Brian MacDonald, PC candidate for Fredericton-West-Hanwell, was the 4th candidate in our political series to speak with our club.                                                                                                                                                    

He shared the challenge & interesting work of being a politician followed by a good discussion of the election issues. Thank you Brian.

Trisha Hoyt represented the Liberal leader, Brian Gallant, at our last meeting. She is running in the Oromocto-Lincoln area and is her first time entering politics. Trisha indicated that NB has the potential of being a leader in the innovation field, with a tremendous number of IT start-ups finding their start in NB and making great strides nationally and globally. NB also has the potential of being completely self-sufficient by being present at the table with other provinces to develop and hone these ideas. A repeal of the tax-exempt given to certain companies, while taxing the highest income-earning sector of the population will result in the financing required to realize their initiatives. For more information, visit http://nbliberal.ca/en

Submitted by Nicole Whyte

Sustainability and transparency were key areas discussed by David. Sustainability with our resources; such as reliable and cost effective electricity through NB Power and the smart grid initiative (http://www.nbpower.com/html/en/RASD/Smart_Grid.html). NB Power's goal is to provide a modern utility service aligned with our customers evolving lifestyle requirements and will therefore invest in Smart Grid technology to reduce and shift electricity demand in the province.

He also spoke of encouraging local, homegrown food that will build a strong local economy using resources already available within the rural areas. Farming our own products and providing incentives for local farmers to do so is key.

In terms of governance - he indicated that for the last 4 years, the government has been electioneering instead of getting down to business and believes individuals should listen to the voice of the people (their constituents) rather than the usual towing the party line.

Preventative care was also discussed instead of trying to take care of a sick population within the hospital setting, additional doctors should be employed on the front-end to prevent or streamline the illnesses.

He also mentioned that our literacy rates are one of the highest across the country but illiteracy is still an issue and is not being properly addressed.

Submitted by Niki Whyte

Shannon Adam, Business Development Chair for Greener Village Food Bank accepts Sunrise Rotary's donation from John Carkner This donation will be used for furniture and materials to build more vegetable beds! (Sunrise Rotary's Fall Project)

This morning we were treated to a special visit from our District Governor (DG) Mike Walsh and his lovely wife Francine. Also in attendance were Asst. DG Jerry Misener and his lovely wife Adeline.

DG Mike brought us a very inspirational message, outlining his hope for the 2014-15 year, while tasking us to Light Up Rotary. He expounded on RI President Gary Huang's message that if each one of us lights a candle then the hope continues.

We are also so close to ending polio worldwide and were treated to messages from Bill Gates and Bono who have graciously joined the fight, reassured that Rotary is involved and will make a difference.

He is also hopeful that membership will be increasing within the district and encourages us to seek not just members but Rotarians who are committed to our plan of action. He identified that while we are a small club, we get quite a lot done and should feel tremendous pride in this fact.

Submitted by Nicole Whyte 

Ray Zahab, endurance athlete was the inspirational speaker at Partner's For Youth  20th Anniversary Gala. Running the Sahara began a lifelong journey of discovery. A journey of learning that some of the largest barriers to success are the ones we put upon ourselves. By breaking these down, we are all capable of truly extraordinary things.

Hope to see you there!

Tickets available online           <http://partnersforyouth.ca/en/order-tickets>  

Such an awesome group!

Grace modelling her new Interact Hoodie.

                                                                    Alanna, Paula, Lise & Nikki

 Tim, AD Gov. Doug, Jean, John, DG. Pat, President Mike, Dennis & Harry

Welcome to our Rotary Club!