District 5050 celebrates peace, friendship and service at the Peace Arch
Rotarians from both sides of the border gather at the Peace Arch during Rotary Hands Across the Border on 8 August 2026.
Inscribed high on the Peace Arch are the words, “May These Gates Never Be Closed.” On Saturday, August 8th, Rotarians from Canada and the United States gathered beneath those words on a beautiful summer day and brought their meaning to life.
Rotary Hands Across the Border celebrated the special character of District 5050: 50% Canadian, 50% American and 100% Rotarian. The day began at noon with a ceremonial clasping of hands beneath the Arch, a fitting symbol of the friendships and shared commitment to service that unite our cross-border district.
District Governor Kathleen Olson welcomed the gathering before participants moved to Heritage Hall. Irene Dahl performed the national anthems, honoring both nations represented in the room. Peace Arch historian Christina Winkler then shared the story of the monument and the ideals that have made it an enduring symbol of friendship between Canada and the United States.
The program explored peace through both words and music. Chris Offer, Rotary peace advocate and Past District Governor of District 5040, spoke about peace and Rotary. Marc Burchell and singer-songwriter Terry Kelly shared the story behind “The Peace Arch Song,” after which Terry performed three peace-related songs. Their music offered a moving reminder that peace is strengthened whenever people choose understanding, friendship and common purpose.
An international lunch buffet gave Rotarians time to renew friendships and make new connections across the border. The District 5050 Foundation Committee also recognized the District’s top-giving Clubs, and 2025-26 Club Excellence Awards honored Clubs whose work created lasting impact in their communities.
One of the day’s most memorable moments came during the District 5050 Achievement Awards. Immediate Past District Governor Isabelle Hayer presented Dr. Yashar Keramati with a Humanitarian Service Award, honoring his work providing much-needed medical assistance in some of the world’s most challenging and remote regions.
Immediate Past District Governor Isabelle Martinez Hayer presents Dr. Yashar Keramati with a Humanitarian Service Award.
The presentation captured the heart of Rotary. The gathering celebrated friendship and peace, but it also honored the action that gives those ideals substance: people stepping forward to serve wherever the need is greatest.
The district’s governor line also came together during the celebration, representing both continuity and the shared leadership that will carry District 5050 forward. Their presence reinforced the day’s central message: the border may define two nations, but it does not limit friendship, fellowship or service.
District 5050 leadership, from left: District Governor-Nominee Darrell Burnham, District Governor-Elect Shawn O'Donnell, District Governor Kathleen Olson and Immediate Past District Governor Isabelle Martinez Hayer.
District Governor Kathleen Olson closed the program with thanks to the speakers, musicians, organizers and Rotarians who made the celebration possible. As everyone departed, the day had offered more than a gathering. It was a vivid expression of who we are as District 5050 - neighbors in two countries, united through Rotary in peace, friendship and service.