June 9, 2026
At this week’s Rotary Club meeting, members welcomed Guest Speaker Kym Bailey-Cook, who gave a presentation on the topic “My Life.”
Members also enjoyed a short presentation from John Lusted, President of the Semiahmoo Rotary Club, who shared information about two important initiatives being led by their club. John spoke about the Semiahmoo Rotary Club’s Canada Flag fundraising program, a community-focused initiative that helps raise funds while encouraging residents and businesses to proudly display the Canadian flag.
He also highlighted the club’s upcoming Ride to End Polio, part of Rotary’s ongoing commitment to the global eradication of polio. This year’s ride will include a new shorter 12 km bike route, making the event more accessible for riders who would like to participate at a more comfortable distance.
The meeting also included a cheque presentation of $1,000 to Playful Palette. The cheque was received by Sabine LaPointe, representing the organization.
Our club is pleased to support Playful Palette and recognizes the positive contribution it makes in the community. The presentation was another reminder of how Rotary partnerships, fundraising, and community service come together to make a meaningful impact.
Club Announcements and Meeting Highlights
This week’s meeting included a number of important club announcements, community updates, presentations, and reminders about upcoming Rotary events.
Club Business and Member Updates
Members were reminded that annual Rotary Club membership dues have increased from $275 to $300. This is the first increase in more than seven years and brings our dues in line with our sister clubs, Semiahmoo and South Surrey, while helping address rising meal and rental costs.
Dues are payable to the Club Account before the end of June by e-transfer to:
Most of the dues are passed on to Rotary International for member services and insurance. The club retains approximately $90 for local operating costs. Payments made after June 30 will be subject to an additional $25 late fee. Members who do not plan to renew are asked to notify the Secretary so their names can be removed before Rotary International bills the club.
Members were also reminded that if a magnetic membership badge cannot be worn for medical reasons, a pin-backed replacement can be ordered through the membership committee.
Community and Event Highlights
The club welcomed John Lusted, President of the Semiahmoo Rotary Club, who gave a short presentation on Semiahmoo Rotary’s Canada Flag fundraising program and their upcoming Ride to End Polio. This year’s ride will include a shorter 12 km bike route, making the event more accessible to more participants.
The club also presented a cheque for $1,000 to Playful Palette Foundation. The cheque was received by Sabine LaPointe, representing the organization.
Members also heard an update on the Crescent Beach Garage Sale and Book Sale teaser, which raised $353.70 for Foundry fundraising while also helping promote the upcoming August book sales and Rotary’s ongoing community support initiatives.
President’s Appreciation Pins
Two members were recognized with President’s Appreciation Pins.
Sasha Makogonska, Youth Services Director, was recognized for her outstanding commitment to Rotary youth programs, including RYLA, YAIL, YES, Leaders of Tomorrow, literacy, and youth leadership initiatives. Sasha is completing her two-year term and has already committed to another two years of service. Her careful budget management and strong leadership have helped strengthen our club’s youth service work.
Glenn Wilson was recognized for his work on the Scholarship, International, and Environment Committees. Glenn has helped refine the application and interview process for the club’s four annual $3,000 scholarships, maintained connections with local secondary schools, supported the Global Grant for the Goa, India medical project, and continued to contribute to the club’s environmental initiatives.
Upcoming Events
The Presidential Installation for President-Elect Darryl Walker will take place on Saturday, June 13 at Elks Hall, 1469 George Street. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., buffet dinner begins at 6:00 p.m., and the installation and awards program begins at 7:00 p.m., followed by entertainment. Tickets are $40, payable by e-transfer to lindawrrclub@gmail.com.
The 75th Annual White Rock Sea Festival Torchlight Parade will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, beginning at 8:30 p.m. Four Rotary clubs will assemble on Marine Drive at Bayview Park in West Beach, with Miss Vicky and club walkers helping lead the way. The parade will travel along Marine Drive past Oxford Street and end in Semiahmoo Park. The evening will feature a strong Rotary presence, including the Semiahmoo Club, Nature Celebrators, and the PNW Passport Club.
Rotary Hands Across the Border will be held 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, Surrey, BC. The cost is $52 CAD. This annual event includes a ceremony under the Peace Arch, club awards, Foundation donation presentations, music, a lunch buffet, and treats. Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, friends, and families are welcome. This year’s themes are “Unite for Good” and “Create Lasting Impact.”
Ongoing Club Initiatives
Members are encouraged to continue supporting the club’s Bottle and Can Recycling Program. Funds raised go to the Club Account. Bottles and cans can be taken to Semiahmoo Bottle Depot, 15515 24 Avenue. Enter cell number 604-316-2090 to print and scan a label. Members may also bring bottles and cans to regular meetings.
Speaker suggestions are always welcome. Members are encouraged to continue submitting ideas for interesting and engaging future speakers.
Rotary Mission Statement
Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus
The Miss Vicky 2026 Challenge for PolioPlus has now raised more than $230,000, officially surpassing the $200,000 goal with 24 days still remaining.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this remarkable achievement. The Miss Vicky Challenge 2027 is already on the horizon as Rotary continues its commitment to ending polio once and for all.