D5040 NEWSLETTER Sep 2007 ISSUE

 

Dean’s Digest

 

I can’t believe that August is over and I have relaxed enough to enjoy my “Official” visits to the Clubs.  It has had been an amazing adventure and passed in the blink of an eye.  I suspect that this will be the nature of this year and that before I know it, my year as DG will be over.  As the Youth Exchange Students always tell you – “this is the best year of my life”, so for me – this will be year of such fun and adventures that I too will remember  it as a banner year.

 

My adventures started when together with PDG Sonya Wolowidnyk and the Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Vancouver Cambie, I stood waiting at the airport for the arrival of RI President Elect DK Lee, his wife Juang and their aides, Mike and Mary Pinson . . . and it just kept building from there.  RI President Wilf Wilkinson arrived that evening and I had the honor of spending 3 days with him while he was in Vancouver attending the Presidential Membership Conference.  What an amazing time visiting the joint meeting of the Rotary Club of New Westminster and Rotary Club of New Westminster Royal City; the Rotary Club of Vancouver Arbutus meeting; a press conference with the Rotary Club of Chinatown as they announced their amazing Bike Ambulance project in Namibia; a visit with PDG Charles Loh and his wife Carol; more interviews and finally the Presidential Membership Conference and the associated meetings and dinners.

 

I have to catch my breath just thinking about this very busy time, yet President Wilf Wilkinson was always on time, always smiling, always willing to share.  What an amazing President we have. . .

 

. . . . .and what amazing clubs we have.  The first club I visited was the Rotary Club of  Vancouver Quadra.  I cannot believe how nervous and concerned I was – and they put it all right for me!  Thank you for listening intently, applauding vigorously and giving wise advice!  Now that I am over the nerves, I am vastly improved and loving every minute of my visits.  Richmond Sunset, Steveston-Richmond, Whistler Millennium, Pemberton and Squamish.  It feels like I am sitting on a train and the stations flash by - a brief stop to meet the amazing Rotarians and see the stunning projects – and then the conductor blows the whistle, and I have to move on – hopefully to return in the near future.

 

This past weekend was spent in the hurricane energy of 26 magic young people and the facilitators of RYLA North.  Despite dire weather predictions for Prince George – it did not rain and I learned to play FROLF (Disc golf) and a game called Electricity!  Once again – all I can say – it was an amazing experience and I loved being involved.  RYLA is a stunning program.  Thank you to all the clubs that support this program – you are changing the lives of the youth you send.

 

This week I visit further clubs around Vancouver and next week am off to the Sunshine Coast to see how Rotary fares there and to enjoy their Annual “Hunghai”. 

 

I hope you are all able to enjoy September, this last slow month of Summer/early Fall, and wave to me as I pass on this great Rotary road.

 

Anybody who extols the virtues of living in

Central Interior of B.C. is known as a Caribooster

 

. . . no traffic jams, reasonable weather (just enough rain to keep the grass green) and affordable house prices. The 5 Rotary Clubs in the Cariboo (2 in Quesnel, 2 in Williams Lake and 1 in 100 Mile House) can definitely be classified as Cariboosters. They all have contributed greatly to improving their communities. The Quesnel Club sponsored both the Williams Lake Club and the Quesnel Sunrise 2000 Club and the Williams Lake Club, in turn, sponsored the 100 Mile House Club and the Williams Lake Daybreak Club.

 

Some of the recent community improvements include the Quesnel Club’s indoor soccer fields, the Quesnel Sunrise Club’s clock tower in downtown Four Corners Square, the Williams Lake Club’s log picnic shelter in a local park, the Williams Lake Daybreak Club’s management of the Stampede Parade during the Canada Day weekend and the 100 Mile House Club’s management of the old local arena which they’ve transformed into an agriplex for horse shows and the Rotary Fall Fair.

 

The president of the Quesnel Club is Brian Harrison, a bank manager. Their new officer installation was held at a Japanese style community hall which the Club helped construct several years ago. Yes, you have to remove your shoes when you enter. Their weekly lunch meetings take place at a Chinese restaurant in West Quesnel. The food is brought out on large platters and placed on the revolving tray in the center of each table – very convenient. Their big fund raiser is a televised auction which takes place in November each year.

 

Quesnel Sunrise 2000’s Club president is Gordon Gairns who is a claims adjuster. Their installation took place on a Saturday afternoon and included a golf tournament for members and spouses. They meet for breakfast in the basement of the Billy Barker Hotel and Casino in downtown Quesnel. The Casino is fortunately not open at that time of the morning and they can’t actually see the sunrise from their meeting place. One of their members is a former mayor of Quesnel.

 

(Pic from City of Quesnel: L to R: Peace River South MLA Blair Lekstrom, Spirit of BC Committee Chair Coun. Mary Sjostrom, Mayor Nate Bello and Sunrise Rotary 2000 President Elect Kit Collins unveil the sign announcing the grant contribution to the Four Corners Square on Monday, Aug. 13.)

 

Both Quesnel Clubs have an interesting practice of keeping their fines separate from their happy and sad dollars which are donated periodically to a local charity. The two clubs jointly sponsor a Rotary Exchange student.

 

The 100 Mile House Club’s president is Douglas Dent, a lawyer. They hold their lunch meetings at a German restaurant with a very civilized tradition of serving wine and/or beer prior the meal and another civilized tradition of serving your meal at your table. One of their members is a former mayor of 100 Mile House.

 

The Williams Lake Club also held their installation at a local golf course but they were there only for the food. The installation, this year, was performed by the oldest member of the club who felt truly honoured in being selected. He installed Don Urquhart as President. Don owns and manages a local printing shop which is advertised in the District 5040 directory. The Club meets for a buffet lunch upstairs in a former Chinese restaurant which has a magnificent view of the lake.

 

Their interesting tradition is to form a receiving line at the beginning of each meeting so that, as the members and guests enter, they greet and shake hands with all the people present and then stand at the end of the line and greet people who have entered after them. Their Rotary Exchange student this year recently arrived from Germany. For their major fundraiser, they organize a large outdoor barbecue which serves breakfast and dinner for 3 days during the Canada Day long weekend. The “Stampede Steakout” is located at the entrance to the rodeo grounds during the “World Famous Williams Lake Stampede”. One of their members is a former mayor of Williams Lake.

 

The club’s Picnic Shelter project started in 2005 is officially open, Mayor Scott Nelson stated that the Rotary Club's contribution to the community is very welcome. "You are an ambitious group who puts their hearts in the community," he said. "Your organization has been absolutely critical in projects in Williams Lake!" Read complete article at www.rotary5040.org - Media Mentions.

 

The Williams Lake Daybreak Club held their installation outdoors at the house of one of the members. They put on a barbecue and organized an informal pot luck dinner. They meet for a buffet breakfast at a local restaurant on the ground floor of the Cariboo Friendship Centre which has an excellent view of the sunrise (if you can focus at 7:00 am in the morning).  The president this year is Ingolf Sandberg who owns and manages a local office machine outlet. Their fundraisers include selling of pre-numbered “Bronco Buttons” during the aforementioned Stampede and organizing a Duck Drop in conjunction with the Williams Lake Club

 

Williams Lake Daybreak Rotary’s 2nd Annual Williams Lake Stampede Parade

 

The Daybreak Rotary Club of Williams Lake produced our WL Stampede Parade on Saturday, June 30th – and it was great! Our club organized this 83rd annual parade (our 2nd parade as organizers) as a community service because our community really enjoys this parade and it has become an integral part of a very busy weekend for Williams Lake and surrounding areas. The July long weekend is a tremendous time to visit Williams Lake!

 

This year our parade had over 150 registrants entered in the parade itself – each with its own set of volunteers. We counted just over 1,000 participants in the parade itself. The parade route covers 2 Kms through downtown Williams Lake and the sun was shining brightly. There were over 11,000 people watching the parade this year. The community really supports the parade with active participation either in the parade or by watching and cheering. The parade also takes a group of 100 volunteers to organize, run, and oversee. This is truly a community event of a grand scale in terms of participation. We are quite proud of both the parade and Williams Lake – and invite all Rotarians in the district to join us sometime in the future to see it first hand!

 

The District’s Youth Exchange BC Tour group was in town over the weekend and participated in the parade – they seemed to be having a great time as they rolled by this Rotarian!

There were at least 2 Daybreak Rotarians participating in the parade. President Elect Ingolf Sandberg was showcasing his amazing musical talents while marching with our own Williams Lake Community Band. Ingolf also showed great dexterity in avoiding the various “deposits” made by the equine entrants!

 

Speaking about those “unwanted equine deposits” our very own Rotarian Christine Wagner was in charge of cleaning up those deposits!  Christine had a great time following the last of the horses to go through the parade, dressed in a lovely French Maid costume with a large shovel in hand – happily scooping as she walked the route!  Our “Daybreak Madame” Pooper Scooper had a wonderful time performing this essential community service – which is how Rotary should be – Service with Fun!!

 

Organizing and overseeing this parade takes many, many hours of time and effort. It is all worth it though when you see the smiles, when you see the generations of our community getting together, and when you see our community pride come through. We are starting work on next year’s parade already!  - Daybreak Rotarian, and 2007 Parade Marshall,  Erik Zwiers

 

Annual District 5040 Foundation Dinner Be there...Friday Nov. 23, 2007

 

DG Dean invites all Rotarians to come and support our Rotary Foundation

 

Hellenic Centre - 4500 Arbutus St. Van.

Cash bar at 6pm and dinner at 7pm. Ticket $70/person. Program includes Silent Auction, Raffle draw and DJ.

 

An important aspect of the Foundation Dinner is to raise funds through a SILENT AUCTION.  We require your assistance to make the silent auction a financial success.

 

Each club is asked to provide 2 auction items worth $100 or more.  A good way to do this is for clubs to create theme baskets.  Club members can bring items that are grouped together to create a basket worth more than $100.  Ideas for the theme baskets include, but are not limited to:

  • Chocolate lovers
  • Gourmet picnic
  • Bath/spa
  • Wine and cheese
  • Party time

Also, gift certificates are always good items for a silent auction.

 

ALL DONATIONS ARE GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED.  If you give us cash, we can make up the baskets for you.  Contact PDG Mary Watson for more information by phone at 604 952 7044 or via email at  marywatson7@gmail.com.

 

Foundation Dinner Chair: Don Kavanagh 604-929-8580 or don_kavanagh@hotmail.com

TICKETS: Peter Beynon 604 434-5158 or peterbeynon@shaw.ca

 

2008 Richmond District Conference … drum roll ... rotary rocks ... are you going to be there ?

 

DG Dean invites all D5040 Rotarians to join her and Rhino May 15 to 18, 2008.

 

  • District 5040 is going to be a blast.
  • The District Golf Day on the Thursday is going to be a Hole in One.
  • The Opening Ceremonies will have you take off into space.
  • The Foundation Lunch will fill you with passion.
  • The Plenary Speakers will have you sitting on the edge of your seats.
  • The Fellowship will last a lifetime.

 

Check out the District website Event and Conference page for program details. Watch the promotional video of RI President Wilf and DG Dean. Register now online or by mail. For more information, contact Conference Chair Magdalen at 604-214-8833 or by email mleung@westernmba.ca

 

Interesting Speakers:

 

  • PRIP Jonathan Majiyagbe
  • Rick Hansen
  • Hon. Carole Taylor
  • Howard Blank
  • Senator Larry Campbell
  • Vicky Gabareau
  • PDG 5040 Gary Holick

 

Locations chosen for 2009 and 2010 District Conferences


DGE Bob Blacker and DGN Gordon Dalglish are now finalising plans for future Conferences. Please note the following dates and locations:

May 1 - 3, 2009 - Victoria, BC. Victoria Conference Centre will the main venue, Empress Hotel will be used for gala and some plenary sessions.

May 7 - 9, 2010 - Prince Rupert, BC. The Conference will celebrate the Centenary of Rotary in Canada, and the centenary of the City of  Prince Rupert

 

FOUR Assistant District Governors

wanted for July 1st, 2008

 

District 5040 is looking for progressive Rotarians interested in working as AG

 

Requirements as follows:

  • Served as a President at the club level.
  • Have good knowledge of the area where you wish to apply.
  • Good knowledge of Rotary Programs.
  • Have superior interpersonal skills.
  • Good public speaking skills.
  • Be willing to work closely with clubs in the area you are applying.
  • Willing to work closely with the District Governor Team.
  • Willing to attend District Training programs such as PETS, District Assembly, District Conference, RLI, etc.
  • Willing to serve on committees as directed by the District Governor.

 

Send Resume by Sep 30, 2007:

To: Executive AG Sue Smith

Email: suesmith107@shaw.ca

Mail: 107-11675 7th Avenue, Richmond, B.C. V7E 4X4.

 

Interviews to be conducted by:

District Governor Elect Bob Blacker

District Governor Nominee Gordon

   Dalglish 

 

Training:

The successful applicants will shadow the incumbent Assistant Governor for their area immediately after being selected.  The District will provide training for AG.

 

4 Positions available:

 

Sunshine Coast/    Powell River

Richmond Delta

North Shore

Vancouver (2nd AG)

 

Apply before September 30th, 2007

 

Rotary Leadership Institute Course

Part I coming up Oct 20, 2007… limited space

 

Registration is limited to 30 people per course. Each course is $85 including meals, breaks and training materials. For registration form and further details, visit the events pages on the District website at www.Rotary5040.org.

 

Oct. 20, 2007 – Part I at the Delta Airport Hotel in Richmond.

Jan 26, 2008 – Part I & II , location to be selected.

May 15, 2008 – Part I, II & III in conjunction with District Conference

 

Additional courses will be offered at any location in District 5040 where there are a minimum of 15 candidates and appropriate facilities.

 

Established in 1994 to assist in improving the Rotary knowledge and leadership skills of the future leaders of clubs and districts, the Rotary Leadership Institute is a multi-district program already functional in 110 districts around the world.

 

The institute offers a training program in three full-day sessions, followed by graduate seminars. Trainers are carefully selected from among Rotarians with outstanding leadership abilities and prepared to conduct innovative and participatory course sessions. The Rotary Leadership Institute is a recommended unofficial affiliate of Rotary International.

 

AG Penny Offer D5040 Rotary

Leadership Institute Committee Chair Phone 604-940-9365  PennyOffer@telus.net

 

Attention!!! Host Families and Volunteers who will be with Youth Exchange students unsupervised need to have background checks, which includes criminal record checks completed. Forms can be downloaded in District website under Youth Programs. ClubRunner Clubs can download directly from their club website under Download links. 

 

“The time is past for talking about Rotary Membership Growth, it’s time to begin the work”

 

Presidential Membership Conference Aug 10-11, 2007

Over 400 Rotarians packed the Conference hall in Richmond to listen to RI President Wilf Wilkinson, RI Director Monty Audenert and other speakers on varied topics, such as how different generations see Rotary, why diversity of membership is important, the need for change in Rotary's approach to membership and strategies to start new clubs.  

 

In ending the conference President Wilkinson said, "The way each club approaches membership needs to be the right way for that club.  There isn't going to be any one approach that works for everyone.  "But over the course of this conference, you have gained the tools and the ideas which will help you and your club will decide what's the best way for you."

 

Conference Chair Chris Offer challenged the Rotarians attending to walk the talk and lead by example by personally sponsoring a new member.

 

You can download the free Conference report or order a spiral copy for $10 including shipping and tax at www.RotaryEvents.ca

 

STEP UP THE CHALLENGE

 

RI President Wilf Wilkinson is encouraging all Rotarians to help strengthen Rotary's membership by bringing at least one new member into Rotary. He recognized his team with a new member sponsor pin and encourages clubs to adopt the same recognition incentive for their members. For Rotarians who sponsor more than one new member, additional recognition can be displayed with a numbered tab that attaches to the pin. Pins and tabs can be ordered from RI Official licensees.

 

New Westminster Royal City voted #1

For 2007 outstanding club of the year award

 

GET READY FOR 2008  The Guidelines for Outstanding Club of The Year Award are in the 2007-2008 District Directory on page 50.

 

Criteria and form can be downloaded in District website. Each Assistant Governor should be nominating one club in their area by april 1st, 2008

 

The very first Number 1 Outstanding Club of the Year Award in District 5040 went to New Westminster Royal City for meeting and exceeding the criteria set forth and for the way they put together their presentation.  The banner hangs proudly on the wall at their club weekly meetings.

 

This new award was instituted by PDG Kevin Conway last year and asked Assistant Governors to nominate ‘The Most Outstanding Club’ in their area.

 

To be the most Outstanding Club takes a lot of hard work and effort on the part of the entire club and also requires the Assistant Governors to take notice.

 

You can be sure that New Westminster Royal City will be striving to keep this honour and will be raising the bar of expectation for their members.  Any club who wishes to compete and win this honour next year has a lot of work and strong competition from the best of 2006-2007.

 

The runner-up Quesnel and honorable mentions Vancouver Chinatown and Smithers are to be congratulated for their great year and for being nominated by their Assistant Governors. Their submissions were also outstanding but New Westminster Royal City won the GOLD.

 

- PDG Sonia

 

The Rotary Foundation Service Award

and Bequest Recognitions

 

PP Matt Coenen

Vancouver Chinatown 

 

RI Director Monty Audenart, Club Pres. Linda Wong and PDG Del Paterson presented Matt Coenen with a diamond Paul Harris pin and engraved crystal in recognition of his commitment to The Rotary Foundation and the Bequest Society. Matt has made a significant bequest in his will for TRF.

PP Bill & Marilyn Brambell

Ladner Club (ex-member)

 

RI Pres. Wilf Wilkinson presented Bill a Bequest Society Crystal for becoming a Rotary Foundation Bequest Society member and Benefactor. Bill was immediate Past President of the Ladner Club, but has recently moved and has transferred to the Abbotsford Club.

 PDG Chris Offer

Vancouver Chinatown

 

Chris was presented with the Rotary Foundation Service Award for a Polio-Free World by RI Pres. Wilf Wilkinson to recognize his outstanding contributions to the polio eradication effort.  He is currently Zone 22 PolioPlus Partners Program coordinator.

 

Recognitions Total as of august 2007:

 

Major Donors: 8,707
Bequest Society: 5,590
Benefactors: 74,791
Paul Harris Fellows: 1,068,741

 

Benefits of lifetime giving - the warren buffett effect, make your influence felt today!

 

Warren Buffett, America's most noted investor, decided to make his impact with charitable giving during his lifetime rather than through a charitable bequest.

 

The reason? So he could actively participate in his philanthropy and help shape the programs important to him.

 

Many other donors have also discovered the benefits of lifetime philanthropy through planned gifts such as the charitable gift annuity and gifts of appreciated property. Those plans allow you to make your influence felt today while, at the same time, you receive tax savings and other financial benefits.

 

Consider a planned gift to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) as part of your personal philanthropy. Explore the many ways you can partner with Our Rotary Foundation and help shape the programs that are important to you.

 

Karen J. Bierman

director of planned and major gifts, TRF

Ph: 847-866-3100

Speak to her  about the many trf donation opportunities available

 

Rotary Friendship Exchange Opportunity

With District 7630 - April 2008

 

The Rotary Friendship Exchange program gives Rotarians and their families the opportunity to experience other cultures firsthand, by participating in reciprocal visits with Rotarians from other countries and their families.  Introduced in 1984, this program aims to advance international understanding among Rotarians.  It provides Rotarians with the opportunity to form personal contacts and make long-lasting friendships while exploring different areas of the world.

 

District 5040 has been invited to join in an exchange with District 7630.  This is an exciting opportunity for Rotarians who would like to visit the Atlantic coast with other Rotarians.  We will limit the group to 12-15 people and will plan for our trip in April of 2008.  I am including the information on the district which was sent to me by Don Blouch, the Friendship Exchange Chair of D7630.

 

“District 7630 is located in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, near the east coast of the country and about midway north to south.  Our district includes the state of Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland (the part of Maryland east of a body of water known as the Chesapeake Bay).  We are mostly farms and small towns, but within only a few hours drive of New York City, Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

 

Please let me know if you are interested.  It would be great fun to have the return trip of the D7630 Rotarians during the time of our District Conference in May.

 

PDG Mary Watson

phone:  604 952 7044 email: marywatson7@gmail.com

 

GRoup study exchange to d9200 east Africa

Applications for TEAM LEADER have now closed. Official cut-off date for prospective TEAM MEMBERS is Sep 15, hurry up and apply now! There may be an extension after due date.

 

Rotary Global History Fellowship

www.rotaryhistoryfellowship.org

 

Visit this website of the Rotary Global History Fellowship. This much-used site contains the most comprehensive collection of Rotary’s history over the past 100+ years with over 3,000 pages and 10,000 articles on the history of Rotary International. Hopefully, anything you ever wanted to know about the movement is here within this website. Explore and enjoy!

 

You can read about Rotary’s Paul Harris and find wonder in his messages, essays and books. You can also learn about Rotary’s famous 4-Way Test or take our Rotary history tour. In addition, we offer “What Paul Harris Said” and “Why I Am a Rotarian,” along with a monthly Rotary Foundation newsletter about Our Foundation. You will learn a great deal from our global, Rotary, hoped-for future, such as: essays on the journey toward Peace. Our highest compliment is for you to say, “Wow,” after a visit!

 

Anything you can’t find – visit our history search page. Want to talk about a subject – visit our www.rghfforum.org where members and visitors may post comments (our visitors via our RGHF comment form). Want to contribute – visit and then join us! We need new members-new ideas-new explorations into the essential elements of Rotary. We extend an invitation to all Rotarians to come and join this dynamic project, Rotary Global History Fellowship.

 

For further information about membership and to contact our membership committee, just use our comment page at www.historycomment.org.

 

Already a member? Let’s hear about your experiences and adventures with Rotary Fellowships and Rotary Action Groups.

 

Please submit articles for publication to D5040 Fellowship Chair, PDG Dave Kirk - dbkirk@telus.net Member of International Travel and Hosting

Fellowship

 

We are off to a great start . . .

Media Coverage keeps rolling in 

 

Promote Rotary through media is one of the most effective public relation tools.

Clubs and Rotarians in our District have been featured in local newspaper throughout August and September, RI President Wilf Wilkinson was featured twice during his Vancouver visit. Find out who got coverage in the press:

 

·         Tsawwassen Rotary on Public park pond clean up.

·         Tsawwassen Interact Club for collecting 2,500 toothbrushes for Harbin, China.(featured twice)

·         Jill Moore of Tsawwassen heading to Harbin, China with the Alliance for Smile to repair Cleft Lip of children.

·         Eleanor McWhannel of Tsawwassen promoting GSE to East Africa.

·         Peter Dandyke of Tsawwassen architecture and designer of Rotary Square.

·         Quesnel Sunrise Rotary featured 3 times on BC Spirit Square.

·         RI President Wilf Wilkinson.

·         RI President Wilf Wilkinson visiting New Westminster Rotary.

·         Magdalen Leung of Richmond Sunset her work as full time volunteer.

·         Williams Lake Rotary on their Picnic Shelter project.

·         Vancouver Chinatown on their Bike Ambulance and Wheelchair Projects.

·         Tsawwassen Rotary on the Rotary Square project.

 

Read all media coverage at www.rotary5040.org under Media Mention.

Please send media articles in pdf or forward the link

To Editor Becky for posting on the district website

editor5040@hotmail.com

 

When I asked Bryan Kelly of Tsawwassen Club what is his secret of getting all these media coverage, he generously sharing some of his secret…

 

The full version can be downloaded under Media Mention in www.rotary5040.org

1.       To provide stories to fit the press’s mission statement.

2.       Take pictures that tell a story and are of publishable quality and write the story. Hand them a complete ready to publish error free package – picture, caption, headline, sub-head and press ready story.

3.       To write the story, have a hook, the head turning item to ‘hook’ the editor’s and reader’s attention, provide the answers who, what, why, when, where and how. Have all names and contact information relevant to the story and hand it over without restrictions (demand no credits).

4.       Don’t push Rotary, rather push the key event benefit that is the subject of the story. Families sheltered, pain relieved, park made safe, education provided etc. Always make it personal - put an individual front and center – they are the window to the story. Rotary always comes in as a secondary mention.  

5.       Finally, Club support is important. Officers, directors and members must cooperate and support the effort.   

 

Interesting Speaker - Chris Harris,

Canadian freelance/adventure photographer

 

Chris has devoted his time to sharing his love of photography and nature with people of all ages. He has published 9 books in his series Discover British Columbia Books. Chris has a number of presentations for a wide range of audiences and/or events. His presentations are informative, upbeat, entertaining and inspiring. Contact Info - Country Light Publishing, Box 333, 108 Mile Ranch, BC, Canada V0K 2Z0 Phone:250-791-6631, Fax:250 791-6671 or Toll Free:1-800-946-6622 E-mail: photography@chrisharris.com Website: http://www.chrisharris.com/

 

 

Let’s work Hand in Hand to bring . . .

the District Membership Figures current & accurate

 

Attendance Report is being posted on the last page of each month’s District Newsletter

 

For the first time in two years - we are providing all members with the Attendance and Membership figures in the District Newsletter in order to place proper emphasis on the fact that the District numbers are ever declining - and that each Rotarian needs to focus on Membership and Retention to bring about a positive change. This is not just urgent but essential for Rotary's future. 

 

Through the District Website - ClubRunner - each club can report their monthly changes in membership and attendance. This needs to be done by the 5th of the month following. In this newsletter, the July figures are printed. As you can see - some clubs are still not reporting and some reports are inaccurate.

 

As your District Secretary - I have been in touch with every club in 5040 to remind them to report on time and instruct them how to do so.  If your club's  July figures are not correct, I urge the President, Secretary or Designated attendance keeper to update your club's info IMMEDIATELY - so that we all know what *OUR* district figures actually are - and know whether we are in a positive or negative growth position. 

 

If any club does not know how to do this -  please make one phone call to me - and I will walk you through it. It is not difficult. 

 

Thanks for your cooperation,

Nancy Nikolai, District Secretary

 

Need help to enter the membership figures in the District website?

 

Call Nancy Nikolai, District secretary at 604-524-2144

 

RI Literacy Resource Group

 

Rotarians are encouraged to celebrate International Literacy Day on Sep 8, 2007 in cooperation with the International Reading Association  and

support literacy projects during Literacy Month in March 2008.

 

Visit RI Literacy Resources  at www.rotary.org for supporting materials or contact District Literacy Chair Leo Nimsick at nimsick@telus.net

 

September 8th is an occasion to give hope to the millions of women, men and children who cannot read or write even their own name. This day reminds us of the importance of literacy for individuals, families, communities and whole societies.

 

International Literacy day was started in 1965 by UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. This year the theme is “Literacy, key to good health and well-being”.

 

The link between low literacy, poverty and poor health is common knowledge. By bringing literacy to adults and children, we are bringing hope and a powerful change in their life and in their society for achieving social progress.

Literacy affects about 800 million people in our world and some of those people are in our own community. Many Rotary clubs have already participated in literacy projects in the past, for those of you who have not, here are a few ideas:

·         Do a local survey on literacy;

·         Adopt a project at home or Internationally;

·         Donate books, money or time;

·         Volunteer to be readers, tutors or mentors;

·         Work with refugee and immigrant population to assist with second language learning;

·         Share your ideas with the district so we can all expand our knowledge of literacy projects.

 

-          PDG Soni

 

Joint Rotary Club Project

To provide wheelchairs to villages in South Africa

During their visit to South Africa last June, DG Dean and Magdalen Leung saw that there is a high demand of wheelchairs needed to provide handicapped villagers living in that region with mobility and freedom.

 

Upon their return, they started initiating a joint club project. As of to-date, Magdalen is very happy to report that a total of 276 wheelchairs have been donated, 50 from Richmond Sunrise, 53 from Richmond Club, 155 from Richmond Sunset and 20 from Vancouver Sunrise. One third of these wheelchairs are for children and rest for adults. Cost per wheelchair is CAD $110.

 

The wheelchairs will be shipped in a container from the manufacturer directly to South Africa and the expected arrival time is early September 2008.  A total of 280 wheelchairs are required for a full container. For more information, please visit Wheelchair Foundation Canada at:

www.wheelchairfoundation.ca .

 

“Rotarians are encouraged to go to South Africa as volunteers to help unloading and distributing the shipment to different villages.

 

We wish to take this opportunity to thank all the Rotarians, friends and families who have generously supported this initiative and congratulations to District 5040 for a successful Joint Club Project!”

 

– PP Magdalen Leong, Richmond Sunset

 

How four wells change lives in West Kenya with

combine effort of Rotarians and Matching Grant

 

Recognizing the need for wells to provide clean, safe water of rural communities in Kenya, Rotary Club of Vancouver South decided to make a difference.  Each member of the club made a personal donation to assist the club’s fundraising towards a Matching Grant to build four wells on rural school properties in Tumanini, Elufafwa, Ematsayi and Shivagala, outside Kakamega, Kenya.

 

When the Rotary Club of Kakamega heard about the Rotary International Matching Grant wells project, they were eager to support it.  President Robertson Osangale and Secretary Mrs. Grace Kavenghan from the Kakamega Club worked hand-in-hand with Joseph Mutamba, Director of the LIFA (Literacy for All) schools, and Sandra Harper, from the Vancouver South Rotary Club, to plan and supervise the digging of the wells.

 

A well-digger, named Nixon, dug each well and lined the walls with cement rings and installed a sturdy, metal hand pump.  Then each community had a commissioning to celebrate the opening of their first public well. The Chief and other community dignitaries, parents and students, and Rotarians gathered together to mark the opening of their well, giving access to clean, safe water.

 

Speeches, songs, dancing, an official cutting of the well’s ribbon, pumping out the first stream of water and the planting of 6 trees to commemorate this very special occasion took two hours.  At each location, the Kakamega Rotarians donated a water storage tank. The eyes of the children and adults sparkled as they burst into songs of thanks for the first well in their community.  The miracle of easily accessible water had finally reached their lives.

 

Many people in the world are only familiar with turning a tap and getting clean water instantly to use.  But to see four rural communities in Kenya welcome their very first pump and its safe water into their lives confirms to all Rotarians that a pump and its water are basic needs for each community.  Clean water is now provided for drinking and cooking.  Disease, such as cholera and dysentery, will be reduced. Women and girls will be released from the hours of carrying water.  More girls will be able to attend schools in the senior grades, thereby accessing their basic right of education.

 

Life in these four communities has changed.  All through the efforts and support of Rotarians and a Rotary Matching Grant to provide a simple pump, a well, and a water storage tank.  What a contribution Rotarians - living half a world apart, but working collaboratively together – have made in assisting the lives of other Kenyans.

 

-Sandra Harper, Vancouver South Rotary

 

Rotarians Hard At Work

Ladner  - Vancouver Centennial - Tsawwassen 

 

One Sat Aug 18, Ladner Rotarians spent a fine morning at the Rotary World Help Network warehouse, loading the container that the club has co-sponsored for Panama. The 40’ container was filled with hospital and computer equipment and supplies with an estimated replacement value of over $250.000.

 

This RWHN project initiative is one of the coolest things we can do as Rotarians.  Our discarded hospital and computer equipment and supplies are treasures in third world countries.

 

This is my second time at Riverview.  Thanks go to Larry Pretty for organizing it on behalf of the club and Barry and Melissa for being there.  We Rotarians are making a difference. 

 

The last time, our club sponsored a container to the Philippines.   The Consulate General from the Philippines was there to thank us and some of the members of the Philippino community were there to feed us lunch.” – Pres Chu Wu of Ladner 

 

On Aug 6, Rotarians from Centennial Club demonstrated exceptional sales skills at the Taiwan Festival in Bobolink Park. By 2pm, they sold out all bake goods and raised $400 towards their club project.  Special thanks go to Jeffrey Hwang who made this happen.

 

Over 30 organizations participated in the festival, there were music, songs, dancing and ethnic food

 

A Tsawwassen Rotarian work party set to cleaning the pond behind the concession building of trash, brush and weeds.

 

The good humor of the members made the activity seem more like fun than hard work. “Whenever this group gets together there are many laughs. They even make fun while fishing debris from a pond”, said VP Gerry Beltgens. “Grey skies and the muck doesn’t dim their humor.” “What can you expect when you put men, mud and a boat together?” laughed Rotarian Gail McEwan.

 

We appreciate the Rotary help”, said Doug Petersen, GVRD Park Operations Supervisor. He directed the cutting of brush and provided the boat and trash bin while Rotarians contributed the work party and fun, followed by a BBQ party.

 

(They even gained media coverage at the South Delta Leader. If you have a good story, send it to the press!!)

 

Rotarians Hard At Play Vancouver Chinatown - Richmond - Richmond Sunset

 

ON Aug 17, Vancouver Chinatown held their Annual Golf Tournament, 23 golfers were teed off at about 4 pm. Another 13 Rotarians and guests joined them for the prime rib dinner.  They had a ball. Thanks to member Lincoln Yeung who sponsored the $10,000 hole in one prize at the 13th hole. Unfortunately no winner.

 

On Aug 17, joined by Richmond Sunset Rotarians, Richmond Club’s "Hawaiian Summer Barbeque" kicked off with a blast. It was changed into a Hawaiian-Mexican "HAMEX" style during the expected drizzle early evening. The food and drinks were in abundance. Everyone enjoyed a great night of fun and fellowship at Pres. Peter Raju and Usha’s home.

 

Appreciation from Rotarians . . .

Lucky winners of 2006 Rotary Foundation Dinner

 

Thanks to a very generous donation to the Foundation dinner in November 2006, we were the lucky winners of a two night stay at the Alpine Meadows Resort (just a hundred km north of Kamloops at the edge of Wells Gray Park).

 

What a wonderful place – a warm greeting by gracious hosts Debra and Tom Fennell set the tone and we were quickly settled in our one bedroom suite in a duplex chalet overlooking exquisite Hallamore Lake.    Our balcony gave us a great view of fish  jumping in this peaceful little lake and visions of a just caught dinner danced through our heads.  Quickly launching one of the electric boats provided by the resort we found the fish did not share our vision!!   Never mind, a leisurely cruise, and the sight of a moose ambling along the edge of the lake, created a very enjoyable, relaxing morning.

 

Visit www.alpinemeadowsresort.com for details and when you visit, please remember the generous support of the Rotary Foundation.

 

Jane LePorte and Peter Scott,

Rotary Club of Burnaby Deer Lake

 

LionsGate rotary now meets on Thursdays

 

Starting Sep 13, they will meet on Thursdays from noon to 1pm

at Cheers Restaurant, 125 East 2nd Avenue, North Van.

D5040 Rotarian honoured by Phillipines president Recipient of Award of achievement

 

Rotarian Elena Agala, Rotary Club of Richmond Sunrise, has just been announced as a recipient of an Award of Achievement, to be presented by Her Excellency Gloria Arroyo, President of the Philippines.

 

Elena was nominated by an organisation known as Katiguban Samarenos Ha Leyte (KASALE) - residents of Leyte who are from the Province of Samar, Philippines. The honour was awarded to recognise Elena "...because of your exemplary achievement as a Civic Leader and Rotary Official in Canada...You are indeed a role model for our youth in the Island of Samar who is worthy of emulation."  The presentation will be in Leyte on October 13th, when President Arroya will give the keynote speech to inaugurate the KASALE organisation.


Elena has been a Board member of the Rotary World Help Network - and personally involved with many shipments to the Philippines. She is also a founder member and Board Member of the "Sister Families" project in D5040. Sister Families (www.sisterfamilies.ca) contracts with professional social workers in the Philippines to match abandoned or surrendered babies with families living in that country.  Social workers conduct home studies, and manage the governmental licensing process. They also assist in the subsequent adoption process, and thus help create a new permanent home for the baby, as well as a new family for the Philippine parents.

 
Our Congratulations to Elena for all she has achieved through Rotary and for receiving this well-deserved honour from President Arroyo.

 

- Gordon Dalglish
Assistant Gove

 

Bequest Email Scam Warning . . .

D5040 Rotarians received such emails

 

Subject: From Barrister Dezi Daniel

Address: London, UK

Re: Last and Final Notification of Bequest.

 

Summary: Advising recipients they are being made a beneficiary to the bequest of the estate of a late Rotarian Mark Andreoni, who was President of Rotary Club of Abingdon-England, with Club number 000003980, District 1180. This bequest is to support activities, humanitarian services and help to the less-privileged. 

To enable them to conclude the legal duty, the Rotarian should forward personal information specified and the biodata page of their international passport or drivers licence as a proper identification.

 

Unfortunately a recent e-mail scam, and some other forms of Internet fraud, have been targeting Rotarians. Rotarians to be vigilant about deleting any e-mail that appears suspicious

The British Columbia Youth Parliament’s 79th Parliament will be held in Victoria at the Legislative Chambers from December 27 to 31, 2007. The Youth Parliament is a province-wide non-partisan organization for young people ages 16 to 21. It teaches citizenship skills through participation in the parliamentary session in December and continuing involvement in community service activities throughout the year.

 

Each group or organization may nominate two applicants. Each applicant who is accepted to attend as a member of BCYP must pay $155 towards their registration fee, this year due to generous donations the remainder of the $280 fee is being covered for all members. Members will sit and debate in the Legislative Chambers for five days and will be accommodated for four nights at the Harbour Towers Hotel in Victoria. In addition, transportation to and from Victoria will be provided for all members who require it. Visit their website at http://www.bcyp.org/session/ to download application and for more details.

 

All applications must be received by October 24, 2007. Applicants will be notified whether they have been selected in early November

 

September is New Generations Month

Investing in our Youth is our Future

 

Interact Students Pack Smiles to China

The newly chartered Interact Club of Tsawwassen is already on the news not just once, twice!!! After learning Tsawwassen Rotarian Jill Moore with Alliance for Smiles will be travelling to China in September to provide reconstructive surgery and essential dental procedures, Interact Club President Johanna Johnson took action. “Young people taking international action is what Interact is all about.” Says Johanna. Club members convinced students at Beach Grove, English Bluff and SDSS to collect dental hygiene supplies for the medical team traveling to remote Harbin, China. They offered a pizza lunch at each school for the class collecting the most. Due to their effort, 2,500 toothbrushes were collected. The Interact members are already well into planning another international action: a leadership development trip to Ecuador during Spring Break when they expect to be involved in building a school.

 

Why Your Club should sponsor youth to attend RYLA?

Adam Briglio: ...We met people that were from all parts of the globe and others who were just from different parts of B.C. Meeting new people gave us a fresh perspective on the world we live in...

 

Sean Bosa: ...Adam and I learned that the camp wasn’t just about learning how to be a good leader but to see that there are lots of different and interesting people out there. That we are not just restricted to the confines of our school and home, the experience of meeting new people was a life lesson in itself. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to attend RYLA...

Rachel Li and Stephanie McEwan told their experience with pictures….

 

UBC Rotaract on the Move

Four members of the UBC Rotaract Club went on a fact finding mission to San Pedro Sula Honduras. They visited schools, hospitals, orphanages and were hosted by Rotaractors. They presented their outcomes to their sponsor club the Rotary Club of            Vancouver and they are planning to host Rotaractors from Honduras next summer, with the help of Rotary,  as well  as fund raise for a World Help Network container for the hospital.

 

Rotarians can help Young people reach their full potential through the many Rotary programs available. Get involved, sponsor Interact, Rotaract, Youth Exchange and RYLA.

It’s worth it !!!