top of page
October, 2025 - Lunch, Swiss Chalet, Alliston

Click for full photo, Arrow to Scroll

NZLand of the Long White Cloud
October, 2025
Allyn Willard
“New Zealand & Cook Islands”

Allyn participated in a group trip to New Zealand & the Cook Islands in 2018 and has made a travel video of the trip. Here are a few of the location photos.

New Zealand “Aotearoa” (Māori name meaning land of the long white cloud) because these formations were a navigational landmark for the early Polynesian explorers.

Hover over photo for description.

Grass
Show & Tell
Roy Snipe
“My Golfing Life”

Roy told us about some amazing places he has golfed all around the world, including Monte Mayor Golf & Country Club, near Marbella, Spain, where the course had a spectacular mountain setting and a challenging layout hitting the ball from one mountain peak to another.

10 Year Service Pin
Josee MacIntyre
15 Year Service Pins
Midge Facciol, Roger Whittle
Probus Club of Alliston
10 Year Service Pin Recipients

Claire Albright, Carol Borg, Charlie Borg, Sam Ghosh, Trudy Gosh, Mary Laing, Josee MacIntyre, Barbara Ramm, Dave Randell, Linda Randell, June Seago, Ruby Thomas, Chuck Waterman,

Sue Waterman, Mary Willard and Cathy Wolfe

Oct 2025 11
Probus Club of Alliston “37 Years Young”

Charles Héroux, Probus Canada Director District #2 was on hand to help us celebrate. [Photo 1]

Rogers & Hammerstein’s
“A Grand Night for Singing”, Aurora Theatre, September 21, 2025

Click to Enlarge

September, 2025 - Lunch Hot Stacks, Cookstown

Click Photo to Enlarge

September, 2025
Tanya Shields
“Downsizing & Is It Time to Move?

Tanya Shields is a Certified Relocation and Transition Specialist (CRTST).
She is the Owner/Operator of Lifestyle Moves Ltd., based in Innisfil,
Ontario.  
Her company specializes in providing personalized, compassionate and
efficient transition and relocation services, primarily catering to
individuals aged 55 and over. 
These services include assisting with moves to retirement communities,
assisted living facilities, long-term care, condos, and vacation homes.  
She shared her expertise in planning, packing, moving, unpacking, and
setting up new residences or how to make improvement to stay in your current home.

IMG_0941.jpeg
Sept 2025 14
Show & Tell, September 2025
Alan Masters
“Building YPRES WWI and WWII”
Sept 2025 16
The Changing of the Guard!
Gerry Ross has finished his term as President and we thank him for a most excellent job!
Gerry turns over the gavel and the President pin to Claire Albright for the 2025-26 term. Welcome Queen Claire!
2024-25 Executive & Management Committee

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all our volunteers.  Our Club would not survive without you.

Blue Jays 30.JPG
Trip to Toronto Blue Jays, August, 2025

Click to see full size photos.

Grease 8.JPG
Grease - Kings Wharf Theatre, Penetanguishene, August, 2025

Click for full size photos.

Grass
PROBUS Golf Day - August, 2025, Bear Creek Golf Course

A marvellous time was had by all! The day was a little warm but gorgeous. The course was in fantastic shape. The foursomes were fun and the fellowship at the gathering on the patio before and during dinner was thoroughly enjoyable, leading to a wonderful meal with excellent service!

Many thanks to our illustrious leader, Gerry Ross and his team for organizing such a wonderful event and our local business sponsors for the excellent prizes.

Click picture to scroll.

Blue Water
Millionaire’s Row Lunch Cruise, Gravenhurst, ON, July 15, 2025

Photos by Jackie German

Photos by Linda Hostrawser-Ball

2025 07 19.JPG
July 8, 2025
Kathy Macfarlane
Journey to the Floe Edge”

Our July speaker was Kathy Macfarlane.
Photography has been Kathy's passion for over 30 years. After working and retiring in Alliston, she turned this passion into a new business creating floorplans and virtual tours for real estate listings and local agents. She
also teaches with the South Simcoe Arts Council.
She has taken many courses to learn the fundamentals of exposure and composition and uses that knowledge to shoot many subjects. Kathy enjoys the challenge of capturing the unscripted story of people and nature. 
Her topic, "Journey to the Floe Edge" took us on her amazing travels to the Floe Edge, the area where the Arctic Ocean meets the ice still attached to the land.  This area on Baffin Island is rich with wildlife, natural landscapes and local culture.

by Sharron Smith

July 8, 2025
Joan Fellows
“Pictures from the Path”

Joan Fellows gave us a beautiful pictorial walk through some of her favourite paths. Although she showed us many pics of foreign walks, she also showed us pictures of places in Ontario we recognized.

The photos of our own back yards made us realize you don’t have to travel the world to see Mother Nature’s handiwork.

Joan has become an avid messenger.

by Roger Setka

2025 07 20.JPG
IMG_3108.jpeg
IMG_1396.jpeg
IMG_2452.jpeg
IMG_2889.jpeg
IMG_1943.jpeg
Grass
Scavenger Hunt & Picnic, June 24, 2025
IMG_9931

IMG_9931

IMG_9933

IMG_9933

IMG_9934

IMG_9934

IMG_9970

IMG_9970

IMG_9971

IMG_9971

IMG_0010

IMG_0010

IMG_0006

IMG_0006

IMG_0004

IMG_0004

IMG_0001

IMG_0001

IMG_0005

IMG_0005

IMG_9982

IMG_9982

IMG_0007

IMG_0007

IMG_9973

IMG_9973

IMG_9976

IMG_9976

IMG_9975

IMG_9975

IMG_9979

IMG_9979

IMG_9984

IMG_9984

IMG_9986

IMG_9986

IMG_9988

IMG_9988

IMG_9997

IMG_9997

IMG_9990

IMG_9990

IMG_9993

IMG_9993

IMG_9994

IMG_9994

IMG_0014

IMG_0014

IMG_9998

IMG_9998

IMG_0008

IMG_0008

IMG_0015

IMG_0015

Click Photo to Enlarge

June 2025, Lunch Boston Pizza, Alliston, ON
Ear
June 10, 2025
Michelle Redgewell
“Hearing Health”

Michelle Redgwell has been in the hearing Industry for over 35 years. During that time, she has worked in manufacturing and in customer service. She has a very personal view of hearing loss as she has hearing loss herself. Michelle is very passionate about helping people to hear and in educating them in how to maintain hearing health. Michelle shared information about hearing loss risks, impacts on relationships and how to approach the challenges and regain hearing. She is currently with Hear Well Be Well.

002cd4_ee94da85b2e940d294e957c72a0fce3d_mv2_d_3000_1688_s_2_edited.jpg
June 10, 2025
Karen Hill-Whitson
“Tanzania”

In 2012, Karen joined a group of goodwill volunteers on a 10 day trip to a Tanzanian orphanage. There were 3 small classrooms doubling for sleeping quarters on the ground at night. In daytime, attendance was between 40 to 160 children. They assisted with:

-providing funding for electricity and running water

-purchasing food and other necessities as well as soccer balls and skipping ropes etc.

Karen returned in 2014 and was greeted with open arms.

Today there are 3 schools built and one has been awarded Government assistance.

The other 2 still depend on donations

(209 children and 50 women currently attending).

2025 06 15_edited.jpg
2025 06 12_edited.jpg
The
Ultimate
Volunteer
White Structure
June 10, 2025
Welcome New Members
2025 06 11.JPG

Florence Binns

Rachelle Conlin

Doug Cowan

Margaret Dailey

Fredina Elliott

Wendy Ground

Linda Hook

Colleen Langley

Carolyn Millsop

Karen Walsh

Murray Walsh

Jim Wilkinson

Johan Wilkinson

Fish and Chips
May 24, 2025 - Dinner Danny’s Fish & Chips, Barrie, ON
Hide and Seek
May 13, 2025 - Lunch Piper Arms, Alliston, ON
Click to Enlarge
May 13, 2025
Taivi Tayler, Certified Financial Planner
“Estate Planning for Seniors”

Taivi provided lots of helpful and important information about financial planning, estate planning, probate, wills, estate costs and the need for beneficiaries. She navigated us through the complexities and pitfalls and provided suggestions for overcoming them.

With the many questions from our members, we ran out of time. She can be reached at 705 733 3338 or ttayler@taylerinsurance.com or  www.taylerinsurance.com.

 

Thanks, Pat Thompson

Speakers Committee

March 13, 2025
Show & Tell
Allyn Willard “Cruising King”
“My Life”

Allyn took us on a journey from Leeds in the UK with military parents of both UK and Canada to arriving in Halifax in Canada with his mother on the Queen Mary at the age of 5 months to meet his father. From growing up in Quebec and moving to Ontario, working in computer technology at IBM and Celestica to retiring and volunteering in Briar Hill.

Worker with Ladder
Congratulations to 10 year Members
Al Hargreaves
Judi Hargreaves
May 13, 2025
Welcome New Members
Jim McAloney
Vicki McAloney
Shirley Jessop
Bob Webber
Diane Dodson
April 24, 2025 Special Event
Lunch at Taste of Freedom, Tottenham
April, 2025, Lunch at Swiss Chalet, Alliston
Still Winter in Alliston, 6” snow today!
2025.04.9
2025.04.12
2025.04.6
2025.04.15
2025.04.3
2025.04.17
2025.04.20
2025.04.25
2025.04.14
2025.04.8
2025.04.22
2025.04.2
2025.04.16
2025.04.19
2025.04.10
2025.04.24
2025.04.21
2025.04.13
2025.04.4
2025.04.1
2025.04.7
April 8, 2025
David T. Chapma
“Wild, Weird & Wacky Weather”

David T Chapman visited our Probus Club April 8; it was a blizzard like cold April day so his presentation was topical.  We were so pleased that he was able to come after car troubles in February interfered with his arrival. The wait was certainly worth it!

David, self- taught in the areas of photography and natural weather phenomena, amazed us with his time lapse films and photographs of storms, lightning, rainbows, ice bridges, strange cloud formations and other weather related phenomena. He captivated the audience and answered questions with great understanding of these natural wonders. What a delight to have him as our Keynote Speaker.

Submiited by Sharon Smith

April 8, 2025
“Happy Easter”
2025.04.35.jpeg
Show & Tell, April 8, 2025
Joan Fellows & Dave Twiner
“Hiking with Joan & Dave”

Joan Fellows and Dave Twiner provided a short presentation on their hiking experience. Their talk covered their shared history of hiking, tips on how to prepare for hiking, how to use a navigation tool, and how to stay safe on the trails. They concluded the presentation by taking the attendees on a virtual hike, showing pictures of their most favourite, and least favourite trails.

 

Submitted by Joan Fellows.

2025.04.32.JPG

March 11 - Lunch at Halibut House, Alliston 

Click Arrow for more photos

March 11, 2025
Candace Gordon
S.H.I.F.T. A Community Working Together

Candace Gordon, Donor Relations and Stewardship Officer with Alliston's S.H.I.F.T program,  was our Keynote Speaker on March 2, 2025.

Her presentation helped us learn about the support SHIFT offers not only with overnight accommodation and meals to those experiencing homelessness, but also to those in our community experiencing food insecurity and mental health challenges. It was good to learn that SHIFT helps their clients find other community supports and resources so that they can make the shift to a better life. The many questions that our members asked indicated their interest in learning about SHIFT, and hopefully reaching out to help this community resource in the future.     Sharron Smith

Clovers
March 11, 2025
PROBUS Club of Alliston
Meetings are Informative and Fun!

Click for full size photo

February 11, 2025 - Lunch at Boston Pizza, Alliston
February 11, 2025
Eugene McEleney
“A Life in Television”

We are very grateful to Eugene for stepping in at the last minute when inclement weather and vehicle problems caused our speaker to cancel at the last minute. Eugene gave us a fascinating look through many facets of the television industry during his 41 year career in the world of working in Television.

Show & Tell - February 2025
Doris & Harry Lehman
“A Life Dedicated to Working with Children”

‘Harry and Doris Lehman talked about how they have dedicated their life to working with children.  They shared stories of the nursery school that they ran near Tottenham.  Harry demonstrated his skill working with puppets and showed how they used puppets as a teaching tool.  Puppets have played a large role in their life performing at community events, churches and Camp Quality.’

 
2025 02 12_edited.jpg
2025 02 18_edited.jpg
2025 02 15_edited.jpg
Welcome New Member
Donna Sanderson
2025 02 4_edited.jpg
IMG_1411.jpeg

January 2025 - Lunch - Piper’s Arm’s, Alliston

IMG_1411
2025 01 23
2025 01 24
2025 01 34
2025 01 17
2025 01 31
2025 01 19
2025 01 28
2025 01 2
2025 01 25
2025 01 16
2025 01 22
2025 01 18
2025 01 33
2025 01 26
2025 01 21
2025 01 15
2025 01 3
2025 01 20
The Money Honey’s
Nurse Form
January 14, 2025
Megan Rochford & Maria Borczyk,
Matthew’s House
”Navigating the Health Care System”

Megan and Maria gave current and relevant information about how we, as seniors, can be advocate for our own health care needs in an ever-changing health care system.

Sharron Smith

2025 01 1_edited_edited.jpg
Pink Sugar
Show & Tell - January, 2025
Catherine Robbin
“My Path to a Career in Singing”

Anyone who missed the January meeting missed an amazing, although brief presentation that ended with a short singing treat. Everyone enjoyed it immensely!

Peter Krol

2025 01 11.JPG
Mary Hamilton
Congratulations on 10 Years
2025 01 12.JPG
Welcome New Members
Barb Curry, Corrine Flynn, Margot Malchuk, Karen Hill-Whitson 
IMG_1136.jpeg

PROBIANS Ringing in 2025

Click to Enlarge

Christmas Trees

Wasn’t that a Party!
Merry Christmas 🎄 

Town Hall
New Town of New Tecumseth Town Hall Tours, June 14 & 21 & November 19, 2024

The Town of New Tecumseth made the move to the new Town Hall. 

With the main entrance facing Tupper Street, the address for the Town Hall will be known as 24 Tupper Street West, Alliston. 

A grand opening was held on Mon., June 10th with a celebratory ribbon cutting.

Arrangements were made for those that wished to have a tour of the new facility. Here are some photos of all three tours, with thanks.

Click photo to enlarge & see description.

Photos by Bev Hughes and Mary Willard

Swiss.jpg

November, 2024 - Lunch - Swiss Chalet, Alliston 

24 Oct 18
24 Oct 17
24 Oct 15
24 Oct 14
24 Oct 16
24 Oct 11
24 Oct 12
24 Oct 13
24 Oct 8
24 Oct 9
24 Oct 10
24 Oct 5
24 Oct 7
24 Oct 6
24 Oct 2
24 Oct 3
24 Oct 4
24 Oct 1
IMG_0941.jpeg
November 12, 2024
Ted Barris
“Battle of Britain -
Canadian Airmen in their Finest Hour”

Pat Thompson introduced Ted Barris, a Canadian writer, journalist, professor and broadcaster.

He writes a weekly column, "The Barris Beat", and is a regular contributor to The Globe and Mail, the National Post, CBC Radio programs and the CTV News Channel. He taught journalism at Centennial College in Toronto.

Many of you are familiar with his animated, energetic and entertaining stories about Canadian war heroes. He again delivered.

He spoke about his most recent book, which has made the top 10 Canadian Non-Fiction Best Sellers list this year.

“Battle of Britain – Canadian Airmen in Their Finest Hour” is an assembly of unknown stories of Canadian airmen, ground crew, engineers, aeronautical designers, medical officers and civilians in the Battle of Britain in 1940.  It is an amazing story about our courageous and valiant men and women who fought for freedom. Their sacrifice is not forgotten.

November 12, 2024
Show & Tell
Roger Setka gave a very interesting and informative narrative on the history behind the traditions of Remembrance Day.

We then listened to a reading of Col. John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields and observed two minutes of silence to honour our fallen hero’s and thank them for our freedom.
24 10 15yr
15 Years
Roy Snipe
10 Years
Mary Hookey
Judy Temple
Terry Temple
Jan Tweedy

 
November 12, 2024
Congratulations on the following Awards:
Lest We Forget!

Our President, Gerry Ross and others of the PROBUS Club of Alliston attended the Remembrance Day Ceremony November 11th at the Alliston Cenotaph.

October 2024, Danny’s Fish & Chips, Barrie
The PROBUS Group had a fantastic meal and lots of fun at Danny’s.  
Thanks to their terrific staff and their management for FOUR door prizes.

Click

Pic to

Enlarge

Hide and Seek
October Luncheon
Halibut House, Alliston
October, 2024
Lisa Taylor
“Gut Health
for Aging Gracefully”

Lisa told us some amazing information about how all of our ills begin within us. She gave us many nutrition and other health ideas, to assist with our health.

Hide and Seek
October 8, 2024 Show & Tell
24 Oct S&T_edited.jpg

Supporting a Refugee Family

 

Sharron Smith and another supporter, Cam Willcox, shared a pictorial story of how they helped support a Syrian refugee family of 6 from 2016 until the present. The presentation ended with a short video Cam produced called Easy Silence. They tracked the developments and progress this family has been able to achieve in Alliston, Ontario, CANADA, with the help of their support team and many community members. The original Support Team was called Refugee Rescue South Simcoe 2016-17 - 30  plus members. The next support group was named Month 13 - a team of 6 people still active to date. 

Transparent Logo.png
October 8, 2024, 36th Anniversary Meeting

Welcome & Awards

24 Oct 35yr

Eugene Walden - 35 years

Presented by Gerry Ross, President and Mary Willard, Membership.

24 Oct 25yr_edited_edited_edited.jpg
24 Oct 20_edited_edited.jpg

Edna Hayles, Jack Hayles, Christopher Paine - 25 years

Brian Palmer, 25 yr

Brian Palmer was presented his 25 year pin

at home on Hallowe’en day by:

Midge “Smartie-pants” Facciol,

Beverley “Anne of Green Gables” Hughes,

and Carol “Scot” Kennedy

24 Oct 20_edited.jpg

Susan McMillan, Michael McMillan - 20 years

24 Oct 15yr_edited.jpg

Allyn Willard, Jo-Anne Hunt - 15 years

Linda Hostrawser-Ball

George Ball

Christine Korhonen

Lynne Richardson

Bill Richardson

10 years

24 Oct New

Welcome New Members, Phyllis Thomas, Vern Thomas, Rick Fox, Shaun Fox, Remi Welch

October 8, 2024

The PROBUS Club of Alliston 2024-2025 Management Committee was voted in.

Thank you very much to Carol Borg and June Seago for their past volunteer service. We welcome Diane Haynes and Barb Murney to the 2024-25 PROBUS Club of Alliston Management Committee.

Pile of Pumpkins

Many

to our outgoing Executive members.
We appreciate the time you have given to
volunteer to the Club. Best Wishes!

Trip to the Toronto Blue Jays, Sept 11, 2024

Here are some of the comments of the participants:

-Nice bus, fun bingo game, great lunch, great Blue Jays seats

-Great having a bus, don’t drive to the city anymore, enjoyed seeing the Old Spaghetti Factory again and the changes to the Dome

-The Bus driver and Fan Services took good care of us

-Well organized, meal great. Weather fantastic. Next time the Jays could win!

September, 2024 Lunch Boston Pizza, Alliston

2024 Sept 7
2024 Sept 13
2024 Sept 1
2024 Sept 11
2024 Sept 9
2024 Sept 10
2024 Sept 8
2024 Sept 12
Pink Sugar

September, 2024

Sara den Bok
”Saved by Mother Teresa”

In her presentation Sara den Bok shared with us stories of her childhood, being saved from the streets of Calcutta by Mother Teresa at the age of three and then being adopted by a Stayner Ontario family when she was five.

Lena den Bok
”Humanizing the Homeless”

Leah den Bok followed her mother with a presentation "But I can Still do Something". As a fashion and portrait  photographer Leah focuses on capturing the stories and images of people experiencing homelessness in major cities world wide raising awareness.

100% of the profit from her books and exhibits are donated to homeless shelters.

2024 Sept 24.JPG
White Structure
September, 2024
Show & Tell
Harvey Hart

‘You want me to change a lightbulb where?’
2024 Sept 16.JPG

Roger Setka introduced Harvey Hart, one of our long-time members who told us an amusing yet hair-raising story of his early working career, when he was asked, even though it was not in the duties of his job, to climb a high communications tower to change an aircraft warning lightbulb at the top.

2024 Sept 17.JPG

As we start off our 36th year with our AGM, the 2024-2025 Executive and Management Committee were confirmed.  The retiring members were thanked for their service and new members were welcomed.

We cannot function without our volunteers and we appreciate them all. Thank you.

Our 2024-2025 President, Gerry Ross was inducted and presented his President pin.

Our Past President, Ruby Thomas was presented her Past President pin.

Our outgoing President calling up our fun-loving Treasurer, both of them for last time.
Our outgoing Treasurer will now be stepping into the Vice President’s shoes. Welcome Claire.
New Members

We were pleased to welcome the following new members.

Shari Nerdahl
David Nerdahl
Golf 35.JPG
August 13, 2024, PROBUS Golf & Dinner
Bear Creek Golf Course

Click to enlarge.

Golf 35

Golf 35

Golf 36

Golf 36

Golf 4

Golf 4

Golf 26

Golf 26

Golf 30

Golf 30

Golf 15

Golf 15

Golf 18

Golf 18

Golf 9

Golf 9

Golf 23

Golf 23

Golf 1

Golf 1

Golf 7

Golf 7

Golf 27

Golf 27

Golf 20

Golf 20

Golf 33

Golf 33

Golf 29

Golf 29

Golf 32

Golf 32

Golf 24

Golf 24

Golf 12

Golf 12

Golf 10

Golf 10

Golf 13

Golf 13

Golf 6

Golf 6

Golf 16

Golf 16

Golf 8

Golf 8

Golf 2

Golf 2

Golf 19

Golf 19

Golf 25

Golf 25

Golf 22

Golf 22

Golf 28

Golf 28

Golf 31

Golf 31

Golf 5

Golf 5

Golf 11

Golf 11

Golf 14

Golf 14

Golf 34

Golf 34

Golf 17

Golf 17

Golf 38

Golf 38

Golf 39

Golf 39

Golf 37

Golf 37

July 2024
Lunch at Symposium

July 2024

Main Speaker
Tom Herstad

Towards a Kinder, more Compassionate and Empathetic World”

Tom is the author of 2nd Line West, a memoir of a very special lady in his life, his mother. In a heartfelt presentation, Tom shared stories of her difficult life and how she looked beyond herself to help others. Our members were eager to learn more about the 18 people she helped so book sales were brisk. Tom joined us for lunch at Symposium and we learned more about his other life as a lighting designer.

Money
July 2024

Show & Tell
Roger Setka

CBDC

Our 91 year young financial wizard attempted to bring us into the 21st century of finance and the possibility of the “digital loonie” within our lifetime.

CBDC (central bank digital currency) is something that the Bank of Canada and banking insitiutions around the world are looking at. We may in our lifetime be faced with the emergence of a cashless society, our hand-held bills a thing of the past.

2024 July 3.JPG
Rock

June 27, 2024

FANTASTIC TRIP to
see Rock of Ages at King’s Wharf Theatre in Penetang

Don’t Stop Believin’

Double Click to see the image full size.

ROA8
ROA4
ROA10
ROA11
ROA9
ROA14
ROA12
ROA21
ROA7
ROA1
ROA2
ROA3
ROA5jpeg
ROA6jpeg
ROA17
ROA19
ROA20
ROA18
ROA22
ROA23
ROA25
ROA24
ROA16
ROA15
ROA13jpeg
IMG_7170
IMG_7171
White Structure

June 2024
Lunch at Hot Stacks

2024 Jun 9
2024 Jun 8
2024 Jun 10
2024 Jun 12
2024 Jun 20
2024 Jun 14
2024 Jun 17
2024 Jun 21
2024 Jun 13
2024 Jun 15
2024 Jun 16
2024 Jun 11
2024 Jun 18
2024 Jun 19

Double-Click to View

Photos by Bev Hughes

Small Plane

June 2024
Main Speaker
Malcolm Kelly, Journalist
”Women in Air Force Blue”

Malcolm G. Kelly, a professional journalist for 37 years, the founder and coordinator of a renowned postgraduate sports journalism program at Centennial College in Toronto, spoke to our PROBUS group about “Women In Air Force Blue”.

As a bestselling author, he has written four non-fiction books. Malcolm was born in Bradford-on-Avon, England, and raised in Warminster, Wilts, before the family moved to Canada in 1966. He is the son of two Second World War veterans (his father was one of the famous 47 British escapees at Calais in 1940, and his mother was a Blitz survivor who joined the army’s ATS). 

His presentation on" Women In Air Force Blue" followed a number of women and their amazing experiences, was very interesting and enjoyed by all.

June Presentations

Bev Hughes and Midge Facciol presented Brian Palmer with a Lifetime Membership to the Probus Club of Alliston for Outstanding Service to the Club.

My thanks to those in the Club who decided to present me with a Lifetime Membership, particularly in the way it was presented by two of my favourite ladies, Bev and Midge.
I haven’t been able to attend meetings lately and the kind thought came as a complete surprise. 
Hope to see you all soon.
Brian Palmer

2024 Jun 3_edited_edited.jpg
IMG_0609.jpeg

We were pleased to welcome to the Club the following new members:

Don Irvine

Shirley Irvine

Don Nelson

June 2024

Show & Tell
Norm Kennedy
Drums & Bugles

Norm took on a fascinating trip through the history of the development of drums & bugles from the Stone Age until now.

May, 2024

Lunch at Swiss Chalet in Alliston

Click arrow to view.

Clic pic to enlarge.

Main Speaker

May 14 - Ryan Uytdewilligen 

Comedy Canadian Style

Ryan Uytdewilligen, multi-award- winning author from Coaldale Alberta studied Broadcast Journalism at Lethbridge, College and Writing for Film and Television at Vancouver Film School.

His presentation on the history of Canada’s distinct comedy voice throughout the past century was enjoyed by all.

The many clips of celebrated Canadian comedians and entertainers like Dan Akroyd, Rich Little, Leslie Neilson and Rich Mercer brought back many memories.

2024 May 1.JPG
2024 May 6.JPG
White Structure

April Presentations

Congratulations to Ron Fearon on receiving a Lifetime Membership in the Club, for serving as President for the 2012-2013 year and on being member for over 20 years.

Lifetime Membership 

A Lifetime Membership may be conferred at a General meeting, upon a member who has rendered outstanding service to the Club. A Life member shall not be required to pay the annual membership fee and shall enjoy all privileges of membership.

Congratulations to Greg Albright and Chris Paine on receiving Honorary Membership in the Club and on being members for over 20 years.

Honorary membership 
An Honorary member 
may be conferred at a General meeting. An Honorary member shall not be required to pay the annual Club membership fee and shall enjoy all privileges of membership except voting and election to office. 
May 2024 Show & Tell

Peter Krol
My Life at the LCBO

Peter gave us some interesting insights into the workings of his “retirement” job at the LCBO. Things he had to face on the front line of customer service and tidbits of what it was like working behind the warehouse doors.

2024 May 3.JPG

April 2024, Lunch at Halibut House, Alliston

Click to Enlarge

Main Speaker
April 9, 2024
Elaine Charal
Handwriting Analysis

Elaine Charal, certified handwriting analyst, entertainer and comedienne delivered her “Power of the Pen” presentation. 

By the reactions in the room, her presentation was informative, captivating and humourous. The audience interaction and laughter was wonderful to experience.

We learned a lot about ourselves and am sure we will uncover more about our family and friends through their handwriting.

 

For more information, see her website www.elainehandwriting.com

We were pleased to welcome Marcie Taggart to the Club.

April 2024 Presentations

Show & Tell
April Alan Masters


My Career as a Motorcycle Racer & Enthusiast

Alan took us on a fascinating journey through his motorcycle racing career, beginning in the UK and then continuing after his move to Canada.

Coffee
Time
At the April meeting,
our birthday Queens.
March 2024
Member Lunch
at Boston Pizza, Alliston

Click to enlarge

March 12, 2024
Lianne Harris
Luck of the Irish

Lianne brought history to life with her presentation The Luck of the Irish, delivered in authentic medieval Irish costume. Lianne has taught over 100,000 teachers and students in her long career with the Toronto District School Board, and certainly knows her subject matter well. Her presentation was interactive, humorous and most interesting as she wove facts about Irish history, legends, folklore and language into her wonderful slide presentation. Our Probus members were enthusiastic participants in her mini-quizzes and would look forward to hearing another of her 50 presentations in the future.

IMG_0672.jpeg
March 2024
Member Presentations
Fran Sainsbury was presented with her 15 year pin.
Congratulations Fran.
We were thrilled to present member badges to Joe Bilotta, Alan Greenwood & Yvonne Smith.
IMG_6283_edited.jpg
March 2024 - Show & Tell Ted Larson
Ted did an interesting and informative Show & Tell presentation on the evolution of art through graphic arts as shown in his work.
Sphere on Spiral Stairs

At our March meeting, the Leprechauns were out.

Click arrow for more photos.

Lunch at Symposium, February, 2024

IMG_5947
IMG_5945
IMG_5938
IMG_5943
IMG_5942
February 13, 2024
Steve Chappell
Information Protection and Privatization

Our February Speaker,

Steve Chappelle, did a wonderful presentation on

Information Protection and Privacy. He alerted us to the way the web and telecommunications happen while discussing several topics including Account and Device Settings, Browsers, Records of Activity with personal messages, search engines and email filing as well as Encryption. There seemed to be consensus in the room that there is much to learn

in the field of technology and that as users, we need to protect our privacy as much as possible.

Steve has provided some follow up notes that can be found at this link. [click here]

IMG_5929.jpeg
IMG_5937.jpeg

February 2024 Presentations

We were pleased to welcome new members:
 

John Gilbert 

Marilyn Gilbert 

Debbie Harris 

Paul Harris 

Kim Iceton 

Ron Jones

Elaine Maguire

Eugene McEleney

Catherine Robbin

IMG_5907.jpeg
Pink Sugar
February 2024 Show & Tell Marguerite Beggs

Marguerite spoke about a group she volunteers with. Grandmothers Embrace was formed by Jean Gradwell due to a request by Stephen. Lewis.He had witnessed the AIDS pandemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and came home with a vision to help the Grandmothers who were left to care for their Grandchildren due to the demise of their own children. And to do this at a Grassroots level, so Governments are bypassed and Grandmothers are asked their needs, food, clothes, education, material to make things to sell etc. And they are supplied with those needs.

In 2003 there was no treatment for HIV, human immunodeficiency and that resulted in death with AIDS, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. This condition attacks the immune system.No treatment was available resulting in many deaths.

To-day there is antiviral treatment and if taken consistently, HIV cannot be transmitted to others.Grandmothers are becoming more self-sufficient and standing up asking to be recognized and respected by their governments. 

For fund raising we take part in the Briar Hill Community Garage Sale and November Jewellery, Purse and Scarf Sale. Donations are always

welcome. 705-434-1827 20 years as a Fund Raiser the Stephen Lewis Foundation had a vision to create a Quilt. Grandmothers across Canada and some African countries submitted fabric and other material and a Quilt was made. This April the Solidarity Quilt and One Not Left Behind Quilt will be on display at the Gibson Center, Alliston, Friday April 12 and Saturday April 13. You are all. welcome to come and enjoy their beauty.

IMG_5918.jpeg
IMG_0008.jpeg
IMG_0639.jpeg
B1FB3F42-BED9-43B2-9667-A90D71D27FE4.jpeg
Lunch at Swiss Chalet, Alliston
January 2024


[Double Click to enlarge.]
24.1.6
24.1.1
24.1.2
24.1.3
24.1.14
24.1.10
24.1.13
24.1.5
24.1.8
24.1.15
24.1.11
24.1.12
24.1.9
24.1.4
24.1.7
24.1.6
24.1.1
24.1.2
24.1.10
24.1.14
24.1.5
24.1.13
24.1.15
24.1.11
24.1.8
24.1.12
24.1.9

In her delightful presentation style, Maryse informed us of the12 modifiable factors that can help diminish the risk of developing dementia. Her presentation included some skill testing questions that required audience participation. Our PROBUS members certainly engaged with lots of questions, and laughter.

Maryse was amazed at the number of attendees on this snowy day, as well as their eagerness to participate.

by Sharron Smith, Speakers Committee

January 9, 2024

Maryse Raymond, Education Coordinator, Alzheimer Society of South Simcoe
 
Brain Health and Aging 

If anyone is interested in becoming better informed about Dementia, Maryse offers regular courses that are free of charge through Matthews House in Alliston. The Alzheimer Society also offers many resources and a group support program in our community. 

For further information contact:

Alzheimer Society of South Simcoe

705-722-1066 Ext. 229

Matthews House

131 Wellington Street East Alliston, ON L9R 1G7

P: 705.435.7218 x232

John Verdoold did an interesting Show & Tell presentation on immigration in the 50’s.

John was 18 when he came to Canada in 1953 as a farm worker, under Diefenbaker at that time. He told about how they were treated as immigrants, how he wore many hats over the years and has now retired in Briar Hill.

He is writing a book about his life at the bequest of his grandchildren.

24.1.S&T.JPG

PROBIANS had a wonderful time at the Christmas Luncheon at the Alliston Legion

Click Santa & Midge to view the photos

2023 Santa & Midge.jpeg
Mary Hookey arranged to get together with
Adeline Foxwell to present her with her 20 year pin.

Congratulations to Adeline on 20 years and being one of the founding female members of the PROBUS Club of Alliston.
Adeline Foxwell.jpeg
A number of our Probians, along with our Presient, attended the Remembrance Day Service, November 11th at the Alliston Cenotaph
Juno Beach photos, 75th Anniversary year of D-Day [taken August, 2019]
Allyn Willard created an excellent Remembrance Day presentation for our November meeting. It was commented on by many. If you missed it or would like to watch again, here is the link. If you have any problems viewing it, email Allyn Willard.
Norm Zimmerman 1925 - 2023

For 15 years Norm Zimmerman honoured us with the reading of In Flanders Fields by John McCrae at our November Probus meetings. Norm Kennedy did a lovely tribute to Norm Zimmerman, telling us a bit about his life before and after PROBUS.

New VP_edited.jpg

Ruby Thomas welcomes our new Vice President, Gerry Ross

Meeting2_edited.jpg

35th Anniversary Certificate Presentations

IMG_5230.jpeg
IMG_5151.jpeg
IMG_5161.jpeg
Richard Norcross, Mayor and Alan Masters, Councillor, Ward 4 present certificate to Ruby Thomas, President on behalf of Council of Corporation of the Town of New Tecumseth
Brian Saunderson, MPP Simcoe-Grey presents certificate to Ruby Thomas, President
Terry Dowdall, MP Simcoe-Grey presents certificate to Ruby Thomas, President
Meeting35.JPG
Meeting5.JPG
Meeting3.JPG
Meeting34.JPG
Meeting7.JPG
2310Group_edited.jpg

Enjoying coffee, cake & conversation at the meeting

Meeting1_edited.jpg

Our heartfelt thanks go out to the 2022-23 Executive

2022-23 Exec.jpg

Brenda Andrews, PROBUS District Director presents
35th Anniversary Certificate to President & Past Presidents

35 certificate.jpg

LtoR Brenda Andrews, Ruby Thomas, Midge Faccciol, Chuck Waterman, Eugene Walden, Ronald Fearon, Margueritte Beggs

Special Presentations

Bill Braden, Lifetime Membership
Eugene Walden, Lifetime Membership

If you are a member of our PROBUS Club and would like to join our Facebook page, please click here. 

 

The information contained on this website may not be used or re-used in any way, shape or form 

without the express written permission of the PROBUS Club of Alliston Management Committee Executive.

Photos are taken at PROBUS Events. Photos may be used on the PROBUS Website or Facebook page.

Warning will be given before photo is taken, so you can remove yourself.

©2023 by PROBUS Club [of] Alliston. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page