Posted by Lyle Goodin on Dec 14, 2017
The Bowmanville Rotary Club's annual Christmas dinner, held at the Clarington Beech Centre on December 12, 2017, was special in several ways.  First, it was an opportunity for Rotarians and their partners to get together for an evening of good food and fellowship.  And, it was also the perfect opportunity to make two very special presentations.  The first, a Sapphire Paul Harris Fellowship; the second, a major donation by the International Committee to Allison Edwards' Jinja Connection.
 
(L to R)  Debbie Mandryk, Bob Stevens, Don Hutton, and Jean Stevens enjoy some casual conversation
 
The Sapphire Paul Harris Fellowship was presented to Mary Fletcher.  Mary was introduced by Don Hutton who outlined her past and continuing passion for helping children and her commitment to Bowmanville Rotary's Children's Christmas Party.  The presentation was made by David Penney, a long-time friend of Mary's.
 
(L to R) David Penney, Mary Fletcher holding her Paul Harris Fellowship pin, and Don Hutton 
 
The International Committee, chaired by Director Pauline Calvert, made a significant donation of $8,500 to Allison Edwards, founder of the Jinja Connection in Uganda, to support her efforts to make a difference in the lives of street children in Uganda.  On accepting the cheque, Allison updated the Club on the progress the project has made and on the new initiatives she has planned.  To learn more about the Jinja Connection and/or to make a donation, please visit the Website by clicking here.
 
(L to R) Allison Edwards, founder of The Jinja Connection, and International Service Director Pauline Calvert