculptures representing the people of Canada who served in the armed forces.

2. The Canadian National Vimy Memorial: Located in France, this memorial commemorates the Battle of Vimy Ridge during the First World War, in which Canadian forces played a significant role. The monument stands on Vimy Ridge and honors the memory of Canadian soldiers who fought and those who lost their lives in France during World War I, with the names of over 11,000 soldiers who were listed as missing in action.

Both memorials serve as important symbols of national remembrance and honor the contributions and sacrifices of Canadian military personnel.

However, there is also a significant war memorial in Newfoundland.

The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial: This memorial is located in France and commemorates the Dominion of Newfoundland's contributions during the First World War, particularly during the Battle of the Somme. 

On July 1, 1916, the Newfoundland Regiment suffered devastating losses at Beaumont-Hamel. The memorial includes a caribou statue, which is the emblem of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, and commemorates the soldiers from Newfoundland who fought and died in the war.

Additionally, in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, there is the National War Memorial. (Thanks to Rotarian Neil for bringing this to our attention!)

St. John's National War Memorial: Situated at the downtown waterfront in St. John's, this memorial commemorates the Newfoundlanders who served and died in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and in peacekeeping operations. It features several bronze figures representing the various branches of the military, along with inscriptions and plaques honoring those who served.

The "Forget Me Not" flower holds a special place in the commemoration of Newfoundland's war dead and their Memorial Day.

Newfoundland's Memorial Day: July 1st is observed as Memorial Day in Newfoundland and Labrador, commemorating the tragic losses of the Newfoundland Regiment at Beaumont-Hamel during the Battle of the Somme in World War I. 

The "Forget Me Not" flower is a symbol of remembrance for Newfoundlanders, representing the memory of the fallen soldiers. It was traditionally worn on Memorial Day before Newfoundland joined Canada in 1949 and the practice has continued as a way to honor the past.

Significance of the Flower: The "Forget Me Not" is a symbol of remembrance and undying memory. It is used to honor those who died and to ensure that their sacrifice is not forgotten. On Memorial Day, many Newfoundlanders wear the flower as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the war.

Newfoundland's Memorial Day vs. Canada Day

Memorial Day: For Newfoundlanders, July 1st is a solemn day of remembrance. The day begins with ceremonies and events honoring the sacrifices of the Newfoundland Regiment at Beaumont-Hamel. The focus is on reflecting on the impact of the war and the loss suffered by the community.

Canada Day: While July 1st is celebrated as Canada Day across the rest of the country, marking the anniversary of the confederation of Canada in 1867, Newfoundlanders often observe the day in two parts. The morning and early afternoon are dedicated to Memorial Day activities, including ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence. Later in the day, they may join in Canada Day festivities, balancing the somber remembrance with the celebration of national unity.

This dual observance underscores the unique historical and cultural identity of Newfoundland and Labrador within Canada, recognizing both the regional significance of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel and the broader national celebration of Canada Day.


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Comments from our guests and members 

Members and guests attending our weekly meetings are very important to us. Based on your comments we are able to produce many more educational, inspiring, and entertaining weekly meetings.

Following are some of the comments we have received. Would you please send us your comments?   

July 15. 10 ways to have a better conversation! A speaker worth listening to!
-- Neil Rogers, E-Club of Canada One, District 5370

March 25. Fight for Justice, even if you don’t live to see it. I enjoy the format of your meetings.
-- Rick Gibson, Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise, District 5020

How playing an instrument benefits your brain. Very knowledgeable. Now I know why my wife is smarter than I am!
-- Martin Secker, Rotary Club of Kingston, District 7040

June 29. I very much enjoyed the video about how learning to play music impacts the brain. I have been teaching myself guitar for the last three years. Equipped with a 70-plus year old brain, I can assure you it requires full use of what I have to work with. Sometimes, it even hurst, but in a very joyful way. Thank you.
-- Doug Dyer, E-Club of Canada One, District 5370

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Archived Meetings
  • For meetings prior to June 10, 2024, please click here. 
  • All meetings are archived.  
  • For meetings starting June 10, 2024, please scroll to the very bottom of this page.

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Announcements 

The Rotary theme for 2024-25


RI President Stephanie Urchick celebrates the magic of Rotary. 
She says members create that magic with every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member of Rotary.

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E-Club Rotary Foundation Newsletter September 2024



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Material Suggestions and Greeter Messages Always Needed!

Do you have a Rotary story that you'd like to share with the Rotary World?

Please feel free to forward an approx. 150 - 200 word message or any material suggestions in an e-mail, or in a Word document, along with a JPeg picture or two, to E-Club Administration Chair, Kitty Bucsko.

We'd love to hear from you!


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A follow-up from the 
Thursday morning, CoffeeSip
8:00 a.m. Mountain Time
Thursday, September 12

Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is a serious fungal disease that affects elm trees, caused by the fungus Ophiostoma ulmi or Ophiostoma novo-ulmi. It is spread primarily by elm bark beetles and through root grafts between nearby elm trees.


How Dutch Elm Disease is Transmitted:

1. Elm Bark Beetles: The primary method of transmission is by two types of beetles—the native elm bark beetle (Hylurgopinus rufipes) and the European elm bark beetle (Scolytus multistriatus). These beetles carry fungal spores on their bodies after feeding on infected trees. They spread the disease when they move to healthy trees to lay eggs, depositing the fungus in the trees' bark and vascular tissue.


2. Root Grafts: If two elms are growing close together, their roots can fuse, allowing the disease to spread directly from tree to tree underground.


Steps to Manage and Prevent Dutch Elm Disease:

1. Monitor Trees Regularly: Early detection is crucial. Look for symptoms like wilting, yellowing, or browning of leaves, especially in the upper branches, and dieback starting from the top of the tree.

2. Prune Infected Branches: If caught early, removing infected limbs can slow the spread of the disease. Prune 5-10 feet below any visible symptoms and properly disinfect pruning tools after each cut.

3. Remove and Dispose of Dead Trees: If a tree is severely infected, it should be cut down and properly disposed of to prevent the spread of the disease to nearby trees. Elm wood should not be stored as firewood, as it can harbor beetles.

4. Use Fungicides: Preventative fungicide injections can be administered by professionals to protect healthy trees. These are most effective when applied before infection occurs and can protect the tree for about 2-3 years.

5. Control Beetles: Reducing the population of elm bark beetles helps to limit the spread of the fungus. This can be done by using insecticides or removing breeding grounds, such as dead or dying elm wood.
6. Prevent Root Grafting: In areas with many elm trees, digging trenches between trees can prevent root grafts from spreading the disease underground.

Source: - Dutch Elm Disease: Identification and Management," University of Minnesota Extension, accessed September 12, 2024, https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/dutch-elm-disease

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We appreciate donations made by our generous visiting Rotarians!

The Rotary E-club of Canada One appreciates donations made by visiting Rotarians and guests when they attend our meeting. 

In recognition of the support given to our Club by these visitors, the Club makes a quarterly donation of $100 to the Rotary Foundation.


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Real-time meetings

Each 3rd Thursday of the month is our Fellowship Assembly, and we often invite interesting speakers or Rotary Leaders for this entertaining, educational fun event. Plan to join us. 

The time is 9:00 a.m. (Mountain Time) in lieu of the weekly Coffee Chat except for July and August when there are no FA’s. Here is the zoom link:



Each Thursday Morning from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (Mountain Time) we host a casual FellowSIP Coffee Chat. 

Everyone is welcome to attend and we encourage your participation.

Please click our Event Calendar for details and access Link.

For further inquiries or suggestions please contact: info@rotaryeclubcanada.ca

All our videos can be viewed on our YouTube channel.



Anyone can subscribe to our channel so that you will be automatically notified when a new video is posted.

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How do you support our club?

In order for our club to continue its much-needed projects helping others, your contributions are critical.  You may use
either:

The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
10430 135 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
Canada   T5N 2C6
(780) 267 4547

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Environment 


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Humour 

YouTube does not allow sharing of videos quite as they used to.  So, please click this link to view the humour today.  With some luck, you can click the picture below to access the video as well.  Too many changes and frustrating.  I'm working on it.  


And an addition from Rotarian Vicki - 

"If you’re not supposed to eat at night, 
why is there a light bulb in the refrigerator?"

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New members' corner 
Sangkoo Yun selected as President 2026/2027

Sangkoo Yun, from the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang, Seoul, Korea, has been selected as the Rotary International President for 2026-27.

His nomination will be confirmed on 15 September if unchallenged.


Yun holds degrees from Syracuse University and an honorary doctorate from The University of Edinburgh.

He is the founder and CEO of Dongsuh Corp. and President of Youngan Corp., with significant involvement in civic organizations and cultural heritage preservation.

A Rotary member since 1987, Yun has held numerous roles including director, trustee, and RI learning facilitator.

He co-chaired the Keep Mongolia Green Project for eight years and served on several RI committees.

Yun received The Rotary Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award and honors from Queen Elizabeth II and the presidents of Mongolia and Korea.

He is a Republic of Korea Army veteran and an elder at Andong Presbyterian Church.

Yun and his wife, Eunsun, are major Rotary donors and have two children.


To learn more, click here.

The Rotarian Minute is a creation of District 1700.  Please send any comments or suggestions to:  laminute1700@gmail.com.

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Rotary minute 

Basic Education and Literacy in Finland


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Food for thought 


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Rotary Jukebox 

For a small donation, your favorite musician will be featured on one of our next e-meetings for everyone to enjoy.

Every week we'll have a draw and the lucky person will see their song featured
!


THIS WEEK - Stevie Wonder, Sir Duke

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Speaker Program 

Literacy - the greatest treasure of all


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The Four-way Test 

To close the meeting, Rotarian Keith recites the Four-Way Test of the things that Rotarians think, say, or do.


Thank you for joining us.  We appreciate your feedback and hope you will return and invite a guest.  

Please Click HERE to leave us a comment or send a message.

Scroll down for Program Donations and Attendance links. 

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Our Facebook page.  Please remember to check out our posts on the Rotary E-Club’s Facebook page.  We work hard to post something every second day, sometimes more often.  

Invite friends to Like our page and enjoy our posts.  Also, please take the time to Share our posts on your Facebook Page. 
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Attendance Links 

Complete the attendance/donation form to have your attendance recognized.
  • Visiting Rotarians and guests  -  Click HERE.
  • Members of Rotary E-Club of Canada One  -  Click HERE.

Confirmation of your attendance will be sent to your e-mail address promptly.


Please support our club!

Donate For the Meeting You Have Attended.

Please consider making a small donation in lieu of a meal 
to help us help those in need.  

We thank you very much!

Program Donations

Our E-Club is a dynamic club comprised of ordinary working and retired people who acknowledge that Rotarians are people who are generous with their time and their resources. 

Our club and the program you have just enjoyed, either as a member or a visitor, is funded only by donations.

We are developing ideas for fundraising with our members who are scattered across Canada, USA, Central America, and Europe, but we do need your help.

As you have not had to buy lunch or travel to attend this program, please make a donation of a minimum of $10.00, considering you're saving in time and cost in appreciation for the experience you have enjoyed. 

  • Visiting Rotarians and guests  -  Click HERE.
  • Members of Rotary E-Club of Canada One  -  Click HERE.

Join Us!
Interested in providing Rotary Service? Unable to attend terra club meetings? 

Contact our membership chair for information or
click HERE for e-club Active Membership application.
or HERE to learn about Associate Membership
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