Club Foundation Director John Howard introduced PDGs Mike Ericksen and Bruce Baumberger.  They explained what the Rotary Foundation is, the types of programs it supports and why it's important that all Rotarians support the Foundation.  We also learned the various ways and ease at which members can contribute to the Foundation.  Bruce and Mike congratulated our club for its support over the years.

Six Rotary Global Women of Action were honored during Rotary Day at the United Nations on 7 November in New York City. They are, : Lucy H. Hobgood-Brown, Dr. Hashrat A. Begum, Stella S. Dongo, Kerstin Jeska-Thorwat, Dr. Deborah K.W. Walters, and Razia Jan. “The women we are honoring here today are leaders in Rotary,” said Rotary President K.R. Ravindran. “They are pushing the boundaries of Rotary service, pushing us all to do more, be more, and achieve more.” Lakshmi Puri, assistant secretary-general of the United Nations and deputy executive director of UN Women, praised Rotary for its acknowledgment of the crucial role women play. “I’m very pleased you have picked this team of gender equality and women empowerment,” she said.

 

Occasionally there is a temptation to criticize the laws, customs and traditions of another country which may seem strange or contrary to our own. In some instances illegal practices or customs of one nation are completely lawful and acceptable in another. As members of an international organization dedicated to world understanding and peace, it behooves Rotarians to exercise restraint in judging our Rotary friends and citizens from other countries when their behavior seems unusual to us. A Rotary policy has existed for more than half a century relating to this dilemma of international relationships. The statement, adopted in 1933, says that because it is recognized that some activities and local customs may be legal and customary in some countries and not in others, Rotarians should be guided by this admonition of tolerance:

"Rotarians in all countries should recognize these facts and there should be a thoughtful avoidance of criticism of the laws and customs of one country by the Rotarians of another

country." The policy also cautions against "any effort on the part of Rotarians of one country to interfere with the laws or customs of another country." As we strive to strengthen the bonds of understanding, goodwill and friendship, these policies still provide good advice and guidance.