The Rotary Club of Barrie recently welcomed Rabbi Emma Gotlieb, who offered a candid and deeply thoughtful reflection on what the Jewish community has been experiencing since the October 7 attacks. She described how profoundly this moment has affected Jewish people around the world, noting that the attacks represented the largest mass killing of Jewish people since the Holocaust. For many, it shook a sense of safety that felt newly gained after generations of instability.

Rabbi Gotlieb spoke from her perspective as a Liberal Zionist, someone who believes Jewish people have the right to a homeland, while also believing strongly in holding Israel to ethical and moral standards. She shared how difficult it has been for rabbis and Jewish leaders globally to navigate a time of intense polarization, where speaking out risks being misunderstood no matter what is said. At first, she kept her discomfort private, unsure of how to express her concerns without causing division.

As the conflict continued, she realized that remaining silent felt more difficult than speaking. With the High Holy Days approaching, she chose to address the war directly in a Yom Kippur sermon she described as the scariest of her career. Some congregants struggled with her message, while others felt grateful for her honesty, but she was at peace knowing she had spoken from conscience.

Rabbi Gotlieb also worked to clarify widespread misunderstandings about Zionism and Judaism. Judaism, she reminded us, is a diverse global people and a religion, while Zionism is simply the belief that Jewish people have the right to a homeland — an idea that spans many viewpoints. She provided historical context and described the long-standing Jewish connection to the land, shaped by both sacred texts and centuries of displacement under conquering empires.

When discussing paths to peace, she acknowledged that grassroots initiatives have succeeded in bringing individuals together, but political realities make progress extremely difficult at the moment. Still, she emphasized that empathy does not need to be rationed — caring for one group’s suffering does not require diminishing the suffering of another.

The meeting concluded with a welcome touch of levity when President Todd mentioned he had only recently discovered that many beloved Christmas songs were written by Jewish composers. It was a simple reminder of how our cultures overlap in unexpected and meaningful ways.

Rabbi Gotlieb’s visit left our Club with a deeper appreciation for the complexity of this moment and a renewed commitment to approaching difficult conversations with compassion, nuance, and humanity.

This week, Rotarian Jason McArthur introduced Laura Slingerland, a Nurse Practitioner with a decade of pediatric experience who now provides affirming, comprehensive care for trans and gender-diverse individuals, along with Emily West, a Registered Social Worker specializing in social transition support. Both work in Trans Health Services at the Couchiching Family Health Team in Orillia.

Laura and Emily offered an eye-opening and accessible presentation on the foundations of gender diversity. They explained the distinctions between sex assigned at birth, gender identity, gender expression, and the various pathways a person might take when transitioning. They reminded us that getting terminology wrong is human — what matters is kindness, respect, and a willingness to listen. Stigma remains a major barrier, and they emphasized that accurate information and gender-affirming care genuinely save lives, while supportive communities make all the difference.

Their talk explored the three main forms of transition:

• Social transition, such as names, pronouns, and presentation
• Legal transition, including identification documents
• Medical transition, when desired and appropriate

They also addressed several common myths and provided clarity rooted in evidence and lived experience. The presentation included a short clip from Will & Harper, Will Ferrell’s documentary about a 17-day road trip with a close friend who was transitioning — a warm, human reminder of what true support can look like.

To close, they offered practical guidance for being an ally: ask for pronouns, respect each person’s identity, create safety, stay informed, and support people in the choices they make for their own wellbeing. Julia Goldstein offered heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Club for helping us better understand how to support gender-diverse individuals. President Todd also thanked the speakers, who were pleased to hear that a donation to Youth Haven was made in recognition of their presentation.

Mayor Alex Nuttall visited The Rotary Club of Barrie to present a detailed update on the City’s ongoing progress and major capital initiatives. He began by recognizing the Rotary Club of Barrie’s deep and lasting influence on the community, noting that many of Barrie’s most valued amenities and partnerships trace back to Rotary leadership. The Mayor emphasized that Rotarians remain central to the city’s identity and long-term vision.

A key focus of his address was the City’s financial turnaround. Over the past three years, Barrie has reduced debt by $85 million, significantly increased reserves, and shifted from a negative net financial position to a positive one. The City has also maintained four consecutive years of 0% increases to core operating budgets and is now positioned to achieve an AAA credit rating. This strengthened financial footing is enabling major infrastructure and community projects that had been stalled for years.

Mayor Nuttall also highlighted notable improvements in public safety, downtown revitalization, and infrastructure planning. Police presence has been restored, daily maintenance and BIA support have increased, and the number of encampments has been reduced dramatically. Traffic-calming investments continue to expand, funded in part by speed-camera revenue and a capital surcharge that has supported infrastructure growth without adding debt. Economic development has accelerated as well, supported by a concierge service for large projects and more than $50 million in provincial funding to open new industrial lands.

Looking ahead, Barrie is preparing for several transformative developments. The new South Barrie Recreation Centre is under construction, the YMCA is progressing, and long-awaited facilities such as Fire Station #6 are now complete. Lakehead University and Georgian College expansions are set to open in 2026, and additional downtown projects are expected to spark further growth, including a planned hotel and a forthcoming “game changer” development soon to be announced. Marshall Green closed the meeting by thanking the Mayor for his leadership and for sharing these impactful updates with the Club.

Last month, The Rotary Club of Barrie joined the city-wide Clean and Green Barrie initiative, helping to beautify our community and protect local parks, trails, and neighbourhoods. From October 16–18, volunteers across Barrie came together to pick up litter, enhance green spaces, and ensure our environment remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Rotary’s Environmental Committee proudly participated in the cleanup, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to community stewardship and environmental sustainability. Whether assisting schoolyards, parks, or public trails, our members contributed their time and energy to making Barrie cleaner and greener.

Clean and Green Barrie replaced the former Spring into Clean initiative this year and has become an important annual event, encouraging citizens of all ages to take action. Last year alone, over 17,000 participants collected more than five tonnes of litter, preventing waste from harming wildlife or entering waterways. Rotary is proud to be part of this effort, helping to ensure our city’s natural spaces continue to thrive.

Rotarian Chris G. recently presented a $2,500 cheque to Karen at the Barrie Food Bank on behalf of the Community Service/Charitable Foundation. This contribution supports the Food Bank’s ongoing work to reduce food insecurity in our community.

We also welcomed guest speakers Ian and Sarah Pavlik, who shared the inspiring work of The Pavlik Foundation and their new initiative, The Kids Pantry. The program provides nutritious weekend food for children experiencing food insecurity, beginning with a pilot at one Barrie elementary school for the 2024/25 school year. The Kids Pantry aims to offer consistent, year-round support that helps families facing crisis and strengthens children’s well-being.

Rotary is proud to highlight and support community partners who are making a real difference for local families.

World Polio Day provided Rotary Club of Barrie members with an inspiring reminder of the impact one person can make. This year, Rotarian David Tisch, affectionately known as the “Prince of Polio” in our Club and District, shared his expertise and passion for polio eradication with members.

David has served as our Club’s representative to the Rotary International Foundation since 2013, a role typically held for three years, yet his dedication continues to set the standard for engagement and leadership. From chairing multiple committees to serving as board secretary, and even stepping in to cover other roles when needed, David demonstrates the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces Dental Corps and a seasoned professional, he blends knowledge, commitment, and a hands-on approach that inspires all who work with him.

During his presentation, David highlighted the critical role Rotary has played in polio eradication since establishing World Polio Day in 2012 to honour Jonas Salk. He addressed misconceptions about the polio vaccine, explained circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV), and emphasized that global eradication is fully achievable; the challenges are logistical, not scientific. With Africa now wild polio free and cases limited to Pakistan and Afghanistan, David reminded members that maintaining high vaccination coverage and supporting innovative vaccines like nOPV2 are key.

David also shared Rotary’s ongoing goals, including Club donations to PolioPlus and membership in the PolioPlus Society, and proudly reported that District 7010 leads its zone in contributions, raising $29,983 CAD — roughly $67,630 USD with the Gates Foundation match. His message was clear: through collective action, Rotarians can give the gift of health to children worldwide and bring hope to communities still at risk.

As always, David Tisch exemplifies what it means to be a model Rotarian — dedicated, knowledgeable, and ready to lead by example. Members left the meeting inspired, reminded of the impact Rotary can have when passion meets action.

Introduced by Arkady Spivak as the “Mary Poppins of human potential,” Jennifer Podemski captivated Rotary members with her thoughtful reflections on storytelling, leadership, and the power of creating lasting change.

Best known for her award-winning performances and groundbreaking work behind the camera, Jennifer has become one of Canada’s most respected creative voices. Her breakout role in Dance Me Outside marked the beginning of a remarkable career — not only as an actor, but as a producer and advocate shaping the future of Indigenous representation in film and television.

In 1999, she co-founded Big Soul Productions, Canada’s first Indigenous-owned film and television company, and later launched Redcloud Studios to open doors for Indigenous creators across the country. More recently, through The Shine Network Institute, she continues to empower Indigenous women in media with mentorship, training, and advocacy.

Jennifer’s impact reaches far beyond the screen. Her work embodies the spirit of service, collaboration, and leadership — values that resonate deeply within our Rotary community. Through every project, she reminds us that true progress happens when we stop waiting for change and start building it ourselves.

The Rotary Club of Barrie is proud to support inclusive sports in our community. Recently, Past President Stu McMillan presented the Barrie VOLT hockey team with new jerseys ahead of their upcoming tournaments.

VOLT Hockey is an adaptive and inclusive form of hockey, designed specifically for children of varied abilities. Played in specially designed chairs, the sport gives kids the opportunity to participate in team activities they may not have experienced before. For many players, VOLT Hockey provides a first chance to develop essential life skills such as teamwork, competition, and social inclusion — all in a safe and supportive environment.

These opportunities are especially important, as studies show that 52% of children with a disability report having no friends. By supporting the Barrie VOLT, the Rotary Club helps ensure these children can experience the joy of sports, connect with peers, and build confidence on and off the ice.

The Rotary Club of Barrie is proud to assist the Barrie VOLT as they compete with teams across the region and the world, showcasing the power of inclusivity and community support.

At a recent Rotary Club of Barrie meeting, Past President Ian Pavlik proudly presented three cheques on behalf of the Charitable Foundation, supporting a variety of important community and international initiatives.

The Foundation has been providing matching grants for projects brought forward by Club committees, multiplying the impact of their efforts. This round of funding included:

• $1,850 – International Service project for a firefighting water system
  
• $1,695 – Community Service project to provide iPads to the IOOF Home
  
• $2,500 – Community Service project to assist the Barrie Food Bank with their “School Fuel” program

These contributions demonstrate Rotary’s ongoing commitment to improving lives both locally and globally. From enhancing safety and education to supporting food security for children, each donation reflects the Rotary spirit of Service Above Self.

Past President Bob traded in his usual Fun Run t-shirt for a jacket and tie to proudly induct a new member into the Rotary Club of Barrie. Hunter Markle, introduced by her sponsor and father, Paul, officially joined the club under the classification of Non-Profit Development, bringing her passion for supporting community initiatives and social impact.

PP Bob delivered a thoughtful and engaging induction, highlighting the many father and sibling memberships in the club’s history — a fascinating insight into the long-standing family connections within The Rotary Club Of Barrie. While it was clear some notes may have been read on the fly, the ceremony was both meaningful and memorable.

Hunter joins a vibrant community of Rotarians committed to service above self, and we are thrilled to welcome her energy, perspective, and dedication to the club.