Two members of the Duncan community have been recognized by the Rotary Club for their contributions and efforts in the city with the presentation of the Paul Harris Fellowship.
According to Rotary, the Paul Haris fellowship is the highest recognition to non-Rotarians, who ‘embody the spirit of Rotary through their community service and dedication to the organization’s ideals.’
One recipient is a language teacher at Quw’utsun Secondary School, Vera Rowan, who Rotary says demonstrated leadership and dedication to the community as a whole.
“Rowan has demonstrated endless dedication to supporting the students to undertake several initiatives, including a coat drive for Warmland and a food drive for Cowichan Women Against Violence,” they say.

The other recipient is 39 Days of July Festival organizer John Falker, who was presented with the award for not only being a recipient of the King Charles Coronation medal, but also for his support to the arts across the region.
During the presentation former Cowichan-Malahat-Langford MP Alistair MacGregor described Falker’s contribution as going above and beyond.
“He has provided such a rich and vibrant musical culture in the community that not only benefits our residents, but visitors as well,” MacGregor says.
Rotary Club president Karen Thorington says the club is delighted to recognize the individuals.
“Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self, Vera and John epitomize this principle that all Rotarians strive for,” she says.
Rotary Duncan was chartered in 1930, and according to a social media post, for 95 years the club has sought to serve the people and community organizations of the Cowichan Valley.