July 21, 2026
Lunch Meeting
Guest Speaker: Trevor Halford
Rotary Club member and MLA Trevor Halford spoke about the importance of investing in young people, encouraging community involvement, and bridging the gap between generations in volunteer and public service. He also reflected on his visit to Tumbler Ridge following the tragic school shooting, noting the compassionate, non-partisan leadership shown by government representatives and the community’s focus on rebuilding with mental health in mind.
Trevor also discussed the growing influence of smartphones, social media, artificial intelligence, and ChatGPT in schools. While recognizing the benefits of technology, he emphasized the need to strengthen critical thinking, genuine problem-solving skills, and healthy limits on digital exposure. He concluded by recognizing the vital role of non-profit organizations during difficult times and reaffirmed that his constituency office is available to support local residents and community groups.
Member Presentations and Global Projects
Leaders of Tomorrow Presentation
Eva Kindler, introduced by Sasha, shared highlights from her four-day trip to Ottawa for the Rotary Adventure in Citizenship Program. She toured Parliament Hill, sat in the House of Commons, met several Members of Parliament, and connected with approximately 170 students from across Canada. As a gesture of thanks, Eva presented the club with a symbolic House of Commons seat name tag.
International Global Grant Update — Goa, India
Glenn reported on the successful completion of the club’s global grant project in Goa, India. The project provided essential high-dependency medical equipment, including monitors and ventilators, for an expanded outpatient and emergency ward. The facility serves approximately 1,500 to 1,800 patients each year and was funded through contributions from local Rotary clubs, District Designated Funds, and a Rotary Foundation Global Grant.
Announcements
Meeting Format: Adjustments are being made to the meeting agenda to help meetings run more efficiently and conclude by 1:40 p.m., allowing working members to remain until the end.
Salmon Sessions Music Festival: Diana Barclay, representing the Salmon River Enhancement Society and the San Diego Fish and Game Club, shared details about the festival taking place on August 22 from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. The event will feature six British Columbia bands. Two complimentary tickets were awarded to a club member celebrating a July birthday.
Rotary Adventure in Citizenship: Eva Kindler, a 17-year-old student from Semiahmoo Secondary School, spoke about her experience attending the four-day Rotary Adventure in Citizenship program in Ottawa with sponsorship from our club. She toured Parliament, sat in the House of Commons, met several Members of Parliament, and learned more about citizenship and youth involvement in public life.
Annual Book Sale: With only five weeks remaining, preparations are continuing for this year’s sale at Elgin Park Secondary School. Volunteers with SUVs, vans, or trucks are needed on Wednesday afternoon to transport book trays. The committee is also seeking donations or temporary loans of heavy-duty dollies and non-slip floor protection for the gymnasium’s hardwood floor.
SOURCES Foundry Fundraiser: Irene reminded members of the club’s $50,000 commitment to the Foundry youth resource centre, with $23,000 raised to date. Specialty coffee is available for $24 per bag, with $9 from every sale going directly to the Foundry.
International Global Grant: Glenn reported on the successful completion of a $50,000 USD global grant. In just four months, the project fully equipped a High Dependency Unit at a district hospital in northern Goa, India.