to this week's meeting of
The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
For the week beginning September 1, 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!
to this week's meeting of
The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
For the week beginning September 1, 2025
Scroll down to enjoy the content!
Complete the form for a make-up!
The Rotary theme for 2025-26 -
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Greeter this week
Club President Rotarian Judy
As we enter September, Rotary’s month of Basic Education and Literacy, let’s remember that literacy is not a privilege—it’s a right.
Every time we support a reading program, sponsor a student, or donate a book, we’re shaping a more just, informed, and compassionate world.
Inspirational moment
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Canadiana
Secretariat’s Canadian Connection: A Legacy Beyond the Finish Line
When people talk about Secretariat — the great red chestnut who thundered to a 31-length victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes — they often call him the greatest racehorse of all time. His name became legend in American sports. But tucked inside that legend is a strong Canadian heartbeat.
Secretariat’s jockey was Ron Turcotte, born and raised in Drummond, New Brunswick. A quiet, skilled horseman, Turcotte had started as a lumberjack before finding his calling in the saddle. It was his steady hands and unflappable courage that guided Secretariat through the Triple Crown, including that astonishing Belmont win that still stands as one of the most iconic moments in racing.
After a tragic accident in 1978 left him paralyzed, Turcotte never stopped inspiring others. He retired to Canada, settling in New Brunswick, and became a tireless advocate for injured jockeys. He passed away just this August (2025), closing a chapter of living history.
Secretariat’s trainer, too, was Canadian — Lucien Laurin, a French-Canadian from Joliette, Quebec. Known for his sharp eye, colourful bow ties, and strict but fair approach, Laurin almost retired before Secretariat came along. Instead, he trained the horse of the century, etching his name into sports history right alongside his horse and rider.
Together — a horse born in Virginia, a trainer from Quebec, and a jockey from New Brunswick — they created a legend that crossed borders. Secretariat’s greatness wasn’t just American history; it was also a proud piece of Canadiana.
A footnote: - Ron Turcotte later reflected on Secretariat’s Belmont triumph: “I still had a lot of horse when I passed the wire. He was not tired. … It was amazing.” (Associated Press, August 22, 2025)
Click here to read an article that appeared in The Toronto Star.
And sadly, Ron Turcotte passed away so very recently – August 22, 2025.
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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. Love the humour of the “transistor radio,” the concept of “the commons,” and the information on the recycling of batteries. With the invention of “Bluetooth and wireless devices,” we use more batteries now than ever before.
-- Patrick Gibson, E-Club of Canada One, District 5370
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Archived Meetings
- All meetings are archived. Click here to see a list and choose what you wish to view.
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Announcements
Basic education and
literacy
is one of The Rotary Foundation’s seven areas of
focus.
We know that basic education and literacy are essential for
reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic
development, and promoting peace.
September is Basic Education and Literacy Month in the Rotary calendar—a time to reflect on the foundational role that education plays in building stronger communities, reducing poverty, and opening doors to opportunity.
Around the world, Rotary clubs are taking action to improve access to quality education, promote literacy for children and adults alike, and support teachers in classrooms where resources may be limited.
It’s a powerful reminder that the ability to read and write is more than a skill—it’s a right that empowers individuals to shape their own futures.
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The Great “Unmute” Lesson - Rotary's New 4-way Test
At one Rotary meeting, a guest speaker from overseas was ready to share his inspiring story about a clean water project. The introductions went smoothly, his camera came on, he smiled warmly — and then… silence.
Dozens of Rotarians leaned into their screens and called out in unison: “You’re on mute!” But no matter how many buttons he pressed, the sound just wouldn’t come through.
Finally, one quick-thinking Rotarian (a retired teacher) suggested: “Type your story into the chat — we’ll read it for you!”
And so, the speaker typed his tale in short bursts, while members took turns giving voice to his words. The story became a shared performance — heartfelt, engaging, and more memorable than anyone expected.
At the end, when the microphone finally worked, the speaker laughed and said: “I’ve never been translated into so many Canadian accents before!”
The meeting ended in laughter, reminding everyone that even when technology falters, Rotary’s spirit of creativity and fellowship always finds a way.
So, we can give over to Rotary a new Four-Way Test with the Zoom “unmute button” as the premise –
At the end, when the microphone finally worked, the speaker laughed and said: “I’ve never been translated into so many Canadian accents before!”
The meeting ended in laughter, reminding everyone that even when technology falters, Rotary’s spirit of creativity and fellowship always finds a way.
So, we can give over to Rotary a new Four-Way Test with the Zoom “unmute button” as the premise –
Is it clicked?
Is it green?
Is it working?
Is it saving embarrassment?
***Material Suggestions and Greeter Messages Always Needed!
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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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!
***
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:
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.
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How do you support our club?
- The Paypal button on our ClubRunner Home Page
- The donation button on the attendance form, or
- Make an Interac transfer to rotaryeclubcanada1@gmail.com
- Send a cheque to:
The Rotary E-Club of Canada One
10430 135 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
Canada T5N 2C6
(780) 267 4547
Environment
Norway's Official Zero Deforestation Policy
...suggested by Rotarian Vicki
In May 2016, the Norwegian parliament became the first country to legislate a zero deforestation requirement for all its public procurement—covering products like palm oil, soy, beef, timber, and paper. The move was strongly advocated by Rainforest Foundation Norway and received broad parliamentary backing. (Source)
Officially, this policy means that no goods contributing to deforestation can be purchased by any branch of the Norwegian government—making Norway the world’s first to enshrine such a commitment into law.
Linking Procurement to Forest Protection
The policy specifically targets high risk commodities tied to tropical forest loss, such as palm oil, soy, beef, coffee, rubber, cocoa, and wood. (Source)
Norway is also taking additional steps to exclude high risk palm oil biofuels from public tenders—decision passed in its parliament in 2019 and effective from 2020. (Source)
Global and Regional Leadership
EU Deforestation Regulation: Norway recently committed to incorporate key parts of the EU Deforestation Regulation (adopted 2023, coming into force December 30, 2025) into its EEA Agreement. (Source)
This covers wood, coffee, cocoa, rubber, and palm oil. Beef and soy will be handled via separate national measures. (Source)
Through its International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI), Norway has invested billions in global forest protection—funding rainforest programs in the Amazon, Guyana, and others, including a recent USD 60 million for Brazil’s Amazon Fund in late 2024. (Source)
Why It Matters
1. Market Influence: By ensuring government contracts don’t support deforestation, Norway is shifting supply chains across entire industries, encouraging sustainable production from the get go.
2. Policy Momentum: This public procurement stance, alongside Norway’s investments, provides a global model. It aligns with other nations like the EU, and anticipates private-sector due diligence rules affecting multinational commodity trading.
3. Concrete Investments: The country consistently funds forest preservation via NICFI—more than NOK 4 billion (over USD 400 million) donated to rainforest projects, including protection of Amazon ecosystems. (Source)
What’s Coming Next
• Diligent implementation of the EU/EEA deforestation law begins no later than December 30, 2025.
• Norway is formulating its own import rules to complement EU measures—especially on beef and soy—based on public consultations (Source)
In Summary
Norway’s deforestation ban—first activated in 2016 through government procurement—is already influencing global commodity markets.
• Diligent implementation of the EU/EEA deforestation law begins no later than December 30, 2025.
• Norway is formulating its own import rules to complement EU measures—especially on beef and soy—based on public consultations (Source)
In Summary
Norway’s deforestation ban—first activated in 2016 through government procurement—is already influencing global commodity markets.
By integrating EU regulation and funding conservation abroad, it’s a two pronged strategy: using governmental purchasing power to shape supply chains while reinforcing forest protection through international aid.
It’s a serious, concrete blueprint that goes beyond rhetoric—let’s hope other nations adopt similar dynamics soon.
***
In February 2016, a group of Rotarians from the United States arrived in Honduras for a one-week humanitarian trip. At the time, I was 26 years old and working as a team leader for a nonprofit organization in Comayagua, Honduras.
I thought it would be just another ordinary workweek—but that week changed my life.
During the trip, I met Ed Odom, a Past District Governor from District 6890 and a member of the Fishhawk Riverview Rotary Club. I spent countless hours talking with him about Rotary—what it is and the incredible work it does around the world. I was truly amazed. Until then, I had only heard bits and pieces about Rotary and didn’t fully understand it. But Ed helped me see that anyone—even me—could become a Rotarian.
In 2018, I moved to a new town called La Paz and started a humanitarian nonprofit called Honduras Compassion Partners. One of the first things I did when I arrived was ask if there was a Rotary club in the city. The answer was no.
Right then, I told myself: This city needs Rotary. This city needs a space where leaders can come together to serve, change their community, and do good in the world.
In February 2018, I called Ed to share my idea and begin recruiting members. Thanks to him, I had already made connections with Ana Alvarez from the Merendón Rotary Club in the San Pedro Sula region of the country. They were very helpful but since La Paz was far, they introduced Wendy Ayestas from the Villa Real Rotary Club of Tegucigalpa, closer to my location. That was the best suggestion.
After I shared my vision with the Villa Real Club de Tegucigalpa, they supported us wholeheartedly—from beginning to end. For a full year, we met weekly with about 30 people from La Paz. We planned community service projects, learned about Rotary, and prepared to become an official club. That year was full of growth, learning, and doing.
Even before becoming an official club, we started carried out impactful projects and partnerships that helped us form the foundation for a strong new club. Then, in December 2018, we received an email confirming that our dream was about to come true.
I immediately called Ed to share the incredible news—we were about to charter a Rotary club! In January 2019, we hosted a large event with more than 120 people in attendance, including our District 4250 Governor. That day, the Rotary Club of La Paz was born with 30 new Rotary members.
The most incredible part? None of us had previous Rotary experience—yet we came together to make this dream a reality, and we’re still carrying it forward today.
Six years later, our club has received six global grants and multiple district grants!!!
These have helped us install water and sanitation systems, build schools, renovate local hospitals, provide vocational training, and transform lives in our community. We’ve led many life-changing projects, and in the upcoming Rotary year, our club will have three assistant governors.
Every year, we’re honored to welcome five Rotary clubs and more than 60 visiting Rotarians from the United States. These visits strengthen our partnerships and deepen our collective impact.
Humour
A priest, a minister, and a rabbit walk into a blood donation clinic.
The nurse asks the priest, "What’s your blood type?"
And the priest replies, “Type A.”
She asks the minister, “And yours?”
And the minister replies, “Type B.”
Then she turns to the rabbit and asks, “How about you?”
The rabbit looks confused.
After a short hesitation, he says, “I think I might be a Type O...”
The nurse asks the priest, "What’s your blood type?"
And the priest replies, “Type A.”
She asks the minister, “And yours?”
And the minister replies, “Type B.”
Then she turns to the rabbit and asks, “How about you?”
The rabbit looks confused.
After a short hesitation, he says, “I think I might be a Type O...”
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New members' corner
Rotary changed my path—now we’re changing our community
Posted on July 17, 2025 by rotaryservice
By Carlos Jonathan Zelaya, member of the Rotary Club of La Paz, District 4250, Honduras
Carlos offers a glass of clean water to Juan José, a local child in La Paz, Honduras, using one of the ceramic filters installed in his community through a Rotary global grant.
I thought it would be just another ordinary workweek—but that week changed my life.
During the trip, I met Ed Odom, a Past District Governor from District 6890 and a member of the Fishhawk Riverview Rotary Club. I spent countless hours talking with him about Rotary—what it is and the incredible work it does around the world. I was truly amazed. Until then, I had only heard bits and pieces about Rotary and didn’t fully understand it. But Ed helped me see that anyone—even me—could become a Rotarian.
In 2018, I moved to a new town called La Paz and started a humanitarian nonprofit called Honduras Compassion Partners. One of the first things I did when I arrived was ask if there was a Rotary club in the city. The answer was no.
Right then, I told myself: This city needs Rotary. This city needs a space where leaders can come together to serve, change their community, and do good in the world.
In February 2018, I called Ed to share my idea and begin recruiting members. Thanks to him, I had already made connections with Ana Alvarez from the Merendón Rotary Club in the San Pedro Sula region of the country. They were very helpful but since La Paz was far, they introduced Wendy Ayestas from the Villa Real Rotary Club of Tegucigalpa, closer to my location. That was the best suggestion.
After I shared my vision with the Villa Real Club de Tegucigalpa, they supported us wholeheartedly—from beginning to end. For a full year, we met weekly with about 30 people from La Paz. We planned community service projects, learned about Rotary, and prepared to become an official club. That year was full of growth, learning, and doing.
Even before becoming an official club, we started carried out impactful projects and partnerships that helped us form the foundation for a strong new club. Then, in December 2018, we received an email confirming that our dream was about to come true.
I immediately called Ed to share the incredible news—we were about to charter a Rotary club! In January 2019, we hosted a large event with more than 120 people in attendance, including our District 4250 Governor. That day, the Rotary Club of La Paz was born with 30 new Rotary members.
The most incredible part? None of us had previous Rotary experience—yet we came together to make this dream a reality, and we’re still carrying it forward today.
Six years later, our club has received six global grants and multiple district grants!!!
These have helped us install water and sanitation systems, build schools, renovate local hospitals, provide vocational training, and transform lives in our community. We’ve led many life-changing projects, and in the upcoming Rotary year, our club will have three assistant governors.
Every year, we’re honored to welcome five Rotary clubs and more than 60 visiting Rotarians from the United States. These visits strengthen our partnerships and deepen our collective impact.
Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Interactors from across the U.S. join local Rotary members in La Paz to help a family build their new home.
As for me, I’ve had the privilege of serving as club president, assistant governor, a member of the district membership committee, and a member of the Cadre of Technical Advisers for The Rotary Foundation.
Soon, I’ll begin a new role as district international service chair for District 4250.
All of this happened in just six years.
Rotary has also given me the opportunity to speak at around 20 clubs in the U.S., attend two Rotary International Conventions, and much more.
It only took one Rotarian and one week to introduce me to the heart of Rotary—and that spark has now multiplied into something so much greater.
This is the Magic of Rotary. Go and share Rotary—everywhere, every time, and with everyone.
Editor’s Note: This story is a powerful reminder of how one moment, one connection, or one Rotarian can spark a lasting impact. If you’ve felt the magic of Rotary in your own journey, consider how you might take that next step—whether it’s mentoring a fellow member, leading a project, or stepping into a new role.
***
End Polio Now
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Rotary minute
Rotary Club of Sarnia
Mackinac Boat Race Pancake Breakfast, July 12
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Food for thought
...a September message from another Rotary district
District 7430 in Southeastern Pennsylvania, USA, including the city of Philadelphia and surrounding areas (getting to know others)
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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!
...contributed by Rotarian Patrick
The Four-way Test
To close the meeting, Rotarian Lois 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.
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***
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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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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.
Interested in providing Rotary Service? Unable to attend terra club meetings?
Contact our membership chair for information or
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