President's Message 
An Ode to Terry Fox
At a recent dinner party a conversation focused on ‘who was/is the greatest Canadian ever?’ The names provided were a list of the usual suspects of politicians, professionals and athletes who left their mark on the history of Canada. From my perspective, however, Terry Fox is the overwhelming choice for Greatest Canadian. Terry Fox is celebrated as one of Canada’s greatest athletes, not only for his remarkable physical achievements but also for his unwavering spirit and dedication to a cause larger than himself. Despite losing a leg to cancer, Fox embarked on the “Marathon of Hope,” running over 5,000 kilometers across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. His determination, courage, and selflessness exemplify qualities that go beyond athletic prowess and resonate deeply with ethical and community-oriented values. Sunday September 20 (which also happens to be the day of our president’s walk at Long Point) marks the 46th annual Terry Fox Run in support of cancer research. In February 2026 the Terry Fox Foundation celebrated a remarkable historic milestone by crossing the $1 billion CAD mark in total funds raised since 1980. Such was the impact and legacy of Terry Fox.
Rotary International is a global organization committed to promoting service, integrity, and fellowship. Its core principles emphasize service above self, ethical conduct in professional and personal life, and fostering understanding and goodwill among communities. Terry Fox’s life mirrors these principles in action. His athletic journey was never about personal glory; it was a mission to serve others. Like Rotary’s focus on ethical leadership, Fox demonstrated honesty, perseverance, and moral courage by confronting immense personal challenges while inspiring millions. Furthermore, Rotary’s principle of building goodwill is reflected in Fox’s ability to unite Canadians and people worldwide around a common cause. His Marathon of Hope transcended regional and cultural boundaries, much like Rotary’s initiatives, which aim to create positive social impact globally.
Fox’s legacy, therefore, is not limited to his athletic feats. His determination, empathy, and commitment to service align closely with Rotary’s guiding principles. Both Fox and Rotary embody the idea that true greatness arises from helping others, acting with integrity, and fostering unity. By comparing Terry Fox’s achievements and character with Rotary principles, it becomes evident that he was not only a great athlete but also a moral and social role model whose life continues to inspire acts of service and compassion. I would like to believe that if Terry had survived his illness he would be a Rotarian today!
PS – Who was the most famous Canadian physician ever? Hint #1: he was a thoracic surgeon, Hint #2: his name was not Chris Compeau. Can you guess who he was?
Quote of the week:
“All I can say is that if there is any way I can get out there and finish it, I will.” Terry Fox
Bad Dad Joke of the week:
What do you call a magician who has lost his magic? Ian.
Chris Compeau
President 2026-27
This Week's Zoom Meeting Details:
Topic: Weekly Rotary Meeting
Time: Sept 15, 2026 07:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 828 6879 3340
Passcode: rotary
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Notes from Rotary Meeting on September 8, 2026
President Chris opened the meeting at 7:07 with 33 members present in person, one on Zoom, and two guests, Christine Zeidler and Sarah Bobas, representing the Wellington Town Hall Stewardship Association (”WTHSA”)
Chris provided brief updates on the Sunday evening fundraiser at the Regent and the online auction. The fundraiser wasn’t quite a sold-out event, but it was certainly close. 354 tickets were sold and a net $16,000 was raised for the County’s foodbanks, and the online and live auctions together exceeded the $10,000 fundraising goal. Roger circulated signup sheets for the Fellowship Dinners. He has enough hosts but needs more guests.
Guest Speakers:
Mike introduced our guest speakers. Sarah Bobas is the Project Steward Co-Lead and member of the board of the WTHSA. Sarah brings 20+ years experience working across public and private sectors. Sarah has long been a dedicated volunteer who has chaired/championed community and not-for-profit projects. As a local business owner, she brings perspectives from the customers and visitors to Wellington who visit her shop. Christina Zeidler, Project Steward Co-Lead and board member is a cultural developer with extensive experience in community-led infrastructure, most notably the revitalization and operation of the Gladstone Hotel in Toronto (2003-2020). She is currently the Board Chair of Agnes Etherington Advisory Board in Kingston, during their reimagining and build of a $100M new facility. Christina brings decades of experience in inclusive governance, fundraising, arts programming, and place-based strategy, and is now a full-time resident of the County.
After extensive community consultation, the WTHSA has been approved to take possession of the Wellington Town Hall in January 2027, acquiring it for the nominal sum of $1. This is seen as a community resource and the project co-leads heard clearly what the community does and does not want it used for. Their mission is to “Honour and preserve the heritage of the Wellington Town Hall while ensuring it remains an active communal space for all to gather, learn, and connect.” It will not be in competition with storefronts for rent in the village. Their intent is to engage community partners for programming, to get high occupancy and use right away. Fortunately, the main floor is able to be occupied immediately, once an accessibility ramp has been installed. The second floor is unusable at this time. This is an all-volunteer project, with no paid positions. A phased activity approach is being taken with a five-year timeframe. A capital campaign is not envisioned until year 3. During the Q & A, Conrad offered to fund the cost of the materials for the ramp if our club provides the labour. Christina and Sarah were thanked by Liz.
Club Business:
Shawn, with a little help from The Grinch, presented an exciting vision for a community Christmas/costume party to be called “Wake Up Wellington – It’s Christmas” to be held in late November. County approvals are already in place, and posters have been designed. Shawn is seeking help from the club to solicit prize sponsors and provide route marshals.
Anniversaries – Chris and Yvonne, 36 years on September 15
50/50 draw – Christine’s ticket was drawn, AGAIN – for the 4th time in 3 months! – but, alas, she picked the 5 of diamonds.
President Chris closed the meeting at 8:40 with the Four-Way Test.
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