June 2, 2026
Award-winning photographer, author, filmmaker, and Rotarian Gabor Gasztonyi shared an update on the global fight to eradicate polio. A former District 5040 Polio Chair and past president of the Rotary Club of New Westminster, Gabor has long been involved in Rotary’s efforts to eliminate the disease and support rehabilitation programs for polio survivors, particularly in Ethiopia.
Gabor reported that while vaccine-derived poliovirus remains a challenge in some under-immunized regions of Africa, overall polio cases continue to decline. Only seven cases of wild poliovirus have been reported worldwide in 2026—three in Pakistan and four in Afghanistan. He also highlighted the ongoing work of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and the importance of continued vaccination efforts to achieve a polio-free world.
Cheque Presentation
Adam and Bo presented a cheque for $2,500 to Kelly Palmer and Greg of BC Amateur Sport and Softball City. The donation will support youth sports programs that provide opportunities for young people to participate in organized athletics. Members also learned about the upcoming Canada Cup International Softball Championship and opportunities to volunteer at the event.
Announcements
Annual Membership Dues
Members were reminded that annual Rotary Club dues of $300 are payable before the end of June. This is the first dues increase in more than seven years and reflects rising costs for meals, Fieldhouse rental, and Rotary International obligations. Members who pay after June 30 will be subject to a $25 late fee. Members who do not plan to renew their membership are asked to notify President Kristina and Secretary Fred before the end of June.
Presidential Installation – June 13
Tickets are now available for the Presidential Installation of President-Elect Darryl Walker on Saturday, June 13 at the Elks Hall. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m., followed by the installation ceremony, awards presentation, and entertainment. Tickets are $40.
Crescent Beach Community Garage Sale – June 6
Members are invited to participate in the Crescent Beach Community Garage Sale on Saturday, June 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at David and Gwen’s home. Donations can be dropped off the day before or the morning of the sale. Rotary will also be selling books to help promote the August Book Sale.
75th Annual White Rock Sea Festival Torchlight Parade
The club will once again participate in the White Rock Sea Festival Torchlight Parade on August 1. Miss Vicky will be attending, along with members from the Rotary Clubs of White Rock, Semiahmoo, Nature Celebrators, and the PNW Passport Club. The parade begins at 8:30 p.m. and travels along Marine Drive toward Semiahmoo Park.
Membership Badge Update
Members requiring a pin-backed badge instead of a magnetic badge for medical reasons are encouraged to contact Winston, Ethan, or Irene from the Membership Committee.
Bottle and Can Recycling Fundraiser
The club’s ongoing recycling fundraiser continues through the Semiahmoo Bottle Depot. Members can support the club by dropping off bottles and cans using Irene’s phone number to print a donation label or by bringing recyclables to a club meeting.
Speaker Suggestions Welcome
Members are encouraged to continue recommending interesting guest speakers for future meetings by contacting Adam Smith or Peter Jones.
Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus
The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus continues to achieve remarkable success, with more than $227,000 raised to date. The campaign has already surpassed its $200,000 fundraising goal for 2026, with several weeks still remaining.