2022 11 Dana Atwell PHF

Our Club recognized a major life change for Dana Atwell and Sue, as they make their way to live close to family in Ontario. At a recent meeting, and reflecting the appreciation of all members of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth, Dana was presented with a Paul Harris Award. The award recognized Dana's participation in Club events and administration in so many ways since 2005. He has served as Club President, as a participant in community and international service projects and in the important role as our ClubRunner guru. We wish Dana and Sue well in their new home, and hope to see them from time to time virtually and in person.
2022 11 Dana Atwell PHF Brian Smith 2022-11-02 03:00:00Z 0

2022 10 NS Adopt-A-Highway 

The Fall 2022 Wyse Road Highway Clean Up day took part on Saturday, October 29th, with about 10 Rotarians attending along with our RYE person, Chiara. Everyone was well equipped with safety gear, garbage bags and grabbers, although it did take 4 people to assist one of our members assemble his safety vest correctly. We retrieved lots of coffee cups, recyclables, sheet metal and other things tossed to the side of the road in Burnside and ready now for proper disposal. 
 
 
2022 10 NS Adopt-A-Highway Brian Smith 2022-11-01 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Pints for Polio

In 1985, Rotary launched its PolioPlus programme, the first initiative to tackle global polio eradication through the mass vaccination of children. Rotary has contributed more than $2 billion and countless volunteer hours to immunize more than 3 billion children in 122 countries. We have been successful in reducing world wide cases by 99.9%
 
Come join us at Celtic Corner on Tuesday October 25th and help us finally put an end end this terrible disease.  
2022 Pints for Polio 2022-10-06 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Charity Walk-a-Thon

On Sunday October 2nd the Rotary Club of Dartmouth held their second annual Charity Walk-a-Thon at the Children's Memorial Dragonfly Park.
 
In addition to the opportunity for a little exercise and fellowship the participants raised over $1,000 for the good work of Rotary.
 
Many thanks to all the participants and their sponsors. 
 
 
2022 Charity Walk-a-Thon Dana Atwell 2022-10-06 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Golf Tournament

Wednesday September 14th marked the 9th annual charity golf tournament for the Rotary Club of Dartmouth.  This year again the tournament was held in support of the Boy’s & Girl’s Clubs of Greater Halifax.   
 
Sixty-Six (66) golfers gathered at the Chester Golf Club on what proved to be a glorious day.  The tournament was a scramble format and the winning team of Ken McCormick, Mike Tanner, Ron Himmleman, and Terry Baker (pictured here) came in with a score of 15 under. 
 
The game was followed by a fantastic meal put on by the Chester Golf Club, an awards ceremony, prize give aways and a silent auction.  
All in all, proceeds from the tournament are expected to be in the range of $10,000.
 
Many thanks to all those who participated in the tournament, our volunteers, the Chester Golf Club and our many sponsors who helped to make this tournament a success.
 
To view a photo album of the teams….CLICK HERE
2022 Golf Tournament Dana Atwell 2022-09-16 03:00:00Z 0
2022 Tulip Sale Dana Atwell 2022-08-13 03:00:00Z 0
2022 Swing Fore the Kids Dana Atwell 2022-07-28 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Out with the Old in with the New

 
 
July is turn-over month at the Rotary Club of Dartmouth.
 
Every July we welcome our new president and thank the outgoing president for his/her service over the past year. On Monday July 25th our new president, Ken McCormick (pictured on the left), presented Brian Smith, our outgoing president, with a plaque thanking him for a job well done over the 2021-22 Rotary Year.
 
We welcome Ken to the helm and give a hardy thanks to Brian, from all members of the club, for your dedication and service during the past year. 
 
2022 Out with the Old in with the New Dana Atwell 2022-07-25 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Rotary in Action

 
Rotarians from the Dartmouth club were again helping to keep our community clean and beautiful.
 
Early Saturday morning, June 4th, about a dozen Rotarians took part in their bi-annual street cleanup of Windmill Road in Dartmouth.  Over a couple of hours, they gathered about 50 bags of litter, boards, tires and auto parts. The number one item remains coffee cups, but this time there were lots of COVID masks in the mix. Event chair Mike Monaghan put all the pieces in place with HRM to make sure things went smoothly.
 
In the meantime, across the Harbour at Conrose Park, near Jubilee and Connaught, Rotarian Terry Carter and his brother Bruce, who is with Tree Canada, were beginning to lay out a pattern to begin planting 65 hardwood trees on the Northern side of the park. With the aid of special guest planter Katherine Lewis and another half dozen street cleaner/tree planter volunteers, holes were dug, rocks moved and trees planted. If you are in the park for a game of tennis, baseball or just for a walk, look out for several rows of future shade trees, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth.
 
This is another example of our motto of “Service Above Self”.
2022 Rotary in Action Dana Atwell 2022-06-12 03:00:00Z 0

2022 True Rotarian award

On Monday June 6th President Brian Smith awarded Rotarian Don MacKenzie the True Rotarian Award for 2022. This award is presented to a Rotarian who demonstrates through his/her Rotary and community life that he/she lives by the four-way test and provides 'Service Above Self'.

Well done Don, an award well deserved.

2022 True Rotarian award Dana Atwell 2022-06-10 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Staycation Draw Winners

 
  

On Wednesday June 8th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth held draws for staycations at 12 fabulous spots around the Maritimes.  This annual event helps to fund Rotary projects in our community and beyond. 

The event was held at The Parkside Pub & Smokehouse and was attended by approximately 50 enthusiastic supporters.

Thank you to all those who purchased tickets as you have helped us help those in need.  A list winner is below.

Nic Strum - Oceanstone Inn & Cottages

Tracy Black - Inn at Bay Fortune

Janet Carter - Algonquin Resort

Jamie Oyler - White Point Beach Resort

Marg Chisholm - Glenora Distillery

Michal Crowe - Digby Pines Resort

Sheilia Sperry - Pictou Lodge

Kora Lee Cormier - Oak Island Resort

Scott & Allison Fulton - Inverary Inn

Sharon Harrison - Liscombe Lodge

Mark Gilbert - Rum Runner Inn

Kim Scaling Jordan - Queen Anne Inn

 

 

Here are a few phots of the event:

  
  
 
2022 Staycation Draw Winners Dana Atwell 2022-06-10 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Staycation Draw Live Streaming Event

 

The draw will be streamed live on Wednesday, June 8th at 7:00pm. 

or join us, in person, at The Parkside Pub & Smokehouse, 14 Highfield Park Dr., Dartmouth

Click Below to Join Us Live on Facebook

link directly to our Facebook site by clicking the icon below.
 

 

2022 Staycation Draw Live Streaming Event Dana Atwell 2022-05-16 03:00:00Z 0

2022 Spring Classic - Staycation

 

We will be holding our second annual Spring Classic Staycation Draw on Wednesday, June 8th at 7:00pm.  The draw features vacation opportunities at 12 beautiful Resorts, Inns or B&Bs around the Maritimes valued at over $13,000 (see below).  This event is meant to provide funds for the good work of Rotary (see "Our Projects" tab above) as well as provide support for tourism in the Maritimes.   

The draw will be streamed live on Wednesday, June 8th at 7:00pm. via our Club’s website at www.dartmouthrotary.ca or you can attend in person at the Parkside Pub & Smokehouse, 14 Highfield Dr. in Dartmouth.

Tickets are $100 each and are available now from Dartmouth Rotarians or Click Here to download an application form or click the button below to purchase your tickets on PayPal by clicking the "Donate" button below (your ticket(s) will be promptly emailed to you).

Staycation Details

The value of the prizes in this Staycation Draw are designed to provide a deluxe 2-night stay for 2 people at each chosen Resort, Inn or B&B along with some allowances for meals. There are no exclusion dates or expiry dates for the resort gift certificates. Only 400 tickets will be available for sale, so your changes of winning are excellent (better than your chance of winning a free ticket in Lotto 6/49). Winners will make their own arrangements with the venue they have won. The list of the venues with links is below;

 
Algonquin Resort (NB)
Digby Pines Resort (Digby)
Glenora Distillery (Glenville)
Inn at Bay Fortune (PEI)
Inverary Inn (Baddeck)
Liscombe Lodge (Liscombe)
Oak Island Resort (Chester)
Oceanstone Inn & Cottages (Indian Harbour)
Pictou Lodge (Pictou)
Queen Anne Inn (Annapolis)
Rum Runner Inn (Lunenburg)
White Point Beach Resort (White Point)
 
Lottery License # AGD-313719-22

 

 
2022 Spring Classic - Staycation Dana Atwell 2022-04-20 03:00:00Z 0

2022- Making retail payment terminals accessible
 

 
On March 7th Rotarian Lui Greco (our club’s secretary) gave a great presentation on an initiative underway to make retail payment terminals accessible for everyone.  Lui works for the CNIB (Canadian Council of the Blind) which is a partner organization with the payment terminal initiative.
 
For anyone with sight loss who has ever attempted to independently complete a retail transaction using a payment terminal there can be significant barriers.  Canadians with sight loss and other disabilities often compromise their security, independence and dignity. The CNIB, and the Neil Squire Society prepared a video illustrating these issues (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11w_tkuYf08)
 
However, a solution is possible and Lui detailed some of the work ongoing and a prototype terminal that is demonstrating promise.
Their next steps are to continue working collaboratively with all stakeholders to define and create a retail payment solution that works for everyone, customers with disabilities and merchants alike.
 
To view Lui’s presentation. Click Here.
2022- Making retail payment terminals accessible  Dana Atwell 2022-03-13 04:00:00Z 0

2022 Rwanda Early Childhood Development Centre

 

Posted by Dana Atwell
 
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has previously partnered with Etruscan Resources, a Nova Scotian mining company, to fund humanitarian projects in West Africa when they were working there.
 
In 2021, a long-term employee of Etruscan Resources named Maro Gatete reached out to one of the previous executives of Etruscan for assistance in expanding the Early Childhood Development Centre in Rwamagana Rwanda.  Because of our earlier partnerships with them, Etruscan then contacted our Club to once again participate.
 
The project involved the addition of a new classroom for Centre to augment the two existing classrooms that were recently renovated using local funds.
 
The Centre was started by the local Government District and is run by parents and volunteers. It serves 145 children, ages 3 to 6, providing them with social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development support.  The areas of focus include improving the nutrition of the children and checking on their health and nutritional status.  It also provides education of parents about nutrition and promotes personal hygiene.
 
The budget of $12,000 was funded by The Etruscan Foundation and its donors and a $3,000 contribution from our Club.
 
Construction of the classroom began in late November 2021 and was completed in mid-January of 2022.
 
The classroom is dedicated to the memory of Kirk Woodman, a previous employee of Etruscan, who died tragically in Burkina Faso in 2019.
 
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth is dedicated to our motto of “Service Above Self” in promoting and funding both local community and international humanitarian projects.
 
( Photo is of Maro (left) and two of the teachers from the Centre)
 
See thank you letter from  the EDC...Click Here
 
2022 Rwanda Early Childhood Development Centre  Dana Atwell 2022-01-30 04:00:00Z 0

2022 Shelter Nova Scotia

On Monday January 10th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth was please to receive a presentation, via Zoom, from Linda Wilson who is the Executive Director at Shelter Nova Scotia
 
Since 1984 Linda has been working with people living on the margins of society in Halifax Nova Scotia. Even as a child she had an interest in why some people have more belongings and opportunities, and some people do not.
 
Linda completed a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies at what is now known as Cape Breton University in Sydney Nova Scotia. It was there where she began her academic study of the social implications of housing and home life. From there she attended Sheridan College in Oakville Ontario and graduated with a Diploma in Community Planning. After returning to Nova Scotia, she worked for five years as a Planning Technician with the City of Halifax Planning Department.
 
Shelter Nova Scotia provides a safe place to stay for those in need and seeks to grow an effective continuum of services to support people while they transition from crisis, back into the community.
 
The view Linda’s complete presentation…..Click Here
 
If you would like to join our club for a meeting via Zoom on most Mondays at 12 noon go to this URL: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/580278091 and use the password: Rotary4me!
2022 Shelter Nova Scotia Dana Atwell 2022-01-15 04:00:00Z 0

2021 Metro Turning Point

The Metro Turning Point offers shelter services to help with housing and health needs for men, trans individuals, and gender nonconforming individuals who are experiencing homelessness. This service is provided by Shelter Nova Scotia and is eligible to individuals ages 16 years and older who are experiencing homelessness and who are without the funds required to obtain housing elsewhere.
 
On Sunday November 21st the Rotary Club of Dartmouth were at the Metro Turning Point to provide a meal for the people currently residing at the shelter.  Pictured here, from left to right, are Rotarians Don Penwell, Bob Johnson, Ken McCormick and Reid Harrison.   Another example of living our motto of “Service Above Self”
 
If you are interested in knowing more about Rotary you are welcome to join us at one of our Monday meetings at 12 noon at the Parkside Pub & Smokehouse 14 Highfield Park Dr., Dartmouth or go to our website at https://dartmouthrotary.ca/.
2021 Metro Turning Point Dana Atwell 2021-11-23 04:00:00Z 0

2021 On the Road Again

On the road again
Like a band of gypsies we go down the highway

Dartmouth Rotarians were at it again; engaging in their bi-annual cleanup of Windmill Road.
Many hands make light work and in just over an hour the 17 volunteers had cleaned the road between Akerley Blvd and Victoria Road.  It was a grand day for weather, community service and the fellowship associated with being a Rotarian.
 
If you are interested in knowing more about Rotary you are welcome to join us at one of our Monday meetings at 12 noon at the Parkside Pub & Smokehouse 14 Highfield Park Dr., Dartmouth or go to our website at https://dartmouthrotary.ca/.
2021 On the Road Again Dana Atwell 2021-11-08 04:00:00Z 0

2021 Charity Golf Tournament

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth’s 8th annual charity golf tournament was held on Wednesday September 15th and our club was pleased with both the turnout and funds raised. The 18-hole scramble had 44 golfers participate this year and over $4200 was raised for Rotary’s good work in our community and beyond.
 
The 1st place team was led by Peter Dunbrack with a score of 61 (9 under par), the 2nd place team was led by Rotarian Dana Atwell with a score of 62 (8 under par) and the 3rd place team was led by Rotarian Don Penwell with a score of 63 (7 under par).
 
Holes were sponsored by O'Regan Automotive Group, RHAD Architects, Tartan Interiors, MacLeod Lorway, Markland and Associates and Rotarian Doug Livingstone. A special thanks to the Oak Island Resort for their kind donation of a 2-night stay which was raffled off and won by Doug Livingstone.  A shout goes out to Sobeys Mil Cove, Superstore Bedford and Tim Hortons Chester for supplying eats and drinks for the golfers
 
We would also like to recognize and thank Rotarian Don Chisholm and his wife Marg for again organising the tournament and hosting the beer and burger social after the event.  And finally, thanks to all the golfers who once again came out to support the good work of Rotary both in our community and internationally.
 
To see more images CLICK HERE
2021 Charity Golf Tournament Dana Atwell 2021-09-21 03:00:00Z 0

2021 WalkaThon in Support of the Boy's & Girl's Clubs

On Sunday September 12th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth held another successful walkathon in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs’ breakfast program.   The weather was great for the walk and those that could not join us at Sullivan’s Pond were able participate remotely & virtually.  Approximately $2,100 was raised during the event.
 
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been a supporter of the Boy’s & Girl’s Clubs since its inception in 1963 and we have helped to fund their breakfast program for over a decade.
 
Thanks to all those walkers who joined us in this worthwhile endeavour whether in person or remotely/virtually.  A special thanks to Rotarian Ken McCormick for his leadership of this event and to Rotarians Doug Hill, for being our safety champ and Terry Carter, and Matt Kempton for helping get everyone on the trail.
2021 WalkaThon in Support of the Boy's & Girl's Clubs Dana Atwell 2021-09-21 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Beach Cleanup

Our beautiful coast is part of who we are as Nova Scotians.  It binds us together, no matter where we live. Sadly, too much trash is choking our environment.  More than eight million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean annually. And while no silver bullet exists, On Saturday September 18th, The Rotary Club of Dartmouth along with thousands of passionate volunteers worldwide joined forces to keep the beaches, and ocean free of trash on World Cleanup Day.

Our dedicated bunch of Rotarians picked up trash along the beach just north of Jeddore Cape.  It was a great day for a little fresh air, some exercise and Rotary fellowship while helping to keep our coastline clean.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2021 Beach Cleanup Dana Atwell 2021-09-19 03:00:00Z 0

Health Partners International Canada & Rotary

The following article is a reprint of an article on the Health Partners International Canada (HPIC) website.  The Rotary Club of Dartmouth's association with HPIC goes back a long way and Rotarian Robert Earle has been the driving force for our club to assist HPIC in helping vulnerable communities in many countries. 

Providing humanitarian service and advancing goodwill and peace around the world has been the mission of pharmacist, Robert Earle since 1988 when he first became a member of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth

Earle has been bringing donated medicine overseas since 2002. His first trip was to Niger where he brought two Humanitarian Medical Kits from Health Partner International of Canada (HPIC) to a clinic in Toure.

“It was a tremendous experience. All the people of the village came out. The community felt so valued when they saw the medications because they had none. They understood that it was a valuable gift and it would mean health for their community,” reflects Earle.

After such a rewarding experience, this led him to continue with trips back to Niger, Burkina Faso and most recently Ghana.

Earle volunteered his time and skills to support HPIC’s Obaatanpa project in Ghana – in the Twi dialect, Obaatanpa means caring mother. HPIC began the Obaatanpa project in 2018 to improve the capacity of nine health facilities in the Amansie West and South Districts of the Ashanti region. These facilities provide services to pregnant women, mothers, newborn babies and young children and one of the key components is to enhance pharmaceutical management capacity.  

Earle assessed the conditions and needs of each dispensary, conducted training in good dispensing practices and made suggestions on how to improve the dispensing process and the storage of pharmaceuticals. According to Earle, although there is room for improvement, the healthcare system in Ghana works well. 

“I had an interesting experience at one of the clinics. I saw a boy about five years old sitting on a bench perspiring from a fever. A few minutes later, a nurse came out and gave him some Tylenol. The boy was suffering from malaria and intestinal parasites. I was grateful that the clinic had the necessary medications to treat his conditions.”

Earle was very impressed with the sophistication of the health system in Ghana. The challenge comes when medicines are lacking or when fees are charged that many patients are unable to afford. 

When travelling overseas, Earle typically brings Humanitarian Medical Kits with him to stock clinics with medicines donated by Canadians through HPIC. When community members visit these clinics, they are not charged for the donated medicines. 

Earle has been engaged with HPIC for over 20 years supporting its mission of increasing access to medicine and improving health in vulnerable communities. He hopes his volunteer experience will inspire others who have an interest in humanitarian work to use their gifts and talents. This year, he arranged for two doctors from Halifax to volunteer with HPIC to work alongside two Ghanaian doctors to train local midwives in advancing techniques of helping babies breathe and helping mothers survive childbirth. He says, “I would strongly encourage people to get involved with HPIC to use their skills, travel and take donated medications overseas because it will vastly improve the health outcomes of the people there.”

 
Health Partners International Canada & Rotary Dana Atwell 2021-08-30 03:00:00Z 0
2021 Rotary Walkathon Dana Atwell 2021-08-26 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Paul Harris Awards

 
On July 20th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth bestowed a Paul Harris fellowships to Lillian Munroe, Dale Thomas, Sylvia Andrews for their outstanding service to the Dartmouth North Boys and Girls Club location and Dartmouth North community.  The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honors Rotary can bestow upon a person. Recipients are recognized for their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary in placing “SERVICE ABOVE SELF.”
 
Lillian, Sylvia, and Dale possess about 100 combined years of service at the Dartmouth North site of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Halifax. They have served and supported generations of children and youth Lillian and Sylvia both joined the Club in September 1987 and have been an inseparable and unstoppable dynamic duo ever since. Lillian and Sylvia have worked in all programs at the Dartmouth North site, including nursery school, breakfast programs, before and after school programs and many food security programs. Special programs and community projects have long benefitted from their steady leadership over years including community fairs, children parades, Breakfast with Santa, Walk against Violence and community meals. Club alumni often refer to Lillian and Sylvia as the "mothers of the Club."
 
 
2021 Paul Harris Awards Dana Atwell 2021-07-25 03:00:00Z 0

Joe Gibson made a Paul Harris Fellow

On July 5th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth bestowed a Paul Harris fellowship to Joe Gibson the Executive Director of the Freedom Foundation.   The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honors Rotary can bestow upon a person. Recipients are recognized for their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary in placing “SERVICE ABOVE SELF.”
 
Joe Gibson certainly exemplifies our ideals.  Through his work with the Foundation Joe has change the life thousands of men who were in need of help.  He has probably saved more lives than anyone our club has honoured in the past.
 
Freedom Foundation of Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping men who are recovering from addiction. Their mission is to provide services which foster recovery from addictions and a development of a positive self-image and self-worth in a secure and caring environment
 
Originally from Cape Breton, Joe spent several years in Lethbridge, working at Southern Alcare Manor, helping people dealing with addictions.  After nine years in Lethbridge, he got a call from that Talbot House (now Alcare Place) on Robie Street in Halifax needed a manager for its safe house.
 
After a year, Gibson left Talbot House. He wanted to start another safe house in Dartmouth for men in recovery.  The main reason was that there were many men were leaving detox centres and going back to the same environment....continued....
 
 
 
Joe Gibson made a Paul Harris Fellow Dana Atwell 2021-07-06 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Club Awards

Our first face to face meeting since the pandemic struck in 2020 was held at the Parkside Pub & Smokehouse on July 5th.  At the meeting 3 members received formal recognition.   

 
Lorraine Lewis was presented with a plaque recognising her outstanding contribution and leadership as President of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth during the 2020-21 year.
 
Don Penwell received a “True Rotarian Award”.  The True Rotarian Award is presented to a Rotarian who demonstrates through his/her Rotary and community life that he/she lives by the four-way test and provides 'Service Above Self'. The "True Rotarian" has a Rotary attitude.
Ed Towle received a Paul Harris Fellowship.   The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honors Rotary can bestow upon a person. Recipients are Rotarians and community professionals, recognized for their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary in placing “SERVICE ABOVE SELF.” 
2021 Club Awards Dana Atwell 2021-07-06 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Beaverbank Tree Planting

On June 26th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth and friends joined forces with Trees Canada to plant 100 trees in Heatherglen Park in the community of Beaverbank.
 
It was a perfect day for planting, comfortably warm, few mosquitos and great fellowship.
 
This is but another small example of what Rotary does to make our community and communities around the world a better place for all.  Our motto “Service Above Self”.
 
A special thanks to Bruce Carter of Trees Canada.
 
See more photos: 
 
 
2021 Beaverbank Tree Planting Dana Atwell 2021-06-27 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Adopt a Highway

Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Dartmouth were out in force on Saturday June 12th, to clean up Windmill Road in Dartmouth. 

For over the past 10 years the Club has been picking up litter under the Adopt-A-Highway Program and has seen a marked difference in the amount of litter along Windmill.

 

Just one more example of Rotarians’ “Service Above Self” motto

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2021 Adopt a Highway Dana Atwell 2021-06-13 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Staycation Draw Live Streaming Event

 

The draw will be streamed live on Thursday, June 17th at 7:00pm. 

Click Below to Start the Live Stream

 
 
 

If the resolution on the above YouTube site is poor

please join us on our Facebook site by clicking the icon below.

 

 

2021 Staycation Draw Live Streaming Event Dana Atwell 2021-05-31 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Staycation Draw Winners

 
Congratulation to all the winners in our 1st Spring Classic Staycation Draw fundraiser.
Here they are:   
 
Bob Johnson - Digby Pines
 
Colleen McCormick - Queen Anne Inn
 
Darrell Cormier - Pictou Lodge
 
Elyse MacDonald - The Coopers Inn
 
Colleen Peters - Ocean Stone Resort
 
Andre Dessureault - Rum Runners Inn
 
Doug Hill - White Point
 
David McLennan - Oak Island
 
Dana Atwell - Keltic Lodge
 
Mike  Monaghan - Green Gables (NS)
 
 
 
                                        

             

                              

 
2021 Staycation Draw Winners Dana Atwell 2021-04-22 03:00:00Z 0

2021 Staycation Draw

 

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry...only 15 Tickets Left, we expect to be sold out soon.

 
Due to the COVID19 pandemic, we have been unable to hold our traditional fund-raising event, the Spring Classic Dinner & Draw.
 
 
As an alternative in 2021, we are holding a virtual Spring Classic Staycation Draw.  The draw features staycation opportunities at 10 beautiful resorts or Inns and B&Bs around the province (see below).
 
 
This event will provide funds for the good work of Rotary (see "Our Projects" tab above) as well as provide support for Nova Scotia tourism.   
 
 
The draw will be streamed live on Thursday, June 17th at 7:00pm. via our Club’s website www.dartmouthrotary.ca
 
 
Tickets are $100 each and are available now from Dartmouth Rotarians or email drcspringclassic@gmail.com
 
 
Staycation Details
The value of the prizes in this Staycation Draw are designed to provide a deluxe 2-night stay for 2 people at each chosen Resort or Inn and B&B along with some allowances for meals. However, there is flexibility in how the winners may choose to use them. There are no exclusion dates or expiry dates for the resort gift certificates, so you can plan a Spring getaway, a warm weekend this Summer, or a chance to see the Fall colours. Only 300 tickets will be available for sale, so your chances of winning are very good.

Winners will make their own arrangements with the venue they have won. The list of the venues with links is below;
 
Oceanstone Inn and Cottages (Indian Harbour)              
White Point Beach Resort (White Point)                                       
Keltic Lodge at the Highlands (Ingonish)                                     
Digby Pines Resort (Digby)                                                
Oak Island Resort (Western Shore)                                               
Pictou Lodge Beach Resort (Pictou)                                             
Rum Runner Inn (Lunenburg)                                                        
Queen Anne Inn (Annapolis Royal)                                               
Gray Gables B&B (Graves Island)                                                 
The Coopers Inn (Shelburne)                                                        
 
 
To see the draw rules CLICK HERE
 
2021 Staycation Draw Dana Atwell 2021-04-22 03:00:00Z 0

"No Time for That" tour 

                           Elsie Morden
At our Rotary Zoom meeting on Monday February 1st our presenters were Elsie Morden, founder & CEO of the “No Time for That” tour and Sarah Steward, a third-year student from Dalhousie University studying International Development and History.
 
No Time for That (NTFT) is a registered Canadian charity that works with performers and motivational speakers to develop and deliver powerful presentations mainly to school-age children and youth about bullying prevention, mental health awareness, and youth empowerment.
"No Time for That" tour Dana Atwell 2021-02-04 04:00:00Z 0

2020 Paul Harris Awards

The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow upon a person. This award is in recognition of their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal of Rotary in placing “SERVICE ABOVE SELF”.
 
In November 2020 The Rotary Club of Dartmouth presented Dr. Robert Strang and Tim Nobes with the coveted “Paul Harris Fellowship Award” in recognition of their long-standing contributions to our community and to Nova Scotia as a whole.
 
Congratulations to both of these worthy individuals. Here is a little bit about them:.
 
President Lorraine Lewis presents award to Dr. Robert Strang.
 
During  a January 27th Zoom call with Dr Strang & many other clubs from Nova Scotia it was acknowledged that he was a recent Paul Harris fellow and thanked the Dartmouth club for honouring him with the fellowship.
 
 
Dr. Robert Strang is a Canadian physician and the Chief Medical Officer of Nova Scotia.
 
From 1997 to 1999, Dr. Strang was an Associate Medical Officer of Health of BC.  In 1999, he relocated to Halifax, where he became the Medical Officer of Health of Nova Scotia Health Authority. He held the position until 2007.
 
In 2007, Dr. Strang was appointed Chief Public Health Official which was renamed to the Chief Medical Officer of Health by the province in late 2016. 
 
Since 15 March 2020, he has provided daily updates on the COVID-19 pandemic in Nova Scotia. Strang became Nova Scotia's public health lead communicator on matters related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Nova Scotia. In daily press conferences, he provides updates on the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health effort to respond to it.
 
President Lorraine Lewis presents to Tim Nobes
 
Tim Nobes is an extremely motivated and dedicated volunteer for both the Metro Turning Point and its umbrella organization Shelter Nova Scotia.  Tim is an ex-Montrealer who came to Halifax in 1973 to work in the construction industry.
 
He built and operated Sigma Construction until his retirement when he turned his time and talents to act as a volunteer project manager and completed more than $3million worth of renovations for Shelter Nova Scotia, where he is also the facilities manager.  
 
Tim is particularly active and a familiar face to residents and front-line staff at Metro Turning Point, for men experiencing homelessness and Barry House, an emergency shelter for female and trans individuals.
2020 Paul Harris Awards Dana Atwell 2020-11-11 04:00:00Z 0

2020 Swing For The Kids (Light)

On Wednesday September 16th the Club held its 7th annual charity golf tournament.  For the third year the charity selected was the Boys & Girls Clubs of Great Halifax.
 
Given the current restriction because of COVID 19 this year’s tournament was much different than previous years. The tournament was still held at the beautiful Chester Golf Club but the number of golfers was significantly less and the usual dinner and awards ceremonies following the tournament were not held.  The intent was to keep our annual tournament alive while supporting a local charity.
 
A total of just thirty-six (36) golfers enjoyed a lovely day on one of the most picturesque courses in Nova Scotia.  Click here to see more golfers.
 
This year approximately $2000 was raise in support of the B&G Clubs’ programs, to help children in need in our community.
 
Our club has been an active long-term supporter of the B&G Clubs and particularly the Breakfast Program.  Children, in our community, often go to school hungry and the purpose of the Breakfast Program is to ensure students receive a healthy breakfast to start off their school day.  It is fact that if a child receives a well-nourished breakfast they perform better in school. This Program is a free service which is offered at local community schools. The B&G Clubs serve over 60,000 breakfasts and snacks to children every year.
 
A special thanks goes out to Marg and Don Chisholm; without whose dedication and organizational skills this tournament would not have been possible.
 
2020 Swing For The Kids (Light) Dana Atwell 2020-09-29 03:00:00Z 0

2020 Boy's & Girl's Walk-a-Thon

The day was perfect, on Saturday September 12th, for The Rotary Club of Dartmouth members and friends to get out and enjoy a walk along the Shearwater Flyer Trail in support of the Boys’ & Girl’s Clubs of Greater Halifax.
 
Our Rotary Club has been an active supporter of the B&G Clubs since 1963. In fact, it was a Rotarian (Roy Boland) that provided the Dartmouth B&G Club with land and their first building. Since then our relationship has persisted and the Rotary Club has held fundraisers in support of various B&G Clubs needs.  This is the first time our club has held a Walk-a-Thon and those who participated enjoyed a little exercise while supporting a worthy cause.
 
Given the current pandemic and restrictions on public gatherings the event was quite modest but did manage to raise overy $5,000 for the B&G Clubs.
 
Many thanks to Rotarian Ken McCormick for all his hard work in making the day a success.
 
To see more photos...click here
2020 Boy's & Girl's Walk-a-Thon Dana Atwell 2020-09-14 03:00:00Z 0

President Elect Jennifer Jones

Jennifer E. Jones, a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, has been nominated to become Rotary International’s president for 2022-23, a ground-breaking selection that will make her the first woman to hold that office in the organization’s 115-year history.
Jones will officially become president-nominee on 1 October if no other candidates challenge her.
 
Jones says she sees Rotary’s Action Plan as a catalyst for increasing Rotary’s impact.
 
As the first woman to be nominated to be president, Jones understands how important it is to follow through on Rotary’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement. “I believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion … begins at the top and for us to realize growth in female membership and members under the age of forty — these demographics need to see their own reflection in leadership,” Jones said. “I will champion double-digit growth in both categories while never losing sight of our entire family.”
 
Congratulation Jennifer, from your fellow Rotarians at the Rotary Club of Dartmouth.
President Elect Jennifer Jones Dana Atwell 2020-08-22 03:00:00Z 0

2020 Walk-A-Thon

If you wish to participate in, or donate to, the Walk-a-Thon please click on the link below and follow these steps:
  1. Make sure the Boy’s & Girl’s Walk-a-Thon Fund is shown in the Fund box.
  2. Add a message informing us if you are making a donation or will participate in the Walk-a-Thon either virtually or in person and if so, how far you want to walk 3K, 6K or 10K
  3. Fill in personal detail and the amount and payment details, then hit Donate Now
Thank you for your community spirit.
 
2020 Walk-A-Thon Dana Atwell 2020-08-17 03:00:00Z 0

2020 McNabs Island Hike

On Thursday July 9th a group of Rotarians and friends went hiking on McNabs Island. We were ably guided by Tineke Weld and Cassandra Curtis from Friends of McNabs Island Society.
 
McNabs Island is Halifax's best kept secret and is the largest island at the entrance of Halifax Harbour in Nova Scotia. Part of the McNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park, McNabs Island is only a short boat ride from Halifax or Eastern Passage, but feels like a world away with its colorful past and unspoiled natural beauty.
 
The Friends of McNabs Island Society (FMIS) help to promote and preserve the Island’s many historical and natural features.
 
 
2020 McNabs Island Hike Dana Atwell 2020-07-12 03:00:00Z 0

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth
Helping Nova Scotians during COVID-19
 

With COVID-19, there are even more Nova Scotians in urgent need of food security. We want to do our part to support our communities across the province. 
 
In an effort to continue supporting our community, and in cooperation with Feed Nova Scotia, we have established a CanadaHelps “link” so that our supporters can help people who face enormous challenges that are beyond their control. 
 
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth is asking for your generous support to raise funds for this urgent and needed cause during the month of May. Your donation through the link below to our CanadaHelps fundraising page will go a long way to help those in our community stay well fed and healthy.
 
To donate to this worthy cause please click on the link below.  A tax receipt will be available for your donation.
 
 
 
 
The Rotary Club of DartmouthHelping Nova Scotians during COVID-19  Dana Atwell 2020-04-30 03:00:00Z 0

2020 Adventures with Mauricio

Posted by Brian Smith
Our well-travelled Exchange Student, Mauricio, had a chance to see democracy in action on Tuesday, February 25th. Brian Smith took him to City Hall to see a Council Meeting.
 
The trip started with an explanation of "wild goose chase", as Council had begun their meeting earlier that day, and we weren't sure of their progress on the agenda. Sure enough, our first few minutes in the Chambers was interrupted by an "In Camera" session, so we walked down to the Legislature, where we spent half an hour in the gallery, and got to meet the Leader of the Opposition and hear a motion recognizing the value of Rotary (good timing).
 
When we returned to City Hall, we bumped into Mayor Savage in the entry to Council Chambers, and he took quite an interest in Mauro.
 
 
2020 Adventures with Mauricio Brian Smith 2020-02-28 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Christmas Dinner Delivery

They are at it again!
 
Again, this year The Rotary Clubs of Dartmouth & Dartmouth East teamed up with the great folks at Staggers Pub & Grub to prepare and deliver Christmas Dinners to approximately 100 residents of Dartmouth, who need a helping hand.
 
It was the 6th year for this event and it is quickly becoming a Christmas morning tradition for all those involved.
 
Not only do the staff at Staggers prepare Christmas meals to be delivered but also host a meal later in the day that often sees over 100 people from the community drop by.  It’s just how they roll.
 
Many thanks to all those who made Christmas a little brighter for our fellow Dartmouthians.
 
To see more photos Click Here
2019 Christmas Dinner Delivery Dana Atwell 2019-12-25 04:00:00Z 0

Meet Mauro

On November 18th our guest speaker was our current exchange student, Mauricio Jose Rico Quiroz (who goes by Mauro).  Mauro is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Valle de Santiago, Venezuela. He is hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Dartmouth & Dartmouth East. 

This is an impressive young man!  He speaks impeccable English which he learned through Saturday morning classes and YouTube, for colloquial phrases. Mauro is enrolled in grade twelve at Dartmouth High, where he has made many friends. When asked what he wants to do following high school Mauro mentioned journalism.  Given the current political conditions within Venezuela, however, he recognises that he might have to choose another career.
 
Rather than focusing on the issues faced by his home country Mauro gave the club a glimpse into the beauties of Venezuela, his family and his involvement with his Interact Club back home. He spoke about Angel Falls in Venezuela which is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
 
Mauro comes from a close-knit family and although they miss Mauro very much, they are supportive of his adventure in Canada.  They speak with each other regularly exchanging the news of the day.
 
In October Mauro attended a Model United Nations Conference at Mouth Alison University.   These Conferences are an opportunity for students to be immersed in global civil society. Conferences are a great opportunity to learn about global issues, foreign policy, and develop research, public speaking, and collaboration skills.  Mauro represented the delegation of China and was named the Best Delegate at the Conference…. way to go Mauricio!
 
Mauro is a good cook. He has been teaching his current host, Rotarian Lorraine Lewis, all about Venezuelan cuisine.  For Mauro’s part he really enjoys hiking and other outdoor activities with his first host. 
 
Our club is very fortunate to have an exchange student the high calibre of Mauricio and we look forward to a rewarding year as his host club.
 
To see photos from Mauro’s presentation....Click Here
 
Meet Mauro Dana Atwell 2019-11-21 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Metro Turning Point

On Sunday November 17th members of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth & friends provided a Lasagne Supper for the homeless men housed at the Metro Turning Point.

Metro Turning Point, run by Shelter Nova Scotia, provides emergency shelter for men experiencing homelessness, including Veterans. Men who stay at the shelter are provided a bed to sleep in, an evening snack/meal, guidance for finding a pathway to other organizations who can help, advice for finding suitable housing, counseling, or whatever else might be required. Men may stay at the shelter as long as is needed to find the next best suitable housing. The Shelter now accommodates 55 men every night.
 
If you wish to donate to Shelter Nova Scotia go to https://www.shelternovascotia.com/
 
To see more photos....Click Here
2019 Metro Turning Point Dana Atwell 2019-11-18 04:00:00Z 0

2019 General Hospital Redevelopment

On October 12th, the Rotary Club of Dartmouth committed $25,000 to Dartmouth General Hospital Redevelopment.  President Don Penwell, Donna Upham, Reid Harrison and Robert Earle are pictured presenting the cheque to Steve Harding, and Jenna Joyce of the General Hospital Foundation.
 
The Dartmouth General Hospital Redevelopment consists of major facilities renovations and expansion, and the addition of new equipment and technology. Our Club is particularly delighted with the addition of the new three-story building named after Neville Gilfoy, a prominent member of our Club who passed away in 2016.
 
The Neville J. Gilfoy Wing, has been added on the back of the hospital and will house:
  • Eight new operating rooms with two designed specifically for orthopedics
  • An Ambulatory Care and Endoscopy Centre with eighteen new clinic rooms
  • A new Medical Device Reprocessing area
Overall Dartmouth General Hospital Redevelopment will result in:
  • Better integration of Surgical Services across the HRM
  • Concentration of Orthopedic Surgery - majority of primary joint replacement surgeries for patients from all over HRM are to be done at DGH
  • Shorter waitlists and reduced wait times for orthopedic and endoscopic procedures
  • Redeveloping existing space to increase our capacity
  • Improved patient flow to enhance patient privacy
  • Increased patient comfort and improved aesthetic
The Rotary Club of Dartmouth is proud to be involved in the worthwhile community project.
 
2019 General Hospital Redevelopment Dana Atwell 2019-10-19 03:00:00Z 0

2019 Breakfast is Served

On Monday October 7th members of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth joined volunteers from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Halifax to help prepare breakfasts for over 160 children at the Harborview Elementary School in North Dartmouth.

 
President Don Penwell also took this opportunity to present a cheque with the proceeds from our Club’s recent “Swing Fore the Kids” golf tournament to Vanessa Burns of the B&G Clubs.
 
Our Club has been an active long-term supporter of the B&G Clubs and particularly the Breakfast Program.  Children, in our community, often go to school hungry and the purpose of the Breakfast Program is to ensure students receive a healthy breakfast to start off their school day.  This Program is a free service which is offered at local community schools. The B&G Clubs serve over 60,000 breakfasts and snacks to children every year.
 
To see more photos....CLICK HERE
 
For more information on the Boys & Girls Clubs breakfast program visit https://www.bgcgh.ca/
2019 Breakfast is Served Dana Atwell 2019-10-07 03:00:00Z 0

2019 Adopt-A-Highway

Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Dartmouth were out in force on Saturday October 5th, to clean up Windmill Road in Dartmouth.  For the past 10 years the Club has been picking up litter under the Adopt-A-Highway Program and has seen a marked difference in the amount of litter along Windmill.
 
This year the Club was joined by, Mauricio José Rico Quiroz (who goes by Mauro) our exchange student from Venezuela. Welcome Mauro and thanks for your help.
 
This is another example for how Rotary helps communities around the world in line with our motto “Service Above Self”. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2019 Adopt-A-Highway Dana Atwell 2019-10-05 03:00:00Z 0

2019 Freedom Foundation

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth is an active supporter of the Freedom Foundation of Nova Scotia.
 
On Saturday September 21st a crew from the Club donned their painting clothes to apply a fresh coat of paint to the fence and gazebo at the Foundation’s Brule street residence.
 
Located in Dartmouth, the Freedom Foundation is a not-for-profit organization which was established in 1988 by a group of concerned men and women.  I n 1989, the Foundation opened the doors of a transition home to assist recovering alcoholic men age 19 and over. Their mandate has since broadened to include individuals addicted to drugs and gambling as their clients often have multiple addictions.
 
The Mission of the Freedom Foundation is to provide services that foster recovery from addictions and develop a positive self-image and self-worth in a secure and caring environment.  They have housed more than one thousand and forty men since they opened their doors.
 
For more information on the Foundation go to: http://www.freedomfoundation.ca/
 
2019 Freedom Foundation Dana Atwell 2019-09-22 03:00:00Z 0

2019-20 Exchange Student

Our new Rotary Exchange Student, supported with our partner the Dartmouth East Club, arrived on Friday, September 13th, and was welcomed by Lori, Melanie and Brian, and our District Youth Exchange rep, Michael Craig and his wife, Vicky.  Please welcome to our Club Maricio Jose Rico Quiroz, who goes by Mauro, and is a very intelligent and capable 17-year-old from Venezuela. Mauro is sponsored by the Rotary Valle de Santiago Club in District 4380, and he is involved in Scouts, in the model United Nations, and enjoys reading, cooking (good for prospective host families), and dancing (some of us could use Salsa lessons).

 
He comes from San Crisobal, a business, financial and agricultural centre in the Andes near the border with Columbia.  His parents run a photography business there, and Mauro has a younger brother and sister who will be following his adventures in Canada.  
 
Speaking of adventures, he will be on a Bluenose Cruise with other Nova Scotia Exchangers on Saturday, September 14, starting at Dartmouth High the following Monday, and taking part in orientation at Camp Tignish with all the District 7820 Exchange Students on the weekend of September 21. We hope to arrange something soon for Mauro to meet the rest of our Club, and encourage everyone to help Mauro have a successful year with us.
2019-20 Exchange Student Dana Atwell 2019-09-14 03:00:00Z 0

2019 SheterBox Gold Hero Award

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has just been awarded the “ShelterBox Gold Hero Award” for 2018-2019.   A ShelterBox Hero is a Rotary Club that has identified the continuing need to prepare for disasters and respond at a moment’s notice and provides their support throughout the year.  The Gold Award is the highest level awarded.  During the past decade The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been consistent supporter of this valuable organization.
 
ShelterBox is Rotary International’s Project Partner in disaster relief, further strengthening a global circle of friendship.  ShelterBox provides relief in the form of ShelterBoxes and ShelterKits.  The sturdy green ShelterBoxes contain family-sized tents specially designed to withstand the elements and provide people with temporary shelter until they are able to start the process of rebuilding a home. The ShelterKits contain all of the essential tools people need to start repairing and rebuilding homes straight away.
 
For more information about ShelterBox or to make a donation go to: https://www.shelterboxcanada.org/
2019 SheterBox Gold Hero Award Dana Atwell 2019-09-01 03:00:00Z 0
2019 Swing Fore the Kids Dana Atwell 2019-07-21 03:00:00Z 0

Back to the Sea Aquarium

On June 3rd Magali Grégoire, Executive Director & Founder of the Back to the Sea Society addressed our club on the Society’s vision of a “Back to the Sea Aquarium”.

 
The Back to the Sea Society is a charity dedicated to sparking curiosity for marine life off the coast of Nova Scotia and inspiring a desire to protect our ocean.
 
The Society’s goal is to open a seasonal collect-hold-and-release aquarium in Dartmouth that will deliver unique hands-on education focused on local marine life.  This concept is modelled after the Ucluelet Aquarium in British Columbia (see: uclueletaquarium.org).  The proposed “Back to the Sea Aquarium” will be a vibrant voice for our ocean.
 
In 2017, the Society opened a miniature marine interpretive centre pilot project, the “Touch Tank Hut”.  It was a huge success and welcomed more than 1,800 visitors over the course of just five weekends!  Based on this success, they opened for a complete second season on June 2nd, 2018.  Operating five days a week, they had over 8,000 visitors that summer.
 
Back to the Sea Aquarium Dana Atwell 2019-06-05 03:00:00Z 0

Kim Conrad Receive Paul Harris Fellowship

The Paul Harris Fellowship Award is one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow upon a person. This award is in recognition of their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal of Rotary in placing “SERVICE ABOVE SELF”.

On June 3, 2019 The Rotary Club of Dartmouth presented Kim Conrad with the coveted “Paul Harris Fellowship Award” in recognition for his and his company’s (Conrad Brothers) long-standing support of our club. Congratulations and thank you for your on-going support over the years.

Kim Conrad Receive Paul Harris Fellowship Dana Atwell 2019-06-03 03:00:00Z 0
2019 Spring Classic Dana Atwell 2019-04-25 03:00:00Z 0

2019 Halifax Hospice Open House

Open House Events
After years of hard work by many in our community, Hospice Halifax is very excited to be opening the community’s brand new, state-of-the-art, 10-bedroom hospice residence for Nova Scotian patients and their families.

Many Haligonians joined Hospice Halifax at open house events on April 17th, 18th & 20th to celebrate this accomplishment and view the new residence just prior to welcoming their first patients.

The hospice is located at 18 Francklyn Street, in Halifax
 
Rotary’s Involvement
In early 2012 the Rotary Clubs of Metro Halifax released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for new community projects in Halifax. One proposal from Hospice Society of Greater Halifax (“Hospice Halifax”) was deemed to have merit. It had long been a dream that Halifax would one day have a hospice but that dream had yet to be fulfilled. Rotarians knew they could make a difference.
 
2019 Halifax Hospice Open House Dana Atwell 2019-04-21 03:00:00Z 0

2019 Dartmouth General Hospital Update

On April 15th our speakers were Jenna Joyce, Dr. Carla Pitman, Steve Harding from the Dartmouth General Foundation.  They gave the club an informative overview of the Capital campaign and plans for the expansion and renovations.

The project will Serving all of HRM and includes a three-story addition, inpatient suites on existing 5th floor, improved patient flow with greater privacy, new patient experience technologies and a centre dedicated to Orthopedic Care.

For more information click here to download a copy of their presentation.

2019 Dartmouth General Hospital Update Dana Atwell 2019-04-21 03:00:00Z 0

2018 Christmas Dinner Delivery

Again this year, our club participated in the Christmas Dinner Delivery organized by Staggers Pub & Grub in Dartmouth and the Rotary Club of Dartmouth East.
 
The merry band of volunteers prepared and delivered 216 meals to local folks who might otherwise have gone without.
 
Well done Staggers, our sister club Dartmouth East and all the dedicated volunteers who gave up part of their Christmas day to help out.
 
To see more photos….click here
 
To learn more about Staggers Pub & Grub see their website at: http://www.staggerspub.com
To leaner more about the Rotary Club of Dartmouth East see their website at: https://portal.clubrunner.ca/1259
To leaner more about the Rotary Club of Dartmouth see our website at: https://dartmouthrotary.ca/
2018 Christmas Dinner Delivery Dana Atwell 2018-12-25 04:00:00Z 0

2018 MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning

On December 10th Mike Janz, Manager of Fund Development & Stakeholder Relations for the MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning (MCCL) was our guest speaker.
 
The MCCL empowers youth between the ages of 12-19 by connecting passion with purpose through the arts. Located in downtown Dartmouth, this community hub inspires creativity and confidence by offering unique programs in visual arts, music, videography, creative writing and technology in a safe and inspiring space.  
 
By bridging the learning gap in those who are disengaged from traditional education, or with barriers to accessing creative learning, the MacPhee Centre helps in the development of confidence, lifelong learning skills, an appreciation for the value in giving back to the community and increased potential for employment in our communities. They give Nova Scotia youth a voice through the arts.
 
The Centre serves approximately 700 youths and its programs are free of charge.
 
Mike used a real-life example of how the Centre has changed the life of one young man. This individual came to the Centre shy and with very low self esteem.  His lack of confidence resulted in him being lonely with few friends but after being involve in the Centre’s art program he found his talent, and along with it the confidence he so needed.  He is now happy, fulfilled and has many friends.  This is but one example of the Centre’s success and is why they do what they do.
 
If you would like to learn more about the Centre visit their website at: http://macpheecentre.ca/
2018 MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning Dana Atwell 2018-12-10 04:00:00Z 0

2018 Rayleen Hill

Rayleen Hill was our speaker on December 3rd.  She is an award-winning architect, owner of RHAD Architectural firm and daughter of our president, Doug Hill. 
 
RHAD Architects is located in downtown Dartmouth and was named as one of Canadian Architect magazine’s “Top Ten Emerging Talent” design firms in 2017.   RHAD is involved in a mix of residential, commercial, mixed-use, and small-scale institutional projects in addition to public art and community-based initiatives. They are a studio-based practice known for their ability to integrate modern design, sustainability, and livability into holistic projects.
 
Rayleen provided the club with some insights into the various aesthetic and practical considerations that go into the design of a successful project.  As an example, she used one of RHAD’s recent residential designs completed for a home on Bra d’Or Lake.
 
If you would like to know more about this impressive local firm go to their website at http://www.rhad.ca/
2018 Rayleen Hill Dana Atwell 2018-12-05 04:00:00Z 0

2018 Boys & Girls Club

At our business meeting on November 26th club President Doug Hill presented a cheque for $5,000 to Henk van Leeuwen, CEO Boys & Girls Clubs of Great Halifax.  The cheque will go to support their Breakfast Program.
 
Children, in some communities, often go to school hungry and the purpose of the Breakfast Program is to ensure students receive a healthy breakfast to start off their school day.  It is fact that if a child receives a well-nourished breakfast they perform better in school. This Program is a free service which is offered at local community schools. During the 2017-18 they served over 60,000 breakfasts and snacks.  The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been a long-term supporter of the B&G Clubs and particularly the Breakfast Program.
 
If you would like to donate to this program or any other program offered by the Boys & Girls Clubs please visit their website at https://www.bgcgh.ca/
 
2018 Boys & Girls Club Dana Atwell 2018-11-27 04:00:00Z 0

2018 The Give BACK

On November 20th DeRico Symonds was our guest speaker.
 
DeRico is currently employed with HRM as Manager with the Youth Advocate Program and is a works part-time with Mount Saint Vincent University as Black Student Support Coordinator.  He has spent his entire career working in public housing communities, with marginalized groups and advocating for change in areas such as poverty, housing and employment.
 
He spoke to us about The Give BACK, an annual Christmas holiday initiative to assist families across HRM who may be experiencing difficulty providing a Christmas dinner for their family. The campaign runs from Nov. 20th – Dec. 20th in collaboration with existing community organizations. DeRico and other volunteers identify families in need and purchase the food which is delivered through the community organizations.
 
Since 2016, The Give BACK raised close to $5,000 from 100 community member donations in the HRM. The money raised helped provide 40 families across HRM with a Christmas meal and a $40 gift card for the grocery store. Each family received a $25 turkey, stuffing, potatoes, carrots, turnips, sweat potatoes, butter, chocolates & candies, cranberry sauce, canned corn & peas and a $40 gift card just in case they forgot anything. The Give BACK also donated approximately 150 pounds of canned goods and $650 to Feed Nova Scotia on the Bedford Highway.
 
If you wish to make a donation to help this worthy cause please go to The Give BACK go fund me link at: www.gofundme.com/TGB18
 
To view DeRico’s presentation…. Click Here.    More information will be available on DeRico’s website at: www.dericosymonds.ca.
 
Thank you DeRico for your inspiring talk.
2018 The Give BACK Dana Atwell 2018-11-20 04:00:00Z 0

Mayor Mike Savage

 
On October 29th Mayor Mike Savage was our guest speaker and addressed The Rotary Clubs of Dartmouth and Dartmouth East.  Mayor Savage has been a long-term supporter of Rotary and a friend to our club.
 
To view a copy of his presentation….
 
The Mayor pointed out that Halifax has experienced significant growth in recent years.  Particularly interesting is that we are now retaining more talented young people (ages 25-39) from diverse backgrounds than we have in decades.

 

The majority of his discussion centered on the problem of poverty in Halifax.  The Mayor explained that unfortunately there are still more that 55,000 people in the city who live below the poverty line.  One in four people in Halifax spend more than 30% of their income on housing and 12% spend 50% or more.

He touched on two of the many initiatives the city in undertaking to address this problem.
 
Mayor Mike Savage Dana Atwell 2018-10-30 03:00:00Z 0

Coed Guatemala Literacy Projects

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has again this year provided financial support to CoEd. 
 
Read more about CoEd…click here
 
CoEd empowers students to break the cycle of poverty in Guatemala through education.
 
CoEd believes that all humans are born with abundant potential—we are destined to become creators, healers, innovators, builders, educators. We yearn to leave the world better than we found it.
 
But a child born into the generational cycle of poverty is too often stripped of this destiny. They believe that every child, no matter where they were born or what their circumstance, deserves the opportunity to determine their own story. That’s where education comes in. Education is about justice. Where poverty robs us of opportunities, education gives them back. Education levels the playing field. Education opens doors.
 
 
Coed Guatemala Literacy Projects Dana Atwell 2018-09-27 03:00:00Z 0

2018 “Swing Fore the Kids” Golf Tournament
 

On Thursday September 20th the Rotary Club of Dartmouth held their “Swing Fore the Kids” golf tournament in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Halifax. The tournament took place at the beautiful Chester Golf Club along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The day was a roaring success with 59 golfers playing in lovely fall weather. 
 
The foursome of Rotarian Ken McCormick, Mike Tanner, Ron Himmelman & Terry Baker took first place with a low score of 58.  Also, a surprise award of Paul Harris Fellowships were given to "Epicure-Us", a group of talented chefs, who have provided gourmet meals for 8 people plus wine for over a decade as prizes at our annual Spring Classic fundraiser.
 

 

 

2018 “Swing Fore the Kids” Golf Tournament  Dana Atwell 2018-09-22 03:00:00Z 0

Epicure-Us Made Paul Harris Fellows
 

At our annual golf tournament on September 20th, The Rotary Club of Dartmouth honored a group know “Epicure-Us” with Paul Harris fellowship awards.  A Paul Harris fellowship is bestowed on individuals who have made a significant contribution to Rotary.

Every year, for over a decade, this dedicated team of chefs led by well-known restaurateur Darrell Cormier (winner of the 2003 Silver Spoon Humanitarian Award) and his team of talented and visionary sous – chefs, Rotarian Scott Lynch, Greg Forbes and Bob MacKay have donated a dinner for 8 paired with the perfect wines as a prize at our major fundraiser “The Spring Classic”.   This 4-course feast worthy of any gourmand has brought thousands of dollars into the club in support of projects both in our community and internationally.
Epicure-Us Made Paul Harris Fellows  Dana Atwell 2018-09-22 03:00:00Z 0

2018 Conrad Brothers
 

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth bestowed one of Rotary’s highest honors, A Paul Harris Fellow Award, on long-time supports Kim & Paul Conrad.  A ceremony for Paul took place at a regular club meeting on July 23rd and Kim’s ceremony will take place in the near future.  Congratulations and thank you for your on-going support over the years.

2018 Conrad Brothers  Dana Atwell 2018-07-31 03:00:00Z 0

2018 Demetreous Lane Community Garden

Demetreous Lane Community Garden Now Open
 
The student of the Dal Architecture FreeLab 2018 under  the leadership of Rayleen Hill Architecture + Design (RHAD Architects) have just complete construction of the Demetreous Lane Community Garden.  This project was made possible through the foresight and dedication of North Dartmouth’s Take Action Society and a $10,000 grant from the Rotary Club of Dartmouth. 
 
 
2018 Demetreous Lane Community Garden Dana Atwell 2018-07-31 03:00:00Z 0

2018 Turnover Party

June 30th was heralded the end of the Rotary year and on July 9th the president's gavel was officially transferred to our incoming president Doug Hill.
 
According to tradition the outgoing president Dana Atwell and his wife Sue hosted the year-end celebration and turn over party.  The weather cooperated perfectly for the event.  We had a wonderful turn out with 20+ Rotarians and partners present.  Compliments to our lovely hosts, Dana and Sue and to all who contributed to a wonderful meal.
 

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2018 Turnover Party Dana Atwell 2018-07-10 03:00:00Z 0

Adventures in Citizenship 

 
Adventures in Citizenship is an Investment in Canadian Youth by the Rotary.
Each year the Rotary Adventure in Citizenship Program engages over two hundred outstanding senior high school students from across Canada spent four days in the National Capital in a program designed to develop their potential as leaders in their communities and in Canadian society.
The program is for Canadian students Aged 16 to 18 and the Rotary Club of Dartmouth is proud to sponsor two Dartmouth High School student annually as our representatives.
Adventures in Citizenship Dana Atwell 2018-06-14 03:00:00Z 0

Halifax's First Hospice
 

In early 2012 the Rotary Clubs of Metro Halifax released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for new community projects in Halifax. One proposal from Hospice Society of Greater Halifax (“Hospice Halifax”) was deemed to have merit. It had long been a dream that Halifax would one day have a hospice but that dream had yet to be fulfilled. Rotarians knew they could make a difference.

In October 2013 the Rotary Clubs jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hospice Halifax to provide seed money in the amount of $60,000 to conduct a feasibility study for a capital campaign to build a hospice. Upon completion of the study another MOU was signed between Rotary and Hospice Halifax increasing Rotary’s commitment to $123,000 so that matching funds by the QEII Foundation could be implemented and the capital raised to build the hospice.

Halifax's First Hospice  Dana Atwell 2018-05-08 03:00:00Z 0

Microfinancing via Kiva

But what is Kiva?

Kiva is a non-profit organization that connects lenders and borrowers in order to alleviate poverty in the borrower's region. 
Kiva works with micro-finance institutions (field partners) around the world to identify suitable entrepreneurs (borrowers). Those field partners disburse loans of up to $5000 to the entrepreneurs, then post the details on www.kiva.org. Lenders, be they individuals or clubs like ours, then choose an entrepreneur to support with a minimum of $25. Over time, the entrepreneurs repay their loans to the lenders, who can withdraw their investment or re-loan it.
 

 
Microfinancing via Kiva Don Penwell 2018-05-01 03:00:00Z 0

2018 Paul Harris Fellowship Awards Night

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth held its Paul Harris Fellowship Awards Dinner on April 30, 2018.  The Fellowship is the Rotary's most prestigious honour and is awarded in appreciation for service that exemplifies the humanitarian and educational objectives of the Rotary Foundation.  This year's recipients were Cathy Deagle-Gammon and Heather Hughes-Leck.
Cathy Deagle-Gammon is being recognized for her efforts over the last twenty one years as Executive Director for the Dartmouth Adult Services Center.  The mission of the DASC, in association with its community, is to provide opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities and support them in realizing their individual potential and become active members of the community.
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2018 Paul Harris Fellowship Awards Night Dana Atwell 2018-04-30 03:00:00Z 0

Rotary Bursaries
 

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth often awards bursaries to high school students from Dartmouth.

The school should have a system whereby students are made aware of the bursary, selection criteria and how to apply.  Candidate(s) for the bursary should be recommended to the Club by a selection committee consisting of members of the teaching staff, including guidance counsellor(s).
 
The winning students for 2019 were Morgan Levangie and Elinor King both from Dartmouth High.  Morgan went on to attend Dalhousie University and Elinor went to St. Francis Xavier University 
 
The winning students for 2020 were Samantha Swazie and Donovan Pineiro from Dartmouth High.  Samantah went on to attend NASCAD and Donovan went to Acadia University.
 
The criteria the selection committee are to use for recommending the candidate(s) are as follows:
 
  • An Identified Financial Need
  • Above Average Academics
  • Personal Integrity
  • Volunteerism in Community and/or School
  • Confirmation of Enrollment in Post-Secondary Education
  • Have Displayed a Personal Credo of "Service Before Self" as Evidenced by Involvement in Volunteerism
 
The school will evaluate candidate(s) based on the above criteria and then recommend the successful candidate(s) to the Rotary Club of Dartmouth for approval.  Except in unusual circumstances the Club will usually accept the school’s recommendation.
 
 
Rotary Bursaries  Dana Atwell 2017-09-01 03:00:00Z 0

Youth Exchange

As a Rotary Youth Exchange Student, you’ll spend up a year living with a few host families and attending school in a different country.

For over 75 years, students and host families have broadened their horizons through Rotary Youth Exchange. More than 80 countries and over 8,000 students each year participate in the program, which is administered at the regional level by Rotary districts and at the local level by Rotary clubs.

Rotary Youth Exchange is open to young people ages 15- 25 worldwide. There are two basic types of exchanges: short-term and long term.

To qualify, you are an above average student with demonstrated leadership in the community, open to new experiences and cultural differences, sponsored by a local Rotary club, and have completed written application and in person interview.

Exchanges can take place in more than 150 countries and geographical areas. Please note however, that the countries you visit depend on your home Rotary district. Contact your local club or district for more information. Locate the club nearest you through club locator on Rotary.org

Dedicated Rotarian volunteers have kept Youth Exchange vital for decades. Rotarians work behind the scenes to handle the logistics of each exchange. For long term exchanges, the host club and district arranges enrolment, tuition and other educational matters.
 
 2017-18 Rotary exchange student is Elien Steiner from Oberaegeri Switzerland. 
 
To learn more about Rotary Youth Exchange.......Click here
Youth Exchange Dana Atwell 2017-09-01 03:00:00Z 0

Margaret's House

On April 9, 2011 members of the Rotary Club of Dartmouth constructed a new front entrance ramp and fire escape for Margaret’s House in downtown Dartmouth.

Named after the late Margaret Savage, Margaret’s House is located at the corner of Wentworth and Ochterloney. At first glance, you wouldn't know what it is, but this picturesque house has been doing amazing work in the community for over 20 years. At Margaret’s House a hot, nutritious evening meal is served to those in need from Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Lunch is served seven days a week.

After many years of continual use, the front entrance and fire escape were in dire need of replacement. That’s when the Rotary Club of Dartmouth swung into action. First the old structures had to be demolished and then construction of new structures could take place. Many hands made light work and the job was completed in just over a day but will serve the needs of the community for years to come.

See photos.....

Margaret's House Dana Atwell 2016-10-21 03:00:00Z 0

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Great Halifax
 

It’s a little-known fact that the Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been behind the development of the Dartmouth B&G Club since 1963. A Rotarian (Roy Boland) provided the land and the first building. The B&G Club soon saw a need for a new facility and the Rotary Club challenged them to build a new clubhouse. 

They promised to donate $20,000 provided that the three levels of government matched the donation. The $20,000 grew into $80,000 (a significant sum at the time) which resulted in a fine new building being erected. The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been a perennial supporter of the B&G club, both financially and serving on its Board of Directors.
 
 
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Great Halifax  Dana Atwell 2016-06-09 03:00:00Z 0

Guatemala - Water & Sanitation 

By Narayan Murarka, Suzanne Gibson, Mary Holcomb, Mark Gibson, Jorge Aufranc and Francisco Viau

The Rotary Club of Dartmouth, District 7820 lead by The Barrington Breakfast Rotary Club, District 6440 in partnership with Club Rotario Guatemala Sur, District 4250 has been engaged in global grant projects in Guatemala since 2012-13.  We concentrated on the needs of people in one geographical area called “Sumpango,” Sacatepecaquez Department, all throughout these years and carried out the several major initiatives which expanded over time in both breadth and depth.  One of these initiatives is related to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in schools and focused on disease prevention and treatment of children and improving hygiene conditions within the community.

 
 
Guatemala - Water & Sanitation Dana Atwell 2015-04-30 03:00:00Z 0

Demetreous Lane Renovations

The Demetreous Lane Community Centre is two units in a townhouse complex that serves a low-income area in North Dartmouth and is in dire need of a facelift. The Rotary Club of Dartmouth, under the leadership of our past Community Service Director Dave Garnier, has met the challenge head on.

The renovations are being made possible through a partnership between our club and The Metropolitan Regional Housing Authority, Councillor Gloria McCluskey, and Rotary District 7820. The budget committed for this project includes $7,000 from the Rotary Club of Dartmouth ($6,500 for renovations & $500 for books), $1,500 from Rotary District 7820 in the form of a District Grant, $3,500 from the Housing Authority and $2,500 from Councillor McCluskey.

 

Demetreous Lane Renovations Dana Atwell 2014-03-01 04:00:00Z 0

A New Wheelchair Ramp

In February 2014 the Rotary Club of Dartmouth was approached by the Canadian Paraplegic Association (Nova Scotia) that had a client in rehab with a mobility disability.  When admitted to rehab he was using a manual wheelchair but was discharged using a power wheelchair.   He was looking for volunteers to upgrade his home wheelchair ramp in order to ensure it could safely support the added weight of the power wheelchair.

 

The existing ramp was only a thin piece of plywood

 

A New Wheelchair Ramp Dana Atwell 2014-02-01 04:00:00Z 0

NeoNatal Handbook For Zimbabwe

Doctors across Zimbabwe now have a practical and quick reference guide for treating young children. This is an essential tool for the country’s 800 doctors who care for a population of over 13 million.
 
HPIC, with funding provided by the Rotary Club of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, revised and reprinted Peter Iliff’s Neonatal Handbook, originally printed in 1995 by the late doctor. The 2013 edition in memory of Dr. Peter Iliff was distributed to 500 doctors across the country, which is struggling with one of the highest under-five mortality rates in the world.
 
 
Dr. Greg Powell shows the 2013 edition of the Neonatal Handbook
to HPIC president Glen Shepherd when he was in Zimbabwe in June 2013
 
NeoNatal Handbook For Zimbabwe Robert Earle 2013-06-01 03:00:00Z 0

Community Garden & Outdoor Classroom

Grand Opening of the “The Take Action Society's” Outdoor Classroom & Community Garden was held on August 2, 2012.
The “Take Action Society” is a non-profit organization established to bring the community together in an outdoor classroom and community garden setting. They wanted to build a space for children to feel free to learn and express themselves in talent shows and movie nights and where the community could grow flowers and vegetables. Their dream became a reality with the help of Rotary. This facility is now located in North Dartmouth on Alfred Street behind Harbour View Elementary School.

 

Community Garden & Outdoor Classroom Dana Atwell 2012-08-01 03:00:00Z 0

The Dartmouth Learning Network

It is estimated that the literacy skills of 38% of working age Nova Scotians is below a level required to function in a modern economy. The Dartmouth Learning Network (DLN) is a not for profit organization that provides opportunities for adults to improve their literacy skills, free of charge.     

The Dartmouth Learning Network (DLN) is a not for profit organization that provides opportunities for adults to improve their literacy skills, free of charge.  The Rotary Club of Dartmouth has been an active supporter of the Dartmouth Learning Network since 2006, acting on their Board of director, guiding programs and through financial help.

In April 2008 as part of, a DLN / Dartmouth Rotary club joint venture, DLN learners were enrolled in pilot project to use the Computer Assisted Learning System (CALS) to enhance literacy skills. The learners worked on the CALS exercises for about six weeks. The pilot project was set up to test the benefits of the online phonics program for adult learners and to determine the requirements for running the project; including staff training and time, location and equipment, learner willingness and progress. It was hoped that the experience would allow DLN and Rotary to gather sufficient information to decide if the project should be continued and expand the program to include more learners. The pilot project showed benefits to the learners and the Club made a donation of $5000 to fund more learners in 2009. The full program was deemed a success.
 
The Dartmouth Learning Network Dana Atwell 2012-06-01 03:00:00Z 0

West Africa Projects

In 1997, Etruscan Resources hired Dr John Savage to develop humanitarian projects in Niger. The Rotary Club of Dartmouth had been searching for an International Service initiative with a local connection to facilitate our efforts. Thus, this was the beginning of a long and successful partnership between our Club and Etruscan.

Dr. Savage frequently travelled to Niger to meet with village officials in areas close to the Samira Hill mine site. After much consultation, it was decided that a medical clinic in Toure would be the priority.

 



 

West Africa Projects Robert Earle 2006-01-01 04:00:00Z 0