Sunday, June 15, 2025

Our Program. Rusty James. June 16 to 22, 2025.

 

 

WELCOME!!

 to this week's meeting of
The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
For the week beginning June 16, 2025

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 Jim


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Inspirational moment 

Collecting Books (a bookworm?)
Click the sources shown below to view photos.

Alberto Gutiérrez's story is a remarkable example of how one person's dedication can transform a community. For over 25 years, Gutiérrez worked as a garbage truck driver in Bogotá, Colombia. During his early morning routes, he began noticing that people were discarding books. He started collecting these books, rescuing them from the trash. His first find was a copy of Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina, which ignited his mission to salvage discarded literature. Source 

Over time, Gutiérrez amassed more than 20,000 books, transforming the ground floor of his home in the La Nueva Gloria neighborhood into a community library called La Fuerza de las Palabras ("The Strength of Words"). This informal library became a vital resource for local children and families who lacked access to books. As word spread, he began receiving donations, and his initiative expanded to support schools and libraries in underserved and rural areas across Colombia. Source 


Despite having only a primary school education himself, Gutiérrez credits his mother for instilling in him a love of reading by sharing stories with him as a child. He believes that books are a symbol of hope and peace, especially in communities affected by conflict and poverty. 

Gutiérrez's efforts have earned him the nickname "El Señor de los Libros" ("The Lord of the Books"). His story has inspired many and has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting the profound impact that access to books and education can have on individuals and communities.

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Canadiana 

The Resilience of the Canada Goose: A Lesson in Adaptability

Every year, as the cold weather rolls in, millions of Canada geese make their incredible journey southward, heading to warmer climates. But here's the interesting part: not all of them make the long migration. Some have adapted to stay right here in Canada throughout the winter, thanks to a simple change in behavior.

What’s even more fascinating is that these geese have a built-in environmental strategy, making them quite the eco-friendly travellers. Their V-shaped flying formations are more than just a majestic sight; they reduce air resistance and help conserve energy. By taking turns leading the pack, each bird benefits from the lift generated by the one in front. It’s like an avian example of “sharing the load,” which is a great metaphor for how we can approach environmental responsibility in our own lives.

And here’s a little Canadian twist: did you know that the Canada goose is actually a rather funny bird when you really look at it? Known for honking loudly at anything that seems remotely out of place, these geese have a very direct approach to life. If there’s a pesky crow, they’ll honk so fiercely that it’s impossible to ignore them. Much like the spirit of Canadians, they aren’t afraid to speak up about what matters to them—like, say, their habitat!

In a world of constant change, where migration routes are being disrupted by climate change, the adaptability of the Canada goose offers us all a lesson: it’s not just about migrating to a better place, but about adapting to whatever environment you’re in, sharing your resources, and always finding a way to keep moving forward.

So, next time you see a flock of geese flying overhead, think of them as flying symbols of Canada's environmental resilience—teaching us to adapt, cooperate, and, above all, honking when we need to make our voices heard.

 

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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?   

April 21. Talking to myself...hmmm, not so strange after all!
A great little clip about the Budweiser Clydesdales. I've seen them on parade and there's a lot of "horsepower" pulling that beer wagon.
- Patrick Gibson, E-Club of Canada One, District 5370

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Archived Meetings

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Announcements 

RI PRESIDENT-ELECT 
Francesco Arezzo (2025-26)

Francesco Arezzo, a member of the Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy, has been selected to become Rotary International’s president for 2025-26.

Meet the president-elect: https://on.rotary.org/4lrfOJt



The 2025-26 presidential message, announced at the 2025 Rotary International Assembly in February, will remain Unite for Good, which calls on Rotary members to be a force for unity in a world increasingly divided by politics, geography, and ideology. Through service projects, Rotary brings together people of every background — across races, religions, and professions — in a shared mission to do good in their communities.

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Explore the World of Rotary Fellowships! 🌍

Welcome to Rotary! As you embark on your journey with us, we want to introduce you to an exciting aspect of Rotary membership that goes beyond meetings and service projects – Rotary Fellowships.

Think of them as special interest groups that bring Rotarians from around the globe together over shared passions – from Cycling to Cooking and Photography. Whether you’re passionate about traveling or wine tasting, you’ll find a fellowship that can connect you with fellow Rotarians who share your enthusiasm.

Here’s Why You Should Get Involved:

• Expand Your Network: Fellowships are global! Connect with like-minded people across borders and cultures.

• Build Lifelong Friendships: These groups are not just about your shared interest; they’re about building relationships that last a lifetime.

• Get Inspired: Fellowships bring fresh perspectives and ideas that can inspire both personal and professional growth.

How to Join:

1. Choose Your Passion: Have a hobby or interest? Find a fellowship that aligns with it!

2. Join the Group: It's as easy as signing up to connect with Rotarians who share your enthusiasm.

3. Make It Yours: Fellowships are all about fun, so take part in events, travels, and activities that bring joy to your Rotary experience.

Get Started Today!

We invite you to explore the diverse world of Rotary Fellowships, connect with members globally, and turn your passion into action. 

Visit the Rotary Fellowships webpage to see what’s out there and find your new Rotary community.

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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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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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Just so you're aware - 

Our Club's Ongoing Projects - 

We provide ongoing support for the following projects:

And we're doing great!  

Ask for more information if you'd like to be involved!

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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 



And a wee change of pace for those interested...


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Humour 

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New members' corner 

Benefits of being a Rotarian

What are the benefits?

Becoming a Rotary member connects you with a diverse group of professionals who share your passion for making a difference. 

Through regular meetings, service projects, and community events, you’ll:

Discuss your community’s needs and collaborate with like-minded individuals to develop innovative solutions that drive positive change.

Build lifelong connections with other leaders from various fields who are actively working to make a global impact.

Expand your leadership and professional skills through meaningful opportunities for personal growth, mentorship, and hands-on involvement in community projects.

Strengthen your network while fostering lasting friendships and meeting new people who share your values and vision.

Make a tangible difference in your community and beyond by contributing to projects that improve lives and create lasting legacies.

Joining Rotary isn't just about giving back—it's about building relationships, growing together, and shaping the future. Come join us!


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Rotary minute 

Hopelands School Project Uganda - a Rotary project


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Food for thought 

Aphorisms to Inspire and Resonate:

• "He who opens a school door, closes a prison." — Victor Hugo

• "No snowflake in an avalanche ever feels responsible." — Stanislaw Jerzy Lec

• "Man is the only animal that blushes. Or needs to." — Mark Twain

And a few others – author unknown:

• A single act of kindness may not change the world, but it changes the story—and that’s where the world begins.

• Hope doesn’t shout—it hums, softly enough to hear when the world goes quiet.

• Wisdom grows in the pauses—between what we feel and what we choose.
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And now, some (fish) 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 - k d lang



and from Rotarian Doug...
to remember Beach Boys' cofounder Brian Wilson...


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Speaker Program 

Please don't be offended by the few instances of the language here.  The story is so very worthwhile - and I am sure you will all agree totally!


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The Four-way Test 

To close the meeting, PDG Arthur Hodge from Florida recites the Four-Way Test of the things that Rotarians think, say, or do.  In 2010, we organized a matching grant of $31,000 between my Anguilla club and  the Florida club, and PDG Arthur (before he was DG) was one of three Floridians who came to Anguilla and worked hard every day for a full week - not willing to take any "down time" even while in the beautiful climate of Anguilla.  Service above Self!


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.

  • CLICK HERE to return to our ClubRunner Home Page.
  • Visiting Rotarians and guests  -  Click HERE.
  • Members of Rotary E-Club of Canada One  -  Click HERE.
  • e-Satellite Attendance - 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.  

As you have not had to buy lunch or travel to attend this program, please consider a donation of a minimum of $10.00 in appreciation for the experience you have enjoyed. 

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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