As we begin the 2026–27 Rotary year, I want to reflect on the incredible momentum our club built over the past twelve months. From supporting school nutrition programs across 27 schools to honouring 13 outstanding high‑school volunteers from across our region through the Great Student Awards, our club continued to demonstrate what Service Above Self looks like in action. We also celebrated major international impact with the approval of the Guatemala Literacy Project Global Grant, support of the HHART program, and the amazing support given to the World Polio Program. These accomplishments remind us that Rotary’s influence is felt both here at home and around the world.

This past year also brought growth and change. We welcomed 10 new members into our Rotary family, each bringing fresh energy, ideas, and enthusiasm. At the same time, we faced the heartbreaking loss of our dear friend and active fellow Rotarian, Trudy Lang‑Flumerfelt, whose kindness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service touched every one of us. Her passing on May 19th left a profound impact on our club, and we will continue to honour her legacy through meaningful service and compassion in all we do.

Looking ahead, our goals for 2026–27 are ambitious, purposeful, and rooted in the values that define us. We will continue to support the train station project at the waterfront, ensuring it becomes a vibrant and welcoming space for our community. We will also push forward with Phase 3 of Rotary Centennial Commons, building on the tremendous work already completed. These projects reflect our long-standing commitment to enhancing North Bay’s public spaces and creating places where families, neighbours, and visitors can gather, connect, and thrive.

Our club’s impact remains massive, locally and internationally, and this year we will strengthen that impact by focusing intentionally on fellowship and growth. Strong fellowship builds strong Rotary, and strong Rotary builds strong communities. Whether through hands-on service, fundraising initiatives like Catch the Ace returning this June , or family-friendly events such as Rotary Community Day at the splash pad, we will continue creating opportunities for members to connect, contribute, and feel proud of the difference they make.

As your president, I am excited for the year ahead. Together, we will welcome new members, honour the legacy of those we’ve lost, and continue shaping a Rotary Club that is vibrant, compassionate, and deeply committed to service. This year, we will listen to and encourage our newest Rotarians as they find their place in the club, and we will also listen to and respect the long‑serving members whose experience and dedication have shaped who we are today. Every viewpoint, new or seasoned, deserves to be heard, valued, and treated with the respect that strengthens our fellowship.

Thank you for your dedication, your fellowship, and your belief in what Rotary can accomplish. Let’s make 2026–27 a year of growth, joy, and meaningful impact, both in North Bay and around the world.

YIR,