North Bay’s Family of Rotary, representing the Rotary clubs of North Bay and Nipissing, gathered at the Rotary Centennial Pergola next to the North Bay Museum on October 30th to relaunch the Leaves of Inspiration and unveil a new project sign.
The Pergola allows community members to recognize individuals, families, businesses and organizations through engraved stainless-steel leaves displayed on the pergola. While some leaves honour loved ones who have passed away, the project also celebrates those whose contributions, leadership and kindness continue to make a difference.
The initiative allows community members to recognize individuals, families, businesses and organizations through engraved stainless-steel leaves displayed on the pergola. While some leaves honour loved ones who have passed away, the project also celebrates those whose contributions, leadership and kindness continue to make a difference.
"This project has been part of North Bay's waterfront for many years, but there's an opportunity to bring new life and attention to it," said Bill Hagborg of the Rotary Club of North Bay. "We want people to rediscover the pergola, learn about the stories already represented here and see how they can contribute to its future."
The Rotary Centennial Pergola's history is closely tied to the transformation of North Bay's downtown waterfront from former railway lands into public parkland.
Community Waterfront Friends, led by Dr. Rod Johnson and Harriet Madigan, played a significant role in advocating for the waterfront's redevelopment. Following the City's acquisition of former Canadian Pacific Railway lands in 1999 and 2003, the group championed a vision for accessible public spaces, which received support from North Bay City Council in 2007.
On November 24, 2010, Community Waterfront Friends launched Leaves of Inspiration as its first public fundraising initiative, supporting a $1 million commitment toward waterfront improvements, including landscaping, tree planting, parking areas and the development of Civic Plaza.
Today, the pergola remains a recognizable feature of the downtown waterfront, with its engraved leaves preserving stories of individuals and organizations connected to the community.
"Rotary has a long history of investing in projects that strengthen our community and create lasting benefits for future generations," said Tony Limina of the Rotary Club of Nipissing. "The Rotary Centennial Pergola is a wonderful example of what can happen when community members and organizations work together. Through this relaunch, we're building on that legacy and inviting the next generation to help carry it forward."
As part of the relaunch, North Bay’s Family of Rotary is encouraging those who previously purchased a leaf to visit the project's website and share the story behind their tribute if it has not yet been featured online.
These stories help preserve the memories, achievements and contributions of the people and organizations recognized at the pergola, ensuring their impact can be shared with future generations.
To explore existing stories, submit a missing story or learn how to recognize someone through Leaves of Inspiration, visit www.rotarycentennialpergola.com.