Heitor shared his final update before returning home at the end of January. Since arriving in Canada on July 13, he has fully embraced Canadian life and Rotary fellowship, meeting many Rotarians on his very first day at the outdoor market.
First-time Canadian experiences included:
Camping, attending a hockey game, seeing and scraping frost, watching fall colours change, attending a Rotary conference, celebrating Thanksgiving and Halloween (including carving his first pumpkin), experiencing snow, building a gingerbread house, and visiting a Christmas tree farm.
Places visited:
Toronto, Owen Sound, Lion’s Head, Stratford, Goderich, St. Thomas, and his favourite city — Ottawa.
Likes & Dislikes:
Favourite things: Canadian patriotism, celebrations, warm and welcoming people, and how clean, safe, and respectful communities are.
Dislikes: Purchase taxes, Caesar drinks, and how tough winter is on cars.
Heitor noted that Brazilian and Canadian foods are similar, but declared Canadian Caesar salad his favourite. He expressed deep gratitude to Rotary, sharing that the kindness he experienced meant he was never homesick. The club acknowledged how fortunate we were to host Heitor for the past six months — he will be truly missed.
Fundraising Update
Poinsettia Sales: Rita reported a successful fundraiser, raising $1,500. Thanks were extended to Teresa for the use of TAP storage for distribution.
Social Events
Annual Christmas Party: Dianne provided a recap, with unanimous agreement that the event was a great success.
Youth Exchange – Silver’s Highlights
Moved to his new host family (Rita)
Attended seven Christmas celebrations over the holidays
Delivered Christmas cards and sang at the seniors’ residence
Spent New Year’s in Toronto and visited the CN Tower
Learned sewing and quilting from Rita and proudly shared the Canadian tote bag he made
Social Events
Annual Christmas Party: Dianne provided a recap, with unanimous agreement that the event was a great success.
Closing
Several Rotarians shared happy news!