By Dan Schellenberg

Rotary’s slogan, “Service above Self” has been a source of inspiration for Rotary members throughout the world for many years. Rotary International is now promoting a new and inspiring public image which depicts People of Action.

Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club is dedicated to carry out People of Action activities. This concept is no more realized than with the continued restoration of the Alco FA diesel engine by focusing on its surrounding site.

Being people of action takes hard work and involves getting yourself down into the ground, so to speak. Being People of Action takes an effort.  Some club members spent a great amount of time volunteering to bring the Alco FA diesel engine located at the King Street Crossing to its now stately status adjacent to the Elko station. Prepping and painting the train over the years led to the realization more work had to be done in order to enhance the appearance surrounding the historical site.

So, this year, a number of Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary members donned their construction garb  and went to work concentrating on landscaping ventures, such as the planting of shrubs and replacing railway ties with an aesthetically appealing brick wall. All of these endeavours take time, care and patience. Service above Self. People of Action.

Note: Special thanks to Cranbrook Sunrise People of Action, Bob Bjorn, Glenn Dobie, Mel McFarlane, Percy Davis, Steve Weatherall, Janice Sommerfeld, Darryl Bishop, Dennis Parsons and Wade Schroh for volunteering their time for labour and for promoting and embracing Rotary’s People of Action message.

Funding for the project came from a Rotary district grant. Further improvements are slated for the future. Some of the amenities the Sunrise Club will be adding, include: new lighting, a fountain, a paved trail which will allow a better access for wheelchairs and for those with disabilities.

Above images: Rotary Club members hold a work party at the Alco FA diesel engine. Photos submitted

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