September E-BULLETIN PART II
A Reflection on Socrates-Was it related to the Rotary FOUR-WAY Test?
Contibuted by two rotarians
For Rotary, The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone of all action. It has been for years, and it will be in the future. Of the things we think, say or do
Contibuted by two rotarians
For Rotary, The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone of all action. It has been for years, and it will be in the future. Of the things we think, say or do
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
The test is one of the hallmarks of Rotary. Since it was developed in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became RI president, it has never ceased to be relevant. Its four brief questions are not based on culture or religion. Instead, they are a simple checklist for ethical behavior. They transcend generations and national borders.
(The commentary above on the Four Way Test was taken from Rotary International's website. Now, let's see how Socrates viewed and analysed information that came to him)
In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem.
One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?"
Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything, I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Three Filter Test."
Three filter?"
That's right," Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say.That's why I call it the three filter test.
The first filter is TRUTH. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"
No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and..."
All right," said Socrates. "So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of GOODNESS. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?"
No, on the contrary..."
So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of USEFULNESS. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?" No, not really."
Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"
~Author Unknown~
Knowing the benefits of Rotary Foundation
by Joycelyn Murraine
(In the photo PDG Brent conducts Foundation Training workshop)
On Thursday, September 16, 2010 Rotary Club of Tortola played host to a luncheon Joint Meeting of BVI Clubs, namely: Road Town and Sunrise Clubs at the Moorings Restaurant at 12:30 pm.
The Moorings was filled to capacity with over 100 persons in attendance. The Keynote address was given by Mr Brent Williams, Regional Rotary Foundation Co-ordinator and a Past District Governor (PDG).
During his keynote address, PDG Brent spoke about simplifying the Rotary Foundation. He said that the Foundation helps improve the lives of people around the world, and that the best way to simplify it is to focus on the impact it has.
PDG Brent described Foundation-supported projects in parts of the world including Cambodia, Africa and Haiti in areas including water and sanitation, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and literacy. "It is because of this type of work that I am proud to be a Rotarian," he said.
PDG Brent also noted that thanks to the Foundation, the name of Rotary is known around the world. He encouraged Rotarians to look at contributions to the Foundation as investments rather than donations.
(In photo PDG Brent and RCT Foundation Director Cate, in green, team up with members of two other clubs after foundation training.)
(In the photo PDG Brent gathers with RCT members after one of the Foundation Training Workshops)
Topics PDG Brent covered were as follows:-
.Rotary Foundation is our shared foundation motto being doing good in the world.
.Rotary is celebrating 100 years of Rotary 5 years from now and he encouraged all Rotarians to be a part of the celebration in Atlanta Georgia.
.Community service that Rotary has initiated such as the donations to YEP, Hurricane Earl Clean up, Diabetic Association funding to victims of Haiti as a result of the earthquake.
.Thanked the 3 BVI Rotary Clubs for their investment through Rotary International.
.Water project in Cambodia that was the result of one Rotarian who had a vision and a cause, solicited assistance from other Rotarians and today have built over 100 wells.
.Disease prevention and ratification (specifically Polio) in third world countries.
.Maternal and Child assistance " where doctors and Rotarians assisted children and mothers through grants and donated services to promote a healthy life, proper medical treatment, appropriate and prescribed medications.
.Literacy " Promote reading and writing with all school aged children by donating text books, dictionaries and other school supplies.
.Diabetic Foot Care " Provided grants and services to assist with the education, prevention and treatment of illnesses related to Diabetic Foot care.
In closing PDG Brent commended the Rotary Club of Road Town Sunrise for achieving 100% sustaining membership and highlighted the significant contributions made by the Rotary Clubs of Road Town and Tortola including the generous bequest left by the late Charles Carey.
A very strange Pastor Moment and can you Guess Who?
by Deon Morgan
This gentleman is only a few "Rotary Years" old. He could therefore be considered to be part of the New Generation of Rotarians. This Rotarian had a strange and embarassing encounter: He confused the then visitng Rotary District Governor by suggesting that clergymen were being invited to a Rotary held dinner. The dinner was being hosted by the Sunrise Club of Tortola. And what should've been dubbed as 'pasta night' became this Rotarian's 'pastor's night'.What confusion.
Upon seeing the quizzical expressions on everyone's face where even the host of the 'pasta night' did not understand, this Rotarian of the Rotary Club of Tortola, felt strange and sought to clarify his erroneous announcement. In his own words "Many rotarians including the DG were confused, curious and questioned why... the Rotary club Sunrise [would] invite many of the BVI clergy and feast on them!" All was eventually explained. It was a 'pasta night' and not a 'pastor's night'.
This same Rotarian was asked to respond to the following:
1. How long have you been a Rotarian?
2. What has kept you motivated in service as a Rotarian?
3. Your advice to Rotarians who have become discouraged in service.
4. What is your most memorable moment in rotary?
5. What is your strangest/funniest rotary encounter?
This Rotarian is 9 years old in 'Rotary years'. He feels that"... many of us who could give to the needy should do so". He continued, saying, " I am compelled and I'm gratified that I'm able to make a difference in someone's life through humanitarian efforts. To give community service without the expectation of getting some sort of reward."
He wants to encourage each member of Rotary Club of Tortola "...to rethink ...the real purpose [of becoming] a Rotarian ..."
Who is this Rotarian?
Rotarians Join Forces to Help Anegada
The Rotary Clubs on Tortola joined forces to supply basic necessities to residents of Anegada, a sister-island of the British Virgin Islands. Supplies totaling over $3,300 were transported by sea for the purpose.
(Photo: IPP Leroy , in centre, lifts case to be passed on for distribution in Anegada)
On August 31 Hurricane Earl swept through the British Virgin Islands bringing down trees, uprooting sidewalks, and causing some minor structural damage to buildings of the territory. Anegada being a relatively flat island was severely affected by the hurricane, however, and help was needed to restore things to normalcy there.
The day after the Hurricane Immediate Past President (IPP) of the Rotary Club of Tortola, Leroy Moses and other Rotarians dropped off boxes of bottled water, canned juices, milk, rice and other foodstuff at the community center, which acted as a shelter during Hurricane Earl.
IPP Leroy advised that the assistance given is just an initial response. "We are here to find out what else they need. we will raise the funds and get the supplies," he said. The clubs on Tortola are thankful to two community-based businesses that are contributing to the Anegada relief activities. Road Town Wholesale exclusively supplied the items distributed on September 1, and Bolo's Department Store donated batteries and dry goods, which arrived on the island the following day.
IPP Leroy stated that the donations were made possible through the hard work of rotarians Past President Lloyd Black, who is also the disaster management chair, President of the Tortola Club, Lorna Smith, and Lynette Harrigan. Relief efforts continued throughout the month of September.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Contributed
...that uncomfortable feeling, that thing to the rear literally pinning you at your wit's end. One person advised of a friend who asked the nurse to repeat the procedure in order to insure to the accuracy of the check...And, so the annual prostate cancer screening began on September 17, 2010. The BVI Red Cross was ably assisted by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Tortola
(Photo by:Astrid Wenzke)
and other Rotarians to process the attendees to the screening.
The event was a success.
(Photo by: Astrid Wenzke)
Seven hundred and seventy four males turned out over a two-day period to be screened for prostate cancer at the Red Cross Headquarters, Tortola.
On Friday, September 17 and Saturday, September 18, Dr. John Franklyn from the USVI, Dr Roger Tim and Physician assistant Faith Lake screened the men for any signs of the disease.
Prostate cancer occurs in the male reproductive system when cells of the prostate mutate and begin to multiply out of control. These cells may spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, especially the bones and lymph nodes.
It causes pain, difficulty in urinating, erectile dysfunction and other symptoms. Prior to being screened, individuals had their blood tested and received counseling on the disease.
(Photo by:Astrid Wenzke)
They also had the opportunity to check their blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and HIV status with the free confidential screening that was provided on-site.
Representatives from the National AIDS Programme, Dental Services, Department of Agriculture, Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Proudly African, Sandy Lane Centre, Mental Health Department, the BVI Diabetes Association and Bless Hands Health Spa had booths at the Head Cross Headquarters.
This was all part of Men's Health Week held under the theme "Get Up, Get Out and Be Proactive."
RCT earns Bragging Rights--College Classics"
by Deon Morgan
RCT shows youngsters how it's done, and what's that?...WINNING!
On Saturday, September 18, 2010 approximately 12 members of the Rotary Club of Tortola (RCT) participated in the first run of the HLSCC/Highland college classics series. Rotarian Chris and Treasurer Julien dominated the scene finishing in the top twenty out of well-over 200 contenders. The college classics is a two-mile run around the local BVI college.
President Lorna, Immediate Past President Leroy, Secretary Susana , Treasurer Julien, President Elect Brian were only some of the board members who particpated in the twelve-man-strong team.
Of all the groups that participated in the college classics including the young Rotaract and Interact Clubs of Tortola,
The Rotary Club of Tortola emerged the winner.
The Rotary Club of Tortola took the opportunity to remind the younger clubs that the RCT footsteps still represent the great things which result if only the young will take heed.
Special thanks also to Barbara, wife of past president Percy Rhoden, who represented our club and finished in the top league of women.
Projects Summary -List of Ongoing Projects
Rotaractors and Members of the RCT buddy up for a photo shot as fellowship wound down at the Virgin Queen Restaurant. Everyone had a good laugh, eating pizza, refreshing with beverages and three raffle opportunities. RCT Big Brother won a bracelet, Director Laura won a gift certificate for the restaurant, and Rotaractor Judd and IPP Leroy each took home one bottle of wine.
Fellowship Fridays are back!Spread the word. You were missed last Friday, September 24.
IPP Leroy of RCT, Rotarian (Rtn) Merrit, PP Audley, Rtn Andy, Rtn Astrid relax in the laid back evening atmosphere.
(The commentary above on the Four Way Test was taken from Rotary International's website. Now, let's see how Socrates viewed and analysed information that came to him)
In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem.
One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?"
Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything, I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Three Filter Test."
Three filter?"
That's right," Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say.That's why I call it the three filter test.
The first filter is TRUTH. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"
No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and..."
All right," said Socrates. "So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of GOODNESS. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?"
No, on the contrary..."
So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of USEFULNESS. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?" No, not really."
Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"
~Author Unknown~
Knowing the benefits of Rotary Foundation
by Joycelyn Murraine
(In the photo PDG Brent conducts Foundation Training workshop)
On Thursday, September 16, 2010 Rotary Club of Tortola played host to a luncheon Joint Meeting of BVI Clubs, namely: Road Town and Sunrise Clubs at the Moorings Restaurant at 12:30 pm.
The Moorings was filled to capacity with over 100 persons in attendance. The Keynote address was given by Mr Brent Williams, Regional Rotary Foundation Co-ordinator and a Past District Governor (PDG).
During his keynote address, PDG Brent spoke about simplifying the Rotary Foundation. He said that the Foundation helps improve the lives of people around the world, and that the best way to simplify it is to focus on the impact it has.
PDG Brent described Foundation-supported projects in parts of the world including Cambodia, Africa and Haiti in areas including water and sanitation, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and literacy. "It is because of this type of work that I am proud to be a Rotarian," he said.
PDG Brent also noted that thanks to the Foundation, the name of Rotary is known around the world. He encouraged Rotarians to look at contributions to the Foundation as investments rather than donations.
(In photo PDG Brent and RCT Foundation Director Cate, in green, team up with members of two other clubs after foundation training.)
(In the photo PDG Brent gathers with RCT members after one of the Foundation Training Workshops)
Topics PDG Brent covered were as follows:-
.Rotary Foundation is our shared foundation motto being doing good in the world.
.Rotary is celebrating 100 years of Rotary 5 years from now and he encouraged all Rotarians to be a part of the celebration in Atlanta Georgia.
.Community service that Rotary has initiated such as the donations to YEP, Hurricane Earl Clean up, Diabetic Association funding to victims of Haiti as a result of the earthquake.
.Thanked the 3 BVI Rotary Clubs for their investment through Rotary International.
.Water project in Cambodia that was the result of one Rotarian who had a vision and a cause, solicited assistance from other Rotarians and today have built over 100 wells.
.Disease prevention and ratification (specifically Polio) in third world countries.
.Maternal and Child assistance " where doctors and Rotarians assisted children and mothers through grants and donated services to promote a healthy life, proper medical treatment, appropriate and prescribed medications.
.Literacy " Promote reading and writing with all school aged children by donating text books, dictionaries and other school supplies.
.Diabetic Foot Care " Provided grants and services to assist with the education, prevention and treatment of illnesses related to Diabetic Foot care.
In closing PDG Brent commended the Rotary Club of Road Town Sunrise for achieving 100% sustaining membership and highlighted the significant contributions made by the Rotary Clubs of Road Town and Tortola including the generous bequest left by the late Charles Carey.
A very strange Pastor Moment and can you Guess Who?
by Deon Morgan
This gentleman is only a few "Rotary Years" old. He could therefore be considered to be part of the New Generation of Rotarians. This Rotarian had a strange and embarassing encounter: He confused the then visitng Rotary District Governor by suggesting that clergymen were being invited to a Rotary held dinner. The dinner was being hosted by the Sunrise Club of Tortola. And what should've been dubbed as 'pasta night' became this Rotarian's 'pastor's night'.What confusion.
Upon seeing the quizzical expressions on everyone's face where even the host of the 'pasta night' did not understand, this Rotarian of the Rotary Club of Tortola, felt strange and sought to clarify his erroneous announcement. In his own words "Many rotarians including the DG were confused, curious and questioned why... the Rotary club Sunrise [would] invite many of the BVI clergy and feast on them!" All was eventually explained. It was a 'pasta night' and not a 'pastor's night'.
This same Rotarian was asked to respond to the following:
1. How long have you been a Rotarian?
2. What has kept you motivated in service as a Rotarian?
3. Your advice to Rotarians who have become discouraged in service.
4. What is your most memorable moment in rotary?
5. What is your strangest/funniest rotary encounter?
This Rotarian is 9 years old in 'Rotary years'. He feels that"... many of us who could give to the needy should do so". He continued, saying, " I am compelled and I'm gratified that I'm able to make a difference in someone's life through humanitarian efforts. To give community service without the expectation of getting some sort of reward."
He wants to encourage each member of Rotary Club of Tortola "...to rethink ...the real purpose [of becoming] a Rotarian ..."
Who is this Rotarian?
Rotarians Join Forces to Help Anegada
The Rotary Clubs on Tortola joined forces to supply basic necessities to residents of Anegada, a sister-island of the British Virgin Islands. Supplies totaling over $3,300 were transported by sea for the purpose.
(Photo: IPP Leroy , in centre, lifts case to be passed on for distribution in Anegada)
On August 31 Hurricane Earl swept through the British Virgin Islands bringing down trees, uprooting sidewalks, and causing some minor structural damage to buildings of the territory. Anegada being a relatively flat island was severely affected by the hurricane, however, and help was needed to restore things to normalcy there.
The day after the Hurricane Immediate Past President (IPP) of the Rotary Club of Tortola, Leroy Moses and other Rotarians dropped off boxes of bottled water, canned juices, milk, rice and other foodstuff at the community center, which acted as a shelter during Hurricane Earl.
IPP Leroy advised that the assistance given is just an initial response. "We are here to find out what else they need. we will raise the funds and get the supplies," he said. The clubs on Tortola are thankful to two community-based businesses that are contributing to the Anegada relief activities. Road Town Wholesale exclusively supplied the items distributed on September 1, and Bolo's Department Store donated batteries and dry goods, which arrived on the island the following day.
IPP Leroy stated that the donations were made possible through the hard work of rotarians Past President Lloyd Black, who is also the disaster management chair, President of the Tortola Club, Lorna Smith, and Lynette Harrigan. Relief efforts continued throughout the month of September.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Contributed
...that uncomfortable feeling, that thing to the rear literally pinning you at your wit's end. One person advised of a friend who asked the nurse to repeat the procedure in order to insure to the accuracy of the check...And, so the annual prostate cancer screening began on September 17, 2010. The BVI Red Cross was ably assisted by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Tortola
(Photo by:Astrid Wenzke)
and other Rotarians to process the attendees to the screening.
The event was a success.
(Photo by: Astrid Wenzke)
Seven hundred and seventy four males turned out over a two-day period to be screened for prostate cancer at the Red Cross Headquarters, Tortola.
On Friday, September 17 and Saturday, September 18, Dr. John Franklyn from the USVI, Dr Roger Tim and Physician assistant Faith Lake screened the men for any signs of the disease.
Prostate cancer occurs in the male reproductive system when cells of the prostate mutate and begin to multiply out of control. These cells may spread from the prostate to other parts of the body, especially the bones and lymph nodes.
It causes pain, difficulty in urinating, erectile dysfunction and other symptoms. Prior to being screened, individuals had their blood tested and received counseling on the disease.
(Photo by:Astrid Wenzke)
They also had the opportunity to check their blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and HIV status with the free confidential screening that was provided on-site.
Representatives from the National AIDS Programme, Dental Services, Department of Agriculture, Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, Proudly African, Sandy Lane Centre, Mental Health Department, the BVI Diabetes Association and Bless Hands Health Spa had booths at the Head Cross Headquarters.
This was all part of Men's Health Week held under the theme "Get Up, Get Out and Be Proactive."
RCT earns Bragging Rights--College Classics"
by Deon Morgan
RCT shows youngsters how it's done, and what's that?...WINNING!
On Saturday, September 18, 2010 approximately 12 members of the Rotary Club of Tortola (RCT) participated in the first run of the HLSCC/Highland college classics series. Rotarian Chris and Treasurer Julien dominated the scene finishing in the top twenty out of well-over 200 contenders. The college classics is a two-mile run around the local BVI college.
President Lorna, Immediate Past President Leroy, Secretary Susana , Treasurer Julien, President Elect Brian were only some of the board members who particpated in the twelve-man-strong team.
Of all the groups that participated in the college classics including the young Rotaract and Interact Clubs of Tortola,
The Rotary Club of Tortola emerged the winner.
The Rotary Club of Tortola took the opportunity to remind the younger clubs that the RCT footsteps still represent the great things which result if only the young will take heed.
Special thanks also to Barbara, wife of past president Percy Rhoden, who represented our club and finished in the top league of women.
Projects Summary -List of Ongoing Projects
| October | November | Ongoing |
| Lose to win | Fun Car Rally | Four way Signs Construction and installation |
| College Classics | - | Human Development |
| Children with Special Needs | - | Rotary Radio-Every Third Saturday of Each Month |
| - | - | School Building in Haiti |
| - | - | Food Aid-Haiti |
Rotaractors and Members of the RCT buddy up for a photo shot as fellowship wound down at the Virgin Queen Restaurant. Everyone had a good laugh, eating pizza, refreshing with beverages and three raffle opportunities. RCT Big Brother won a bracelet, Director Laura won a gift certificate for the restaurant, and Rotaractor Judd and IPP Leroy each took home one bottle of wine.
Fellowship Fridays are back!Spread the word. You were missed last Friday, September 24.
IPP Leroy of RCT, Rotarian (Rtn) Merrit, PP Audley, Rtn Andy, Rtn Astrid relax in the laid back evening atmosphere.