Powell River’s annual Bike Rodeo is extra special this year as the family-friendly event is also part of celebrating 60 years of Rotarian service in Powell River.
Chartered in 1955, The Rotary Club of Powell River is one of the community’s oldest service clubs—well known for community projects such as Sea Fair, Powell River’s longest running festival; this year's successful Performing Arts BC Provincial Festival; Westview Viewpoint; Willingdon Beach Rotary pavilion and so much more.
Built around a strong central code of ethics, Rotary is composed of business and professional leaders.
“It’s been fun,” said Kip Brown, a Rotarian for 41 years, the longest-standing Powell River member. “I truly believe in the Rotary and everything we do, friendship, fellowship, everything.”
In keeping with their emblem, a wagon-wheel representing continuous movement and work, Powell River’s Rotarians are busy with projects all year round. “It’s service above self,” said Ed Frausel, director of club fundraising, who estimates a total of $30,000 was raised this year. “We want to be of service to the community.”
In addition to being a trophy sponsor for International Choral Kathaumixw, and rewarding youth leadership, Rotarians also take part in international Polio Plus, Rotary International’s mission to eradicate polio—with current president Jan Gisborne, who experienced childhood polio herself, travelling to India and Africa to help immunize children.
Claude Marquis, a Rotarian for over two years, said “For me, I wanted to join, not just to be of service to the community, but to be involved in fellowship with like-minded people.”
A self identified “die-hard Rotarian,” Frausel said he hopes the club-sponsored Bike Rodeo will help attract new members.
In partnership with Powell River Cycling Association, the Bike Rodeo and anniversary party will be held on Saturday, June 13, between 11 am to 2 pm, in the parking lot behind Powell River Town Centre Hotel.
The event, attended last year by almost 150 children, includes a bike obstacle course for children aged five to 13 years, a free hot dog barbecue, cake and prizes, such as bikes, helmets and accessories. Children are advised to take their own bicycles to the event.
Everyone, not just children, is invited for hot dogs and cake.
Readers can find more information online about The Rotary Club of Powell River and Rotary International.
