News Network | CNY Rotary

Welcome to the home of all things news from our region - club stories, information from our regional programs, and resources from our leadership teams. Submit your stories any time to news@cnyrotary.org and we will post them here as they come in. We also share information on our social channels and will post your club's events to our events calendar (featured below). Follow @CNYRotary on Facebook and Instagram.

Check back often for the latest news, refreshed as often as the stories flow in!

If you have any questions or need assistance with your club's news, reach out through the form on this page or via email. Also, here are some tips for submitting stories through the News Network and click here for instructions on how clubs with their own ClubRunner site can cross-post their events to our calendar!

Thank You,

Joseph Abraham, Utica Rotary

CNY Rotary Public Image Chair/News Editor

news@cnyrotary.org

Rotary Club Funds New Freezers for Hunger Relief

The Rotary Club of Bainbridge has awarded a $2,161 grant, supported by a matching grant from the CNY Rotary Foundation, to purchase new freezers for the Bainbridge
Soup Kitchen and Bainbridge Food Pantry. The project, “Keeping Hope Fresh – Freezers for Hunger Relief,” strengthens two volunteer-run programs that provide essential food support to local families. Representatives Paula Gifford and Sue Shive attended a Rotary meeting where the grant support was formally acknowledged.

Hamilton Rotary's Night of Lights Gets Community in Holiday Spirit

The 2025 Night of Lights, sponsored by Hamilton Rotary on December 5, truly did shine brighter this year. Many individuals and organizations lent their time, talents and gifts to make the day a success.

Rotary Clubs Support Desk Project in Liberia

The Rotary Club of Bainbridge welcomed Ben Kettor as a guest speaker, accompanied by visiting Rotarian Ken Wilcox of the Binghamton Breakfast Rotary Club. Ben has partnered with the club on several international efforts supported by the David & Judy Derr Memorial Fund, including the construction and delivery of school desks for students in Liberia.

Giving That Grows Our Legacy: Join the Paul Harris Society

CNY Rotary is offering a limited-time incentive to help up to 10 Rotarians (who are not currently PHS members) join the Paul Harris Society (PHS), which recognizes those who give $1,000+ annually to The Rotary Foundation (TRF).

A Fresh Start at Spring Park

The Richfield Springs Rotary Club had always cared for the small bathroom tucked beneath the gazebo at Spring Park. Built in 1973, it had served generations of families, festival-goers, and visitors—often quietly, reliably, and without much attention. But by early 2025, its age showed. The once-useful space had become worn, outdated, and ready for a new chapter.

Meet CNY Rotary President 2028-29: Joe Dhara

CNY Rotary is thrilled to welcome new leadership to our Executive Committee. We introduce you to our 2028-29 CNY Rotary President Joe Dhara of DeWitt Rotary. Read on to learn more about Joe and wish him well as he sets out on this life-changing leadership journey.

CNY Rotary Book Club Announces 2026 Selections

The book club enters its third full year of fascinating, variegated selections. This year we offer 3 books of fiction - James, 100 Years of Solitude, and A Man Called Ove, a biography - Clemente, and two works of nonfiction - Wedding of the Waters and Nomadland.

Chestertown Rotary Braves the Elements, Celebrates Tree Lighting

Members of the Chestertown Rotary Club and American Legion Post 964 joined Chester Supervisor John Maday and his family as they gazed out at Route 9 in front of the Chester Municipal Center at 5:00 o’clock on Tuesday, Dec. 2 and watched with some concern as the street lamps illuminated the still-falling snow. They had prepared an evening celebration for the lighting of the community Christmas Tree on the lawn of the Municipal Center, but with the storm continuing, would anyone actually brave the weather to attend? However, the hardy inhabitants of Chester did not disappoint.

Save the Date: Syracuse Inner City Rotary Black History Month Celebration on Feb.26

This February 2026, Syracuse Inner City Rotary invites you to join them as they come together for a night that speaks to the culture, the grind, and the future of the city's diverse, culturally rich community.

Fulton Rotary Clubs Work Together to Support the Oswego County Diaper
Bank

The Fulton Noon and Fulton Sunrise Rotary Clubs held a friendly competition at the CNY Community Arts Center as part of the clubs’ diaper drive. The goal was to support the Oswego County Diaper Bank with donations of diapers.

Support A Veteran With A Warm Winter Coat

Looking for an easy Rotarian service project? Purchase a coat for $45 at Ocean State Job Lots (OSJL) and donate it to their Coats for Veterans Program.

Join Twin Bridges Rotary for Breakfast With Santa and Mrs. Claus

The big guy in the red suit is coming back to town and bringing the Mrs. with him! The annual Twin Bridges Rotary “Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus” is set this year for 8:30 to 11 am, Saturday, December 6 at the Clifton Park Elks Club, 695 MacElroy Road.

Rotary in Action: Advancing Health, Education, and Sustainability in Haiti

Health for Haiti began in 2014 as a global service-learning course where college students traveled to Haiti to promote sustainable, holistic community development. A critical aspect of the experience was learning that although we are separated by distance, culture, and circumstance, we are all just people doing the best we can with what we have. After the COVID pandemic and Haiti’s sad descent into violence and chaos, the course ended—but the work continued.

A Journey of 1,500 Kilometers—and One Tiny Heart Waiting for Hope

From Albany to Saratoga, Lake George, Syracuse, and every community in between, Central New Yorkers have always shared a deep sense of generosity. That same spirit is what gave rise to Gift of Life of Central New York, which has been changing lives since 1984. Today, through our partnership with Gift of Life International, that local compassion reaches some of the most remote corners of the world.

How the Rotary Youth Exchange Program Grows the Family of Rotary

It was a true privilege for the Edmeston Rotary Club to host young Luana Dantas from Recife, Brazil during her 2018-19 school year. At the end of her year, 13 members of her family came to visit her and join us at our Rotary Club meeting before traveling on to see other sights in the US.

Re (AI)magining Rotary: A Practical Guide to Using AI in Your Club

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just for tech experts. It’s a powerful, time-saving tool that every Rotary club can use to strengthen communication, improve public image, and make service projects easier to plan and share. This article gives you a simple overview of how AI can support your club while inviting you to follow along with the attached slides and video link to the CNY Rotary Public Image Committee’s recent training for examples, visuals, and step-by-step demonstrations.

Fulton Noon Rotary Helps to Fill Food Bags

The Fulton Noon Rotary Club recently helped to fill food distribution bags for Catholic Charities of Oswego County (CCOC). Catholic Charities helps to provide
nourishment for those in need. During the Thanksgiving and Christmas season they provide holiday meals for many families.

Advancing Global Peace Through the CNY Rotary ESRAG Task Force

The CNY Rotary ESRAG Task Force recently highlighted a transformative global initiative: the Peace on Earth by 2030 Moonshot. This movement brings together Rotary members, peacebuilders, and community leaders worldwide with one bold mission, achieving global peace by the year 2030.

It’s Warm the Children season in Glens Falls, and the Glens Falls Rotary Club is leading the effort to ensure local children have the winter clothing they need. Warm the Children is a partnership among the Glens Falls Rotary Club, The Post-Star, Salvation Army, SAIL, and JC Penney. Together, we help families in Warren, Washington, and Saratoga counties purchase new winter clothing for their children. Each eligible child receives $100–$175, depending on age.

Cortland Rotary Presents Rotary Radio Day

The Rotary Club of Cortland presented its annual Rotary Radio Day on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., broadcasting from Always Classic X101.5 FM.

Public Image Grants Are Back — Now Up to $300 in Matching Funds!

CNY Rotary’s Public Image Committee is thrilled to announce that Public Image Grants are back—and now even better! Clubs can once again apply for matching grants (now up to $300) to support evergreen projects that boost Rotary’s visibility in their communities. These funds can help purchase materials and tools that promote your club for years to come.

CNY Rotary Featured on Talking Rotary Podcast

Did you know there are Rotary podcasts? Talking Rotary in Zones 28 & 32 is hosted by Winnipeg Rotarian Peter Tonge and he recently interviewed our very own Past CNY Rotary President Lizzy Martin to hear more about our transition to becoming CNY.

CNY Rotary Recognized for Excellence in Grant Reporting

CNY Rotary (District 7180) has been recognized by The Rotary Foundation as one of only 66 districts worldwide to achieve at least 90% compliance in grant reporting for the 2024–25 Rotary year — representing just one in every eight districts globally.

Introducing CNY Rotary's New Service Chair: Donna Adams

CNY Rotary is pleased to announce that Donna Adams, a dedicated member of the Auburn Rotary Club, has taken on the role of Service Committee Chair.

Nimmonsburg-Hillcrest Rotary Food Drive on November 15

The Nimmonsburg-Hillcrest Rotary will host the 1st Annual Non-Perishable Food Drive and Fundraiser on Saturday November 15, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nimmonsburg-Hillcrest Rotary determined local hunger outreach would be our primary focus for the 2025-26 Rotary year.

Oswego Rotary Hosts Polio Presentation

In preparation for World Polio Day on October 24, the Oswego Rotary Club had a program on polio at its’ October 21 meeting. It was presented by Club member, Steve Ingerson, a polio survivor who contracted the disease in August 1961. Ingerson shared his story as well as information about polio.

Rotary Club Tax Filing Due Nov 15 & We Need A Tax Advisor

It’s that time of year again: all clubs must file their annual return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by November 15. Whether your club is subordinate under Rotary International’s 501(c)(4) group exemption or independently tax-exempt, the filing requirement still applies.

Celebrate Rotary Foundation Month at the 2025 Foundation Luncheon

Saturday, November 15, 2025 • 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Brook’s House of Bar-B-Q, Oneonta, NY

Why the Last Mile Is So Important: Rotary Webinar on Ending Polio

We’re closer than ever to achieving a polio-free world — but the last mile is often the hardest, and most important. Rotary members and partners around the world continue to work tirelessly to ensure that every child is protected through vaccination, and that no community is left behind.

Utica Rotary, Community Partners Add to Urban Tree Planting Project

Rotarians and students from Proctor High School joined forces on Saturday morning for this year’s Urban Tree Planting Project, a collaboration between the Rotary Club of Utica, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Utica, and the City of Utica Parks Department. Together, they planted 30 new trees across East and West Utica, bringing the total number of trees planted through the project to 153 since its inception.

Bville Rotary Raises Polio Awareness with Survivor Interview

As members, we know the impact of polio eradication, but most people, especially Americans, do not realize that eradication is still needed because it has been gone from our country for more than four decades. The outbreak in the US in 1952 was a very scary time for families who did not know how the disease spread, while thousands of children died and more than 20,000 were paralyzed. The launch of Salk's vaccine just a few years later brought relief and eased fears. Who better to tell this story than someone who survived it?

Self-Care Is Service: Why Rotarians Must Refill Their Cups

Although Suicide Prevention Awareness Month ended in September, the need to care for our mental and emotional well-being continues year-round. Organizations like the World Health Organization and the National Alliance on Mental Illness remind us that awareness should not be confined to a single month—it’s an ongoing commitment to compassion, education, and support. With health care coverage shrinking and free resources harder to find, caring for our minds, bodies, and spirits is more vital than ever.

Fulton Sunrise Rotary Dedicates Peace Pole

On September 21 (World Peace Day), the Fulton Sunrise Rotary held a beautiful dedication ceremony to celebrate the installation of a Peace Pole in Fulton's Veteran's Park. Several community members attended, the Mayor Jim Rice, area students, our CNY President Bob Balk, and Father Joseph Scardella who blessed the pole. The ceremony concluded with the song, "Let there be Peace on Earth" and refreshments.

Community Spirit Shines as Glen Falls Rotary Serves at Adirondack Balloon Festival

The 2025 Adirondack Balloon Festival proved to be a tremendous success for the Rotary Club of Glens Falls. The club operated its food truck throughout the event, raising approximately $14,250 in revenue.

Scotia Rotary Past President Crafts Meaningful Quilt

When April Friedman became president of the Rotary Club of Scotia in 2024–2025, she was handed a challenge unlike any other: each member gave her a piece of fabric, and she was tasked with turning the 55 pieces into a quilt. At first, it seemed like a whimsical nod to her love of quilting. But as the piece began to take shape, April realized the process would come to mirror her year of leadership in remarkable ways.

UNITE FOR GOOD: PEACE & PINTS in Baldwinsville

The Baldwinsville Rotary Club is pleased to announce Unite for Good: Peace & Pints, a community fundraising event to be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at WT Brews Baldwinsville. The gathering will support Rotary International’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative, while celebrating Rotary’s peace efforts and fostering community fellowship over food, music, art, and local beer.

Cato Rotary Honors Area's First Settlers

The Cato Rotary Club has led a community effort to honor the area's earliest settlers with a new commemorative marker in Dutton Cemetery. Between 1806 and 1864, about 225 settlers were buried there, but their headstones were removed and desecrated decades ago.

Fourth Annual Oneonta Road Rally Scavenger Hunt Returns on October 19

Registration is open for the 4th Annual Oneonta Rotary Road Rally Scavenger Hunt! This family fun event takes place Sunday, October 19 at Damaschke Field, Neahwa Park, Oneonta from 1-4:30 pm. Teams will follow clues, answer riddles, and stop to take photos while driving along 30 plus miles of country roads in beautiful Otsego County and finish under the wave of the checkered flag.

Niskayuna and Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake Rotary Clubs: Over Seven Decades of Service

CNY Rotary President Bob Balk honored two district clubs on Thursday, September 25. First, he stopped at a picnic celebrating Niskayuna Rotary's 70th anniversary, where the club was also honored by NYS Senator James Tedisco.

Rotary and Interact Unite in Cortland River Cleanup

The Cortland Breakfast Rotary Club and the Seven Valley Interact Club worked together on a River Cleanup on September 20. Rotary volunteers were: President Mark Roberts, Mike Shafer, Glenn Reisweber, Chuck Feiszli, Kathie O’Mara, Don Richards, Jeremy Boylan, Patrick Clune, and Jennifer Clune.

CNY Rotarians Walk to End Alzheimer’s Across New York State

This fall, members from across CNY Rotary are coming together with one purpose: to Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Clubs in our district are joining thousands of others across the country to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association, demonstrating once again how Rotarians unite for good.

Nominations Open for 2025-26 People of Action Honors: Champions of Tomorrow

Rotary International is now accepting nominations for the 2025–26 People of Action Honors: Champions of Tomorrow — an opportunity to recognize inspiring young leaders who are already making a meaningful difference in their communities.

Rotary Clubs Unite to Clean Up Canal Trail

On Thursday, September 4, members of the North Utica/Whitestown Rotary, joined by the Sauquoit Rotary and a few dedicated helpers, gathered to clean up a section of the Canal Trail.

CNY Rotary Youth Exchange Reunion

Eight of CNY Rotary Youth Exchange Outbound Students during the 2024-25 academic year had a reunion meeting recently in Cooperstown. Their host countries included Paraguay, France, Italy, Germany, Taiwan, Czechia, Sweden, and the Netherlands.

Pumpkin Run 5K for Polio: Striding Toward a Healthier Future

This fall, the VVS Community Rotary Club invites runners, walkers, families, and community members to join in the Pumpkin Run 5K for Polio on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The event will start at the Sherrill Community Activity Center, 139 E. Hamilton Ave., Sherrill, NY.

Are You The Leader We're Looking For? President Nominations Now Open

From the Nominating Committee...

It’s that exciting time of the year again—CNY Rotary is now seeking suggestions for the 2028–29 District President. Could you be the leader who will inspire, connect, and guide our vibrant region?

Northville Rotary Celebrates 75 Years on September 26

The Northville Rotary received its charter in January of 1950. This year, they are celebrating 75 years of service to Northville and surrounding communities with a Fundraising Gala on Friday, September 26. They invite you to join them from 6-10 p.m. at Lanzi’s on the Lake!

Auburn Rotary Club Takes Action to End Homelessness Now

The Rotary Club of Auburn is committed to its mission of Ending Homelessness Now. Recognizing that homelessness affects communities both locally and globally, the club is following the example of Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris, by working to uplift every individual in need. Their belief is simple but powerful: stronger support for those experiencing homelessness will lead to healthier communities for everyone.

CNY Rotary Announces Exciting Schedule of Area Visits—Plan to Attend!

CNY Rotarians, get ready for fellowship, fun, and local connections! A series of Area Visits have been scheduled across the district for this fall, offering a great way to meet our incoming CNY Rotary President, connect with nearby clubs, and enjoy meaningful gatherings. Members are invited to visit the CNY Area Visits page for full event details and online registration, and read on for some more about these annual functions.

Syracuse Inner City Rotary Hosts Memorable Dairy Farm Trip

The Syracuse Inner City Rotary Club recently hosted the 2025 Al Turner Dairy Farm Trip, giving 30 children from the YWCA and Dunbar Center a day filled with learning, adventure, and fun. Held in August, the annual trip offered participants a hands-on opportunity to explore agriculture, connect with animals, and discover where their food comes from.

Norwich Rotary Participates in Blues Festival

On August 15 and 16, the 32nd Annual Preferred Mutual Chenango Blues Festival was held at the Fairgrounds in Norwich, NY. The Chenango Blues Festival is a family-friendly event held each August.

Members Can Now Share in CNY Rotary News Network Social Group

CNY Rotary has a few different profiles on social media including:

We hope members are following or belong to all of them to keep up with all the club news, learning opportunities, CNY events, and more. Continue reading for the latest announcement about changes in posting policies for our Facebook group...

Celebrating Diversity During Deaf Awareness Month

September marks Deaf Awareness Month, a time dedicated to honoring the contributions, culture, and language of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. It is also a reminder that true diversity means embracing all forms of human experience—including the richness of Deaf culture.

Stop Human Trafficking, Forced Labor and Sexual Exploitation

The CNY Global Grants committee voted to contribute $1,000 toward Project Dignity (Global Grant 2577183) and encourages all clubs and members to consider making a donation no matter the size as a show of solidarity against human trafficking, forced labor and the rape and sexual exploitation of women and children.

Utica Rotary Golf Outing Raises $3,000 for Hospice

The Rotary Club of Utica held its Annual Golf Outing in August at Hidden Valley Golf Course in Whitesboro. A total of $3,000 was raised to benefit Hospice and Palliative Care in New Hartford.

The Rotary Club of Bainbridge Holds Community Blood Drive

The Rotary Club of Bainbridge held an ARC/Rotary Community Blood Drive on August 30th. Twenty-five generous donors showed up and who rolled up their sleeves to give the gift of life.

The Paul Harris Society Explained

If you’ve ever wondered what the Paul Harris Society is all about, here’s the scoop (and no, it doesn’t involve secret handshakes or decoder rings).

The Paul Harris Society, named after Rotary’s founder, recognizes those who commit to giving $1,000 or more each year (about $84 per month) to The Rotary Foundation. That’s right, these generous Rotarians keep the good work rolling, year after year and help us fund our District Grants among other things.

Celebrating the Life of PDG Jim Spencer

It is with sadness that our Rotary family announces the peaceful passing of Past District Governor Jim Spencer, a lifelong resident of Middleburgh, New York. He passed away on August 25, 2025 in Cobleskill at the age of 91. Read on for more about his life and details on his services.

Hamilton Rotary to Dedicate New Peace Pole

Inspired by the incredible spirit of Rotary Youth Exchange Students (YES)—both inbound and outbound—the Hamilton Rotary Club has created a Peace Pole to symbolize unity and hope.

ESRAG Task Force to Explore Peace Game Pilot Project

Next Week’s CNY Rotary ESRAG Task Force Presentation features a special session with David Gershon as he presents the first-ever Rotary Club Peace Game Pilot Project.

The Rotary Peace Game is more than a game; it’s a transformative experience built on seven core practices: Empowerment, Oneness, Unity, Cooperation, Abundance, Love, and Faith. Together, these create “Peace Zones” communities embodying a culture of peace.

CNY Rotary Celebrates Inauguration and Year of Impact at Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Members from across CNY gathered at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo on Saturday, August 16th to reflect on our accomplishments in our first year as this new region and celebrate the inauguration of new leaders for 2025-26. The event also honored retiring representatives and other outgoing leaders whose service helped shape and bring to life our new vision for Rotary in this part of the world. Read on for stats worth celebrating, milestones reached, and leaders to know!

CNY Rotary Welcomes Linda Iannone as Events Committee Chair

CNY Rotary is proud to announce that Linda Iannone has been appointed as the new Chair of the District’s Events Committee. With more than 30 years of Rotary service and a wealth of professional and community leadership experience, Linda brings both passion and expertise to this important role. Read to get to know her and see how you can join her team.

Utica Rotary Gala Raises $18,000 for Local Theatre

The Rotary Club of Utica’s annual “Service Above Self” Gala raised an impressive $18,000 for The Stanley Theatre this past June. This marks the largest amount in the event’s four-year history.

Camillus Solvay Geddes' Annual Walk For Hunger Set for Sept. 27

Lace up your walking shoes and walk with purpose! The Camillus-Solvay-Geddes (CSG) Rotary Club invites community members to come together at the 2025 Annual Walk for Hunger, benefiting the Food Bank of Central New York and the West Genesee Power Pack Program—two vital initiatives supporting families and students in need.

RLI Session in Verona on Sept. 27

The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is back in CNY for the 2025-26 year, with two sessions planned to help Rotarians strengthen their leadership skills and deepen their Rotary knowledge.

Recharge Your “End Polio Now” Passion – Join the District 7120 Foundation Brunch

CNY Rotarians have a wonderful opportunity to deepen their commitment to Rotary’s signature cause—eradicating polio—by attending our friends in District 7120's Foundation Brunch on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Noon. The event will be held at Ravenwood Golf Club in Victor, NY and costs $40 per person.

Rotary Fundraiser for Ukraine in Binghamton

On Wednesday, September 3rd at 7 PM at Atomic Tom's in Binghamton, the Ukrainian band Kommuna Lux will be performing (see poster below). The band is in a partnership with the Rotary eClub of Ukraine.

Cortland Clubs Pack Over 20K Meals for Local Pantry

On August 2, the four service clubs in Cortland, including the Cortland Breakfast Rotary and the Rotary Club of Cortland, packaged 22,000 meals for the food pantries in Cortland County.

Rotary Clubs Team Up to Host Workshop Educating Public on Active Shooter Situations

In an era where mass shooting events can happen anywhere, two local Rotary clubs are working to ensure their neighbors are better prepared. The Rotary Clubs of Ballston Spa and Burnt Hills–Ballston Lake will host a free community workshop on Civilian Response to an Active Shooter on Tuesday, August 19, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Ballston Town Hall, 323 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa.

Syracuse Inner City Rotary Helps Power Global STEM Exchange

This year’s U.S.–Africa STEM exchange was launched with critical support from the Syracuse Inner City Rotary, which introduced a new mentorship initiative connecting Syracuse-area high school students with international peers and STEM professionals. The program provided guidance to students throughout the exchange and aims to expand in 2026 to include virtual collaborative projects in engineering and environmental science. This effort is part of Rotary Is Strengthening the Intellects of the Next Generation (RISING), which continues to empower youth through global learning and leadership.

Johnson City Carousel Day Celebrates Community, History, and Rotary Spirit

Johnson City Carousel Day is an annual, family-friendly event held each July and hosted by the Johnson City Rotary Club. This year’s celebration took place on Saturday, July 26 at CFJ Park in Johnson City, with generous support from local businesses and community sponsors.

A few years ago, District 7170 joined forces with the Rotary Club of Sacramento on a global grant to bring clean water to communities in Honduras. That collaboration not only made a meaningful impact but also opened the door to ongoing connections with global partners working on a wide range of humanitarian efforts.

Recently, one such opportunity came to our attention: a compelling initiative called Project Dignity, which focuses on the fight against modern-day slavery and human trafficking in Vietnam. This two-year global grant is being coordinated in partnership with World Vision, and the CNY Rotary Global Grants Committee is now considering how our district might join this effort.

Fulton Noon Rotary Awards Scholarships

At a recent Fulton Noon Rotary meeting, the club presented several scholarships to Fulton high school students. The club’s first scholarship was awarded in 1997 and
the club has awarded over $60,000 in scholarships since.

The Rotary Foundation - Where Does Your Money Go? (Hint: Not into a Black Hole)

Let’s talk about the magic of The Rotary Foundation.

You donate a little bit — maybe the cost of a fancy coffee or the donut that somehow always ends up in your hand after a meeting — and poof! Somewhere in the world, a child gets vaccinated, a school gets books, or a village finally gets clean water. Not bad for skipping a caramel macchiato, right?

Northville Rotary Makes Waves With Accessible Kayak Launch

The Northville Rotary Foundation played a leading role in expanding outdoor access by funding a new accessible kayak launch on Northville Lake. Raising $60,000, the Foundation helped create a safer, more inclusive way for people of all ages and mobility levels to enjoy paddling.

Mohawk Valley Rotary Holding Designer Purse Bingo Fundraiser

Join Mohawk Valley Rotary for Designer Purse Bingo! The event will be held on Saturday, October 18 from 3-6 p.m. at the Ilion Elks Club, 8 West Street, Ilion, NY 13357. See flyer below for more details!

CNY ESRAG Task Force Talk Climate Restoration Pledge

The CNY Rotary ESRAG Task Force recently featured a presentation about the official launch of The Climate Restoration Alliance Pledge, which has a bold mission: 1,000,000 pledges to bring CO₂ levels back to 300 ppm by 2050.

Remembering PDG Peter Brellochs

CNY Rotary is deeply saddened to share news of the the passing of Past District Governor Peter Brellochs, a beloved member of the Ithaca Sunrise Rotary Club. He passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 88.

Fulton Noon Rotarians Surprised By Former Exchange Student

The Fulton Noon Rotary Club was surprised with a visit from Tryggvi Jonsson (TJ), an exchange student from Iceland. TJ, as most knew him, was a Rotary
Exchange student during the 1984-1985 school year. He and his wife, Elva, were here for the G Ray Bodley 40th class reunion.

Webinar: Meet A Rotary Peace Fellow

Rotary Peace Fellow Richie Olaka, from Kenya is in Syracuse this month as part of the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship at Syracuse University. A proud alumnus of the Rotary Peace Center at Makerere University in Uganda, Richie has been at the forefront of peacebuilding efforts in East Africa.

Join a zoom session on Monday, July 21st at 7pm to meet Richie and hear about his experience in our program, and how it has impacted his life and career. Read on for more details and the zoom link!

Seeking Future Leaders for Zone Learning Summit

Members looking to get involved in CNY Rotary committees and/or leadership roles are invited to apply to attend the Future Leaders program taking place at the Better Together Summit in Winnipeg, Canada, Sept 19-21, 2025. This will be a day and a half of sessions customized to help you find your path in volunteer leadership with CNY, equipping you to grow as a leader, and establishing a new network of fellow Rotarians across Canada and the northeast. It also comes with the opportunity to meet and hear from Rotary International leaders and staff.

Many district leaders start in this program and many lifelong friendships do too!

You can read more about the summit here and get the details on what is involved with attending the Future Leaders program below.

Bainbridge Rotarian Celebrates 50 Years of Service

On Thursday, July 10, the Rotary Club of Bainbridge, along with several of Dave DeClue’s close friends, proudly honored him for an extraordinary 50 years of dedicated service to Rotary.

Celebrate the Arts With Malta Sunrise Rotary

The Malta Sunrise Rotary, with support from the GlobalFoundries/Town of Malta Foundation, is bringing community art to the streets with a new public banner project.

Get Ready to Tee Off With Oriskany Falls Rotary!

Oriskany Falls Rotary's Golf Tournament is right around the corner — Thursday, July 18!

CNY Rotary ESRAG Task Force Explores Project 250

Sauquoit Rotary Celebrates 70th Birthday With Shelterbox Fundraiser

This spring, Sauquoit Rotary celebrated its 70th birthday with a multi-club fundraiser for Shelterbox. The event raised about $375 via a basket raffle and 50/50 and their club contributed funds to make it an even $500. They welcomed guests from New Hartford Rotary, North Utica/Whitestown Rotary, and Greater Utica Sunrise Rotary.

CNY Rotary Book Club Visits Oswego

The Book Club visited the Safe Haven Museum in Oswego on June 30. This excellent museum illustrates the saga of the 982 souls who were the only refugees allowed into our country during World War II.

An Opportunity for Your Club to Make A Difference in Uganda

The Rotary Club of Kampala Muyenga Breeze in Uganda is looking for a club outside their country to help enhance the maternal and child healthcare in a region of Uganda that desperately needs essential medical equipment, beds, and delivery kits.

Survey Time - We Want Your Feedback on Our First Year as CNY

It's time to reflect on our first year as CNY Rotary and we want to hear from you!

Meet Incoming CNY Rotary President: Bob Balk

CNY Rotary is excited to welcome Bob Balk as the incoming District President. Bob is a leader whose passion for service has deep roots both locally and globally.

Welcome 2025-26: Meet & Celebrate Our Leaders

The start of a new Rotary years bring changes in leadership at all levels of Rotary and new opportunities for every member to get involved. Let's review who is part of our leadership team, see where we could use some more volunteers, and make a plan to register to attend CNY Rotary Inauguration to celebrate all of our leaders!

A Fresh Start: Simple Ways to Boost Your Club’s Public Image in 25-26

As we begin a new Rotary year, it’s the perfect time for clubs to take a fresh look at how they are seen by the community. Public image doesn’t have to mean high-tech campaigns or professional videos. It’s really about showing who you are, what your club does, and how others can get involved. Even small steps can go a long way. Here are a few easy ways to refresh your club’s image this year—no fancy tools or technical skills required.

Oneonta Rotary Finishes Year Strong

Oneonta Rotarians have been very busy in May and June.

CNY Gift of Life Golf Tournament Set for Sept. 8

The 27th Annual CNY Rotary Gift of Life Golf Tournament will take place on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the Fairways of Halfmoon, 17 Johnson Road, Mechanicville, NY.

Passing of PDG Ed Paparella

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Past District Governor Ed Paparella, 1998-99 in the former D7150. Ed devoted his adult life to family (11 children!!), faith, and Rotary.

Click here for the full obituary, with information on calling hours and the service.

Honoring a Life of Service: PDG Denise DiNoto

We are very sad to share the news of the passing of PDG Denise DiNoto, a member of Colonie-Guilderland Rotary who served as District Governor of the former D7190 in 2022-23. Read on for some of the heartfelt tributes that have been shared in the wake of her unexpected passing as we await the full obituary to be published.

Calling hours will be Friday, June 20th from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at St. Vincent dePaul in Albany (900 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12208). Services and a bite to eat to follow at the church.

Richfield Springs Lobster Sale Benefits Local Causes

Richfield Springs Rotary's Lobster Sale is back, once again benefitting several local projects that the club leads each year. See the flyer below for more details!

Oswego Rotary Honors Graduating Seniors

The Oswego Rotary Club honored five graduating seniors from the Oswego City School District with scholarships recognizing both academic excellence and community service.

Fulton Noon Rotary Hosts Second Annual Cornhole Tournament

The Fulton Noon Rotary Club recently hosted its Second Annual Cornhole Tournament at The Yard in Fulton.

Northville Rotary Woodworking and Fine Arts Weekend Set for July 18-20

Northville Rotary’s Sixteenth Annual Woodworking and Fine Arts Weekend July 18-20 will feature more than 60 accomplished artists from this area and beyond. Woodworkers, jewelers, weavers, potters, photographers, painters, and many other artists will display and sell their artwork at the Bradt Building and Town Park on Main Street in the Village of Northville on the beautiful Great Sacandaga Lake.

CNY DEI Committee Meeting
Zoom

Dec. 18, 2025
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Member Orientation
Zoom

Dec. 23, 2025
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
CNY Service Committee
Zoom

Jan. 01, 2026
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
CNY Rotary Learning Committee
Zoom

Jan. 05, 2026
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
CNY Public Image Committee Meeting
Zoom

Jan. 12, 2026
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
CNY DEI Committee Meeting
Zoom

Jan. 15, 2026
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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