Rotary Bulletin Nov. 3, 2025
Because President, Bob Wallace, was delayed at another meeting, Co-President, Ken O’Neill, called the meeting to order.
Guests
In attendance were our speaker, Steve Rutledge and his sister Terry, Honourary Member Hugh Parker and his spouse Linda Goldie, and Christine Thomson’s guest, Melanie Burke.
Guest Speaker
Steve Rutledge and his charitable organization “Adopt a Village in Laos” are well known to us as we have provided support many times.
Every November Steve travels to remote parts of Laos to provide water, hygiene, and education facilities. He has done this for 17 years.
This past year his organization provided stand alone water filters in 15 villages. He coordinated the construction of trenching, piping for 3 ½ km, and a reservoir to bring water to a village where it will be purified in individual family filters provided by “Adopt a Village in Laos”. He also oversaw the construction of a small high school and provided a feminine hygiene program for students. Sixty-seven Rotary Clubs have supported his work.
This year, his program involves 2 water projects, replacement of a school roof, construction of 3 banks of toilets. The budget for this work is $300,000 entirely through donations.
Any individual or club can purchase a water filter for a family in Laos through adoptavillageinlaos@gmail.com at the very reasonable price of $125 Canadian.
Steve was ably thanked for his presentation by Hugh Parker (a member of his Board) who emphasized Steve’s amazing energy and compassion.
Past-President Paul Tait ( Service Projects Chair) presented Steve with a cheque from our club to “Adopt a Village in Laos” in the amount of $2,500.
Christmas Sales
Past-President Ron Tuttle reminded members of the order deadline for ham sales: Nov. 13th , 2025. He encouraged members to approach businesses that might use hams as Christmas gifts for employees. Another possibility is buying a ham to donate to the Food Bank.
Youth Exchange
Chair, Ron, reported on the bustle of activity for next year’s outbound student. The student will be supported by the Cobourg, Northumberland Sunrise, and Port Hope Rotary Clubs.
Ron will be speaking at the 3 local High Schools this week and next. On Nov.16th there is a student and parent information meeting and on Nov.22nd there will be interviews of potential candidates.
Remembrance Day
Fran has arranged for Rotarians to lay wreaths at ceremonies in Port Hope, Canton and Bewdley.
Rotary Foundation Grant Workshop
This will be held on Nov. 15th , 2025 at the Shriners Club in Oshawa. Bob and Kathy Wallace and Olga Chernuk will attend on behalf of our club. Additional members are welcome.