Environment Month
Stories
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2024)April: ENVIRONMENT Month As People of Action, Rotarians have been shaping the conversation on the environment for years. More than fifty years ago, the first Earth Day was held on 22 April, 1970, launching a wave of action to protect our environment, including the passage of landmark environmental laws in the United States. Other countries soon followed suit. Every year since, the day has been set aside to focus on mobilizing for action to protect our planet. As people of action, Rotarians have been shaping the conversation on the environment for years, from addressing climate change that threatens entire food systems to fighting pollution that clogs our air and water. Rotarians are well-suited for the challenge. They use their connections to find creative solutions and take action to safeguard our vital resources. The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) assists Rotary clubs, districts and multi-districts in building awareness, inspiring action, and planning service projects that focus on environmental sustainability, awareness of climate change, and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. |
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Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2024)March: WATER, SANITATION and HYGIENE Month What is Rotary doing to focus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in March? Clean water, sanitation and good hygiene is a human right. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, they lead healthier and more successful lives. Rotary don’t just build wells and walk away. Rotary integrates water, sanitation, and hygiene into education projects. When children learn about disease transmission and practice good hygiene, they miss less school. And they can take those lessons home to their families, expanding our impact. Clean water is a basic human right that many are often denied. There are 2.5 billion people in the world that lack access to improved sanitation and 748 million people that don’t have clean drinking water. Nearly 1400 children die each day from diseases caused by lack of sanitation and unsafe water. When people have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. In 2015, the United Nations introduced their new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty and promote prosperity while protecting the environment and addressing climate change. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 on water and sanitation encourages us to address universal access to drinking water and sanitation along with improved water management to protect ecosystems and build resiliency. Rotary is committed to reaching the water and sanitation SDG through projects like building wells, installing rainwater harvesting systems, and teaching community members how to maintain new infrastructure. During March, Rotary Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Month, we’re celebrating our commitment to create healthier communities by supplying clean water and sanitation facilities to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Rotary has issued a global challenge to its members, asking them to work collectively to improve education quality and access — particularly for girls — by working with communities to improve teacher training, curriculum, and water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. |
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Peace Building & Conflict Prevention Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2024)February: PEACEBUILDING & CONFLICT RESOLUTION Month One of the seven areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peacebuilding and conflict prevention (the actual area of focus is named "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution"), which is the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary. Through global grant activities, clubs and districts can participate in strategically focused, high-impact activities that align with Rotary goals that address this area of focus including to train leaders including potential youth leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, support peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict, and support studies related to peace and conflict prevention/resolution for career-minded professionals. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2024)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began almost one hundred nineteen years ago on February 23, 1905 in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness. |
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Vocational Service Month |
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2023 BWS |
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2023)
December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. This month, we celebrate the work Rotarians worldwide are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. In 1985, Rotary pledged to eradicate polio, and look at the progress that has occurred! Today, Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments worldwide to complete this pledge. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Thanks for all you do to support these important initiatives. The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe. Click HERE for more information
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Rotary Foundation Month.jpg) |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2023)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of over $500,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 25 years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2023)October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Basic Education & Literacy Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2023)September: Basic Education & Literacy Month Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population! Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Rotary supports education for all children and literacy for children and adults. The Rotary Foundation supports education through scholarships, donations, and service projects around the world. Rotary takes action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages. Our Club has provided financial support to several area libraries and we continue to donate a book every week to the Jarrell Elementary School Library as a "thank you" for speakers/programs at our meetings.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2023)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month Welcome to August – Membership and New Club Development Month on the Rotary calendar! It's a time to celebrate our Rotary clubs, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Impact starts with our members — people who want to be part of making the world a better place. At Rotary club meetings in communities across the globe, our members come together to strengthen their connections to friends and neighbors and their commitment to improving lives. When you join a Rotary Club, your potential to make a difference grows exponentially. That is because you are joining a network of people who take action. Volunteers from not only locally but from all over the world who share a goal of improving others’ quality of life. Join Rotary to get involved to make the world a better place for all. |
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2023)July: MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH Month Rotary International's monthly theme for July is Maternal and Child Health! Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus. To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health, click HERE .
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Maternal & Child Health Month |
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2023-24 RI Theme RI President Gordon R. McInally (from Scotland) calls for Rotary to create hope in the world by working for peace and mental wellbeing. He urges members to engage in tough conversations and earn the trust that’s necessary to realize these values. The Theme for Rotary Year 2023-24 is: CREATE HOPE in the WORLD
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2023)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. A condensed one page summary of the Rotary Fellowships program can be found by clicking HERE. |
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2023)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May has been designated as "Youth Service Month." A significant amount of our annual Community Service budget is directed to "Youth Service." Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Today's youth will eventually be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). It's hard to believe that it's almost time to begin preparing for our 23rd edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past twenty-two Christmas seasons. Hopefully, this year we can make BWS even bigger and better ...... There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that we have a "Youth Service Director" on our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian coordinates and ensures communication among all our youth programs. The Youth Services Director develops and maintains long-term relationships with area schools, and works with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Our Club will continue to support and search for ways to grow Youth Service. |
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Youth Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2023)April: ENVIRONMENT Month As People of Action, Rotarians have been shaping the conversation on the environment for years. Fifty years ago, the first Earth Day was held on 22 April, 1970, launching a wave of action to protect our environment, including the passage of landmark environmental laws in the United States. Other countries soon followed suit. Every year since, the day has been set aside to focus on mobilizing for action to protect our planet. As people of action, Rotarians have been shaping the conversation on the environment for years, from addressing climate change that threatens entire food systems to fighting pollution that clogs our air and water. Rotarians are well-suited for the challenge. They use their connections to find creative solutions and take action to safeguard our vital resources. The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) assists Rotary clubs, districts and multi-districts in building awareness, inspiring action, and planning service projects that focus on environmental sustainability, awareness of climate change, and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. |
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2023)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water, which is what motivates our members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits. From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to seven areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those seven areas of focus. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2023)February: PEACE BUILDING & CONFLICT PREVENTION Month One of the seven areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peacebuilding and conflict prevention (the actual area of focus is named "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution"), which is the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary. Through global grant activities, clubs and districts can participate in strategically focused, high-impact activities that align with Rotary goals that address this area of focus including to train leaders including potential youth leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, support peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict, and support studies related to peace and conflict prevention/resolution for career-minded professionals. |
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Peace Building & Conflict Prevention Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2023)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began almost one hundred sixteen years ago on February 23, 1905 in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness. |
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Vocational Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2022)
December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. This month, we celebrate the work Rotarians worldwide are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. In 1985, Rotary pledged to eradicate polio, and look at the progress that has occurred! Today, Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments worldwide to complete this pledge. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Thanks for all you do to support these important initiatives. The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe. Click HERE for more information
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2022)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of over $500,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 25 years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2022)October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2022)September: Basic Education & Literacy Month Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population! Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Rotary supports education for all children and literacy for children and adults. The Rotary Foundation supports education through scholarships, donations, and service projects around the world. Rotary takes action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages. Our Club has provided financial support to several area libraries and we continue to donate a book every week to the Jarrell Elementary School Library as a "thank you" for speakers/programs at our meetings.
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Basic Education & Literacy Month |
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BWS RETURNS >>>> December 17, 2022 Saturday, December 17, 2022 San Gabriel Community Center Georgetown, TX   |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2022)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month It's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Welcome August – Membership and New Club Development Month on the Rotary calendar! It's a time to celebrate our Rotary clubs, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Impact starts with our members — people who want to be part of making the world a better place. At Rotary club meetings in communities across the globe, our members come together to strengthen their connections to friends and neighbors and their commitment to improving lives. When you join a Rotary Club, your potential to make a difference grows exponentially. That is because you are joining a network of people who take action. Volunteers from not only locally but from all over the world who share a goal of improving others’ quality of life. Join Rotary to get involved to make the world a better place for all. |
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2022)July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2022 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month” (Rotary International takes a break from their monthly theme in July). One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to a meeting in July? Fortunately, ZOOM is a thing of the past and we're meeting again "in-person" in a nice venue for the foreseeable future. Our custom of first-time guests of Rotarians eating free is back in play so we will gladly provide lunch to someone wanting to learn more about our Club and Rotary. It is obvious that the best route to increase membership is to involve every Rotarian. Everyone surely has at least one friend! Exercise that friendship and let those friends learn about "Service above Self" and the fun of being a Rotarian!
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2022)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. A condensed one page summary of the Rotary Fellowships program can be found by clicking HERE. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2022)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May has been designated as "Youth Service Month." Our Club will celebrate this month's theme with a Road Trip to JISD to observe an EarlyAct FirstKnight® ceremony. A significant amount of our annual Community Service budget is directed to "Youth Service." Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Today's youth will eventually be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Although, COVID-19 caused RYLA to be cancelled for the past two years, it's back on the schedule for 2022 (at a new venue). It's hard to believe that it's almost time to begin preparing for our 22nd edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past twenty-one Christmas seasons. Hopefully, this year we can resume more NORMAL BWS activities...... There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that we have a "Youth Service Director" on our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian coordinates and ensures communication among all our youth programs. The Youth Services Director develops and maintains long-term relationships with area schools, and works with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Our Club will continue to support and grow Youth Service as (hopefully) the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis begin to wind down. Be sure to register to participate in the May 17 ROAD TRIP to Jarrell to observe an EAFK Knighting Ceremonies. |
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Youth Service Month |
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Maternal & Child Health Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2022)April: MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH Month Rotary International's monthly theme for April is Maternal and Child Health! Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus. To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health, click HERE . |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2022)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water, which is what motivates our members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits. From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to seven areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those seven areas of focus. |
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2022)February: PEACE & CONFLICT PREVENTION/RESOLUTION Month One of the seven areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peacebuilding and conflict prevention (the actual area of focus is named "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution"), which is the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary. Through global grant activities, clubs and districts can participate in strategically focused, high-impact activities that align with Rotary goals that address this area of focus including to train leaders including potential youth leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, support peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict, and support studies related to peace and conflict prevention/resolution for career-minded professionals.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2022)January: HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS Month Working collaboratively with other Texas Districts (5840, 5810, 5930 and 5850), the Rotary Action Group Against Human Trafficking, and the Rotary END HT network currently engaged across several states and Canada to adapt an infrastructure to support the long term goal of ending human trafficking through increasing awareness, providing education to youth, establishing options for vulnerable individuals to prevent them from becoming victims, and reducing the demand. Every year since 2010, January has been proclaimed as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Take time in January to learn more about human trafficking and action steps your Rotary Club and each Rotarian can take to prevent human trafficking. Additional information is posted on the District 5870 website.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2021)
December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. This month, we celebrate the work Rotarians worldwide are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. In 1985, Rotary pledged to eradicate polio, and look at the progress that has occurred! Today, Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments worldwide to complete this pledge. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Thanks for all you do to support these important initiatives. The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe. Click HERE for more information
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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BWS 2021 |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2021)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of nearly $482,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 23 years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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EXCELLENT CAKEMembers and guests enjoyed an excellent cake at the October 26 meeting to celebrate our Club's anniversary.  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2021)October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Basic Education & Literacy Month |
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2021)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month It's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Make the most of your membership. Here's a dozen ways to do it:
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2021)July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2021 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month” (Rotary International takes a break from their monthly theme in July). One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to a meeting in July? Fortunately, ZOOM is a thing of the past and we're meeting again "in-person" in a nice venue for the foreseeable future. Our custom of first-time guests of Rotarians eating free is back in play so we will gladly provide lunch to someone wanting to learn more about our Club and Rotary. It is obvious that the best route to increase membership is to involve every Rotarian. Everyone surely has at least one friend! Exercise that friendship and let those friends learn about "Service above Self" and the fun of being a Rotarian!
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2021-22 RI Theme RI President Shekhar Mehta (Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, West Bengal, India) is urging members to become more involved in service projects, saying that caring for and serving other is the best way to live because it changes not only other people’s lives, but also our own. The Theme for Rotary Year 2021-22 is: SERVE TO CHANGE LIVES
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2021)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. A condensed one page summary of the Rotary Fellowships program can be found by clicking HERE. |
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2021)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May is sometimes an "open" theme month for Rotary International. In previous years our Club has honored the military in May (especially our Club members who have served). However, for Rotary Year 2020-21, May 2021 has been designated as "Youth Service Month." Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Youth will be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Unfortunately, COVID-19 has caused RYLA to be cancelled AGAIN this July. However, it's almost time to begin preparing for our 21st edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past twenty Christmas seasons. Hopefully, this year we can resume our NORMAL BWS activities. There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that we added a "Youth Service Director" to our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian coordinates and ensures communication among all our youth programs. The Youth Services Director develops and maintains long-term relationships with area schools, and works with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Make May the month our Club continues to grow Youth Service in spite of the challenging COVID-19 crisis facing the world. Although we had to cancel our ROAD TRIPS to Jarrell for EAFK Knighting Ceremonies, activities have continued "virtually" this school year. |
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Youth Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2021)April: MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH Month Rotary International's monthly theme for April is Maternal and Child Health! Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus. To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health, click HERE . |
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Maternal & Child Health Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2021)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water, which is what motivates our members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits. From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to seven areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those seven areas of focus. |
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2021)February: PEACE & CONFLICT PREVENTION/RESOLUTION Month One of the six areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peacebuilding and conflict prevention (the actual area of focus is named "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution"), which is the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary. Through global grant activities, clubs and districts can participate in strategically focused, high-impact activities that align with Rotary goals that address this area of focus including to train leaders including potential youth leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, support peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict, and support studies related to peace and conflict prevention/resolution for career-minded professionals.
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Vocational Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2021)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began almost one hundred sixteen years ago on February 23, 1905 in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness.
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Thank You Thanks to all the Rotarians and volunteers (and especially Santa) who participated in Saturday's (December 12) special DRIVE-THRU "Breakfast with Santa" (hopefully, everyone will be eating pancakes and sausage and getting pictures made with Santa on December 11, 2021). MERRY CHRISTMAS and THANK YOU for supporting our community. As you can see in the photo, the sun was very bright and Santa had to borrow an umbrella until the tent finally blocked out the sun (which didn't really happen until we were almost finished....). The left-over "goodie bags" from Saturday's event (each containing lots of snacks and several fast food coupons donated by local businesses) were donated to The Caring Place in Georgetown.  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2020)
December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. This month, we celebrate the work Rotarians worldwide are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. In 1985, Rotary pledged to eradicate polio, and look at the progress that has occurred! Today, Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments worldwide to complete this pledge. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Thanks for all you do to support these important initiatives. The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe. Click HERE for more information
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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BWS 2020 Saturday, December 12 (9:00am to 11:00am) San Gabriel Community Center (San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, TX) SORRY, this year is DRIVE-THRU only NO Breakfast and NO Santa Photos Santa's helpers will give the first 500 kids a "Goodie Bag" Click HERE for more info (and to "sign-up" to help with the event) Rotarians at Work Although we won't all be eating pancakes and sausage and getting pictures made with Santa this year, the generous financial support from the business community, individual friends/neighbors and Sun City Rotarians will still enable "Breakfast with Santa" to continue the tradition of helping make Christmas a lot brighter for kids and teenagers in Georgetown as well as many kids and families in Jarrell served by that community's annual Christmas out-reach program ("Breakfast with Santa" is really much, much more than just breakfast and photos). Thank you, if you have already provided support. Please contact the Sun City Rotary Club if you would like additional information about participating and/or providing financial support this year for BWS 2020: info@sctrotary.com Recap (copy of newspaper ad) from BWS 2019 .jpg)  |
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2020)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of nearly $470,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 23 years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2020)
October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2020)September: Basic Education and Literacy Month Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population! Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Rotary supports education for all children and literacy for children and adults. The Rotary Foundation supports education through scholarships, donations, and service projects around the world. Rotary takes action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages. Our Club has provided financial support to several area libraries and we continue to donate a book every week to the Jarrell Elementary School Library as a "thank you" for speakers/programs at our meetings.
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Basic Education and Literacy Month |
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Faith in Action Benefit Concert |
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2020)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month It's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Make the most of your membership. Here's a dozen ways to do it:
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Benches for McCoy Elementary SchoolAs part of our annual Community Service and outreach programs, our Club purchased two benches for McCoy Elementary School in Georgetown. The project was developed by Barb Barrett (past Club President and currently an Honorary Member of our Club) with procurement and installation of the benches coordinated by her husband Andrew Barrett (employed by Georgetown Independent School District and also previously a member of our Club).    |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2020)July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2020 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month” (Rotary International takes a break from their monthly theme in July). One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to a meetings in July (currently pretty simple because all that is required is to share the ZOOM invitation)? Unfortunately, the custom of first-time guests of Rotarians eating free will have to be postponed for the time being. The Club will gladly provide a free lunch when "in-person" meetings resume. It is obvious that the best route to increase membership is to involve every Rotarian. Everyone surely has at least one friend! Exercise that friendship and let those friends learn about "Service above Self" and the fun of being a Rotarian!
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RI Area of Focus #7 The Rotary Foundation Trustees and Rotary International Board of Directors have added a new area of focus: supporting the environment. More than $18 million in Foundation global grant funding has been allocated to environment-related projects over the past five years. Creating a distinct area of focus to support the environment will give Rotary members even more ways to bring about positive change in the world and increase our impact. Supporting the environment becomes Rotary's seventh area of focus, which are categories of service activities supported by global grants. It joins peacebuilding and conflict prevention; disease prevention and treatment; water, sanitation, and hygiene; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; and community economic development. Grant applications for projects will be accepted beginning on 1 July 2021. Gifts and commitments from Rotarians and others will be sought to provide global grant support for the new area of focus. |
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2020-21 RI Theme Rotary is not just a club that you join. It is an invitation to endless opportunities. It opens opportunities to serve in a project as big and historic as End Polio Now or simply a small community project, where you just plant a tree. Rotary opens opportunities for you to live a richer, more meaningful life, with friends around the world, based on Rotary's core values. Everything Rotary does opens another opportunity for someone, somewhere. Therefore, the theme for Rotary Year 2020-21 is: Rotary Opens Opportunities. Holger Knaack, Rotary International President |
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RI VIRTUAL ConventionGo to "Upcoming Events" in left column for more info and to "sign-up"  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2020)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. A condensed one page summary of the Rotary Fellowships program can be found by clicking HERE. |
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2020)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May is sometimes an "open" theme month for Rotary International. In previous years our Club has honored the military in May (especially our Club members who have served). However, for Rotary Year 2019-20, May 2020 has been designated as "Youth Service Month." Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Youth will be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Unfortunately, COVID-19 has caused RYLA to be cancelled this July. However, it's almost time to begin preparing for our 20th edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past nineteen Christmas seasons. There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that we added a "Youth Service Director" to our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian coordinates and ensures communication among all our youth programs. The Youth Services Director develops and maintains long-term relationships with area schools, and works with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Make May the month our Club continues to grow Youth Service in spite of the challenging COVID-19 crisis facing the world. Although we had to cancel our annual ROAD TRIP to Jarrell for the final EAFK Knighting Ceremonies for this school year, plans are underway to conduct the final ceremony "virtually!" Stayed tuned for details.
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Youth Service Month |
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Earth DayEarth Day 2020  |
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Maternal & Child Health Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2020)April: MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH Month Rotary International's monthly theme for April is Maternal and Child Health! Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus. To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health, click HERE . |
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Online MeetingsFYI: Dynamic (constantly being updated) listing of "online" Rotary Meetings around the world. Click HERE |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2020)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water, which is what motivates our members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits. From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those six areas of focus.
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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The Rotary BellHave you ever wondered how the tradition of the Rotary Bell began? In 1922, U.S. Rotarians organized an attendance contest to see which club could increase their attendance at meetings the most. The challenge was that the losing clubs would join in giving the winning club a prize. The Rotary Club of New York City was declared the winner and they were awarded as a prize, a bell from a popular patrol boat, which was placed on a block of wood that came from HMS “Victory,” Admiral Nelson’s vessel at the battle of Trafalgar. Since then, the bell used in Rotary meetings started to represent, as on the ships, order, discipline and the time to guide us through the weekly meetings. The bell informs us with its sound the beginning of the meeting at which time people present should stand in order to salute the US flag. The sounding of the bell concludes meetings and is also rung at somber times (such as to honor Rotarians at the “Celebration of Life” ceremony at our District’s annual Conference of Rotary Clubs). A Rotary Club in Ann Arbor, Michigan recently had their Past Presidents line up and pass their bell out the door to the Sergeant-at-Arms when they were moving to a new permanent meeting location. In 2013, several members of our Club attended the District 5870 “All Clubs Luncheon” at Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop and we took our Club’s bell to ring as we were introduced. The 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta was opened and closed by ringing a special bell that was forged at a 1,000-year-old foundry in Agnone, Italy, in honor of The Rotary Foundation’s centennial. Convention attendees were invited to view (but not touch) the bell which was “guarded” at all times. So, the next time you hear our Club bell, think about its symbolism and its long-standing tradition for Rotary.  The Rotary Foundation Centennial bell, whose resounding clang marked the 2017 convention’s official start, was handcrafted in Italy by the Marinelli brothers. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2020)February: PEACEBUILDING AND CONFLICT PREVENTION Month One of the six areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peacebuilding and conflict prevention (the actual area of focus is named "Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution"), which is the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary. Through global grant activities, clubs and districts can participate in strategically focused, high-impact activities that align with Rotary goals that address this area of focus including to train leaders including potential youth leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, support peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict, and support studies related to peace and conflict prevention/resolution for career-minded professionals.
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Thank You |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2020)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began almost one hundred fifteen years ago on February 23, 1905 in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness.
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Vocational Service Month |
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BWS Photos |
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BWS 2019 Complete
 BWS #19 Successfully Completed Over 970 people enjoyed BREAKFAST prepared by the Georgetown Fire Department and served by volunteers from Kohl's Cares and Rotarians from Sun City Rotary Club .jpeg) A very special THANKS goes out to the "Ladies on Wheels Motorcycle Club" for delivering Santa to Georgetown for pictures with the kids.  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2019)December: DISEASE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. This month, we celebrate the work Rotarians worldwide are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. In 1985, Rotary pledged to eradicate polio, and look at the progress that has occurred! Today, Rotary International has partnered with the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments worldwide to complete this pledge. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Thanks for all you do to support these important initiatives. The Rotary Foundation is changing the world by providing grants for projects and activities around the globe. Click HERE for more information
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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5 Reasons5 Reasons to Donate to The Rotary Foundation
 Click HERE to read the article |
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BWS 2019
Saturday, December 14 (7:30am to 11:00am) San Gabriel Community Center (San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, TX) $6.00 (12 and under eat FREE) Tickets Available at the Door Pancakes - Sausage - Juice - Coffee FREE photo with Santa Click HERE for more info Proceeds from this 19th annual BREAKFAST and especially the generous financial support from the business community, individual friends/neighbors and Sun City Rotarians will enable "Breakfast with Santa" to help make Christmas a lot brighter for kids and teenagers in Georgetown as well as many kids and families in Jarrell served by that community's annual Christmas out-reach program. Thank you, if you have already provided support. Please contact the Sun City Rotary Club if you would like additional information about participating and/or providing financial support this year for BWS 2019: info@sctrotary.com Recap (copy of newspaper ad) from BWS 2018 BWS 2019 Poster |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2019)November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. In 2016-17, our Rotary Foundation turned "100." That’s a century of Rotary members changing lives and improving communities all over the world. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of nearly $460,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 22 years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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PolioPlus |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2019)October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2019)September: Basic Education and Literacy Month Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population! Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Rotary supports education for all children and literacy for children and adults. The Rotary Foundation supports education through scholarships, donations, and service projects around the world. Rotary takes action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages. Our Club has provided financial support to several area libraries and we continue to donate a book every week to the Jarrell Elementary School Library as a "thank you" for speakers/programs at our meetings.
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Basic Education and Literacy Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2019)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month It's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world. Make the most of your membership. Here's a dozen ways to do it:
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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RYLA Camp Click HERE for pictures from 2019 Camp |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2019)July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2019 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month.” One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to one of our meetings in July (or any month)? Remember, first-time guests of Rotarians eat free and I'll bet we can even afford another free lunch for a follow up visit, should there be one.
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2019-20 RI Theme.png) RI President Mark Daniel Maloney’s theme for 2019-20, Rotary Connects the World, asks Rotarians to strengthen the many ways that Rotary Connects the World, building the connections that allow talented, thoughtful, and generous people to unite and take meaningful action through Rotary service. |
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Rotary Year Begins July 1Why the Rotary year begins 1 JulyEver wonder why the Rotary year begins 1 July? The international convention initially played a key role in determining the start date of our fiscal and administrative year. Click HERE for the full story. |
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2019)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. |
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Memorial Day 2019Rotary Club of Georgetown - Sun City
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President's Night 2019PRESIDENT'S NIGHT 2019 Wednesday, June 26 at 6:00pm ATRIUM (Sun City Activities Center) .gif) Members: click HERE to register yourself and your guest(s) |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2019)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May is sometimes an "open" theme month for Rotary International. In previous years our Club has honored the military in May (especially our Club members who have served). However, for Rotary Year 2018-19, May 2019 has been designated as "Youth Service Month." This year our Flight Squad Fundraiser in Jarrell to support youth-related projects such as EarlyAct FirstKnight®, is an example of our commitment to Youth Service. Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Youth will be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Our Club will sponsor four RYLA campers this July as well as prepare and serve the noon meal at RYLA camp on Thursday, July 4. Also, it's almost time to begin preparing for our 19th edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past eighteen Christmas seasons. There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that consideration is now being given to officially adding a "Youth Service Director" to our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian would coordinate and ensure communication among all our youth programs. A Youth Services Director would develop and maintain long-term relationships with area schools, and work with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Make May the month our Club grows Youth Service. Thanks to the members who showed their support by making a ROAD TRIP to Jarrell on Wednesday, May 1 for the final EAFK Knighting Ceremonies for this school year!
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Youth Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2019)April: MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH Month Rotary International's monthly theme for April is Maternal and Child Health! Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improves access to essential medical services, and supports trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary’s projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. Maternal and Child Health Care is also recognized as one of Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus. To get more information and read news about Rotary's work to promote maternal and child health, click HERE . |
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Maternal & Child Health Month |
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Final Flight Squad Fundraiser .jpg)  .jpg) .jpg)  Tickets are $13 at the door on the day of event. Sale of advance tickets online has ended.  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2019)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water, which is what motivates our members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits. From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those six areas of focus.
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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Golf MonthApril is "Golf Tournament Month" There are at least two upcoming golf events for Rotarians to engage in "Opportunities to Support our Communities." THE LOCKER is having a golf tournament on Monday, April 8 at Cimarron Hills Country Club and The Assistance League is having a golf tournament on Monday, April 15 at Berry Creek Country Club. Click HERE to go to the "Opportunities to Support our Communities" site page for more information. Also, the RC of Georgetown is having their annual golf tournament on Friday, April 12 at Cowan Creek. |
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Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2019)February: PEACE AND CONFLICT PREVENTION/RESOLUTION Month One of the six areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peace and conflict resolution and prevention, which happens to be the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. We also see these conflicts occurring in some form within our own communities with the same results. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary.
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SurpriseWhat .......???  January 22 Meeting |
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Flight Squad Fundraiser Tickets are $10 in advance (plus $1.34 convenience fee) or $13 at the door on the day of event. Click HERE to purchase advance tickets online. |
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Vocational Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2019)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began one hundred twelve years ago in January in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness.
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Boys and Girls Club Thanks to the 14 Sun City Rotarians (Adaire, Al, Beth, Bill H., Don B., Dwayne, Glenn, John S., Ken, Pam, Patty, Rod, Ron and Susan) who donated 212 "Breakfast with Santa" tickets to the kids served by the Boys & Girls Club. |
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Sam's Open House for 2018
President Sam is having an Open House.Click HERE to download the invitation and information. (member login required)  |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2018)December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. We believe good health care is everyone’s right. Disease results in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide. That’s why treating and preventing disease is so important to Rotary. We lead efforts both large and small. We set up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access. We design and build infrastructure that allows doctors, patients, and governments to work together. Rotary members combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and polio. Prevention is important, which is why we also focus on health education and bringing people routine hearing, vision, and dental care. During the month of December we recognize all that Rotary International and Rotarians are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. It was certainly no small task that RI decided to take on in 1985 when we pledged to eradicate polio. Only one infectious disease has ever been eradicated before: smallpox in 1979. That was due to diligent vaccination and surveillance efforts; the same efforts that have bought mankind ever so close to the elimination of another devastating disease. An amazing partnership between RI, the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments is working to make this possible. Although Rotary's top priority is the eradication of polio, our members are taking on far greater responsibilities to fight disease. They set up health camps and training facilities in undeveloped countries and in communities struggling with HIV/AIDS and malaria. They also design and build the infrastructure for doctors, nurses, governments, and partners to reach the one in six people in the world who can't afford to pay for health care. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Disease prevention and treatment takes on many forms, from supporting studies to helping immunize people to improving drinking water and the sanitation infrastructure. The world relies on Rotary to tackle these global challenges, and to set an example for others to follow. Click HERE for more information |
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BWS 2018
Saturday, December 15 (7:30am to 11:00am) San Gabriel Community Center (San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, TX) $6.00 (12 and under eat FREE) Tickets Available at the Door Pancakes - Sausage - Juice - Coffee FREE photo with Santa Click HERE for more info Proceeds from this 18th annual BREAKFAST and especially the generous financial support from the business community, individual friends/neighbors and Sun City Rotarians will enable "Breakfast with Santa" to help make Christmas a lot brighter for over 150 kids and teenagers in Georgetown as well as many kids and families in Jarrell served by that community's annual Christmas out-reach program. Thank you, if you have already provided support. Please contact the Sun City Rotary Club if you would like additional information about participating and/or providing financial support this year for BWS 2018: info@sctrotary.com Recap (copy of newspaper ad) from BWS 2017 BWS 2018 Poster |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2018)November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. In 2016-17, our Rotary Foundation turned "100." That’s a century of Rotary members changing lives and improving communities all over the world. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of nearly $415,000 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 21+ years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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2018 Sun City Arts & Crafts Fair Club Members: Click HERE to register for work assignments (Rotarians at Work) If desired, you may sign-up for "ALL DAY" (Friday, Saturday and/or Sunday) and do whatever is needed and/or assigned by the Event Chairman. Rotary Work/Safety Vests will be available for Rotarians and other volunteers. |
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Proposed New Members for Our ClubKelley Crutchfield (Banking) and Stephen Ellis (Retired Industrial Sales) have been proposed for membership in our Club. The Club Board of Directors has reviewed and approved both membership proposals. Any comments and/or questions regarding these membership proposals must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (October 16, 2018).
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2018)October: Economic and Community Development Month Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty. Rotary members and Rotary's foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities. Rotary provides training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions. ROTARY MAKES HELP HAPPENRotary creates opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially. ROTARY IMPACTS LOCAL ECONOMIESRotary members train people to become resources for their community, offering networking activities, advice on new business development and financial management training.
The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a Club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk pre-school children to practice communication skills, serving pancakes at Breakfast with Santa, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our Club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for people in our community and throughout the world. |
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2018)September: Basic Education and Literacy Month Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population! Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Rotary supports education for all children and literacy for children and adults. The Rotary Foundation supports education through scholarships, donations, and service projects around the world. Rotary takes action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages.
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BWS 2018 (2) In less than a week we will be cooking up these goodies for the 18th time for the people in our community. .jpeg) BWS 2018  December 15 |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2018)August: MEMBERSHIP & NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month August is Membership & New Club Development Month, which means it's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world.Make the most of your membership. Here's a dozen ways to do it:
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Membership & New Club Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2018)July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2018 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month.” One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to one of our meetings in July (or any month)? Remember, first-time guests of Rotarians eat free and I'll bet we can even afford another free lunch for a follow up visit, should there be one.
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BWS 2018BWS 2018 December 15 |
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Rotary Year Begins July 1Why the Rotary year begins 1 JulyEver wonder why the Rotary year begins 1 July? The international convention initially played a key role in determining the start date of our fiscal and administrative year. Rotary's first fiscal year began the day after the first convention ended, on 18 August 1910. The 1911-12 fiscal year also related to the convention, beginning with the first day of the 1911 convention on 21 August. At its August 1912 meeting, the Board of Directors ordered an audit of the International Association of Rotary Clubs' finances. The auditors recommended that the organization end its fiscal year on 30 June to give the secretary and treasurer time to prepare a financial statement for the convention and board, and determine the proper number of club delegates to the convention. The executive committee concurred, and at its April 1913 meeting, designated 30 June as the end of the fiscal year. This also allowed for changes to the schedule for reporting club membership and payments. Even The Rotarian changed its volume numbering system to correspond to the fiscal year (beginning with vol. 5, July 1914). Rotary continued to hold its annual conventions in July or August until 1917. Delegates to the 1916 event in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, approved a resolution to hold future conventions in June, mainly because of the heat in cities where most of them occurred. The next one was held 17-21 June in Atlanta, Georgia. The term "Rotary year" has been used to signify Rotary's annual administrative period since at least 1913. An article in The Rotarian that July noted, "The Rotary year that is rapidly drawing to a close has been signalized by several highly successful joint meetings of Clubs that are so situated as to assemble together easily and conveniently." Since the executive committee's decision in 1913, the end of the Rotary year has remained 30 June. |
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2018-19 RI Theme RI President-elect Barry Rassin’s theme for 2018-19, Be the Inspiration, asks Rotarians to inspire change in the world and in each other. “I ask all of you to Be the Inspiration to help Rotary move from reaction to action — to take a hard look at the environmental issues that affect health and welfare around the world and do what we can to help.” |
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Thanks to the Troops 2018 |
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Vet-Am Golf Tournament 2018.png) Friday, June 15 Our Club is working #2 tee box (three shifts). Sign-up to help (left column) Click Read more... to see map |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2018)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month June is considered as Rotary Fellowships Month in the Rotary calendar. However, there may be a misconception among Rotarians on what aspect of the RI programs is being celebrated for this month of June. "Rotary Fellowships" actually refer to the groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who join together to:
Examples of Rotary Fellowships include: Rotarians on the Internet (ROTI), International Fellowship of Rotarians of Amateur Radio (ROAR), International Computer Users Fellowship of Rotarians (ICUFR), International Fellowship of Rotary Convention Goers, International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians, International Fellowship of Rotarians Musicians, Rotary Global History Fellowship, etc. The topics are varied and include marathon running, scuba diving, flying, bird watching, chess, doll lovers, environment, Esperanto, go, gourmets, lawyers, magic, nurses, police and law enforcement professionals, recreational vehicles, singles, stockbrokers, venture capitalists, wine and yoga. Rotary Fellowships operate independently of Rotary International, with their own rules, dues requirements and administrative structure. Membership is open to Rotarians, spouses of Rotarians and Rotaractors. It must be international in nature with active members in at least three (3) countries. Each fellowship elects at least three (3) officers to oversee the group's administration. The Rotary Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication among their members and maintain regular communication with RI. What are the benefits for Rotarians in joining the Rotary Fellowships? Fellowship provide opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own Club, District or country. Fellowships contribute to the advancement of world understanding and peace. Also, Fellowships serve as an incentive for attracting new members to Rotary and retaining our existing members. Indeed, Rotary Fellowship, together with the Rotarian Action Groups, serve as an effective tool in promoting membership development and should be actively promoted in our Districts. Interested Rotarians can join a Rotary Fellowship by clicking https://www.rotary.org/en/form-rotary-fellowship or even start a prospective Rotary Fellowship if their recreational or vocational interest is not in the list of approved Rotary Fellowships. |
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Rotary Fellowships Month |
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2018 FUNDRAISER Winner"WINNER" of the 2018 FUNDRAISER is Dave Redus. .jpg) .jpg) .jpg) Net Proceeds help fund YOUTH-related projects in Williamson County ***** THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED THIS YEAR *****  |
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Memorial Day 2018Rotary Club of Georgetown - Sun City
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2018 FUNDRAISER Drawing"DRAWING" for the 2018 FUNDRAISER will be Tuesday, May 29. Net Proceeds help fund YOUTH-related projects in Williamson County |
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Sir HaroldRotary Clubs in District 5870 that sponsor EarlyAct FirstKnight® were recognized at this year's District Conference by "KNIGHTING" a representative of the Club. President Bergh (a.k.a. Sir Harold) subsequently bestowed this honor to the entire Club at the May 8 meeting. Congratulations Sir Harold and to everyone in the Club who helped this year with EAFK at Jarrell Elementary and Intermediate Schools. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2018)May: YOUTH SERVICE Month May is sometimes an "open" theme month for Rotary International. In previous years our Club has honored the military in May (especially our Club members who have served). However, for Rotary Year 2017-18, May 2016 has been designated as "Youth Service Month." Our recent Spaghetti Supper Fundraiser in Jarrell to support youth-related projects such as EarlyAct FirstKnight®, is an example of our commitment to Youth Service. Rotary’s Youth Service programs have a long history of developing young leaders, and providing for health and education projects to make the world a better place. These programs make it a priority to create world peace and understanding while exposing youth to the ideals of “Service Above Self.” Youth Service is important because youth are our future. Youth will be running our country and the world, and are the future of Rotary. For Rotary and its ideals of service as a worthy enterprise to survive and thrive beyond our lifetime, Rotarians must be involved in Youth Service Rotary’s 5th Avenue of Service, Youth Service, includes programs for those up to age 30. They range from providing scholarships, encouraging youth leadership and student exchange, youth-based service clubs (such as Rotaract and Interact), EarlyAct FirstKnight®, Rotary Youth and New Generations Exchanges, and Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Our Club will sponsor six RYLA campers this July as well as prepare and serve the noon meal at RYLA camp on Thursday, July 5. Also, it's almost time to begin preparing for our 18th edition of Breakfast with Santa which has served hundreds of local youth and families for the past seventeen Christmas seasons. There are a wide range of programs and projects included under Rotary’s Youth Service umbrella. Youth Service projects and activities have become such a major focus for our club that consideration is now being given to adding a "Youth Service Director" to our Club's Board of Directors. This Rotarian would coordinate and ensure communication among all our youth programs. A Youth Services Director would develop and maintain long-term relationships with area schools, and work with other Club leaders to coordinate and maximize the impact and effectiveness of all our Youth Service activities. Make May the month our Club grows Youth Service and show your support by participating in the ROAD TRIP to Jarrell on Wednesday, May 23 for the final EAFK Knighting Ceremony for this school year! |
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Youth Service Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2018)April: MATERNAL and CHILD HEALTH Month At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary International provide immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services, and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Their projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs. |
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Maternal and Child Health Month |
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Spaghetti Fundraiser for EAFK |
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2018 FUNDRAISER |
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Stock THE LOCKER (Thanks)STOCK THE LOCKER  THE LOCKER is an organization/club that focuses on "kids helping kids!" Students working together for the benefit of others is the goal! "Happy Bucks" collected a total of $1,499 in February (plus a considerable quantity of donated "products") that will all go to THE LOCKER in Jarrell. (High School, Middle School and Intermediate School) Once again, our Club demonstrated our significant generosity and continued support for the kids in our community/area. |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2018)March: WATER AND SANITATION Month From the various water projects in which Rotary has participated, we have come to know the obstacles that many people across the globe face when it comes to some of the basic necessities of life. We tend to take for granted the clean and generally safe and plentiful water sources to which we have access. Rotary International, through the combined actions of individual Rotarians and Rotary Clubs, seeks to assure that all people have adequate access to clean and safe water. The Rotary theme for March, Water and Sanitation, asks us to focus on the life changing improvements that we can make through these international projects to provide a more readily available and healthy supply of water to all people. The problem is not that the world will run out of water (that amount is fixed through evaporation and re-condensation). The problem is the unequal distribution of water and the lack of universal proper sanitary practices to assure safe water for drinking. While some regions and peoples are certainly at greater risk than others and deserving of greater attention, we have seen recently that no population is free from concern. Consider the lead problems in Flint, Michigan and the approaching Day Zero for Cape Town, South Africa (which fortunately has been moved further out and may never happen). Water and sanitation issues will certainly continue to be an area of focus for RI and deserving of our attention as Rotarians. Rotary is dedicated to six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. Water and Sanitation is one of those six areas of focus.
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Water and Sanitation Month |
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Stock THE LOCKERSTOCK THE LOCKER THE LOCKER is an organization/club that focuses on "kids helping kids!" Students working together for the benefit of others is the goal! February "Happy Bucks" will go to THE LOCKER in Jarrell (High School, Middle School and Intermediate School) Click HERE to see a list, if you want to purchase/donate needed supplies. |
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BWS 2017 Thank You (lite)
December 16, 2017 was the 17th consecutive year to serve our community at Christmas. THANK YOU To ALL the attendees, Rotarians, volunteers, Santa and especially the Georgetown Fire Department for once again making "Breakfast with Santa" a special event.   Club President Harold, SANTA and Sandra Elf Karen BWS 2018 will be Saturday, December 15 |
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2018 Mardi Gras SocialLaissez les bon temps roulez (let the good times roll) Mardi Gras Social (Sun City Ballroom - February 8, 2018) |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2018)February: PEACE AND CONFLICT PREVENTION/RESOLUTION Month One of the six areas of focus of Rotary we don’t seem to talk about very much is peace and conflict resolution and prevention, which happens to be the theme for the month of February. It is often, however, the conflicts that occur throughout the world that are the root causes of poverty, despair, economic hardship and poor health. Take for instance the major deterrent to polio eradication: the difficulty in vaccinating children in war torn countries. We also see these conflicts occurring in some form within our own communities with the same results. Rotary International as an organization understands this relationship and therefore is deeply invested in supporting individuals and programs that will develop leaders who are committed to seeking ways toward peace. The path toward peace begins with understanding and respect for the differences that make us unique. These are the same types of values that are studied in the peace centers supported by Rotary International in association with several major universities across the globe. The mission of these centers is to “empower, educate, and increase the capacity of peace builders through rigorous academic training, practice, and global networking opportunities. Through this experience, Rotary Peace Fellows build the skills needed to act as leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe. These Fellows develop the skills needed to act as “leaders and catalysts for peace and conflict resolution both in their communities and around the globe.” As Rotarians we should all be similarly committed to understanding the conflicts that exist in our own society, to speak out when necessary, and to seek solutions that reflect the values of Rotary.
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Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2018)January: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month It all began one hundred twelve years ago in January in the windy city of Chicago. At that time the Chicago Rotary Club’s constitution had two objects. The first was the “promotion of the business interests of its members” and the second was the “concept of friendship.” In 1910 at Rotary’s first Convention in Chicago, a quote of “As man comes into the light of wisdom, he comes to see that conduct toward others pays, that business is the science of human service and that he profits most who serves his fellows best,” became one of Rotary’s first mottos. Then two years later in 1911, at the conference in Oregon a second motto we all are familiar with -- “Service Above Self” was introduced. The idea of business as an object of Rotary was established in 1912 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs when it adopted a statement containing the 5 objects of Rotary. Both "mottos" were officially adopted in 1950. No matter how much we would like to think that Paul Harris and his friends created Rotary for noble ideas of humanitarian service, goodwill, and world understanding – it was not the initial premise. Paul Harris had the idea that friendship and business might mix and result in more business. In that era, most large cities like Chicago were in grips of growing business and industry, with fierce competition. Such slogans as “Cutthroat Competition”, “Let the Buyer Beware”, “Dog Eat Dog” and “The Public be Damned” were popular in the lives of giants in industry. Competitors were the enemy -- just making money was the goal. It was in this atmosphere that Paul Harris began to wonder if one person from each business or profession could actual work together in a non-competitive atmosphere. This is how classification came into existence. If they were not rivals or competitors, they could work together to help each other improve their business and income. Through the idea of friendship and business combined-the idea of Rotary evolved. T.A, Warren a British Rotarian who became RI President in 1945-46 made this statement in an earlier book on history of Great Britain: “The only unique feature of Rotary is vocational service; everything else that we do is repeated by some other organizations.” In 1943, the Four Way Test as we know it was adopted to guide in sales, promotion, advertising and all relationships with dealers, customers and employees. Vocational Services emerged to guidance opportunities to assist young people in selecting their future business and professional career. The Group Study Exchange program now known as Vocational Training Teams fall in this area of service. Our 21st century has come full circle in the question of business ethics. Large corporate executives are under indictment for unethical and illegal practice. But let us, as Rotarians, recall the Code of Business ethics and continue to tell the world the important message of business honesty, ethics, truth, and fairness.
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Vocational Service Month |
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BWS 2017 Thank You
December 16, 2017 was the 17th consecutive year to serve our community at Christmas. THANK YOU To ALL the attendees, Rotarians, volunteers, Santa and especially the Georgetown Fire Department for once again making "Breakfast with Santa" a special event. Club President Harold, SANTA and Sandra Elf Karen UNCLAIMED Santa Photos can be picked up beginning Monday, December 18 at the Georgetown Fire Department, Public Safety Operations and Training Center, 3500 DB Wood Road (opens at 8:00 am). |
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Boys and Girls ClubThanks to the 9 Sun City Rotarians (Jack, Don, Stephen, Glenn, Ron, Malcolm, George, Rich and Patty) who donated 147 "Breakfast with Santa" tickets to the club. |
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month (EXTRA) |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2017)December: DISEASE PREVENTION & TREATMENT Month During the month of December we recognize all that Rotary International and Rotarians are doing to combat diseases through effective treatment and prevention. It was certainly no small task that RI decided to take on in 1985 when we pledged to eradicate polio. Only one infectious disease has ever been eradicated before: smallpox in 1979. That was due to diligent vaccination and surveillance efforts; the same efforts that have bought mankind ever so close to the elimination of another devastating disease. An amazing partnership between RI, the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and regional governments is working to make this possible. Although Rotary's top priority is the eradication of polio, our members are taking on far greater responsibilities to fight disease. They set up health camps and training facilities in undeveloped countries and in communities struggling with HIV/AIDS and malaria. They also design and build the infrastructure for doctors, nurses, governments, and partners to reach the one in six people in the world who can't afford to pay for health care. Although infectious diseases continue to be a major cause of illness and death across the globe, they are not the major health concerns for most developed countries. Now many people are seeing their lives shortened by chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Many of these conditions are not caused by infectious agents but are rather due to certain health behaviors and social conditions. Rotary’s continued involvement in Disease Prevention and Treatment will thus need to be directed toward finding solutions to these social and behavioral determinants of health while continuing to fight against existing and emerging disease threats. You as a Rotarian have been enlisted as being a part of that fight. Disease prevention and treatment takes on many forms, from supporting studies to helping immunize people to improving drinking water and the sanitation infrastructure. The world relies on Rotary to tackle these global challenges, and to set an example for others to follow. Join Rotary and work on projects to prevent and treat disease. Read news about Rotary's efforts to fight disease
Resources & reference
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Rotary Disease Prevention & Treatment Month |
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BWS 2017
Saturday, December 16 (7:30am to 11:00am) San Gabriel Community Center (San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, TX) $6.00 (12 and under eat FREE) Pancakes - Sausage - Juice - Coffee FREE photo with Santa Click HERE for more info Proceeds from this 17th annual BREAKFAST and especially the generous financial support from the business community, individual friends/neighbors and Sun City Rotarians will enable "Breakfast with Santa" to help make Christmas a lot brighter for over 200 kids and teenagers in Georgetown as well as many kids and families in Jarrell served by that community's annual Christmas out-reach program. Thank you, if you have already provided support. Please contact the Sun City Rotary Club if you would like additional information about participating and/or providing financial support this year for BWS 2017: info@sctrotary.com Recap (copy of newspaper ad) from BWS 2016 BWS 2017 Poster |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (52 of 52)Service Above Self Plagued by famine, the impoverished nation of Niger struggles to feed its citizens. But Rotarians like Ernie and Sally Montagne, of Arizona, USA, are helping to break this cycle of hunger and grinding poverty. During a planning trip to Niger on a Rotary Grant, the Montagnes saw firsthand how The Rotary Foundation’s humanitarian efforts are supporting sustainable projects there. “The Rotary Foundation is our vehicle of choice to enable ordinary Rotarians to make a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of villagers in Africa.” Ernie and Sally Montagne
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (50 of 52)Sponsoring Rotary Scholars “I am confident that I am demonstrating a commitment to Rotary ideals-furthering peace and cultural tolerance- through the work that I produce.” Alissa Nicole Creamer As a Rotary Foundation Scholar Alissa Nicole Creamer got a close- up look at how people recover from the ravages of war. While studying documentary filmmaking in Spain she participated in a project supported by 60 Spanish Rotary Clubs to fund rehabilitation of child victims of land mine explosions. Nearly every day for three months Creamer visited with two Angolan children at a local hospital. She got to know their life stories and now she is telling their story to the world through a documentary film she is directing. By sponsoring and hosting Rotary Scholars, Rotarians give the world hope for the future.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (51 of 52)The Six Areas of Focus For more than 100 years, Rotarians have joined together from all continents, cultures, and industries to take action in our communities and around the world. With a commitment to achieving lasting change, we work together to empower youth, enhance health, promote peace, and most important, advance the community. While Rotarians can serve in countless ways, Rotary has focused its efforts in six areas, which reflect some of the most critical and widespread humanitarian needs: • Peace and conflict prevention/resolution • Disease prevention and treatment • Water and sanitation • Maternal and child health • Basic education and literacy • Economic and community development Rotarians planning new service projects are encouraged to consider these areas and the many opportunities for innovative projects.
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Opportunity to Support ROTARY via the NW Austin Rotary Club It’s holiday time in Texas, and that means NW Austin Rotary Club is once again selling Texas oranges and grapefruit fresh from the Rio Grande Valley. The District Governor has promised delivery of the fruit on (or after) December 9, 2017.Click HERE to view the Order Form |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2017)November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The Foundation was created in 1917 by Rotary International’s sixth president, Arch C. Klumph, as an endowment fund for Rotary “to do good in the world.” It has grown from an initial contribution of $26.50 to more than $1 billion. It is one of the largest and most prestigious international fellowship programs in the world. In 2016-17, our Rotary Foundation turned "100." That’s a century of Rotary members changing lives and improving communities all over the world. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of $403,839 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 20+ years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
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Rotary Foundation Month |
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World Polio DayWorld Polio DayToday, October 24, 2017 Click HERE for more information about Polio and Rotary's campaign to eradicate it. |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (49 of 52)What if we don't End Polio Now? The goal of polio eradication remains elusive, with three countries still polio-endemic. In recent years, some in the scientific community have raised a difficult question: Can the world eradicate polio, or should we try to contain it? According to an article by Harvard researchers, controlling the disease would be far more costly than eradicating it. The developing world can save more than US$1 billion a year by eradicating, while switching to a control strategy would condemn 10 million children to polio over the next 40 years alone. We must not lose sight of our vision of a world without polio. We must finish our work and hold true to our promise to the children of the world.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (48 of 52)District Grants making a difference locally A dictionary may not be your first choice for an exciting read, but for many students, it’s the key to unlocking a world of amazing information. Using District Grants, Rotary clubs in Southwest Florida, USA, distributed dictionaries to every third grader in District 6960. Clubs worldwide use these grants to support short-term humanitarian projects in their communities. One club, one grant, one Rotarian can bring wonder to the eyes of a child.
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Hill Country Arts & Crafts Fair 2017Partnership with the Sun City Community Association Hill Country Arts & Crafts Fair Saturday and Sunday, November 4-5, 2017 (we will also do considerable pre-event work on Friday afternoon, November 3)  Proceeds from our Club's participation in this Partnership help fund a portion of our Club's annual Community Service and Out-Reach. Members: Go to the Arts & Crafts Fair site page or the calendar for more information and to access the work sign-up sheets. |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (47 of 52)The Endowment Fund When reflecting on our personal estates and the legacy we want to leave, have we thought about how much we can afford to give away? The late Rotary Foundation Trustee Louis Piconi shared these inspiring remarks: “Rotarians of today are leaving a legacy to the children of the world when we, Rotary, join our world partners in the celebration of the certification of the eradication of polio from the world. More importantly, and I do mean more importantly, is the fact that the Rotarians of today and tomorrow have the opportunity to leave their own legacy of ‘doing good in the world’ for future educational and humanitarian service programs. Do we dare dream that Rotarians of today not only make it a habit of making an annual contribution each and every year, but leave a percentage of their estate or a one-time significant gift to The Rotary Foundation’s Endowment Fund? This should be the dream, goal and reality of all Rotarians. We need just look and see and feel and touch the wonderful programs and projects we are continually completing that help the world know a more humane society and a more peaceful world.”
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (46 of 52)Clean water brings hope for a better future Rotary Foundation Grants assist Rotary clubs and districts in carrying out humanitarian projects with clubs in other countries. A Foundation Grant allowed Rotarians in India to provide 36 hand-pump wells to rural villages in Andhra Pradesh state where there is a severe shortage of water. Access to clean water will improve the quality of life for those living in these villages by helping to prevent disease and alleviate poverty. Every Rotarian, every project, and every contribution makes a difference every year.
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Economic and Community Development Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2017)October: Economic and Community Development Month
The Rotary theme for the month of October is Economic and Community Development. Despite what the political rhetoric might suggest, we know that we are privileged to live in one of the wealthiest and most economically prosperous countries in the world. We should also be very aware, however, of two realities. First, since our world has become such an interconnected global community, the economic conditions facing less developed countries should be a humanitarian concern not only for Rotarians, but for all people. Secondly, we don’t have to look beyond the borders of our nation, state, or our own communities in order to see the effects of economic hardship. The Rotary Four Way Test challenges us to take a close hard look at the realities in our own communities. In particular we must ask the question “Is it Fair to All Concerned.” As a club, through our service projects and giving, we have dedicated ourselves to improving the conditions and fairness for all concerned. Whether these efforts involve providing opportunities for at risk preschool children to practice communication skills, ringing bells for the salvation army, or partnering on sanitation and drinking water projects in communities in need throughout the world, they all serve to provide for economic and community development. Thank you for being a member of our club and thank you for being concerned about and dedicated to improving the economic conditions for all in our community and throughout the world.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (45 of 52)Global Grants Rotary clubs in Honduras and Pennsylvania, USA partnered together to receive a Rotary Foundation Grant to provide eye and vision care to needy people in Honduras. During a 10-day long mission, Rotarians from both clubs worked to provide a wide variety of vision services through clinics held at local schools and neighborhoods. Over 1,200 individuals were evaluated and 600 received prescription eyeglasses. A local non-governmental organization will continue to provide eyeglasses and medications to those in need. Improved eyesight can translate into improved educational or occupational opportunities, contributing greatly to improved quality of life. To be a Rotarian means to give of our time, talent and financial resources. Will you make that sacrifice so others may have a better life?
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (44 of 52)Cheering for The Rotary Foundation “I became a true Rotarian. It was that GSE experience. It was a defining moment. I came back and realized that the Foundation was my charity of choice and that I had to convince others that it should be theirs also.” The visit to a makeshift school during a Group Study Exchange in South Africa helped to change Rotarian John Tomlinson from Canada. He learned that real teaching is about the love of teaching; he also learned what it meant to be a Rotarian. As the team leader of his GSE team he was already a dedicated Rotarian but what he saw in South Africa made him not just a Rotarian but a cheerleader for the Rotary Foundation. He saw first-hand the importance of the Rotary Foundation’s programs and the impact they have on the world. Through John’s efforts and the Rotary Club of Bolton, ONT, Canada that makeshift school he visited has now benefited from two Rotary Foundation grants. Meanwhile John is busy telling everyone about The Rotary Foundation and why Every Rotarian, Every Year is his charity of choice.
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Basic Education and Literacy Month |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2017)September: Basic Education and Literacy Month
Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus. We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Consider these facts:
The world is making good progress in this area. According to a 2014 United Nations Millennium Development Goals progress report, literacy rates among adults and youths are on the rise and the gender gap in literacy is narrowing. But pressing global needs remain:
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EAFK Tournament of ChampionsSeveral Sun City Rotarians attended the EarlyAct FirstKnight® "Tournament of Champions" held at R.O.C.K. (Ride on Center for Kids) on Wednesday, August 30. Fourteen bus loads of kids (Grades 1-5) from Jarrell ISD attended this event to officially kick-off EarlyAct FirstKnight® for the new school year.  Pictured L to R: Harold Bergh (Club President), Glenn Coward, Boyd Johnson, Glynn Hatley, Sir Cass Garcia (Knights of the Guild), Bob Elam, John Schwebke, John Chenoweth and Betty Bauer. Rotarians attending but not pictured are Carolyn Holloway, Karen Block and Barbara Hernandez. |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (42 of 52)World Polio Day October 24th is World Polio Day. Rotary clubs are encouraged to hold a special event during that 4th week supporting Rotary’s #1 goal, Polio Eradication. This support is more than simply making a donation but serving as an advocate. Ways that a Rotary club can serve as an advocate include: • Hold a club meeting and invite your local community leaders to update all on the status of the Polio Plus program. • Appoint an “End Polio Now” Chair and have that person give a weekly report on current events related to Polio in the world • Encourage Interact and Rotaract clubs to join in with the club in promoting Rotary’s #1 goal. • Plan a special event to promote public awareness of Rotary’s #1 goal: o A float in a parade o A march o A sports event o A booth at a local fair or other community event o Have the county/city boards adopt an “End Polio Now” day Let everyone know that Rotary welcomes others to join in the effort to eradicate Polio.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (43 of 52)Changing and Saving Lives Have you ever considered that your contribution to The Rotary Foundation may mean the difference between life and death? Rotary Foundation grant projects have helped provide the Malawi Children’s Village (MCV) with everything from clean water, food and medications to blankets, sewing machines and a windmill. The Rotary Club of Canandaigua, New York, USA and Chakunga Sibale, director of the MCV, founded the program in 1997 and it is supported locally by the Rotary Club of Limbe. “The MCV has had a very great effect to relieve the suffering of children in my country,” says Sibale. Rotarian’s contributions to this project have literally meant the difference between life and death for many of the children in the MCV program.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (41 of 52)Rotary Scholar Alumni Four alumni who traveled from the USA to study in Buenos Aires, Argentina have formed Project Patagonia, which provides educational support for school children. The alumni are constructing a multi-media library to meet both short and long-term educational needs at two schools for low-income students in rural Argentina. They are also providing school supplies and nutritional support. Rotary Scholars represent the very best in intellect and character and they are future Rotarians. Every Rotarian, Every Year – imagine all we can accomplish today and tomorrow. Consider inviting local Rotary Foundation alumni to become members of our Rotary club.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (40 of 52)Opening doors for those in need A Rotary Foundation grant for US$38,900 helped the Rotary Clubs of Istanbul-Findikli, Turkey and East Salem, Oregon, USA purchase six sound-proof booths and equipment to record books from Istanbul’s Beyazit Library. Books on CD and MP3 give blind patrons of the library greater access to knowledge and learning and help to improve the literacy rate in Turkey. Through contributions to The Rotary Foundation Rotarians become partners in opening doors for those in need.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (39 of 52)PolioPlus and what you can do Every Rotarian is encouraged to be an advocate provide support for Rotary’s #1 goal. As an individual, you can:
Don’t get left behind, share in Rotary’s success by being an advocate for PolioPlus.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (38 of 52)The impact of a Group Study Exchange For Stephen Rajamani, an insurance broker in Tamil Nadu Province, India the GSE experience was life-changing. Rajamani initially traveled to Brazil to learn about the culture and lifestyle and to learn about insurance practices there. His team visited many businesses, educational institutions and government offices. What Rajamani realized is that human beings are alike everywhere throughout the world, from the mayors and dignitaries who extended a warm welcome to the host families who showered the team members with affection. Upon returning home, Rajamani became a member of the Rotary Club of Manapparai and showed his gratitude to The Rotary Foundation by becoming a Paul Harris Fellow in his first year. Remember that a District Grant can fund a Group Study Exchange.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2017)August: MEMBERSHIP and NEW CLUB DEVELOPMENT Month August is Membership and New Club Development Month, which means it's time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world.Make the most of your membership. Here's a dozen ways to do it:
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (37 of 52)Arch C. Klumph, Well-rounded Citizen This week’s Rotary Foundation Thought is about living a full and well-rounded life, as illustrated by the founder of our Foundation, Arch C. Klumph. From our archives: Arch had a great love of music. At age 18 he began to study the flute, and three years later he received a chair in the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra. He played with the orchestra for 14 years and was a lifelong sponsor of it. "My heart is in music and my head is in business," he said. Arch balanced his love of music and theater with his professional business and dreamed huge dreams beyond Cleveland to the theater of the world, with spectacular success. One of those dreams was The Rotary Foundation. Your contribution to The Rotary Foundation keeps Arch Klumph’s dream alive and fulfills the dreams of many people around the world who need our help.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (36 of 52)Packaged Grants A vocational training team sponsored by District 9110 in Nigeria traveled to Uganda through a packaged grant with Aga Khan University, a strategic partner working in the child and maternal health area of focus. The physician team leader and three nurse educators from Nigeria trained their Ugandan counterparts at the university’s School of Nursing and Midwifery in teaching practices that promote student learning and improve effectiveness in education. The training covered research techniques, the use of anatomical models, simulated classroom situations, and how to assess students’ attitudes through body language. Team members expanded the impact of the VTT by treating patients at a Rotary Foundation-sponsored health clinic and conducting a prenatal and health education clinic at the Mpigi Health Center, which serves about 120,000 people. Packaged grants are completely funded by The Rotary Foundation World Fund and the partner on the grant.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (35 of 52)Making a Major Gift to the Annual Fund Tom and Fran Bayless of Ohio are passionate about Rotary and support the Foundation in many ways. Tom made his wife, Fran, a Paul Harris Fellow to celebrate the birth of their first child. Their children became Paul Harris Fellows on special birthdays. Following open heart surgery, Tom and Fran decided to became major donors to the Foundation in celebration of her recovery. Said Fran, Anything we can do, we should do. . . Where does your backyard end?” Our investment in time, talent and financial resources are an investment in making the world a safer and healthier place for our children and grandchildren.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (34 of 52)An inspiring quote from Paul Harris “I like to think that the pioneering days of Rotary have just begun. What’s 40 years in the life of a great Movement? There are just as many new things to be done as ever there were. Rotary must simply continue to pioneer or be left in the rear of progress.” Years later, Paul Harris’ words are just as meaningful. There are still so many new things to achieve and promises to keep. Remember what Paul Harris said, we must all strive to be PIONEERS on the long road to PEACE.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2017) repeat of July 2016July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month July 2016 was recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month.” Because District 5870 and Rotary International haven't officially designated a theme for July 2017 (even though the above graphic suggests that it might actually be "New Leadership Month"), last year's theme seems appropriate and important enough to repeat. One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to one of our meetings in July (or any month)? Remember, first-time guests of Rotarians eat free and I'll bet we can even afford another free lunch for a follow up visit, should there be one.
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New Leadership Month |
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2017-18 RI Theme In 2017-18, we’ll answer the question “What is Rotary?” with RI President-elect Ian H.S. Riseley’s theme, Rotary: Making a Difference. “Whether we’re building a new playground or a new school, improving medical care or sanitation, training conflict mediators or midwives, we know that the work we do will change people’s lives — in ways large and small — for the better.” |
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People of Action |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (33 of 52)How we make a positive impact for peace today The Rotary Peace Centers offer a professional development program that is strengthening the leaders of today for peace. Beyond supporting the program financially, clubs and districts can actively recruit qualified applicants each bi-annual program session. Each district can submit as many candidates for each program session as they deem qualified. As one World Peace Fellow recently put it, “The program has been nothing short of fantastic. I couldn’t ask for more.” Give peace a fighting chance by opening the door for candidates in your district.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (32 of 52)District Grants Following the migratory patterns of local birds, three Rotarians from District 5690 (parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin, USA) and a park superintendent traveled south to Costa Rica to establish a “sister park” relationship among national parks in both countries. Under the agreement, more than a dozen US parks will work with seven in Costa Rica, focusing on staff development and adult and youth education about rural tourism, environmental affairs, watershed protection and other issues. With travel funded by a US$5,400 district grant, the team explored potential projects on the Osa Peninsula and consulted with area organizations. As you can see, funds from The Rotary Foundation can help in many different ways. Every Rotarian, Every Year makes these programs possible.
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CBS Austin - RF17 News Clip |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2017)June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIP Month CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY EARLY AT OUR CLUB SOCIAL THE EVENING OF JUNE 27 (In the spirit of "fellowship" the meal for all GUESTS of Rotarians will be compliments of the Club for the Social on June 27 which begins at 5:30pm at Cowan Creek Amenity Center) As we enter into the last month of this Rotary year, here are some things to think about related to the fellowship that we all enjoy as members of the greatest service organization in the world:
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (31 of 52)Arch C. Klumph Society (AKS) Begun in 2005, Arch C. Klumph Society members are among The Rotary Foundation’s top leaders and innovators. Members believe in the work of The Rotary Foundation and have made supporting peace, education, and humanitarian assistance part of their personal mission. They are key supporters of the Foundation, and their involvement is vital to its work. Donors whose cumulative contributions amount to US$250,000 or more qualify for membership in the Arch C. Klumph Society. While not everyone can reach this level, it is certainly something to strive for. Imagine the difference a gift of that size can make in the world.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (30 of 52)PolioPlus Program Rotary International encourages Rotarians to be advocates for its #1 goal, the eradication of polio in the world. The goal of polio eradication remains elusive, with three countries still polio-endemic. In 2013, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), a partnership launched in 1988 by national governments and spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), Rotary International, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and UNICEF, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation developed the “Polio Eradication and End Game Strategic Plan”. This End Game Strategic Plan identifies polio eradication to be completed by 2018 at a projected cost of US$5.5 billion. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has opted to match $2 for every dollar donated to PolioPlus by Rotarians from now thru 2018. The developing world can save more than US$40 - 50 billion by eradicating this dreaded disease plus avoiding the exposure of a potential 10 million children to polio over the next 20 years alone. Since 1988, over 2.5 billion children have been immunized against polio. Since that year, the number of cases of polio in the world has been reduced by 99%. We only have 1% to reach our goal. We must not lose sight of our vision of a world without polio. We must finish our work and hold true to our promise to the children of the world.
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Rotary Bandstand |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2017)May: MILITARY APPRECIATION Month May is a special month for both those in and out of the military. For service members and veterans, it's a chance to pay tribute to supportive families and spouses and honor the memory of those who have sacrificed for this nation on Memorial Day. For the general public, the entire month provides an opportunity to say thanks to all those, past and present, who have contributed to the U.S. military. Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to ensure the nation was given the opportunity to publicly demonstrate their appreciation for the sacrifices and successes made by our service members -- past and present. Each year the president makes a proclamation, reminding Americans of the important role the U.S. Armed Forces have played in the history and development of our country. May was selected because it has the most days set aside for celebrating and commemorating our military's achievements. In addition to the special days already mentioned, important dates for the military in May include Loyalty Day, which was established in 1921, Victory in Europe (VE) Day commemorating the end of WWII in Europe in 1945 and Armed Forces Day. Join other Rotarians this month in honoring, remembering, recognizing and appreciating those who have served and those now serving, as we celebrate Military Appreciation Month. |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (29 of 52)Turning waste into profit for Philippine coconut farmers With the aid of a Rotary Foundation grant, the Livelihood Project gives local farmers the supplies and labor to turn wasted coconut husks into “coconuts”, which have environmental and economic benefits for the community. The project increased employment levels for women and out of school youth while reviving the local coconut industry. Coconut husks, which are a huge source of agricultural waste, are now used to make coconuts which help provide an environmentally friendly solution to land erosion and degradation. Another husk byproduct, coconut dust is used as a soil enhancer and organic fertilizer. This is an example of how The Rotary Foundation is helping smaller communities throughout the world and is ensuring that economic growth reaches the poorer communities.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (28 of 52)Two Rotary Peace Center alumni working together Rotary Peace Center program alumnus, Francis Kabosha is busy repatriating refugees in Zambia back to their homeland in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Through the repatriation process, Francis also educates the leaders of the repatriated groups in the ways of peace to help them build and maintain peace in their home areas. He recently called his fellow Rotary Peace Center alumnus, Abdulai Jalloh, logistics officer for the United Nations in DRC, to say, “I’m giving them the tools to build peace, you must ensure they reach their destinations safely.” Francis and Abdulai now work together to build peace in the region. When you donate to The Rotary Foundation, you help make a difference in the world. Donate today.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (27 of 52)Leave a legacy as a Bequest Society Member This is best expressed through a quote from the founder of The Rotary Foundation and Past RI President, Arch C. Klumph: “…There are tens of thousands of Rotarians who will look upon this opportunity (building the Rotary Foundation as a real privilege)… Then there are other men who are seeking ways and means of leaving some part of their wealth where it may do the greatest good for humanity. What better equipped organization or institution than Rotary International can be found to be entrusted with such funds?” Join with fellow Rotarians past and present who have left their legacy by remembering The Rotary Foundation in their estate plans.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (26 of 52)A Rotarian goes the distance for the Foundation Running, biking and swimming 482 miles in the course of a year or even a month is hardly the marvel of sports headlines. But racking up that distance in three days staggers the imagination. Jeff Glidden did just that through his Ultra Distance Triathlon Challenge, raising US$100,000 and counting, for the Annual Fund. “It was difficult” said Glidden, “but it was more rewarding than anything I have ever done. Many Rotarians that had never given before contributed and supported me, that was definitely one of my goals” Corporate sponsors helped fuel Glidden’s mega-triathlon challenge by each contributing at least US$1,000. Local media coverage also raised overall awareness of Rotary. All the proceeds from Glidden’s challenge went to support The Rotary Foundation. There are many ways to advocate and donate. Maybe you can think of something new and creative.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2017)April: MAGAZINE MonthApril is |
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (25 of 52)Microcredit In Cuzco, Peru Rotarians contributed US$10,000 to a partnering association, Asociacion MIDE, which provided small loans to 288 low-income women. In six months these women improved their businesses and living standards, lifting them out of extreme poverty. While local Rotarians had the opportunity to work together to develop the project and approve the system of loans, the participants learned to use, administer and benefit from financial credit. In the process, the women improved their self-esteem as they acquired entirely new roles of financial responsibility for their families. How do I focus my giving? Every Rotarian, Every Year – Giving is hope in action.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (24 of 52)A unique relationship formed between two Peace Center Fellows Raveendra Pathiranage, senior state counsel in the attorney general's office in Sri Lanka, and Thevananth Thevanayagam, program manager for the Refugees Rehabilitation Organization in Sri Lanka providing food, shelter, rehabilitation, and other assistance to Tamil refugees, found themselves unlikely classmates in the inaugural session of the Rotary Peace Center program. After arguing incessantly, the two formed a strong bond, united in a desire to bring peace to their homeland. "We erased the hard feelings and went on to ‘What can we do to solve the problem? What can we contribute?'" said Pathiranage. The two remain close friends even a year after completing the three-month program, which Pathiranage describes as more useful than a year's worth of graduate study. Every minute of every day somewhere in the world our Rotary Foundation is making a difference in someone’s life.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (23 of 52)The programs of The Rotary Foundation When the Foundation’s founder Arch C Klumph said: “The Rotary Foundation is not to build monuments of brick and stone. If we work upon marble, it will perish; if we work on brass, time will efface it….but if we work upon immortal minds, if we imbue them with the full meaning of the spirit of Rotary, we are engraving on those tablets something that will brighten all eternity. " The educational, humanitarian and PolioPlus Programs are the monuments of the Rotary Foundation and Rotarians should be proud to yell it from the roof tops. We will eradicate polio, hunger and poverty. We will help the world find peace. By supporting the Rotary Foundation with an annual gift you help build these immortal monuments of Rotary.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (22 of 52)Why we support our Foundation Every minute of every day someone’s life is being improved by our Rotary Foundation. Rotary clubs on every continent are working to improve the living conditions and health of their fellow citizens. Rotarians like you and me can make a difference by continually supporting our Foundation and the Annual Fund. As Rotarians we determine where funds are allocated through District Designated Funds, which we can use for local or international projects. When we contribute to our Foundation we are promoting worldwide Peace and Understanding. Only if Every Rotarian Every Year makes a gift to the Annual Fund we will be able to continue to do the great work of The Rotary Foundation.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (21 of 52)How a Group Study Exchange made history
For the first time in southern African history, a group study exchange took place between two formerly conflicting countries. In November 2006 a GSE team from Zambia visited South Africa, signifying improved relations between the two countries. This exchange was made possible from a contribution of district designated funds from District 9210 to District 9300. With the end of apartheid in South Africa, these young professionals are now able to talk to one another and share ideas and common interests that will help their countries look to the future in peace. Some of the greatest stories being told today started with a contribution to The Rotary Foundation. Let’s make sure our club is part of the Rotary story.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (20 of 52)How a Rotary Grant can make a difference
Rotary clubs in Brazil and Mexico and the United states joined together in a Rotary Foundation grant to aid the Lar das Criancas Children’s Home in Tanabi, Brazil. This institution provides free extracurricular activities and much needed daycare for low income families. A grant was used to help the Home purchase uniforms for all of the children. Each student also received school supplies, gym shoes, swimsuits and caps. Tanabi Rotarians have seen the student’s interest in learning and participating in activities improve as well as the children’s sense of self-worth after the uniforms and equipment arrived. This is just one of the many examples of how the Foundation’s humanitarian grants programs can make positive changes for children.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2017)March: LITERACY Month
Combating illiteracy has been a major focus of Rotary International since 1986 – and for good reason. UNESCO estimates that despite rising literacy rates for youth and adults, there are over 800 million illiterate adults in the world and about two-thirds of them are women. More than 57 million children of primary school age are not in school. Millions more are functionally illiterate, without the reading and writing skills necessary for everyday life.
Rotary recognizes March as Literacy Month. This is when we focus on the importance of literacy and education in our humanitarian service. Being literate does not just mean having the ability to read a book or a newspaper. Being literate means being able to comprehend the instructions on a medicine bottle, a set of directions, or a job posting. It means understanding the note written by a child's teacher. It means being able to use a computer, follow a recipe, or apply for a mortgage. Literacy means being part of the larger society. It means inclusion, and it means empowerment.
Those who cannot read or write, whether they are children or adults, are cut off from important information in ways too numerous to count. They are less likely to be healthy and more likely to be poor. And perhaps most critical of all, parents who cannot read are more likely to raise children who cannot read -- perpetuating the cycle of illiteracy, and of poverty.
Rotarians have demonstrated many simple and creative ways to break this cycle. Whether it is by volunteering in schools, by bringing education and training to adults, or simply by ensuring that all children have the books and supplies they need, we in Rotary can do so much. We can help others learn to read and learn to help themselves. For example, in lieu of a "speaker gift," our Club donates a book to the Jarrell Elementary School Library each time we have a guest speaker at our weekly meeting (hundreds of books added to the Library after many years of this practice). Our Club has also recently supported District 5870's program for matching gifts by contributing funds to several area Libraries (City of Georgetown, Florence, Liberty Hill and Jarrell ISD).
 (Literacy graphic created by Becky Tsukishima web-editor of the Rotary Club of Richmond BC and District 5040)
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (19 of 52)What a US$1,000 dollar contribution can do
A contribution of US$1000 helps provide seven toilets in Sri Lanka. More than 2.6 billion people still lack access to proper sanitation. Most people in the developed world do not think about their sanitation system unless it is not working properly, but in Sri Lanka many people lack access to proper sanitation facilities. The Rotary club of Ja-Ela Kandana, Sri Lanka partnering with the Rotary Club of Madras Northwest, India took the matter into their own hands and obtained a Rotary Foundation Grant to provide sanitation to a small community comprising 15 families. They built fourteen toilets, providing the families with proper sanitation. This will insure a reduction in illness and increase the health and wellness of this community. The impact of US$1,000 is significant. Think about that the next time you donate to The Rotary Foundation.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (18 of 52)Vocational Training Teams (VTT)
In 2013, Ian Lancaster, of the Rotary Club of Northumberland Sunrise, Ontario, in District 7070, led a vocational training team of medical professionals to Nagoya, Japan, in District 2760. The team, funded by a global grant, comprised a physician, a clinical nurse specialist, a spiritual care professional, a nurse practitioner, and a nursing supervisor. All had experience in palliative care, the branch of medicine that focuses on relieving patient suffering. A Japanese medical team traveled to Ontario to learn about Canadian approaches to this field. The impact of Vocational Training Teams touches not only the beneficiaries of the grant, but the team members as well.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (17 of 52)Fundraising for PolioPlus
What would you do to eradicate Polio? Would you shave off all your hair? Rotarians in District 5040 did just that and raised US$10,000 for PolioPlus. Would you hike 2,658 miles over six months? Rotarian Chrissy Wallace of California did to raise money for Rotary’s PolioPlus program. Would you cycle 4,165 miles on the TransAmerica Trail? Rotarian Robert Keegan of Tennessee did to benefit PolioPlus. Dedicated individuals, clubs and districts continue to promote and support PolioPlus at every opportunity possible. Many districts also give a portion of their District Designated Funds to the polio effort. What can you do for PolioPlus?
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (16 of 52)What US$100 can do
It is as simple as having a notebook, pencil and glue. In Pavas, a poor district in San Jose, Costa Rica a packet of educational materials means the difference between an education and working on the street. Most public schools in Costa Rica are under funded and lack many basic supplies, so the Rohrmoser Rotary Club, Costa Rica developed a packet of teaching materials for students and partnered with the Vancouver Rotary Club, Canada to distribute 777 packets to children in five very poor elementary schools. US$100 buys 15 packets. Without this project many students would not be able to continue their education and would be forced to drop out of school. When Every Rotarian, Every Year participates, our foundation is able to continue to build a brighter future for the children of the world.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (15 of 52)Our Foundation Alumni
Former Rotary Peace Fellow from Norway Gert Danielsen, out of a desire to give something back, pledged to donate US$1,000 every year for the rest of his life to the Rotary Peace Centers program and challenged other Peace Fellows to do the same. Inspired by Danielsen’s generosity, Peace Fellow Scott Lang of the United States took up the challenge and also pledged US$1,000 annually. “My challenge and support reflects a keen desire to give back to the Rotary family now that I am able to do so,” Danielsen says. “Giving a gift annually that I know will inspire Rotarians and others to give more and provide peace-building opportunities for even more people is a huge privilege to me.” The commitment made by these two Foundation Alumni is a true testament to the quality of the Peace Fellows and the Rotary Peace Centers program.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2017)February: WORLD UNDERSTANDING Month The month of February is very special in the Rotary calendar since it is designated "World Understanding Month." The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905, now designated World Understanding and Peace Day. Since that day in 1905, Rotary has grown into an international organization helping to launch, complete and sustain numerous service projects worldwide as well as developing international friendships which help to broaden Rotary’s commitment to helping others, no matter where they may be. Sixty million people are displaced by armed conflict or persecution, and 90 percent of armed-conflict casualties are civilians, half of them children. Through service projects, fellowships, and other Rotary-sponsored campaigns, members train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and aid refugees who have fled dangerous areas. Members also pursue projects to address the underlying structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources. While some projects and services have an immediate impact, all are foundations for the future and continue to build peace and goodwill. “World Understanding Month” is a chance for every Rotary Club to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service: Rotary’s continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world. The Sun City Rotary Club helps to promote international understanding by generously focusing support for PolioPlus every February as a way of honoring the theme. Through Rotary and its Foundation, personal relationships are fostered that transcend borders and form a foundation for peace.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (14 of 52)Paul Harris Society
Named after Rotary’s founder, the Paul Harris Society recognizes those who annually contribute US$1,000 or more to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Rotary Foundation grant. By joining the Paul Harris Society, you are making a lasting difference in communities around the world. Rotary Direct, Rotary’s recurring giving program, makes it easy to join the Paul Harris Society. Consider making a gift of $85 a month or $250 a quarter by using the contribution form or by visiting www.rotary.org/contribute. Is this something that you could consider? Think of the difference you could make in the world.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2017)January: ROTARY AWARENESS Month January is Rotary Awareness Month – a time to learn more about our organization and a time to focus on our public image. Raising awareness of Rotary is an important part of what we do as Clubs and members. The more Rotary is known for its good work, the more good work Rotary will be able to do.
Rotary Awareness month is not only about our organization’s history but also our future. Assuming we are serious about attracting new members, seasoned Rotarians must be prepared to share their knowledge and experience. Prospective members will want to know about the opportunities for service and the resources available to them if they do commit to join the Sun City Rotary Club. When we welcome new members, there are traditions to pass on and a rich heritage to share. Share Rotary with members, family, friends, and the community. A Rotarian accepts the “obligation to share Rotary with others and to help grow our Club by proposing qualified persons for Rotary membership.”
January is a good time for members to share a personal story or experience that they have had because of Rotary. Every Rotarian has a Rotary story that can be educational and inspiring. Another easy way to increase Rotary Awareness is to always wear your Rotary pin. You can then share the Rotary story when people ask about the pin you are wearing.
The beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to renew inspiration for the rest of the Rotary year.
Did You Know? (Rotary Awareness Presentation)
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Weekly Meeting Venue Has ChangedIMPORTANT NOTICE
Effective January 1, 2017,
our weekly Club meeting location has changed to the
Sun City Social Center Ballroom
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Thank You 16th Annual BWS - December 17 Breakfast with Santa December 17 was our 16th consecutive year to SERVE our community.   UNCLAIMED Santa Photos can be picked up beginning Monday, December 19 at the Public Safety Operations and Training Center, 3500 DB Wood Road (opens at 8:00 am) #SunCityRotaryClub #BreakfastwithSanta #1DistrictStrong This is what Breakfast with Santa is all about:  Thank You to everyone who attended and supported this event. |
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INTERACT Career Guidance Program - Law Enforcement
Come join the latest Career Guidance program at JHS that will be focused on Careers in Law Enforcement. It is a one-hour session that begins at 9:30AM on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8th. Police Chief Roger Thompson and Officer Chrystal Smolen will be the presenters. The program will be held in the Library and it's jointly sponsored by the Jarrell High School INTERACT Club and the Sun City Rotary.
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Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2016)December: FAMILY OF ROTARY Month December marks what is officially designated as Family Month in the Rotary calendar (sometimes more commonly called Family of Rotary Month). As Christmas and the New Year approach, everyone is more conscious of a focus on family and family reunions. People of most faiths (or even no religious faith) celebrate on some level, commerce slows down and many families take their annual holidays. So, December is indeed a time to reflect on family values and how Rotary shapes those values. Rotarians generally see their life priorities as family, work and then Rotary. When it is difficult for the family to be involved on a regular basis with Rotary activities, there is a lot to be said for putting aside a day(s) for events that involve all of the family. Some clubs have Christmas parties for the children (or perhaps in many cases, grandchildren) and some clubs make one of their regular meetings a family Christmas function (such Tuesday, December 13 when our members, spouses, friends and volunteers gather for our BWS CELEBRATION to prepare for BREAKFAST on Saturday, December 17, to recap BWS SHOPPING for the selected BWS families in our community and recognize businesses and individuals who have supported our Club's projects this year). In families where the children are adults, consider inviting them to a Rotary meeting to remind them, if nothing else, where the Rotarian disappears to on a regular basis. Beyond the immediate family is the family of Rotary. This is a large family indeed. The members include the alumni of all the programs that Rotary supports (directly and indirectly). There are the major programs such as Youth Exchange, RYLA, GSE, Ambassadorial, Peace and Global Grant Scholars and many others. Sadly, contact with these family members all too often is lost after they complete their programs. It is the responsibility of Rotarians to keep them within the family of Rotary. Frequently it is the Rotary club that fails to reach out and keep that relationship vibrant or at least ongoing. These alumni have been the beneficiaries of Rotary generosity and it is not unreasonable for Rotarians to ask them for assistance occasionally for current projects and/or invite them to club functions from time to time. Many prominent Rotarians began their Rotary journey by participating in Rotary programs for youth. How long do these alumni have to wait for the invitation to be asked to become a Rotarian? The right time for program participants to become Rotarians will vary, but by keeping track and in touch with them, that time may come sooner than expected.
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16th Annual BWS - December 17 ⬇︎ ⬇︎ click here ⬇︎ ⬇︎
This will be the 16th consecutive year to SERVE our community.
Saturday, December 17 (7:30 am until 11:00 am)
San Gabriel Community Center - in San Gabriel Park
Tickets $6 at the door (kids 12 and under eat free)
#SunCityRotaryClub #BreakfastwithSanta #1DistrictStrong
This is what Breakfast with Santa is all about:
City of Georgetown: SPECIAL EVENTS & FESTIVALS
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (13 of 52)Club Goal Setting
Clubs are asked to set annual giving goals for the Every Rotarian, Every Year effort. We’re asking every Rotarian to support our Foundation with a minimum US$100 contribution. At the President-elect Training Seminar (PETS) this spring, our club president-elect will be asked to submit an annual giving goal for the upcoming year. History has proven that clubs that set goals follow through with them. Many clubs are exceeding that goal now. “We decided to try for a total of $600,000 or $200 per capita in our district,” says PDG Holly Callen, D5950. “It seemed like a real stretch and it took us three years to get there, but by setting an ambitious goal, we were able to achieve it. This year we have raised the goal to $1million - $300 per Rotarian!” More importantly, as our club sets its goal for the coming year, we should also remember to measure our success by the number of lives we’ve saved and changed.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (12 of 52)The Rotary Peace Centers Professional Certificate Program
Mid-career professionals from around the world, representing a wide variety of fields, participate in an intensive three month course at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand. Rotary Peace Center alumnus Richelieu Allison, Regional Director of the West African Youth Network, says, “This course has been the missing link in my [ability] to contribute to the resolution of the numerous problems confronting my region. If I had had the knowledge I am gaining now I would have been in a better position to adequately analyze the conflicts, map out the various actors, go the extra mile, and play a major role in helping to restore peace.” This sentiment has stuck with him, as he wrote in a recent email, “The changes [the program] made in my life cannot be overemphasized.” A gift to the Peace Center Endowment Fund can make a difference!
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (11 of 52)Being a Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member
What can you get for US$100 dollars these days? A pair of shoes, a nice dinner for two or a stove for a needy family in rural Guatemala, A contribution of US$100 to the Annual Fund will make you a Sustaining Member of The Rotary Foundation but it also provides life-changing opportunities for those in need. When you choose to support our Rotary Foundation you are making a difference in two ways: you are changing lives and you are literally saving lives. What an amazing thing to be able to say!
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Food Drive Celebration |
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Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2016)November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The purpose of The Rotary Foundation can be found in it's motto: "Doing good in the world." In 2016-17, our Rotary Foundation turns 100. That’s a century of Rotary members changing lives and improving communities all over the world. And that’s definitely something worth celebrating. Click HERE for more information. Through our Foundation, Rotary members have supported thousands of projects to provide clean water, fight disease, promote peace, provide basic education, and grow local economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight to eradicate polio worldwide. The Rotary Foundation transforms gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's humanitarian priorities. The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested and every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs three years later (actually, 50% of District 5870's contributions are subsequently returned to the District for District-level projects as well as Club-level and local projects). Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of $378,034.93 to The Rotary Foundation (a significant portion of that total has been returned to our Club over the past 19+ years to help fund projects in our area communities). The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
Click HERE to go to our TRF site page.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (10 of 52)Matching people with money for positive results
In the words of Arch Klumph: “Money alone does little good. Individual service is helpless without money. The two together can be a godsend to civilization.” Your financial resources combined with your time, energy and talent is critical to Rotary’s mission. 89% of your contribution goes directly to the programs of The Rotary Foundation while 2% is used for administration and 9% is for fundraising. These percentages are remarkable among charities across the world. This is why The Rotary Foundation gets such high marks from organizations that rank charities, such as Charity Navigator and the Better Business Bureau. As Rotarians, there is no better place to donate our money. We get to use our own contributions to do good in the world.
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (9 of 52)Global Grants
With funding from a Rotary Foundation Global Grant, Rotarians from six countries have worked to fulfill the basic needs of 50 street children in Addis Ababa over two years. The youths also received vocational training in woodworking, metalworking, and bricklaying, which they applied by helping to build 24 latrines for families in need. The host Rotary Club of Addis Ababa Entoto partnered with the Belgian non-profits Caprioolkinderen and Siddartha Development Ethiopia, which have teamed up on similar programs since 2002, providing food, shelter, and basic education to 300 children. Every Rotarian, Every Year – Nourishing bodies and minds.
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Jarrell Food Drive
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(click to RSVP)
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
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Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (4 of 52)
Every Rotarian, Every Year
Every minute of every day someone’s life is being improved by our Rotary Foundation. Wells are being dug in India, blind children are using Braille typewriters in Brazil, toilets are part of improved sanitation in Sri Lanka, and dental treatment is available to the needy in Nicaragua. In a world where the divide between the haves and have-nots is growing, we as Rotarians must do our part and “do good in the world.”
Contributions from every Rotarian to the Annual Fund every year are critical to making a difference in our world.
Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (3 of 52)
PolioPlus
When Rotary launched the PolioPlus program in 1985, there were more than 350,000 polio cases in over 125 countries. Since 1988, when Rotary began working with its partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to immunize more than 2 billion children, the incidence of polio has decreased 99 percent. As of 2013, Rotary’s contributions to the global polio eradication effort totaled $1.2 billion. None of this would be possible if it weren’t for Rotary’s leadership and vision.
What a wonderful legacy we are leaving to the children of the world. Goodbye Polio. Thank you, Rotary.
16th Annual BWS
Fasten your seatbelt because THAT time of the year has arrived:
This will be the 16th consecutive year to SERVE our community.
Saturday, December 17
San Gabriel Community Center
#SunCityRotaryClub #BreakfastwithSanta #1DistrictStrong
Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (2 of 52)
The founder of The Rotary Foundation, Arch C. Klumph
A member of the Rotary Club of Cleveland, Ohio, USA, Arch C. Klumph served as the RI president in the 1913-14 Rotary year. In 1917, Klumph declared that “we should accept endowments for the purpose of doing good in the world in charitable, educational, and other avenues of community service.” His vision and a contribution of US$26.50 left over from the RI Convention helped to establish the charitable and humanitarian arm of our organization, The Rotary Foundation.
Due to the hard work and generosity of Rotarians worldwide, The Rotary Foundation has improved lives for nearly 100 years. With ongoing financial support, our Foundation will continue to carry on Klumph's dream well into our second century of service.
Foundation - Weekly Thoughts (1 of 52)
What is The Rotary Foundation?
The Rotary Foundation is the economic engine for Rotary International. It is a non-profit corporation that is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of Rotary who share its vision of a better world. Its sole mission is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, good will and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty. We accomplish that through our local and international humanitarian and educational programs.Daily Checklist
Photo of a sign hanging in a store in Creed, Colorado with some good "extensions" for the 4-Way Test:
Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2016)
August: MEMBERSHIP & EXTENSION Month
August is recognized by Rotary as “Membership and Extension Month.” Rotary has two major priorities. The first priority is the eradication of polio throughout the world and by now ROTARIANS are all familiar with the clever slogan, “We’re THIS Close.” The second, and perhaps less recognized or appreciated priority, is membership growth, extension, and retention.
The second priority does not have a catchy slogan and, unfortunately, We Are NOT “THIS Close.”
The numbers speak for themselves. Ten years ago Rotary had 1.2 million members. Today, Rotary still has 1.2 million members ...... Certainly not a "growth" trend.
What can we do about this alarming trend?
Just remember, membership-related ideas and actions for our Club can only be implemented by us. The gift of Rotary membership is too important to postpone until tomorrow or to leave to someone else. The real key to growing and sustaining "membership" is for our Club to become a group of ROTARIANS rather than just a group of "members."
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Anne Holland (crude oil marketing) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Herman Knodel). The Club Board of Directors has reviewed and approved her membership application. Any comments and/or questions regarding this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (July 13, 2016).
Served Lunch at RYLA
Our Club prepared, cooked and served lunch
at RYLA Camp on Thursday, July 7, 2016.
Thanks to the following Rotarians and spouses who participated:
John Skannal (RYLA Coordinator)
Doug & Marcy Lowe
Steve & Mary Bohnenkamp
Bob Elam
Mickey McLaughlin
Tom Minor
John Chenoweth
Rotary Has Heart
The heartland of America—from Montana to Texas—has people who give from the heart. This rich land still has people who are homeless, but Rotarians help build houses. This breadbasket of America still has people with food insecurities, but Rotarians serve in soup kitchens, pack backpacks, and stock food pantries. There are people who are abused, or abuse drugs and alcohol, but Rotarians work in shelters, and educate with awareness and treatment campaigns. Rotary Has Heart. Rotarians serve their communities.
2016-17 RI Theme
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RI President John F. Germ chose Rotary Serving Humanity as his theme for 2016-17. Noting Rotary’s unique ability to bring together committed professionals to achieve remarkable goals, Germ believes that “now is the time to capitalize on our success: as we complete the eradication of polio, and catapult Rotary forward to be an even greater force for good in the world.”
Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2016)
June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIP Month
CELEBRATE THE 2015-16 ROTARY YEAR AT "PRESIDENT'S NIGHT" ON JUNE 28
As we enter into the last month of this Rotary year, here are some things to think about related to the fellowship that we all enjoy as members of the greatest service organization in the world:
- Being greeted at our weekly Club meeting by a friendly face.
- Sitting at a table of fellow Rotarians you haven’t talked with lately.
- Sharing lively and interesting conversation during the fellowship portion of the meeting.
- Enjoying announcements by members who are sharing the details of program and project development.
- Listening to our Club President as he/she acknowledges the service of one or more of our members for a job well done!
- Having the opportunity to meet visiting Rotarians and guests.
- Participating in the sharing of good news (and sometimes bad) that members or their families have experienced since the last Club meeting.
- Enjoying a top-rate speaker/program and great meal.
- Thanking visitors and guests for being with us at our meeting.
- Signing up for a community service project.
- Serving side-by-side with a fellow member that you would not know if not for Rotary membership.
- Thanking our Club leadership for their service during the year.
- Inviting a new member to a District event..... and sharing the ride.
- Being engaged in every aspect of Club membership.
- Making attendance at our weekly meetings a priority.
Vet-Am Golf Tournament 2016
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Thursday, June 16
Our Club is working #11 tee box (three shifts).
Sign-up to help (left column)
Click Read more... to see map
Serve Lunch at RYLA
Our Club will prepare, cook and serve lunch
at RYLA Camp on Thursday, July 7, 2016.
Click HERE for additional details (especially about the Volunteer Form
which needs to be completed ASAP if you are considering participation).
Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2016) - Oops!
Oops! April was supposed to be "Maternal and Child Health" Month
April: MAGAZINE Month
April is 
the month for increasing our awareness of The Rotarian, which is the magazine we all receive as members of Rotary. For Rotarians in other countries, regions, and zones, it may be a similar Rotary magazine published in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Dutch, Hindi, or other languages. For purists, Rotary’s recognition month is simply referred to as “Magazine Month,” but we all know that Rotary is not promoting Time, Forbes, Golf Digest, or Travel + Leisure. Although people are relying more and more on the Internet and social media as sources of news and information, it is still nice to have a slick, glossy magazine specifically for Rotarians. The graphics are clean and crisp, the style has been modernized so that it is one of the leaders in media industry magazines, and the photographs are certainly worth more than a thousand words each. Every month The Rotarian connects us to other Rotarians around the world who are also doing good, making a difference, and improving the lives of others.
Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2016)
April: MAGAZINE Month
April is the month for increasing our awareness of The Rotarian, which is the magazine we all receive as members of Rotary. For Rotarians in other countries, regions, and zones, it may be a similar Rotary magazine published in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Dutch, Hindi, or other languages. For purists, Rotary’s recognition month is simply referred to as “Magazine Month,” but we all know that Rotary is not promoting Time, Forbes, Golf Digest, or Travel + Leisure. Although people are relying more and more on the Internet and social media as sources of news and information, it is still nice to have a slick, glossy magazine specifically for Rotarians. The graphics are clean and crisp, the style has been modernized so that it is one of the leaders in media industry magazines, and the photographs are certainly worth more than a thousand words each. Every month The Rotarian connects us to other Rotarians around the world who are also doing good, making a difference, and improving the lives of others.
Chikage's Rotary Fest 2016 Recap on KEYE-TV
Published on Mar 11, 2016 (Chikage Windler):
I had a blast emceeing the "Night in the Jungle" event at the Sun City Rotary Fest alongside Rotarian Robert Evans. The event included dinner and dancing along with a performance by some of the student actors at Georgetown's Palace Theater ... now showing ... Tarzan! Proceeds benefit EarlyAct FirstKnight® in Jarrell and other Rotary programs.
Click on the "full-screen" buttom in the lower-right corner of the video to view a larger picture.
Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2016)
March: WATER AND SANITATION Month
Clean water is a basic human right that many are often denied. There are 2.5 billion people in the world that lack access to improved sanitation and 748 million people that don’t have clean drinking water. Nearly 1400 children die each day from diseases caused by lack of sanitation and unsafe water. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. The need for clean water is what motivates Rotary members to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure.
While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for Rotary members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries. Members start by providing toilets and latrines that flush into a sewer or safe enclosure and then add education programs to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits.
"Although we take it for granted, sanitation is a physical measure that has probably done more to increase human life span than any kind of drug or surgery." Deepak Chopra (Indian-American author, public speaker, alternative medicine advocate and a promoter of popular forms of spirituality.)
Robert Evans and Chikage (Carolyn is hiding)
I love dressing up! I've got my work cut out for me the next couple events. I'm emceeing the Rotary Club of Georgetown -...
Posted by Chikage Windler on Thursday, February 18, 2016
Grand Prize is a New Golf Cart
Contact a Sun City Rotarian for an opportunity to win a new golf cart.
Tickets on sale Fridays (9am to 1pm) outside the Sun City Walgreens.
Tickets on sale Saturdays (9am to 1pm) outside City Market (Sun City).
Final day to buy tickets is Friday, March 11, 2016.
Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2016)
February: PEACE AND CONFLICT PREVENTION/RESOLUTION Month
The month of February is designated “Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month.” The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905. Since that day in 1905, Rotary has grown into an international organization helping to launch, complete and sustain numerous service projects worldwide as well as developing international friendships which help to broaden Rotary’s commitment to helping others, no matter where they may be. Sixty million people are displaced by armed conflict or persecution, and 90 percent of armed-conflict casualties are civilians, half of them children. Through service projects, fellowships, and other Rotary-sponsored campaigns, members train adults and young leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and aid refugees who have fled dangerous areas. Members also pursue projects to address the underlying structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources. While some projects and services have an immediate impact, all are excellent foundations for the future and continue to build peace and goodwill. “Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month” is a chance for every Rotary Club to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service: Rotary’s continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world. The Sun City Rotary Club helps to promote international understanding by generously focusing support for PolioPlus every February as a way of honoring the theme. Through Rotary and its Foundation, personal relationships are fostered that transcend borders and form a foundation for peace.
Rotary Fest 2016 Press Release
Members: Click HERE to access the Rotary Fest Fundraiser site page for additional information and resources
February 2016 - PolioPlus Month for Our Club
Rotary Video
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Don Balsamo (Retired Electrical Engineer) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Jack Beckett). The Club Board of Directors has reviewed and approved his membership application. Any comments and/or questions regarding this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (January 13, 2016).
Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2016)
January: ROTARY AWARENESS Month
January is Rotary Awareness Month – a time to learn more about our organization and a time to focus on our public image. Raising awareness of Rotary is an important part of what we do as clubs and members. The more Rotary is known for its good work, the more good work Rotary will be able to do.
Rotary Awareness month is not only about our organization’s history but also our future. Assuming we are serious about attracting new members, seasoned Rotarians must be prepared to share their knowledge and experience. Prospective members will want to know about the opportunities for service and the resources available to them if they do commit to join the Sun City Rotary Club. When we welcome new members, there are traditions to pass on and a rich heritage to share. Share Rotary with members, family, friends, and the community. A Rotarian accepts the “obligation to share Rotary with others and to help grow our Club by proposing qualified persons for Rotary membership.”
January is a good time for members to share a personal story or experience that they have had because of Rotary. Every Rotarian has a Rotary story that can be educational and inspiring. Another easy way to increase Rotary Awareness is to always wear your Rotary pin. You can then share the Rotary story when people ask about the pin you are wearing.
The beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to renew inspiration for the rest of the Rotary year.
Did You Know? (Rotary Awareness Presentation)
Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2015)
December: FAMILY OF ROTARY Month
December marks what is officially designated as Family Month in the Rotary calendar (sometimes more commonly called Family of Rotary Month). As Christmas and the New Year approach, everyone is more conscious of a focus on family and family reunions. People of most faiths (or even no religious faith) celebrate on some level, commerce slows down and many families take their annual holidays. So, December is indeed a time to reflect on family values and how Rotary shapes those values. Rotarians generally see their life priorities as family, work and then Rotary. When it is difficult for the family to be involved on a regular basis with Rotary activities, there is a lot to be said for putting aside a day(s) for events that involve all of the family. Some clubs have Christmas parties for the children (or perhaps in many cases, grandchildren) and some clubs make one of their regular meetings a family Christmas function (such as the day that our members, spouses, friends and volunteers gather for BWS WRAPPING to prepare over 2000 items for DISTRIBUTION to selected BWS families in our community). In families where the children are adults, consider inviting them to a Rotary meeting to remind them, if nothing else, where the Rotarian disappears to on a regular basis.
Beyond the immediate family is the family of Rotary. This is a large family indeed. The members include the alumni of all the programs that Rotary supports (directly and indirectly). There are the major programs such as Youth Exchange, RYLA, GSE, Ambassadorial, Peace and Global Grant Scholars and many others. Sadly, contact with these family members all too often is lost after they complete their programs. It is the responsibility of Rotarians to keep them within the family of Rotary. Frequently it is the Rotary club that fails to reach out and keep that relationship vibrant or at least ongoing. These alumni have been the beneficiaries of Rotary generosity and it is not unreasonable for Rotarians to ask them for assistance occasionally for current projects and/or invite them to club functions from time to time. Many prominent Rotarians began their Rotary journey by participating in Rotary programs for youth. How long do these alumni have to wait for the invitation to be asked to become a Rotarian? The right time for program participants to become Rotarians will vary, but by keeping track and in touch with them, that time may come sooner than expected.
BWS 2015
Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2015)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month
The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The purpose of The Rotary Foundation can be found in it's motto: "Doing good in the world."
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's priorities, such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact.
The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested for three years and the income earned from these investments pays for all the Foundation's operations, fund administration and administrative expenses. Every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs approximately three years later. Between the years 1947 and 2005 approximately US$1.5 billion has been spent on the Foundation's programs. Members of our Club have contributed a cumulative total of $362,528.98 to The Rotary Foundation.
The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
Fall 2015 Meal Survey Results
Thank You Rotarian Greg Barber for conducting
and compiling the results of the Fall 2015 Meal Survey.
Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2015)
September: Basic Education and Literacy Month
Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus. Everyone has the right to learn to read, write and enjoy the power, pleasures and independence of being literate. For some, the journey will be easy, for others it will take much hard work and, unfortunately, it will never happen for a significant percentage of today’s world population.
Worldwide, 67 million children have no access to education, and more than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. Rotarians support educational projects that provide technology, teacher training, vocational training teams, student meal programs, and low-cost textbooks to communities. Rotary's goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy.
2015-16 RI Theme
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RI President K.R. Ravindran chose "Be a Gift to the World" as his theme for 2015-16.
Ravindran urges Rotary members to give the gifts of time, talent, and knowledge
to improve lives in communities across the globe.
"Through Rotary, we can take these gifts and make a genuine difference in the lives of others and in our world."
Rotary Code of Conduct
Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2015)
August: MEMBERSHIP & EXTENSION Month
August is recognized by Rotary as “Membership and Extension Month.” Rotary has two major priorities. The first priority is the eradication of polio throughout the world and by now ROTARIANS are all familiar with the clever slogan, “We’re THIS Close.” The second, and perhaps less recognized or appreciated priority, is membership growth, extension, and retention. The second priority does not have a catchy slogan and, unfortunately, we are NOT “THIS Close.”
The numbers speak for themselves. Ten years ago Rotary had 1.2 million members. Today, Rotary still has 1.2 million members ...... Certainly not a "growth" trend.
What can we do about this alarming trend?
Just remember, membership-related ideas and actions for our Club can only be implemented by us. The gift of Rotary membership is too important to postpone until tomorrow or to leave to someone else. The real key to growing and sustaining "membership" is for our Club to become a group of ROTARIANS rather than just a group of "members."
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Peter S. Behrman (City Planner and Public Transit Administrator) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Don Bender). The Club Board of Directors has reviewed and approved his membership application. Any comments and/or questions regarding this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (July 28, 2015).
Monthly Rotary Theme (July 2015)
July: BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY Month
July 2015 will be recognized by Rotary District 5870 as “Bring a Friend to Rotary Month.” One of Rotary's major priorities is membership growth, extension, and retention. What would happen if every Rotarian brought a potential member to one of our meetings in July (or any month)? Remember, first-time guests of Rotarians eat free and I'll bet we can even afford another free lunch for a follow up visit, should there be one.
If we are going to increase our membership level, it is obvious that the best route to do that is to involve every Rotarian. Everyone surely has at least one friend! Exercise that friendship and let those friends learn about "Service above Self" and the fun of being a Rotarian!
- Membership is EVERY ROTARIAN'S business. Membership is too important to be delegated to just one or two ROTARIANS in our Club or even a small committee and, certainly, membership is too important to focus on it only one calendar month of the year.
- Membership in Rotary cannot be promoted by simply explaining to prospective members all of the rules, policies, procedures, and folklore about Rotary or The Rotary Foundation. The hook is telling prospective new members WHY you are a ROTARIAN, why you have remained engaged in Rotary over the years, and why Rotary is important enough to you that you commit time, energy, and dollars. Your story is a powerful tool that should be used.
- Our Club needs to be flexible and innovative in order to retain the members that we have as well as the new members we work so hard to get.
Rotary Fest 2015
CONGRATULATIONS: John Bausch (RF15 GRAND PRIZE Raffle Winner)
Club Members: Click HERE to see the complete list of RF15 Raffle Winners
Check pages 4 and 5 of the Williamson County Sun - City Week.
Club Characteristic Questions
Do all these characteristics apply to our Club?
Welcoming?
Engaging?
Service Oriented?
“Thank You” Oriented?
Missing something if you miss a meeting?
Fun?
(Ten Little Words to Solve any Problem)
If It Is To Be It Is Up To Me
Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2015)
June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIP Month
CELEBRATE THE 2014-15 ROTARY YEAR AT "PRESIDENT'S NIGHT" ON JUNE 30
As we enter into the last month of this Rotary year, here are some things to think about related to the fellowship that we all enjoy as members of the greatest service organization in the world:
- Being greeted at our weekly Club meeting by a friendly face.
- Finding a table of fellow Rotarians you haven’t talked with lately.
- Sharing lively and interesting conversation during the fellowship portion of the meeting.
- Enjoying announcements by members who are sharing the details of program and project development.
- Listening to our Club President as he/she acknowledges the service of one or more of our members for a job well done!
- Having the opportunity to meet visiting Rotarians and guests.
- Participating in the sharing of good news (and sometimes bad) that members or their families have experienced since the last Club meeting.
- Enjoying a top-rate speaker/program and great meal.
- Thanking visitors and guests for being with us at our meeting.
- Signing up for a community service project.
- Serving side-by-side with a fellow member that you would not know if not for Rotary membership.
- Thanking our Club leadership for their service during the year.
- Inviting a new member to a District event..... and sharing the ride.
- Being engaged in every aspect of Club membership.
- Making attendance at our weekly meetings a priority.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Elizabeth Quintero (Family Counselor for Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Janice Jacoby Parker). The Club Board of Directors has approved her membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (May 26, 2015).
Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2015)
May: YOUTH SERVICES Month
May is typically an "open" theme month for Rotary International. In previous years our Club has honored the military in May (especially Club members who have served). However, looking ahead to next year, District 5870 has designated May 2016 as "Youth Services Month." Because our upcoming Rotary Fest Dinner/Dance and Charity Fundraiser just happens to be May 29 and because proceeds will be directed to youth-related projects in our community, we will get a head start and also celebrate May 2015 as "Youth Services Month." See the notes below for more information about how to join the celebration by participating in our 2nd Annual Rotary Fest.
RYLA Camp 2015
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Steve Bohnenkamp (Corporate Executive) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Doug Lowe). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (April 8, 2015).
Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2015)
April: MAGAZINE Month
April is the month for increasing our awareness of The Rotarian, which is the magazine we all receive as members of Rotary. For Rotarians in other countries, regions, and zones, it may be a similar Rotary magazine published in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Dutch, Hindi, or other languages. For purists, Rotary’s recognition month is simply referred to as “Magazine Month,” but we all know that Rotary is not promoting Time, Forbes, or Travel + Leisure. Although people are relying more and more on the Internet and social media as sources of news and information, it is still nice to have a slick, glossy magazine specifically for Rotarians. The graphics are clean and crisp, the style has been modernized so that it is one of the leaders in media industry magazines, and the photographs are certainly worth more than a thousand words each. Every month The Rotarian connects us to other Rotarians around the world who are also doing good, making a difference, and improving the lives of others.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
David S. Oliver (Georgetown Attorney) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (March 24, 2015).
2015 Rotary Fest
To purchase individual Dinner/Dance tickets (or a table-for-10),
call Donna at (520) 548-2310
or, email: sun-city-rotary@suddenlink.net
Login to access the Rotary Fest Fundraiser Site Page (left column)
for member-only information and resources.
Click HERE for Sign-up Sheets (Committees and Event Work Details)
Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2015)
March: LITERACY Month
Literacy is generally defined as having an aptitude to read, write and ability to understand things particularly those that are written down.
In 1985 Rotary declared literacy to be a pre-condition to the development of peace and since then it has been an emphasis of Rotary International. Celebrated in March each year, Rotary Literacy Month is an excellent opportunity for Rotary clubs and districts to raise awareness about literacy, launch new literacy initiatives and projects, and recognize literacy accomplishments from the past years. Rotarians are encouraged to participate by engaging in service or activities that address literacy and education issues in their communities or abroad.
Literacy is a primary goal of our education system. Many Rotary clubs have initiated literacy projects. For example, each week, our Rotary Club donates a book to the Jarrell Elementary School library to thank and honor the program or speaker for that meeting. Also, several of our Club members are actively involved with mentoring one or more students.
A critical marker and indicator for future school success is being able to read. There are studies showing that students unable to read on a third-grade level after completing the third grade most likely will not graduate from high school. Through third grade, you learn to read. After third grade, you read to learn. Reading skills coupled with an excellent vocabulary are the keys to academic achievement in school and help pave the way to higher education and to better jobs and career choices throughout adult life. Various Rotary Foundation sponsored programs are helping us move to a day when we will awaken to a world where every mother will be able to write her child‘s name and that child will be able to grow up to write his or her own name.
Rotary Clubs support literacy in their communities and they support literacy worldwide because positive social indicators go up as literacy improves. A simple internet search with the words “Rotary” and “literacy” returns scores of stories about Rotary-sponsored projects. As a Club, we do a little and many members individually volunteer in literacy-related activities, but we could (and should) do a lot more. Maybe next March, a Rotarian somewhere will come across our Club's success story when they search the internet for literacy-related programs.
EAFK
Click on EarlyAct FirstKnight® Site Page (left column)
for more information and resources.
EarlyAct FirstKnight® (EAFK) is a proprietary program of The Knights of The Guild. Sponsored by participating Rotary Clubs, EAFK motivates and teaches elementary and middle school children to become civil, service-oriented people during their most formative years.
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Thank you to all the staff at R.O.C.K. (Ride on Center for Kids) for helping with the Student Orientation EAFK Tournament for Jarrell ISD on September 4.
Potential RI Pilot Program
from the Williamson County Sun
PolioPlus Information
Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2015)
February: WORLD UNDERSTANDING Month
The month of February is designated “World Understanding Month.” The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905, and that day is now designated “World Understanding and Peace Day.” Since that day in 1905, Rotary has grown into an international organization helping to launch, complete and sustain numerous service projects worldwide as well as developing international friendships which help to broaden Rotary’s commitment to helping others, no matter where they may be. While some projects and services have an immediate impact, all are excellent foundations for the future and continue to build peace and goodwill. “World Understanding Month” is a chance for every Rotary Club to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service: Rotary’s continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world. The Sun City Rotary Club helps to promote international understanding by generously focusing support for PolioPlus every February as a way of honoring the theme. Through Rotary and its Foundation, personal relationships are fostered that transcend borders and form a foundation for peace.
February is PolioPlus Month for Our Club
Please watch this short video
prepared by the Rotary Club of Austin
to get pumped up for February festivities
(February is our Club's PolioPlus focus month)
8 - End Polio Now from Rotary Club of Austin on Vimeo.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Les Collier (previously a Rotarian several years ago in Walnut Creek, California) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Bill Harrah). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (January 6, 2015).
Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2015)
January: ROTARY AWARENESS Month
January is Rotary Awareness Month – a time to learn more about our organization and a time to focus on our public image. Raising awareness of Rotary is an important part of what we do as clubs and members. The more Rotary is known for its good work, the more good work Rotary will be able to do.
Rotary Awareness month is not only about our organization’s history but also our future. Assuming we are serious about attracting new members, seasoned Rotarians must be prepared to share their knowledge and experience. Prospective members will want to know about the opportunities for service and the resources available to them if they do commit to join the Sun City Rotary Club. When we welcome new members, there are traditions to pass on and a rich heritage to share. Share Rotary with members, family, friends, and the community. A Rotarian accepts the “obligation to share Rotary with others and to help grow our Club by proposing qualified persons for Rotary membership.”
January is a good time for members to share a personal story or experience that they have had because of Rotary. Every Rotarian has a Rotary story that can be educational and inspiring. Another easy way to increase Rotary Awareness is to always wear your Rotary pin. You can then share the Rotary story when people ask about the pin you are wearing.
The beginning of a new year is a good opportunity to renew inspiration for the rest of the Rotary year.
Did You Know? (Rotary Awareness Presentation)
Breakfast with Santa Thank You
Thank You Georgetown and the surrounding area
for helping to make "Breakfast with Santa"
very special again this year.
very special again this year.
Your generosity enabled BWS to help 54 local families plus
provide financial support to Jarrell's Out-Reach program
as well as The Georgetown Project's NEST program.
Save-the-Date: BWS #15 will be Saturday, December 12, 2015
Click HERE to see 2013 sponsors and donors.
(BWS 2014 sponsors and donors will be posted here when the newspaper ad is finalized.)
Click HERE for information about sponsorships
or how to make a donation to BWS (always accepted).
Click HERE to make direct online donation via
Chisholm Trail Communities Foundation
(Designated Fund: "Sun City Rotary Club of Georgetown - Breakfast with Santa Fund)
Monthly Rotary Theme (December 2014)
December: FAMILY OF ROTARY Month
December marks what is officially designated as Family Month in the Rotary calendar or sometimes more commonly called Family of Rotary Month. As Christmas and the New Year approach, everyone is more conscious of a focus on family and family reunions. People of most faiths (or even no religious faith) celebrate on some level, commerce slows down and many families take their annual holidays. So December is indeed a time to reflect on family values and how Rotary shapes those values. Rotarians generally see their life priorities as family, work and then Rotary. Where it is difficult for the family to be involved on a regular basis with Rotary activities, there is a lot to be said for putting aside a day(s) for events that involve all of the family. Some clubs have Christmas parties for the children (or perhaps in many cases, grandchildren) and some clubs make one of their regular meetings a family Christmas function (such as the day that members, spouses, friends and volunteers gather for BWS WRAPPING to prepare over 2000 items for DISTRIBUTION to selected BWS families in the area). In families where the children are adults, consider inviting them to a Rotary meeting to remind them, if nothing else, where the Rotarian disappears to on a regular basis.
Beyond the immediate family is the family of Rotary. This is a large family indeed. The members include the alumni of all the programs that Rotary supports directly and indirectly. There are the major programs such as Youth Exchange, RYLA, GSE, Ambassadorial, Peace and Global Grant Scholars and many others. Sadly, contact with these family members all too often is lost after they complete their program. It is the responsibility of Rotarians to keep them within the family of Rotary. Frequently it is the Rotary club that fails to reach out and keep that relationship vibrant or at least ongoing. These alumni have been the beneficiaries of Rotary generosity and it is not unreasonable for Rotarians to ask them for assistance occasionally for current projects and/or invite them to club functions from time to time. Many prominent Rotarians began their Rotary journey by participating in Rotary programs. How long do these alumni have to wait for the invitation to be asked to become a Rotarian? The right time for program participants to become Rotarians will vary, but by keeping track and in touch with them, that time may come sooner than expected.
Service Above Self
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Beth Warner (Dell Computer retiree) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Bob Elam). The Club Board of Directors has approved her membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (November 17, 2014).
BWS Work Rosters (secure)
2014 BWS Poster
Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2014)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month
The Rotary Foundation is Rotary's own charitable fund and is operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes throughout the world. The purpose of The Rotary Foundation can be found in it's motto: "Doing good in the world".
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary's priorities, such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact.
The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested for three years and the income earned from these investments pays for all the Foundation's operations, fund administration and administrative expenses. Every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs approximately three years later. Between the years 1947 and 2005 approximately US$1.5 billion has been spent on the Foundation's programs.
The mission of the Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty.
Service Above Self Award
Congratulations, Adaire !!!
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President Bob Elam presented the Club's "Gaz Green Service Above Self Award" to Adaire Wolf at the Anniversary Dinner on October 28. Adaire is a charter member of the Club, past Club President and currently serves (for several years) as Club Administration Director. Adaire's leadership, tireless efforts and involvement in ALL Club activities clearly demonstrates what "Service Above Self" is all about. Well deserved. 
Hill Country Arts & Crafts Fair
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Rhonda Conklin (Property Manager for Westwood Townhomes) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved her membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (October 14, 2014).
District Governor Inducts New Members
District Governor Hanspeter Tobler inducted two new members to our Club in conjunction with his visit on Tuesday, October 7. Welcome: Allison Dickmann (sponsored by Donna Taylor) and Lee Safford (sponsored by Bill Carr). Recently appointed Assistant Governor John Barber (Past President of the Georgetown Sunrise Club) also helped with the induction ceremony.
(from left to right): District Governor Hanspeter Tobler, Adaire Wolf (representing Donna Taylor, Allison's sponsor), new member Allison Dickmann, Bill Carr (Lee's sponsor), new member Lee Safford and Assistant Governor John Barber.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Allison Dickmann (State Farm Insurance) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Donna Taylor). The Club Board of Directors has approved her membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (September 30, 2014).
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Lee Safford has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Bill Carr). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (September 27, 2014).
Dr. Fred Brent - GISD Superintendent
Dr. Fred Brent - GISD Superintendent, speaking about how we, as adults in our community, can impact the leaders of tomorrow. Rotarians: Get Involved.
Fun Facts
Georgetown Chief of Police Wayne Nero
Georgetown Chief of Police Wayne Nero (fellow Rotarian - RC of Georgetown) gave a very interesting and informative presentation at today's meeting (September 9, 2015). FYI (and you know who you are): He clocked several golf carts on his radar going 30+ mph while on his way to our meeting (sort of a dilemma for the Police Department, because technically a "golf cart" is intended to be a 15-25 mph vehicle) ........
It's Breakfast with Santa Season
Click HERE to see last year's sponsors and donors.
Click HERE for information about sponsorships
or how to make a donation to BWS this year.
Click HERE to make direct online donation via
Chisholm Trail Communities Foundation
(Designated Fund: "Sun City Rotary Club of Georgetown - Breakfast with Santa Fund)
Click HERE for more Breakfast with Santa information.
Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2014)
September: NEW GENERATIONS Month
The month of September is designated as “New Generations Month” to focus on all Rotary activities that support the development of young people up to the age of 30. Rotary clubs are encouraged to use the slogan “Every Rotarian an Example to Youth” in club bulletins and publicity material during September. In 1949, the Rotary International Board adopted that slogan as an expression of commitment to children and youth in each community in which Rotary clubs exist. Serving young people has always been an important part our Club’s financial support and community out-reach, especially highlighted by our annual “Breakfast with Santa” project which helped 151 kids plus 20 teenagers last year.
Youth service projects take many forms around the world. Rotarians sponsor Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, athletic teams, centers for disabled children, school safety patrols, summer camps, orphanages, recreation areas, safe driving clinics, county fairs, child-care centers, and children’s hospitals. Many clubs provide vocational counseling, establish youth employment programs, and promote the use of The 4-Way Test. In recent times, drug/alcohol abuse prevention and AIDS awareness projects are now also being supported by Rotarians. Rotary International’s structured programs for New Generations are: Interact, Rotaract, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), and Youth Exchange.
Rotarians have an opportunity to be role models and mentors for the young people in our community. One learns to serve by observing others. As our youth grow to become adult leaders, it is hoped each will achieve that same desire and spirit as Rotarians have to serve current and future generations.
Proposed New Members for Our Club
Patty Sharp (sponsored by Doyle Brown), Mike Simon (sponsored by Lou Gibson) and William Carr (sponsored by Lou Gibson) have been proposed for membership in our Club. The Club Board of Directors has approved all three membership proposals. Any comments and/or opposition to these membership proposals must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (August 14, 2014).
Super (ROTARIANS) Salesmen in Action at City Market
Glynn and Lou were working hard last week raising money
for THE YOUTH OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY.
Monthly Rotary Theme (August 2014)
August: MEMBERSHIP & EXTENSION Month
August is recognized by Rotary as “Membership and Extension Month.” Rotary has two major priorities. The first priority is the eradication of polio throughout the world and ROTARIANS should be familiar with the fairly new, clever slogan, “We’re THIS Close.” The second, and perhaps less recognized or appreciated, is membership growth, extension, and retention. The second priority does not have a catchy slogan and, unfortunately, we are NOT “THIS Close.”
The numbers speak for themselves. Ten years ago Rotary had 1.2 million members. Today, Rotary still has 1.2 million members ...... Not a very good “trend.”
So what, if anything, can we do about this alarming trend?
- First, membership is EVERY ROTARIAN'S business. Membership is too important to be delegated to just one or two ROTARIANS in our Club or even a small committee and, certainly, membership is too important to focus on it only one calendar month of the year.
- Second, membership in Rotary cannot be promoted by simply explaining to prospective members all of the rules, policies, procedures, Council on Legislation enactments, and folklore about Rotary or The Rotary Foundation. But, the hook, as it were, is telling prospective new members WHY you are a ROTARIAN, why you have remained engaged in Rotary over the years, and why Rotary is important enough to you that you commit time, energy, and dollars. Your story is a powerful tool that needs to be told.
- Third, we need to be flexible and innovative in our Club in order to retain the members that we have. Weekly programs should be interesting and thought-provoking; activities need to be relevant to the members’ personal, professional, and civic interests; members need to be given a responsible job in the Club, given direction about how to perform the job, encouraged to perform the job to the very best of their ability, and finally be recognized for performing and doing an outstanding job.
- Fourth, membership tools and material to help us do all of these things already exist, so we don’t have to “reinvent the wheel”.
Just remember, these membership ideas and challenges for our Club can only be implemented by us. The gift of Rotary membership is too important to postpone until tomorrow or to leave to someone else. The real key to growing and sustaining "membership" is for our Club to become a group of ROTARIANS rather than just a group of "members."
Rotary Fest Fundraiser Results
Thank You for supporting our Club's 1st Annual Rotary Fest Fundraiser.
Good Food - Good Band - Good Times
Great News for the Youth of Williamson County
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Mickey McLaughlin (Russell Glass Company) has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (July 23, 2014).
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Virginia (Ginny) Wagner has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved her membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (July 16, 2014).
2014-15 RI Presidential Theme
RI President Gary C.K. Huang chose Light Up Rotary as his theme for 2014-15. Huang is urging club members to Light Up Rotary by hosting a Rotary Day in their community, continuing our fight against polio, and increasing club membership.
"Light Up Rotary is more than our theme. It is how we make a difference — every day, in every club, and every country we serve."
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Stan Brandenburg has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Bill Harrah). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (July 1, 2014).
Sun City Vet-Am "Thank You to the Troops" Golf Tournament
Soldiers from Fort Hood participated in Thursday's bi-annual golf tournament sponsored by Sun City to "Thank the Troops." Our Club provided bottled water and snacks to all the players as they arrived at White Wing #4 (although our little bags of Fritos and chips were not quite as popular as the home-made cookies provided by "High Speed Service" and Sun City Neighborhood 52).
Teeing it up. A wide range of golfing skills were observed during the event ........
Bob and Rich enjoyed an afternoon of "engaging" the men and women enjoying the event.
Thank you to all the Rotarians who took the time to stop by and greet the guests from Fort Hood. Special recognition goes out to Rotarian Glynn Hatley who played in the event and actually started at #4 (hopefully Glynn brought enough golf balls to share with his soldiers, because, based on their opening shots, it appeared that several of the men on his team might need more than one Titleist to complete the tournament......).
Rotarian of the Year
Carolyn Holloway - 2013-14 "Rotarian of the Year"
CONGRATULATIONS
June 3, 2014 Rotary Program Summary
We had three speakers representing the Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) dental program. First up was Tino Hernandez, DDS. Tino is a member of the Round Rock Sunrise Rotary Club. He has led a medical/dental team to Honduras and participated in six TMOM projects helping both children and adults who otherwise would not receive dental care. For the Williamson County project this year the goal is to serve 1,000 patients.
Speaker two representing TMOM was Vicki Jackimiec, a volunteer from Georgetown. She talked about the challenges facing someone who doesn’t want to smile due to poor teeth. She also mentioned a man who walked all the way from Waco to get dental care at the last project in Georgetown. She said funding and volunteers are needed to help make the Georgetown “Dental Mash” a success.
The final speaker was Dr. Kent Macaulay, who was introduced by his patient, Dick Will. Dr. Macaulay is strongly committed to TMOM having participated in nearly 50 of the 56 events since 2001. During that time over 30,000 patients have been cared for! He also showed a video of some very happy Texans who have received much needed dental care and prosthetics in the past. It was heartwarming to see their reactions.
This year’s event is scheduled for August 1 and 2 at East View high school in Georgetown. Volunteers (both professional and others) and donations are needed. Please contact the Texas Dental Association Smiles Foundation at tdasf.org if you’d like to help.
Latest Edition of THE SUN LIGHT
Monthly Rotary Theme (June 2014)
June: ROTARY FELLOWSHIPS Month
Rotary Fellowships are groups of Rotarians, Rotarian spouses and Rotaractors who unite to:
• Share a common interest in worthwhile recreational activities (sports, hobbies, etc.)
• Further their vocational development through acquaintance with others of the same profession
• Make new friends around the world
• Explore new opportunities for service
• Have fun and enhance their experience in Rotary
Rotary Fellowships informally began in 1928 when a group of Rotarians with an interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947 Rotarians organized a group of boating enthusiasts, which became the Yachting Fellowship. These activities gained more attention and operated over the years as World Fellowship Activities, International Vocational Contact Groups, Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships, and finally, Rotary Fellowships.
Fellowships often use the International Convention in June as an opportunity to plan meetings and activities for attending members from around the world. Fellowship exhibitions make up a vital part of the House of Friendship, and groups use this opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, plan for the future, and recruit new members.
Fellowships often use the International Convention in June as an opportunity to plan meetings and activities for attending members from around the world. Fellowship exhibitions make up a vital part of the House of Friendship, and groups use this opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, plan for the future, and recruit new members.
You can learn more about Rotary Fellowships on the Rotary International website.
Vet-Am Golf Tournament
The Sun City Rotary Club will proudly sponsor hole #4 at White Wing at the Sun City 2014 Vet-Am Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 26. This annual event is an opportunity for Sun City residents to provide a "thank-you" to the soldiers at Fort Hood. Thanks to the generosity of our members during "Happy Bucks" on June 3 we will also be sponsoring an entire team of soldiers in the tournament.
Thanks, Rotarians, for stepping up!
RYLA Camp
Jarrell Scholarship Winners
Thursday evening, May 29, our annual scholarship awards to Jarrell High School students were presented at "Senior Awards Night" to Sarah Petersen ($1000), Julie Thompson ($500) and Tiffany Hyden ($500). We were also honored to have these three students attend our Rotary meeting last Tuesday (May 27). Congratulations.
Tiffany Julie Sarah
Rotary Fest Fundraiser
Rotary Fest Dinner/Dance - July 26
Club Members click the above URL for more details (timetable, work rosters, etc.)
"Team" Ticket Sales Progress (Week Six)
1st 2nd 3rd
Congratulations, Tom! (click here to see a picture)
Thomas L. Minor was inducted into the RI District 5870 "Roll of Fame" on May 18, 2014 at the Conference of Rotary Clubs. Selection to the District's Roll of Fame represents the highest award that may be conferred by the District to an individual Rotarian. Each honoree must be nominated by the President of his/her Club, be supported by an application containing facts setting forth his/her contributions to furtherance of Rotary, its principles, and its programs. Tom has been a Rotarian since 2000. Check out Tom's Rotary highlights on page 3 of the May 27 issue of THE SUN LIGHT.
Monthly Rotary Theme (May 2014)
May: MILITARY APPRECIATION Month
May is an "open" theme month for Rotary International. Our Club will honor the military in May (especially Club members who have served).
Monthly Rotary Theme (April 2014)
April: MAGAZINE Month
April is the month for increasing our awareness of The Rotarian, which is the magazine we all receive as members of Rotary. For Rotarians in other countries, regions, and zones, it may be a similar Rotary magazine published in French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Dutch, Hindi, or other languages. For purists, Rotary’s recognition month is simply referred to as “Magazine Month,” but we all know that Rotary is not promoting Time, Forbes, or Travel + Leisure. Although people are relying more and more on the Internet and social media as sources of news and information, it is still nice to have a slick, glossy magazine specifically for Rotarians. The graphics are clean and crisp, the style has been modernized so that it is one of the leaders in media industry magazines, and the photographs are certainly worth more than a thousand words each. Every month The Rotarian connects us to other Rotarians around the world who are also doing good, making a difference, and improving the lives of others.
March 18 Program
Mayor George Garver (Georgetown, TX) presented a very informative program at our regular meeting on Tuesday, March 18. Mayor Garver is a Rotarian and belongs to the RC of Georgetown.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Grover Trytten has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Carolyn Holloway). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (March 11, 2014).
Mardi Gras Social Tonight
Tonight at 6:00 pm
(Cowan Creek)
Monthly Rotary Theme (March 2014)
March: LITERACY Month
In 1985 Rotary declared literacy to be a pre-condition to the development of peace and since then it has been an emphasis of Rotary International. Celebrated in March each year, Rotary Literacy Month is an excellent opportunity for Rotary clubs and districts to raise awareness about literacy, launch new literacy initiatives and projects, and recognize literacy accomplishments from the past years. Rotarians are encouraged to participate by engaging in service or activities that address literacy and education issues in their communities or abroad.
Literacy is a primary goal of our education system. Many Rotary clubs have initiated literacy projects. For example, each week, our Rotary Club donates a book to the Jarrell Elementary School library in honor of the program or speaker.
A critical marker and indicator for future school success is being able to read. There are studies showing that students unable to read on a third-grade level after completing the third grade most likely will not graduate from high school. Through third grade, you learn to read. After third grade, you read to learn. Reading skills coupled with an excellent vocabulary are the keys to academic achievement in school and help pave the way to higher education and to better jobs and career choices throughout adult life.
Rotary Clubs support literacy in their communities and they support literacy worldwide because positive social indicators go up as literacy improves. A simple internet search with the words “Rotary” and “literacy” returns scores of stories about Rotary-sponsored projects. As a Club, we do a little and many members individually volunteer in literacy-related activities, but we could (and should) do a lot more. Maybe next March, a Rotarian will come across our success story when they search the world wide web for literacy-related programs.
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Ray Quigley has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (February 25, 2014).
2014 Foundation Dinner
Our Club was well represented Saturday night (February 8) at the District 5870 Foundation Dinner at the Omni Hotel in Austin by the following members and spouses:
John & Deanna Chenoweth
Bob & Nancy Elam
Doug & Marcy Lowe
Mike & Phyllis Oglesby
Carolyn Holloway
Janice (Jacoby) & Jeff Parker
Also, congratulations to the Georgetown (downtown) Rotary Club and the Georgetown (Sunrise) Club for winning the District 5870 prizes for having the highest number of Club members and guests in attendance (32) and the highest percentage of Club members in attendance (79%), respectively (each Club received a Paul Harris Fellow award for them to give to a member of their choice).
Although RI President Ron Burton was unable to attend, the Keynote Speaker, Monty J. Audenart delivered an excellent and inspiring message about Rotary Service. Several members of our Club provided very generous contributions to the Rotary Foundation over the past year and are listed in the Donor Recognition program (click on the following link to open the two programs for the event):
2014 Foundation Dinner and Donor Recognition
Monthly Rotary Theme (February 2014)
February: WORLD UNDERSTANDING Month
The month of February is designated “World Understanding Month.” The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905, and that day is now designated “World Understanding and Peace Day.” Since that day in 1905, Rotary has grown into an international organization helping to launch, complete and sustain numerous service projects worldwide as well as developing international friendships which help to broaden Rotary’s commitment to helping others, no matter where they may be. While some projects and services have an immediate impact, all are excellent foundations for the future and continue to build peace and goodwill. “World Understanding Month” is a chance for every Rotary Club to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service: Rotary’s continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world. The Sun City Rotary Club helps to promote international understanding by generously focusing support for PolioPlus every February as a way of honoring the theme. Through Rotary and its Foundation, personal relationships are fostered that transcend borders and form a foundation for peace.
Our Club will focus on PolioPlus in February
Click HERE to read more about Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio.
All of our weekly "HAPPY BUCKS" in February will go to PolioPlus.
100% member participation @ $10 triggers the Lou Gibson "challenge."
Triggering the Lou Gibson "challenge" triggers the Bill Harrah "challenge."
100% member participation @ $15 doubles the "challenges."
Bill Miller can provide details regarding ways to contribute and participate.
Welcome to Georgetown!
Lucas Beltramo (from Argentina) is a new foreign exchange student at Georgetown High School sponsored by our Club (Carolyn Holloway) and District 5870.
Lucas arrived in time to meet Chet Garner (The Day Tripper on PBS television) who welcomed Lucas to the Palace Theater last Saturday for the inaugural presentation of "Texas movies at the Palace Theater."
Lucas will be our guest at an upcoming Rotary meeting (probably Mardi Gras Night on Thursday, March 6).
Lucas Beltramo, Carolyn Holloway and Chet Garner
**********************************************************
Monthly Rotary Theme (January 2014)
January: ROTARY AWARENESS Month
Rotary Awareness month is not only about our organization’s history but also our future. Assuming we are serious about attracting new members, seasoned Rotarians must be prepared to share their knowledge and experience. Prospective members will want to know about the opportunities for service and the resources available to them if they do commit to join the Sun City Rotary Club. When we welcome new members, there are traditions to pass on and a rich heritage to share. Share Rotary with members, family, friends, and the community. A Rotarian accepts the “obligation to share Rotary with others and to help grow our Club by proposing qualified persons for Rotary membership.”
This is the month for us to consider how our Rotary values – and our own actions – influence public perceptions of Rotary. Rotary’s strategic plan outlines five core values that define and guide us as we chart a course into our second century of service. Service is reflected in our primary motto, Service Above Self. Fellowship is the reason Rotary was founded over 100 years ago. Diversity is an aspect of Rotary that becomes more important with every passing year. Integrity is fundamental to Rotary’s identity and when we maintain the highest of ethical standards, we strengthen the trust that allows us to serve more effectively. Leadership, the fifth core value, should remind us that we are Rotarians and by choosing to accept that honor, we take it upon ourselves to become representatives of the entire organization. When we are known as Rotarians, then everything we do reflects upon us all. By living by our core values and committing to Service Above Self, we build a stronger Rotary and a better world for all.
Proposed New Members for Our Club
Jim Whittaker has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Mike Oglesby). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (December 30, 2013).
Jack Walker has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (December 30, 2013).
Meeting at Burger University - December 3, 2013
Article from "The Williamson County Sun"
Proposed New Member for Our Club
Jason Hall has been proposed for membership in our Club (sponsored by Lou Gibson). Jason is a Home Care Specialist and operates an extended care facility in Georgetown. The Club Board of Directors has approved his membership proposal. Any comments and/or opposition to this membership proposal must be submitted in writing (or emailed) to the Club Board of Directors within 7 days from this posting (December 1, 2013).
Monthly Rotary Theme (November 2013)
November: ROTARY FOUNDATION Month
The Rotary Foundation is one of the largest foundations in the world. It is Rotary's own charitable fund. Annual contributions to the Foundation are invested for three years and the income earned from these investments pays for all the Foundation's operations, fund administration and administrative expenses. Every annual giving dollar contributed to the Foundation is available for its programs approximately three years later. Between the years 1947 and 2005 approximately US$1.5 billion has been spent on the Foundation's programs.
Thanks
The "anonymous" Rotarian has been identified!
Thanks Rotarian Alex Munson and all the Club members who stepped up to match Alex's generous gift to the Club's Permanent Endowment Fund.
This tremendous increase to the PEF will sustain our Club's ability to provide future service to our community. Well done!
Congratulations, Jamie!
Jamie Mattison
2012-2013 "Gaz Green Service Above Self" Award
This Rotarian has certainly "Engaged Rotary" with her "Service Above Self"
Happy Anniversary to our Club (16th)
William "Bill" Grusy (1921-2013)
Former Sun City Rotary Club member Bill Grusy passed away Tuesday, October 1. Bill was a member of our Club from October 2009 thru April 2013. Bill always enjoyed helping with our annual Breakfast with Santa project. A Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, 2013 in the Chapel of Ramsey Funeral Home (Georgetown, TX). Graveside services and burial will be held at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery. Bill was an accomplished pilot, as described in the following obituary:
Bill Grusy (click here for Ramsey Funeral Home website)
Monthly Rotary Theme (October 2013)
October: VOCATIONAL SERVICE Month
Vocational service has its roots in the second object of Rotary, which encourages all Rotarians to hold high ethical standards in business affairs and professions, to recognize all useful occupations as worthy of respect, and to dignify work as an opportunity to serve society. The role of vocational service in the Club is important, even if it isn't always prominent. Valuing all occupations equally and maintaining a classification system in Clubs ensures that Clubs can serve communities well. Diversity is the strength of Rotary.
Monthly Rotary Theme (September 2013)
September: NEW GENERATIONS Month
On April 28, 2010, Rotary International's (RI) Council on Legislation approved adding a fifth Avenue of Service, NEW GENERATIONS, to the Standard Rotary Club Constitution. NEW GENERATIONS joined Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service and International Service as a "philosophical cornerstone" for club activity. The addition of this fifth Avenue of Service formalized RI's recognition of the positive contributions youth and young adults can make to society.
Work - Work - Work (click here to see more)
Thank you to everyone who made BWS possible !!!!
Key BWS-related Dates and Locations ----- (24/7 for FUNDRAISING)
√ Tuesday, November 19 - BWS SOCIAL at Rich & Rita Petro's home
√ Wednesday, December 4 - Day 1 of BWS SHOPPING at Walmart
Thursday, December 5 - Day 2 of BWS SHOPPING at Walmart
Friday, December 6 - "Optional Day of BWS SHOPPING (only if needed)
√ Wednesday, December 11 - BWS WRAPPING at the Community Center
√ Saturday, December 14 - BWS BREAKFAST at the Community Center
√ Saturday, December 14 - BWS DISTRIBUTION at Fire Station #1
Sun City Rotarians serve lunch at RYLA (click here to see a picture)
Eight Sun City Rotarians and two spouses travelled to McKinney Roughs on Tuesday, July 2 to prepare and serve lunch to RYLA campers and staff. Meatball subs, tossed green salad and bread pudding topped with chocolate sauce seemed to satisfy 150 hungry participants.
Congratulations, Don!
Don Bender was presented the "Rotarian of the Year" award for Rotary Year 2012-2013 at our Club's President's Night celebration held Tuesday evening, June 25.
Congratulations, Susie! (click here to see a picture)
Susan Ward, editor of "The Sun Light," received the District-level "Best Bulletin" award at the 2013 Conference of Rotary Clubs. John Chenoweth and Jamie Mattison accepted the award on behalf of Susan and the Club.
Congratulations, Rich! (click here to see a picture)
Richard T. Petro was inducted into the RI District 5870 "Roll of Fame" on June 2, 2013 at the Conference of Rotary Clubs. Selection to the District's Roll of Fame represents the highest award that may be conferred by the District to an individual Rotarian. Each honoree must be nominated by the President of his/her Club, be supported by an application containing facts setting forth his/her contributions to furtherance of Rotary, its principles, and its programs. Rich has been a Rotarian since 1953.
EREY
ACHIEVED for Rotary Year 2022-23
Editorials by Bob Deffeyes (plus other information)
Click here to view material created and shared by Bob (members only).
Other information regarding Club members is also available at this location (members only).
Membership Matters
1st Annual Rotary Fest Fundraiser - July 26, 2014
Click here to see more pictures (or select Photos from the top menu)
Donna, Doug and Herman greeted event attendees.
President's Night - June 25, 2013
If you would like to review the presentation from President's Night a few weeks ago, click on MORE to watch the PowerPoint slides.
"Breakfast with Santa" was a featured exhibit at the Conference of Rotary Clubs - May 31 thru June 2, 2013
Lou Gibson and Harold Bergh shared the BWS story with many of the Conference attendees.
August 7, 2012
Mayor George Garver (Georgetown, TX) spoke at our Club on Tuesday, August 7, 2012.
Summerfest - Sunday evening, July 7 (Sun City Ballroom)
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