June 30, 2026

Ross Birney, CPA, CA, recently retired from Raymond James Ltd., where he worked as a Financial Adviser for more than 20 years. A graduate with Honours in Commerce from the University of Manitoba, Ross began his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers in Calgary before moving to the Semiahmoo Peninsula with his family in 1996. In retirement, he enjoys sipping scotch, riding his motorcycle, and planning his next trip to Europe. Drawing on his extensive experience providing objective, unbiased advice to clients, Ross spoke on the topic “Financial Planning in Uncertain Times.”

Ross’s presentation focused on the importance of investing in the right places, choosing the right investment vehicles, and working with the right advisors. He emphasized that Canada represents only a small portion of the global investment opportunity and encouraged investors to think beyond individual stocks and local markets. Ross highlighted the value of low-cost index-based investing, the importance of staying invested rather than trying to time the market, and the tax advantages associated with capital gains. He also cautioned against high-risk individual stocks and fad investments, reminding members that good advisors should communicate proactively and be measured by whether they can outperform a relevant index after fees.

Scholarship Committee Presentation

Glen Wilson, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, provided an overview of this year’s scholarship program. A record 45 applications were received from graduating students at local high schools. The club awarded eight scholarships in total: four valued at $3,000 and four educational awards of $1,000. Selection was based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, financial need, volunteerism, and a demonstrated commitment to Rotary’s principle of Service Above Self.

The club thanked Scholarship Committee members Glen, Joan, Sasha, James, and Terry for the time and care they devoted to reviewing applications and selecting this year’s recipients.

Scholarship Recipients

Hannah Grover, a graduate of Southridge Secondary, will attend Queen’s University to study Health Sciences with the goal of becoming a physician. She was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 10 Under-18 Changemakers in 2024 by Children First Canada. Hannah is also the founder of the nonprofit Poet to Poet and the health advocacy initiative HEART.

Stephanie Yoon, a graduate of Semiahmoo Secondary, will remain in British Columbia to study Health Sciences, with plans to practise medicine in the province. She served in a leadership role with the Semiahmoo band executive, led a music mentorship program, and volunteered as a Sunday school teacher at White Rock Baptist Church.

President’s Appreciation Pins

President Kristina presented appreciation pins to recognize outstanding service to the club.

Terry McGauley was honoured for his leadership of the International Committee and his work on the medical and training centre project in Tanzania. The project is expanding access to electronic education and training while helping improve health outcomes and save lives.

Gina Gritten was recognized for completing her two-year term as Sergeant-at-Arms and for the mentorship, encouragement, and personal support she provided to Kristina throughout the Rotary year. Gina will remain a member of the club and expects to return more fully in the fall following summer travel.

Linda D’Onofrio was thanked for the many hours she has quietly devoted to the club’s bookkeeping and accounting over the past two years, including managing receipts, balancing records, and helping keep the club’s finances organized.

President’s Closing Remarks

President Kristina Eng concluded her 2025–2026 term by thanking the Board, Committee Chairs, District representatives, and club members for their support, dedication, and service throughout the year.

Fundraising Updates

The Sunflower Drive raised just under $500.

The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus concluded with a total of $258,593 raised. The campaign surpassed its original $200,000 goal and unlocked the next $25,000 contribution. Thank you to everyone who helped make the campaign an outstanding success.

Announcements

Annual Membership Dues

Annual membership dues have increased from $275 to $300. This is the club’s first dues increase in seven years and reflects rising meal, facility rental, Rotary International, insurance, and operating costs. Of the total, $90 remains with the club to support local operating expenses, while the balance is passed on for Rotary International services and insurance.

Dues are payable immediately by e-transfer to lindawrrclub@gmail.com. Payments received after June 30 will be subject to an additional $25 late fee. Members who do not plan to renew should advise Kristina and Secretary Fred immediately so the club’s membership list can be updated before Rotary International billing.

No Meeting on July 7

There will be no regular club meeting on July 7. Members are encouraged to volunteer at the Canada Cup booth to help sell 50/50 tickets in support of Foundry Youth Wellness. Additional details are available in the Blowing in the Wind newsletter.

Winston and Karen’s Summer Barbecue

Winston and Karen will host a summer barbecue on July 11 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The pool will be available, and spouses and guests are welcome. Please bring your own beverage and RSVP to Winston or Karen by text or telephone.

White Rock Rides Family Day

The club will have a presence at White Rock Rides Family Day on Saturday, July 18. The event will also provide an opportunity to promote the upcoming Rotary Book Sale.

Torchlight Parade

The Rotary Club of White Rock will participate in the 75th Annual White Rock Sea Festival Torchlight Parade on Saturday, August 1, 2026, beginning at 8:30 p.m.

Miss Vicky will be in attendance, along with representatives from the Semiahmoo Rotary Club, Nature Celebrators, and the Pacific Northwest Passport Club. The parade will travel along Marine Drive from near Oxford Street toward Semiahmoo Park.

Rotary Hands Across the Border

The annual Rotary Hands Across the Border celebration will take place on Saturday, August 8, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Peace Arch Park Heritage Building, located at 12 Peace Arch Park in Surrey.

Hosted by District Governor 2027–2028 Shawn O’Donnell, the event will be held under the theme “Unite for Good.” It will include a ceremony beneath the Peace Arch, lunch, awards, Rotary Foundation donation presentations, and fellowship. The event is open to Rotarians, families, and friends, and the cost is $52 CAD.

https://rotarydistrict5050.org/events/rotary-hands-across-the-border-2026/

Membership Badges

Members who require a badge with a pin rather than a magnet for medical reasons should contact Winston, Ethan, or Irene from the Membership Committee so a replacement can be ordered.

Bottle and Can Recycling

Thank you to everyone supporting the Club Account by recycling bottles and cans. Donations may be taken to any Return-It Centre or to the Semiahmoo Bottle Depot at 15515 24 Avenue.

Enter Irene’s phone number, 604-316-2090, print and scan the label, or bring recyclables directly to a weekly club meeting for collection.

Speaker Suggestions

Members are encouraged to suggest interesting future speakers. Please email ideas to Peter Jones at pjones2570@gmail.com or Adam Smith at asmith@ubmi.ca.

Club Naming Suggestion

Members are invited to help establish a simple naming distinction for the two members named Linda so they can be identified more easily in club communications and conversations.