June 25, 2012

Richmond BC, Canada

Rotary Club of Richmond donates almost $30,000 support veterans and artistic programming. On Wednesday June 27th the Rotary Club of Richmond will present three cheques to the community.

Funds were raised from their 50th Anniversary Gala which featured a Yellow Ribbon Tribute to Canada's service men and women and over 250 guests. $20,000 will be received by Colonel Grant Smith for the 15th Field Artillery Regiment to support veterans. The main role of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment is to provide Close Support Artillery with 105mm towed howitzers.

The Band of the 15th Field Royal Canadian Artillery is an internationally renowned ensemble that performs in a variety of formations, from concert music to marching band to small chamber ensemble to a dance band. $2,500 will be received by Major Ted Hawthorn for the BCR (BC Regiment) to send a veteran to the Battlefield tours in Europe.

The British Columbia Regiment (Duke of Connaught's Own) is an armored reconnaissance reserve regiment and as such is tasked with providing qualified reconnaissance soldiers to assist the Regular Force in meeting Canada's military commitments. $6,751 will be received by Major Graham Brown Executive Director the Rotary Hospice House to support the Rotary Hospice House music therapy program.

Part of the funds for this initiative comes from Rotary District Foundation matching grants. It is fitting that the Rotary Club of Richmond's 50th Anniversary Gala is a tribute to the Military as President Ken Whitney was a member of the Military Band for most of his career. "I feel deep satisfaction with the way in which Rotary brings courage, strength and hope to individuals and communities around the world. I look forward to the continued role of Rotarians and their quest for "Service Above Self", says President Ken.

The Rotary Club of Richmond invites you to join us for lunch. For details and information about our service to the community and how you can get involved, please go to Richmondrotary.com.

The Rotary Club of Richmond's 50th Anniversary Gala at the River Rock Casino Resort was held on April 15, 2012. District 5040 Governor Hans Doge, The Hon. Alice Wong MP, MLA Linda Reid, Mayor His Worship Malcolm Brodie, Colonel Bryan H. Gagne and Club President Ken Whitney were in procession piped onto the stage to deliver their welcome message. Performances were by the Band of the 15th Field Royal Canadian Artillery Regiment and Pipes and Drums of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Over 70 silent auction items were sold highlighted by $1,000 bid to conduct the orchestra.

Suzanne Haines ROTARY CLUB OF RICHMOND, B.C. Canada