World Polio Day Competition – Your Club could win $500 for its WASH Projects!
What is World Polio Day?
World Polio Day is celebrated on October 24th. World Polio Day was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis. Use of this inactivated poliovirus vaccine and subsequent widespread use of the oral poliovirus vaccine, developed by Albert Sabin, led to the establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
Polio is a disease caused by a virus that affects the nervous system and is mainly spread by person-to-person contact. Polio can also be spread by drinking water or other drinks or eating raw or undercooked food that are contaminated with the feces of an infected person.
$$$$$ - THE PRIZES!
$500 US for the best project (i.e. the one with the most impact)
WHAT VALUE DOES YOUR CLUB HAVE FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS?
By Michael Walstrom, president of the Rotary Club of Downtown Boca Raton, Florida
Rotary, like any business, has customers. For us, those customers are our members and we must provide value to assure satisfied customers. The key to attracting and retaining young professional “customers” is presenting a Value Proposition that is attractive.
From the Young Professional (YP) Membership Development project, a 10 question survey designed by District 6930, we learned that young professionals are looking for networking and mentorship, but have concerns about time, money, and family commitments. Fortunately, Rotary has considerable value to offer in all of those areas.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at a global level, over 300 million people are estimated to suffer from depression, equivalent to 4.4% of the world’s population. Depression is ranked by WHO as the single largest contributor to global disability1. Given the severity of these statistics, creating innovative ways to address the prevention of mental illness and the promotion of mental health and wellness is of critical importance. Following its pioneering spirit and mission of global change, Rotary has boldly stepped up to this challenge in two important ways:
(1) introducing prevention as a broader and important component of health to include mental health, not just physical health
(2) funding projects that reach children and adolescents - and the adults who care for them - to specifically address depression education
District 7910 Outbound Exchange Students Prepare to Depart!
On Wednesday July 25 five young people attended the final outbound orientation in preparation for their year-long study abroad sponsored by Rotary's Student Exchange program, the Eastern States Student Exchange ("ESSEX"). All of the students are excited about their year abroad. Kira and her twin Noah are sponsored by the Bedford Club. Kira will be travelling to Bolivia, while Noah will be living in Belgium. Kelsey, sponsored by the Acton-Boxborough Club, is headed to France. Lauren, sponsored by the Needham Club, is excited to be going to Switzerland. Ben, sponsored by Framingham Club, will be studying in Columbia.
Does your Interact club have a representative on the district teen council?
If not, please get a teen nominated before the September 15 kick-off event; provide the name and contact details by email to BobAnthony@AdolescentWellness.org or by calling 781-727-8617.
These teen leaders will:
lead the activities that day
prioritize projects during the year
define the co-host role for the May 4 multi-district event
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into service projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. During the past 100 years, the Foundation has spent $3 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. With your help, we can make lives better in your community and around the world.
Why should I donate to The Rotary Foundation? Your donation makes a difference to those who need our help most. More than 90 percent of donations go directly to supporting our service projects around the world.
How does The Rotary Foundation use donations? Our 35,000 clubs carry out sustainable service projects that support our six causes. With donations like yours, we’ve wiped out 99.9 percent of all polio cases. Your donation also trains future peacemakers, supports clean water, and strengthens local economies.
What impact can one donation have? It can save a life. A child can be protected from polio with as little as 60 cents. Our partners make your donation go even further. For every $1 Rotary commits to polio eradication, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has committed $2.
What are the areas of the Foundation’s focus? Promoting Peace, Providing Clean Water, Saving Mothers and Children, Supporting Education, Growing Local Economies, and Fighting Disease. Even the United States has problems in all six areas of focus, the reason for Global Grants, assistance going in all directions to help promote a better world.
The Framingham Rotary Club, continuing its annual effort to help keep very low income seniors in public housing cool and healthy during hot weather, last week delivered thirty-seven 6000 BTU air conditioners for installation at units managed by the Framingham Housing Authority (FHA). The project, a collaboration among the Rotary club, the FHA, and the Callahan Center (the Framingham Council on Aging Senior Center), has now delivered 212 units over the past six years.
By Geoffrey Johnson Illustrations by Rocco Baviera
When it comes to finding new members for his Minnesota Rotary club, Tom Gump doesn’t just walk the walk, he trots the trot: the turkey trot. Gump is a former president of the Rotary Club of Edina/Morningside, which makes boosting membership a priority. In fact, that’s the fourth item on a list of 10 tips to attract and retain members which has been prepared – and practiced – by the club. It’s tip No. 10 that finds Gump clad in a turkey suit. More on that shortly.
The tips work: During Gump’s 2016-17 stint as club president, Edina/Morningside added 31 members. Eleven of them were women; 10 were under 40 years old. With 94 members, the club “went from being classified as a medium-size club to being one of District 5950’s large clubs,” says Gump, who will be the 2020-21 district governor. “There were 13 clubs larger than our club in our district, and now there are only four.” The tips have proven so effective that Gump has taken the Edina/Morningside show on the road, using a PowerPoint presentation to coach other clubs on specific ways they can expand their membership. “I have been called a good salesman,” says Gump (who, for the record, is a real estate lawyer and a developer). “But to me, recruiting new Rotary members is not really selling. It’s matching up potential members with what he or she wants in a club.” So if you’re looking to add members to your club, consider taking a page from the Edina/Morningside playbook. Read on for the club’s 10 tips, as well as five suggestions for increasing membership from other Rotarians and Rotary clubs.
Pre-Conference September 18-20, 2018 | Conference September 20-22, 2018 Hotel Bonaventure in Montreal
The 2018 Montreal Zone Conference is a unique event, and we want to invite you to be a part of it. Whether you’re an incoming District Governor, District leader, Past District Governor, or a Rotarian with an interest in becoming more engaged in Rotary….the Montreal Conference is for you! The theme “People Coming Together” fits our goal of providing you with an extraordinary and unforgettable event. This is why we're inviting everyone to be a part of the excitement!
Formerly known as the Zone Institute, this gathering was originally designed to motivate, inspire, and educate past, current and incoming district governors. That hasn't changed. Historically, however, attendance at a Zone Institute was restricted to those in the District Governor line. This year we've decided to open the conference to all Rotarians to facilitate engagement between our Governors (and their knowledge, leadership skills, and commitment) and club and district Rotarians. Visit the Montreal 2018 web page to learn more about this exciting conference and register today!
2018 Montreal Zone Conference - All Rotarians Invited!
Southborough Rotary club members helped support the Southborough Library by volunteering at the Strawberry Festival organized & held by the Library at the end of June. In the 80’s, the Strawberry Festival was a popular town event, so the Library was keen to try and restart it – Festival 2.0! Club members helped serve strawberry shortcake & strawberries to the public. And since literacy is one of Rotary's key areas of focus, the club also decided to donate 2 raffle baskets of children’s books for the event. The children’s books were all on topics along Rotary ideals like: helping others, 1 person making a difference in the world, tolerance, resolution conflict, people working together for positive change. The Strawberry Festival also featured Coco's Tropical Ice, petting goats & veggie stamping for kids, as well as the big book sale inside the library. Over 200 people enjoyed the event and many said they hoped it would be held again next year. The club also produced the fun look back video which was given to the Library and Southborough Access Media after the event.
Experience tasting over 200 crafted beers, ciders and malt beverages from 73 + breweries & enjoy delicious food from 24+ of the area's finest restaurants! Click here for more info & tickets!
Follow this link: https://ga.vyond.com/videos/0U9HY8JzbSKsto a monthly series of animated membership-related videos being produced for clubs in Zone 32 by Lawrence Furbish, Assistant Rotary Coordinator, Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club, Maine in District 7780. All of the videos in the series will be very short (2-3 minutes) so that your Club should be able to view them and discuss how to implement the content during regular club meetings.
The Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge and Southbridge is tending to 21 raised beds in the Community Food Collaborative garden! Volunteers of all ages are working in the garden, including two families and a girl scout troop. One team weeds the beds, and another team that takes turns watering the garden on a regular basis - especially during the extreme heat.
The Rotary Community Corps is also cleaning up the areas leading up to the garden, weed whacked the brush, and spread mulch to make it look better.
The best part of it all is that the Rotary Clubs of Sturbridge and Southbridge have made two deliveries already to to the St. John Paul II Food Pantry, where all the produce is donated. The garden grown produce delivered to date includes various kinds of lettuce, cucumbers, cauliflower, zucchini, broccoli, beans, bell pepper, sweet banana peppers, summer squash, radishes and beets . This week a much bigger delivery was made that included lettuce. The clubs are planning an Open House at the end of July, and everyone is invited to take a drive to Sturbridge and see the garden.
On Monday, August 20, the Cohasse Country Club in Southbridge will again host the Rotary Club of Sturbridge for its ninth Charity Golf Classic. Chair of the event, Dave Zonia, reports that the field of 64 golfers is filling up quickly so it’s best to make your reservations now to be included. The day begins with a tee time at 10:30 AM, a BBQ luncheon on the course and a full prime rib dinner prepared by the club’s Executive Chef. We’ll have auctions and the awarding of prizes following dinner. Cost for this prestigious event is $600 for a foursome and $150 for an individual signup, upon which you will be assigned to a group.
Sturbridge Rotary Builds New Playground at the YMCA
The Sturbridge Rotary Club recently helped build a new outdoor playground at the Tri-Community YMCA Child Development Center, 115 Marcy Street in Southbridge. The new outdoor playground, built with the help of the Sturbridge Rotary Club, will be enjoyed by more than 150 kids a day.
“This playground will help the Y provide safe and healthy spaces for our children to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-esteem," Glenn Juchno, Executive Director of the Tri-Community YMCA. “We are fortunate to have great partners like the Sturbridge Rotary Club who understand the impact of youth development in our community.”
A princess, 3 prime ministers, and a former first lady join 25,000 in Toronto to celebrate Rotary’s good work and plan more of it
Toronto, the Capital of Nice, opened its arms this week to welcome 25,188 Rotarians from around the world, who came to Rotary’s annual convention looking for inspiration — and finding it.
Whether it was by seeing old friends in the hallways, making new connections in the House of Friendship, or listening to eloquent speakers at general sessions, attendees found plenty at the 109th Rotary International Convention to remind them of the fellowship that binds them and the diversity that Rotary embodies. Nearly 90 Rotarians from clubs in District 7910 participated in the festivities!
Has your club recently hosted a service project that you want to showcase to be the inspiration to other clubs? Are you planning something in the near future that you would like to share with your fellow District 7910 Rotarians?
Our District 7910 eBulletin, Website, Facebook and Instagram depend on the content provided by our clubs, so please submit your stories and we will publish them on the district website, in the next eBulletin, and on social media. Stories that showcase your club's service projects should be submitted in plain text along with a photo. If you are promoting an event, please send the flyer along with a sentence with the details of the event. Please send your stories to ssager@sagerlegal.com with the words Rotary Story in the subject line.
In an effort to increase membership and highlight Rotary’s inspiring work, RI President Barry Rassin is urging clubs and districts to organize fun, informal community events called Rotary Days. District 7910 Clubs hosted 3 very successful Rotary Service Days last year and we are encouraging clubs to consider hosting them this year.
The District 7910 Membership Committee will meet on a quarterly basis (September 12, 2018; January 17, 2019; April 8, 2019) to discuss with Club Membership Chairs the best practices and success stories both outside and within the District and then how to share this information at the club level with the help of Area Membership Coordinators (AMCs). AMCs will coordinate with Assistant Governors and meet with Club Membership Chairs and Presidents on an individual or group basis to offer support in implementing membership attraction and engagement strategies in the clubs.
The Rotary Club of Worcester held its annual Casino Night fundraiser on Saturday evening June 2nd at the Tatnuck Country Club in Worcester.
The evening’s events included a silent auction and many games of chance from the usual Blackjack and Texas Hold Em Poker to wine bottle ring toss and a 50/50 raffle. The New England Patriot’s 2017 Vince Lombardi Superbowl trophy was on display for photo opportunities.
All proceeds will be invested in the Worcester community by funding new scoreboards at two of Worcester’s sports fields and a donation will also be made to Worcester Vocational Technical High School to fund building materials and supplies for their project to build picnic tables and park benches to update Worcester parks.
Founded in 1912, the Rotary Club of Worcester is the 6th oldest Rotary Club in the world. Its membership includes approximately 80 men and women from public and private sectors of the Worcester community. The Club meets every Thursday at Noon at the Grill on the Hill located at the Green Hill Golf Course in Green Hill Park. The public is welcome.
Rotary Club of Worcester holds its annual Casino Night fundraiser
Dedham residents Michael Podolski, Susan DiTullio, Jack Hoell and Westwood resident Lisa Rubini received Paul Harris Fellow awards from the Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary in a private ceremony last night. All four are members of the Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary, a group comprised of 25 members from the ten towns that comprise the Neponset River Valley area.
The organization is dedicated the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self”. The members support and raise money for local and national beneficiaries, including DOVE-Domestic Violence Ended, Habitat for Humanity, School on Wheels, Blue Hills Regional Technical School, Suits for Success and Clean Water for the World.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have had contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
The Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary Club hosts speakers at their Wednesday morning breakfasts at the MIT Endicott House, and is active in giving back to the local communities. Visitors are always welcome. A list of upcoming breakfasts and speakers can be found online at http://www.nvsrotary.org/ and at http://www.facebook.com/NeponsetValleySunriseRotary
Photo From Left to Right: Michael Podolski, Susan DiTullio, Lisa Rubini and Jack Hoell
Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary Club Honors Paul Harris Fellow Recipients
Outgoing president, Michael Podolski, was honored at the ceremony for his two year term. “It can be challenging work, but it is all worth it. We get to help a lot of people with the work we do. Leah has a lot of energy and great ideas. She is going to be a great leader for our club.”
Leah is a second generation Rotarian, following in the footsteps of her father, Mike Thornton, who introduced her to Rotary when she was a teenager. “I am both humbled and excited to assume this position with this remarkable group,” she said. “We have grown so much in the past few years and we are looking forward to keeping the momentum going. We have some ambitious goals going forward for youth, education, literacy, global wellness, leadership and membership."
The Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary Club hosts speakers at their Wednesday morning breakfasts at the MIT Endicott House, and is active in giving back to the local communities. The club is very active with local charities, such the Dedham Food Pantry, Comfort Zone Camp Massachusetts, Mark Bavis Leadership Foundation, Deutsches Altenheim Senior Center, School on Wheels of Massachusetts and more.
You're Invited to the Make A Difference Awards Celebration!
We are pleased to invite all Rotarians to attend the “Make a Difference” awards celebration on Thursday July 19th at the Sheraton Framingham. The awards celebration is a fun opportunity to mingle with Rotary friends, recognize winners and applaud our District 7910 community.
Doors open at 6:15pm and the awards program begins at 7pm. Enjoy an appetizer and dessert reception including cash bar while mixing and mingling - cost is $20/person. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
One aspect of Rotary that makes it so unique is the annual change in leadership. It seems like we’ve only just arrived…….and it’s already time to leave.
This has been an amazing year making a difference and now it’s time to be the inspiration. With Steve Sager leading our 50 clubs, the result will be nothing short of brilliance, excellence and success!
Our clubs and members are proud of the many ways we serve our communities and the world. We have planted seeds, both literally and figuratively. We contributed to hurricane relief, sending $50,000 to citizens in Puerto Rico who were devastated by the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. We are working on an incoming global grant for addiction prevention. We awarded (2) $35,000 scholarships for 2 students to study post graduate overseas in one of the 6 areas of focus. We have just sent a police officer from Worcester to Thailand for the summer to study peace and conflict resolution.
This year’s emphasis has been on service. Rotarians donated thousands upon thousands of volunteer hours this year and raised thousands and thousands of dollars for our local projects. The Power of Rotary is solidly rooted in our clubs. I am in awe of the diligence and hard work of so many Rotarians from our district.
Posted by Teresa Schmedding and Arnold Grahl - Photos by Alyce Henson
Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada, was presented with Rotary’s Polio Eradication Champion Award in recognition of Canada’s contributions to polio eradication. Trudeau accepted the award at the Rotary International Convention in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
“Let there be no doubt we are winning the battle against polio,” Trudeau said. “I want my children to grow up in a world without polio. Together I know we will make that happen.”
Canada has been a strong contributor to polio eradication efforts for decades. In 2017, Canada pledged US$75 million to help eradicate polio, bringing its total contributions to roughly $640 million.
“Prime Minister Trudeau has committed Canada to remain a strong partner until polio is completely eradicated,” said RI President Ian H.S. Riseley. “With the unwavering support of the Prime Minister and the Canadian government and their strong assistance with continued vaccination efforts, I’m confident we will rid the world of polio.”
The Rotary Club of Southborough decided to do something new for the club and the town of Southborough. They organized the first ever “Food Truck Wednesdays” event and held it on the lawn of St. Marks school, central to Southborough downtown.
This fun mini-event ran on four consecutive Wednesdays, from 3-7 pm, mid-May to mid-June on 5/23, 5/30, 6/6, and 6/13. The weather held for all 4 evenings and the event proved to be a big hit with families looking for a mid-week break and some fun & easy chow. More than 250 people attended every Wednesday. And over $1000 was donated to the club by the food truck vendors in appreciation for a great event.
Participating Food Trucks included: The Dogfather, Streat Food Rx, Say Cheese! ,Grub Guru, Anzio's Brick Oven Pizza, Pangea Cuisine, Teddy's Lunchbox, Travelin' Bones, Trombetta's Farm Ice Cream. CLICK HERE to see fun look back video of the event!
2017-18 Club President David Vachris pitched the idea to club members in early March 2018 and it quickly came together as enthusiasm built.
The Rotary Club of Framingham’s annual installation of officers and directors, held at the Framingham Country Club on June 21, was highlighted by the presentation of its Citizen of the Year Award to Edgar Kalinda , a senior at Framingham State University, who offered his kidney to his high school mentor, ailing club co-president Tom Sturiale. (Tom eventually received a kidney from another donor).
The club’s Organization of the Year Award went to the MetroWest YMCA, represented by YMCA CEO Rick Macpherson, receiving the award from club co-president Dick Manelis. The Rotarian of the Year Award went to Bob Schecter, receiving the honor from club co-president Tom Sturiale. Newly installed District 7910 Governor Steve Sager attended the dinner, along with past District Governors Tom Polito and Carl Kaliszewski.
Would-Be Kidney Donor Honored at Framingham Club's Installation Dinner
RYLA 2018 was a fantastic success on June 21-24th at Fitchburg University. There were 201 RYLAns, 36 Group and Program Facilitators and close to 100 volunteers. 650 people attended the RYLA closing ceremony.
As one parent from Littleton told us about her son's experience:
"I just wanted to let you know what a great time he had. He’s a great kid, and this was an experience very different from what he’s ever had. All signs show that he really very genuinely seemed to have loved it.
He spent a long time last night talking about the whole event with us - his group, the leadership, the exercises, the food, the sleeping arrangements, the college campus, the whole thing... I’m thankful he had the opportunity and I thought I’d share his enthusiasm with you. Thank you and all the best."
The Sturbridge Rotary Club has been awarding scholarships each year to local students for the past 45 years. The first scholarship was for $500 and the amount awarded has steadily increased over the years. This year Sturbridge Rotary has chosen to award scholarships of $1,000 each to six students from Tantasqua Regional High School. Cumulatively, we are proud to have awarded over $200,000 in local scholarships.
Of the 47 applications reviewed this year, the scholarship committee chose the following students based upon the Club’s criteria of personal and scholastic achievement, participation in school activities including sports as well as community participation through work and volunteering.
Join Rotary District 7910 on August 24th at the Lowell Spinners for our “End Polio Now” Campaign Purchase Box Seats using promo code ROTARY at Lowellspinners.com/Tickets
The Lowell Spinners, short-season single A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, look forward to having Rotary District 7910 for a night at the ballpark to help raise awareness and funds for their “End Polio Now” campaign.
Tickets are just $12 and proceeds raised by the Rotary will be donated to “End Polio Now” to help eradicate polio and immunize over 2.5 Billion Children in 122 countries. Don’t forget to wear purple on August 24th to help raise awareness as well!
Rotarians are asked to purchase tickets between Box sections 107 and 110 to be seated as a group! The night includes various Spinnertainment such as game show theme night and a helicopter cash drop following the game.
Don't delay - get your tickets now and bring the whole family, your neighbors, co workers! Everybody loves baseball!
TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME FOR POLIO on AUGUST 24th!
RIDES!!! GAMES!!! FAMILY FUN!!! July 11–15 at Framingham State University Rt. 9 East Parking lot. Wed. Thurs. Fri. 6–10 pm; Sat. 1–10 pm; Sun. 1–6 pm. Free admission.
Cost per ride: 1 ticket $1.25. Number of tickets required per ride varies from 3 to 6 tickets. Food & games are separate costs. All Rotary proceeds benefit local charities and community service projects. MWRTA bus routes 7 and 9 stop at FSU. (visit www.mwrta.com/routes for bus details.)
More info at: www.Rt9fun.com. (Midway by Cushing Amusements.)
Rotary Club of Newton kicked off the Newton Free Library’s Summer Discovery Reading Program at Newton City Hall Wednesday night, sponsored by The Village Bank.
Rotarians assisted with distributing snacks, helping children make personalized book marks, and singing and dancing to the rocking music! Incoming president Susan Paley joined Mayor Ruthanne Fuller and children’s librarian Amanda Bressler in welcoming the crowd and encouraging them discover new worlds through reading this summer.
Rotary Club of Newton Kicks Off Free Library Summer Reading Program
More than 80 Rotarians from clubs across District 7910 are heading for a week of Rotary inspiration, fellowship, unforgettable exhibits, diverse culture and educational breakout sessions in Toronto.
Please send us your pictures and impressions from this amazing week of ROTARY Making a Difference!
Trains, Planes and Automobiles All Heading To Rotary International Convention in Toronto
We celebrated the 2018-19 Rotary Club Presidents, Steve installed Betsy Moquin as President of the Rotary Club of Westborough, and Steve was installed as the 2018-19 District Governor.
Steve's daughters, mother and brother came and celebrated along with 125 Rotarians from across the District!
Steve Sager Is Installed as the 81st Governor of District 7910
It’s finally summer! That means it’s time for Wings and Wheels Cruise-In/Fly-In at Minute Man Air Field, 302 Boxboro Road in Stow MA. Come and see for yourself! The fun happens from 5-8 pm, Thursday nights in June, July, and August, (except July 5th).
Each week, specialty cars and planes cruise in and fly in, and you can see them all! Bring the whole family, even your leashed pet, and stroll among them, admiring them all and selecting from well-loved choices of pizza, burgers, hot dogs, snacks and beverages.
But for the first time, Wings and Wheels stretches across service organizations to become a collaboration between the Rotary Clubs of Acton-Boxborough and Westford and the Lions Club of Stow.
So come on out to Wings and Wheels, say hello to a Rotarian or a Lion, and know that your good evening will do good as well.
On Sunday, June 24th from noon- 3pm the Shrewsbury Rotary Club will host their 3rd Annual Food and Brew Fest in the parking lot of Avidia Bank, 23 Maple Avenue in Shrewsbury.
The Rotary Club of Fitchburg was joined by several City and State officials, Past Club Presidents and members as well as representatives from 14 other Rotary Clubs which it helped to launch at a festive and fun celebration of its 100th year providing service to the community through Rotary.
Gerry Martel, the 50th Club President, offered inspiring remarks and commented on what Rotary was like when he was Club President in 1968 and Paul Harris was still alive. Glenn Fossa was sworn in as the 101st President of the Club.
The regular weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Framingham took place during a picnic on June 11 at Stimson Park, on the Sudbury River, in Framingham. The club recently finished building a wood chip trail at the park, which members have cleaned up after a number of recent winters, under the direction of the Framingham Department of Parks and Recreation.
Rotary Club of Framingham makes its meeting a Picnic in the Park!
The Rotary Club of Tyngsboro/Dunstable hosted its Annual Fishing Day for Families of Individuals with Disabilities. With thehelp of the Rotary Clubs of Dracut and Nashua, we hosted 133 attendees from 13 Towns, including 61 Disabled Individuals, for a wonderful day of Fishing, Food, and Fun. The weather was great, the Fish were biting, and the food was delicious.
We want to thank the Dracut and Nashua Club for their continued support through the years, and also want to thank the Tyngsboro Sportsman’s Club for hosting us and for all their help. Lastly, we would like to thank the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife for their support. We look forward to next year’s Fishing Day and welcome all to join in on the fun!
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Rotary Club of Tynsboro/Dunstable hosts another SUPER FISHING DAY! for families of Individuals with Disabilities
In collaboration and inspired by the efforts of the Rotary Action Group of Endangered Species (RAGES) endangeredrag.org, the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough recently developed online materials and a coloring contest to create awareness in third graders about endangered species.
By going on the webpage pictured at the right actonboxboroughrotary.org/rages, these students learned that the endangered Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Borneo Orangutan and the African Rhinoceros are critically endangered species near extinction and what animal conservation groups and RAGES is doing to help. The students also learned what all of us can do to help, including decreasing the deforestation of the natural habitats of these animals by actively reducing, reusing and recycling our paper products.
Some third graders even took part in our zentangles rhinoceros coloring contest. Congratulations to the students for participating in this project and to all the winners of the coloring contest.
Acton-Boxborough "Goes Wild" and Launches an Endangered Species Awareness Project and Coloring Contest for 3rd Graders
Wow! Wow!! Wow!!! You guys rock!!!! 31 of our clubs applied for District Grants for the 2018-19 Rotary Year with total participation of 36 clubs. The total budget for these 31 applications is greater than $170,000.
Now, the seven club Foundation Chairs who are on the Grants Review Panel need to do the hard work of helping the grant writers refine the applications and then allocate our limited resources. The total requests for grants is more than double what we have available for District Grants. We will make sure that the Grants Review Panel allocates the funds in an equitable and transparent manner with “best use of funds” being the guiding principle. You may not get all you requested, but we will help you execute your project with Rotary Foundation funds!
The grants that were proposed are varied and interesting. Here is a short review by Rotary Area of Focus.
Disease prevention and Treatment
Among the grants proposed under this area of focus four clubs wrote grants to address the opioid crisis, others proposed care kits for emergency room visitors in need, first aid course, emergency location devices for individuals with cognitive dysfunction, emotional support dogs, clothing for the needy.
Basic Education and Literacy
Clubs wrote grants for solar panels for electricity in a school in India, sending children to camp in summer, scholarships, dictionary programs, little libraries, summer reading programs.
Economic and Community Development
Clubs wrote grants to improve a gazebo, community gardens, a wheelchair swing, cupola repair, ramps for wheelchairs, benches, improve a walking trail, planting saplings.
Maternal and Child Health
Feeding the hungry is a prominent need identified by our clubs. Entered were food packaging events, back packs for the weekends, community suppers, community gardens to support food pantries, and beds for children.
As you can see we are touching many people in many ways. It makes us all proud to be a Rotarian. And we will continue DOING GOOD IN THE WORLD and BE AN INSPIRATION..
Wow Wow Wow! 2018-2019 Presidents ROCK! 31 clubs have applied for District Grants for the 2018-19 Rotary Year with total participation of 36 clubs. Deadline for application was June 1 and the response was tremendous!
The grants that have been proposed are varied and interesting. Here is a short review.
Disease prevention and Treatment
Among the grants proposed in this area of focus four clubs wrote grants to address the opioid crisis, others proposed care kits for emergency room visitors in need, first aid course, emergency location devices for individuals with cognitive dysfunction, emotional support dogs, clothing for the needy.
Basic Education and Literacy
Clubs wrote grants for solar panels for electricity in a school in India, sending children to camp in summer, scholarships, dictionary programs, little libraries, summer reading programs.
Economic and Community Development
Clubs wrote grants to improve a gazebo, community gardens, a wheelchair swing, cupola repair, ramps for wheelchairs, benches, improve a walking trail, planting saplings.
Maternal Child Health
Feeding the hungry is a prominent need identified by our clubs. Entered were food packaging events, back packs for the weekends, community suppers, community gardens to support food pantries, and beds for children.
As you can see we are touching many people in many ways. It makes you proud to be a Rotarian. Be the INSPIRATION!
2018-2019 Grant Year off to a STRONG and INSPIRING START!
On Saturday, June 23, 2018, the Rotary Club of Milford will put on its second annual Outdoor Day.
The day will showcase two of Milford’s parks which are connected by a portion of Milford’s immensely popular bike path. Local vendors in the health, wellness, and outdoor spheres will be putting their offerings on display. There will be kayaks, fishing, a bike parade, and a climbing wall. Milford’s first responders will be displaying emergency vehicles, there will be a remote-controlled airplane display, there will be yoga in the park, and a ceremonial tree will be planted along the bike path.
The day will be enjoyable, fun and memorable for all ages. We look forward to seeing you there!
Register now to play at the Rotary Club of Concord’s 30th Annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament Mon. June 25, 2018 at the Concord Country Club.
Proceeds will benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund and Rotary charitable projects. In 2017 Rotary awarded $20,000 in need-based scholarships thanks to the tournament’s supporters. Not a golfer? Sponsor a wounded veteran to play. Rotary has teamed up with the Salute Military Golf Association to provide an opportunity for wounded veterans to play in the tournament. The entry fee of $250 includes 18 holes of golf at a premier New England course, use of the putting green, golf cart, lunch, clubhouse reception and dinner, tournament gifts and refreshments. The shotgun start is at 1:00 p.m. preceded by registration and lunch from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Visit rotary club of concord, click on “Golf” in the banner at the top. Check Out the Flyer
30th Annual Golf Tournament at the Concord Country Club
For the past 100 years, The Rotary Club of Fitchburg has served the community — both locally and worldwide .
“The Rotary motto is ‘Service Above Self’ and I think that the Fitchburg Rotary Club, for 100 years, has embodied that in our city,” said Fitchburg Mayor Stephen DiNatale
On Friday, June 15, 2018 the Fitchburg club will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a Celebration at Oak Hill Country Club in Fitchburg. Presidents of the 12 Rotary clubs that were sponsored in Massachusetts by the Fitchburg Club have been invited to attend. The event will also will include the installation of the club officers for 2018-2019 by District Governor-elect Steven T. Sager. Special guest and the current year’s Honorary President, Gerry Martel will be congratulated as having served as President of the club 50 years ago, on the occasion of the club’s 50th anniversary.
In partnership with the Massachusetts Prevention Alliance, the Rotary Club of Newton hosted the premiere launch of the new Rotary Addiction Prevention Seminar: Engage the Community. This three-hour multi-district event supported by 7910 District Governor, Karin Gaffney and 7930 District Governor Dave Gardner, brought together 75 stakeholders representing public health, public safety, recovery and grief supporters, family members, clergy, medicine, treatment and private business to learn about a new Rotary Toolkit designed to engage communities in a discovery and learning experience about the driving forces of addiction that includes brain science and big business profit-driven strategies. The event’s featured guest was Dr. Bertha Madras, of Harvard Medical School, an appointed member of the White House Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis.
It’s finally summer! That means it’s time for Wings and Wheels Cruise-In/Fly-In at Minute Man Air Field, 302 Boxboro Road in Stow MA. Come and see for yourself! The fun happens from 5-8 pm, Thursday nights in June, July, and August.
It’s brought to you by the Minute Man Air Field, the Rotary Clubs of Acton-Boxborough and Westford, EAA #196, the Lions Club of Stow, and Nancy’s Air Field Café. Each week, specialty cars and planes cruise in and fly in, and you can see them all! Bring the whole family, even your leashed pet, and stroll among them, admiring them all and choosing your favorites.
Hungry? Order a personal pizza and beer or wine from the Nancy’s at the Air Field Café brick oven. Or choose burgers and dogs, fresh-squeezed lemonade, or popcorn from the Rotary Club/Lions Club stand.
Music? Sure, provided by Action Video. Places to sit and chat, and a 50/50 raffle? Absolutely. And if the kids get restless, head to the Kids’ Corner, with face painting, a bean bag toss, and plane and car coloring book pictures to complete.
Join Rotary District 7910 on August 24th at the Lowell Spinners for their "End Polio Now" Campaign
Purchase Box Seats using promo code ROTARY at Lowellspinners.com/Tickets
The Lowell Spinners, short-season single A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, look forward to having Rotary District 7910 for a night at the ballpark to help raise awareness and funds for their “End Polio Now” campaign. Tickets are just $12 and proceeds raised by the Rotary will be donated to “End Polio Now” to help eradicate polio and immunize over 2.5 Billion Children in 122 countries. Don’t forget to wear purple on August 24th to help raise awareness as well!
Rotarians are asked to purchase tickets between Box sections 107 and 110 to be seated as a group! The night includes various Spinnertainment such as game show theme night, and a helicopter cash drop following the game. Check out the Flier
ROTARY GOES TO THE LOWELL SPINNERS ON AUGUST 24th TO FIGHT POLIO!
The Waltham Rotary Club will hold its first ever Family Feud LIVE fundraising event. Come watch Waltham’s Finest “Family” teams battle it out for 1st Place! General Admission Tickets are still available for what promises to be a great evening. Family Feud LIVE follows a similar format as the popular TV game show. Teams of five will compete for points to answer the top survey questions. The team with the most points wins.
A large raffle drawing will be held at the end of the evening for over 30 baskets donated by local merchants.
WHEN: Friday, June 8, 2018 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm WHERE: American Legion, 215 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham TICKETS: General Admission $20 per person includes refreshments and cash bar. For more information visit www.walthamfamilyfeud.com
A highlight of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough's year has long been its December visit to the Life Care Center of Acton, complete with Santa Claus, gifts for the residents, and enthusiastic caroling in the hallways. This year, the club decided to continue its service throughout the seasons by expanding this community partnership.
Since October, when jauntily decorated Halloween pumpkins appeared in the main dining room, Rotary Club members have created new table centerpieces roughly every two months. Christmas green and red have given way to Valentines' Day red and white, then Springtime green and yellow. And as spring turns to summer, the red, white, and blue of the Fourth of July will appear.
The Tour de Natick is a family bike ride held each Father’s Day on the Natick Common by the Rotary Club of Natick. The route is a 6 mile loop leaving the common at 11 AM and returning for lunch immediately following.
Testimonial of Club President, Marty Lindemann/Service Impact
Miguel was born in Ecuador, educated as a medical doctor in Belarus, practiced medicine as a doctor of oncology in Ecuador and ten years ago decided to
become an immigrant to America, Once here he was denied admission to train or practice as a medical doctor—his profession.
Instead, to house and feed his kids, he eventually opened a successful dry cleaners in Needham. He came to our attention for his work in bringing last
fall a badly burned eleven year old boy to Boston from Ecuador for treatment at Shriners Hospital. The boy was in a coma after being attacked, doused with
gasoline and set on fire.
Miguel found out that to bring the boy here would require a $53,000 medical airplane trip. Instead, through friends in Ecuador, he was able to ask the President of Ecuador for help. The President responded by offering his personal airplane and the boy was brought here for treatment. Shriners hospital agreed to treat this severely wounded young man, he survived and is now back in Ecuador.
Renee Gaudette 5 Years in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow
Testimonial of Club President, Lilia Weisfeldt/Service Impact
In Renee’s work as the Executive Director of the Watertown Boys & Girls Club, she works tirelessly to provide a positive and safe environment for all kids in Watertown. The programing at the WBGC is constantly improving and challenging the kids and through Renee’s efforts a huge construction project is also underway to update the physical space. The services the WBGC provide are crucial for keeping Watertown’s youth engaged in positive activities and helping them become leaders among their peers. Without Renee’s dedication, the WBGC would not be as successful as it is today and hundreds of kids would not have the opportunity to become stronger community members.
On behalf of 8,000 Rotarians in our region and my fellow District Governors, THANK YOU to the Summit sponsors from District 7910 who supported the 2018 Rotary Mt Washington Summit, May 4-6. It was an amazingly successful and inspirational conference made possible by the generous donations of these loyal and supportive businesses and Rotarians. Please help me thank these sponsors for making a difference by choosing to do business with them whenever possible.
On Monday May 14, the Framingham club held a luncheon at Ken’s Steak House honoring ten graduating seniors from Metrowest area high schools (Framingham, Ashland, Holliston, and Hopkinton) who will each receive a $4,500 scholarship from the club to attend college. The club began giving scholarships in 1954—with the help of a large donation from club member Fred Turenne—to deserving high school seniors and has been doing so every year since. In the last 10 years alone the club has given out $450,000. The Framingham Rotary Club is a service organization made up of men and women from different walks of life who want to better the community in which they live and work.
Rotary Club of Framingham Awards $45, 000 in Scholarships
Two of our district's inbound exchange students attended prom together last weekend.
Ike Hennessy from Australia escorted Aurianne Veyreinc from France to the Hopedale High School Junior Senior Prom. Ike is being hosted by the Rotary Club of Ayer while Aurianne is being hosted by the Rotary Club of Milford.
He is from Australia, she is from France. They are both Rotary Exchange students who enjoyed Hopedale High School’s Junior Senior Prom together!
What do you do with a broken toaster or lamp? Or with a shirt or blouse with a seam that is ripped out? Toss it? No way! Bring them to the Bolton Repair Café. The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, with help from Bolton Local, is hosting the next Bolton Repair Café on Saturday, Jun 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be held in the cafeteria of the Florence Sawyer School, 100 Mechanic Street in Bolton. The school is located behind the Emerson School, which is on the same driveway/street.
On May 19, the Rotary Club of Auburn partnered with the Swanson Road Intermediate School to Activate the Arboretum. With the help of a district grant, the club was able to purchase nine “phantom” trees which were missing from the original plan designed, in 1970’s, by the science teacher Mr. Courville. The club also purchased signage, for the trees. The club is hoping to also place a Rotary Bench at the location. The event was attended by many and the 60 Rotary Saplings found great homes.
Rotary Club of Auburn makes a difference with saplings!
Rotarians from District 7910 and District 7930 are making a difference by serving meals at the New England Center for Homeless Veterans in Boston. Rotary clubs of Nashoba Valley and Weston Wayland served dinner on Monday and Rotary Club of Billerica served lunch on Tuesday. There is a lot of excitement and gratitude for the privilege of honoring our vets as we lead into Memorial Day. Thanks for your service, thanks for making a difference!
PROJECT SOAR -Come to the opening event on June 12th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the Fitchburg Municipal Airport. Our goal is to get as many youth there as possible to see their Guinness World Record and feel a powerful sense of personal, school, city, ROTARY and national pride!
The District 7910 Public Image Committee is looking for volunteers to help with the District Website (www.Rotary7910.org), the District Newsletter, Social Media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), and with assisting clubs in promoting their activities. If you have relevant skills and are willing to be part of the District Public Image/Public Relations Team, please contact DGE Steve Sager ssager@sagerlegal.com.
Please join us on June 20, 2018 for a festive gala celebrating the 2018-19 Rotary Club Presidents and the installation of Steve Sager as District Governor.
The Rotary Club of Westborough and District 7910 invites all Rotarians in D7910 clubs to celebrate the annual changeover of Rotary leaders.
We love RYLA and we can't do it without our fabulous RYLA volunteers.
We would love it if you volunteered and if you would encourage your fellow Rotarians to signup to volunteer at RYLA 2018.
The sooner you signup, the sooner you can choose the times of the weekend that work best with your schedule, and the slots that have the RYLA activities that you would enjoy volunteering for.
Rotary Club of Waltham partnered with youth from the Waltham Boys & Girls Club to plant 43 trees. Youth ages 11-14 developed leadership skills and an appreciation for environmental sustainability through this impactful project.
The City of Waltham also played a key role by designating a landscaper to work with the group to decide on locations and taught them proper planting techniques.
Rotary Club of Waltham plants saplings with members of Boys and Girls Club!
Please join us to learn how YOU can help fight addiction in your community. Tuesday, May 29th 6pm – 9pm The Price Center 27 Christina Street Newton, MA 02461
Objectives of the Seminar
Learn about the driving forces of addiction, and how to raise awareness and initiate change that will effectively work to reduce rates of addiction.
Collaborate with other community members and professionals on how to prevent addiction.
Find out how to replicate this seminar in your own community.
Testimonial of Club President, Ed King/Service Impact
Joe's interest and focus since joining the club 5 years ago has been on our local Northborough community. Our biggest fundraiser and oldest project is our Pancake breakfast, which has raised over a quarter of a million dollars for scholarships for graduating seniors in the past 47 years. Joe has been an integral part of this activity since he joined the club.
When it became necessary for us to change our venue he met with school personnel of the new location and (because he is a master electrician) rewired the site for our grills. While on the surface this activity would seem to be a fundraiser it actually is an event that the community sponsors and looks forward to attending. Joe works tirelessly to raise money, put out signs, move anything that needs moving, flips pancakes, greets townspeople, cleans up and puts away. This description of Joe can be expanded to every activity our club undertakes. He inspires our members, his neighborhood community and encourages service and volunteerism by his example.
Approximately 25 Rotarians and 12 Interactors participated in Rotary Service Saturday hosted by the Rotary Club of Framingham. Projects included “renovating” Simpson Park by widening a walking trail, some plantings and spreading mulch/raking. For the Y, volunteers did some landscaping. Others played BINGO at a nursing home and gave out prizes. Others cleaned graves of veterans at a town cemetery. After the service projects were completed, the group gathered back at the Y for pizza and writing notes in greeting cards for VA hospital residents. Monday morning, 400+ greetings cards were delivered to the VA hospital.
Who wants to host the next Rotary Service Saturday?
Rotary Service Saturday in Framingham is a HUGE SUCESS!!
Arthur Dobson 35 Years in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow +1
Testimonial of Club President, Kathleen McSweeney/Service Impact
I am honored to nominate Arthur Dobson for the Service Hero award. Art is one of our most senior members and I am constantly awed by his dedication, enthusiasm and innovative ideas. He thinks out of the box and is constantly coming up with ideas that make our Rotary Club a better organization.
Our Hero, Arthur Dobson has been a member of our club for 35 years. While he has left his mark in all six of the Rotary Foundation areas of focus, the two most important and impactful activities are highlighted here.
Join us on Friday, June 1st at Cohasse Country Club in Southbridge, MA from 6-10 PM. There will be a great buffet, raffle prizes, dancing and lots of fun. All proceeds from the dinner dance will benefit the Saint John Paul II Food Pantry.
Tickets are $50 per person or purchase a table of 8 for $350 and bring your friends. To purchase tickets, contact Austin Jenkins at 508-347-6511. Checks should be made payable to the Sturbridge Rotary Club. Hope to see you there!
The last Rotary Means Business event of the 2017-18 Rotary year in District 7910 is on Wednesday, May 30th, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn, 450 Totten Pond Road in Waltham.
The cost to pre-register is $15 by Monday, May 28th, and registration at the door is $20. Those that pre-register will be included in the Event Roster, which is distributed to all attendees at the meeting.
The 2018 Rotary Mount Washington Summit took place this past weekend at the Omni Mt Washington Resort and was by all measures a huge success! 625 total attendees participated in the 5-district “Summit” including almost 100 Rotary youth who engaged in lots of Rotary experiences including shaking hands with RI President Ian on Friday evening and a pizza party in the Shelter Box village on Saturday afternoon.
Oodles of inspiration was provided by an amazing line-up of speakers including RI President Ian Riseley, Shirley Pat Chamberlain, Travis Roy and Razia Jan. The breakout sessions were a HUGE hit and included topics such as …The Rise Against Hunger Food Packaging project resulted in 20,000 packed meals. They included leadership sessions with former Governors of Vermont and Massachusetts, Rotary’s response to the Addiction Crisis, the latest on the Fight to End Polio by the Gates Foundation, Survivors of Human Trafficking, End 68 Hours of Hunger, and Public Image Tips for Success.
Nightly entertainment and Sunday’s jazz breakfast were just plain FUN. There were many chances for fellowship and the exchange of ideas including an amazing House of Friendship with over 40 displays. Of course, the venue provided an incredible backdrop for inspiration and was the ideal setting for the 2018 summit theme - - creating positive impact through caring service, powered by YOU!
So now what? What’s left to do with all of this information and inspiration? Well – we have 6 weeks of this Rotary year left to finish STRONG! We are People of Action who can create positive impact by doing caring service.
My sincere and FOREVER GRATITUDE to the following amazing Rotarians from our district who climbed new mountains, in terms of planning for a District Conference and participated on a 5 District Summit committee of 35 to plan for almost 3 years our amazing 2018 Rotary Mt Washington Summit.
They are: Ron Bott and Steve Levitsky who worked on the Sponsorship Committee (total sponsorships exceeded $90,000); Pam Anastasi and Lilia Weisfeldt who helped create an AMAZING program with incredibly inspirational speakers and educational breakouts; Diana Nestorova who worked on the Youth Program; Jim Fusco who helped with the memorial service and business meeting; Steve Sager who ran the business meeting; and Steve D’Agostino for terrific help with marketing and promotion! Last but not least, Lindsay Dean gave it 1,000 percent as Conference Chair and coordinated all aspects of hospitality and logistics! I love you all from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!
THANK YOU TO THE AMAZING SUMMIT COMMITTEE FROM DISTRICT 7910
Four members of the Brookline Rotary family were honored as "Community Change Agents" by ArtsBridge on 5/8/18. Elias and Laurde Audi have been involved with ArtsBridge from the beginning. Dr Phil Sandler danced for ArtsBridge in 2014 and currently serves on its board. ArtsBridge is a local nonprofit that started in 2007 with a mission to provide young people from conflict ridden areas with the tools to initiate and conduct dialogue. Initially the organization brought together Israeli and Palestinian kids here in the US to work on art projects together. The organization has now expanded to countries outside the Middle East.
Four Brookline Club Rotarians are Honored as "Community Change Agents"
Rotary Club of Sturbridge's Hero - Lorraine Herbert Lorraine Herbert 25 Years in Rotary Paul Harris +9 Testimonial of Club President, David Zonia/Service Impact
It is with great pride and my honor to nominate Lorraine Herbert as my choice for the Service Hero Award. Lorraine has been the cornerstone of our club. As treasurer of the club she has gone far beyond the expectations any club president would expect .
Her assistance in developing and submitting a budget is just one such incident. She repeatedly can be found at all club functions whether she is part of the work force or not. Regarding her involvement in the 6 Rotary Foundation Areas of Focus, she has contributed to most of them and has demonstrated Service Above Self in each.
Received his PHF in 1990 and his second after 28 years
Testimonial of Club President, Christopher Gates/Service Impact
The reasons I am nominating this individual is Service Above Self is not just a motto for Bob, it’s a way of life. Mr. Johnson is on the Salvation Army council and volunteers his time coordinating between Rotary and the Salvation Army for Bell ringing during the Holiday Season. Rotarians collect thousands of dollars in donations all organized by Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson also coordinates
Rotarians serving meals to the homeless at the Salvation Army during the holiday season. He volunteers his time doing whatever needs to be done at theSalvation Army.
Question: How do you know it’s summer? Answer: It’s when Wings and Wheels Cruise-In/Fly-In returns to the Minute Man Air Field, at 302 Boxboro Road in Stow MA. Come and see for yourself!
Brought to you by the Minute Man Air Field, the Rotary Clubs of Acton-Boxborough and Westford, EAA #196, and Nancy’s at the Air Field Café, the fun happens from 5-8 pm, Thursday nights in June, July, and August.
Each week, specialty cars and planes cruise in and fly in. Bring the whole family, even your leashed pet, and stroll among them, admiring them all and choosing your favorites. Hungry? Order a personal pizza from the Nancy’s Air Field Café brick oven, fresh-squeezed lemonade or just-popped popcorn from the Rotary Club stand, or an ice cream cone from Ken and Gina’s Amazing Organic Ice Cream. Music? Sure, provided by Action Video. Places to sit and chat, and a 50/50 raffle? Absolutely. And if the kids get restless, head to the Kids’ Corner, with face painting, bean bag toss, and coloring book pictures to complete.
So join us as we celebrate summer at Wings and Wheels. Admission is free, but donations are accepted and support the local and international charitable work of the Rotary Clubs of Acton-Boxborough and Westford. For more information, contactabrotaryclub@gmail.com orwww.wingsandwheelsMA.com Looking for a particular kind of car? The schedule of featured cars is below or Check out the flyer
The Acton-Boxborough Club is providing funds to help support one selected Girl Scout's Gold Award project and one selected Boy Scout's Eagle Scout project from Acton and Boxborough.
This February the Rotary Club presented a check to Amiya Subramanian, a member of the Acton-Boxborough Girl Scouts, in support of her Girl Scout Gold Award project. Amiya will present a series of leadership workshops for girls interested in STEM careers, using exercises she has designed to encourage the girls to investigate and consider the scientific and technological fields for their own futures. Following the workshops, she will update the Rotary Club on her findings.
This grant illustrates the desire of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough to foster leadership skills in young people. A larger initiative will occur in June, when nearly 200 high school sophomores across Rotary District 7910 will take part in the annual Rotary Youth Leadership Award conference, a three-day conference for leadership, learning, and team-building.
Thursday May 10–Sunday May13 at Pinefield Shopping Center (Saxonville), Framingham. Thursday6 pm–10 pm; Friday6 pm–10 pm; Saturday12 pm–10 pm; Sunday12 pm–8 pm. Free admission. Cost per ride: 1 ticket is $1.25. Number of tickets required per ride varies from 3 to 6 tickets. Food & games are separate costs. A portion of the proceeds helps fund Rotary local community service projects.
The Sturbridge Rotary Club has donated $5,000 to Literacy Volunteers of South Central MA located in Southbridge. This agency covers the six-town area of Southbridge, Sturbridge, Charlton, Webster, Dudley and Oxford. For more than 40 years, LVSCM has helped residents to open new doors of opportunity by teaching them to read, write and speak English. “In 2017, we provided instruction to over 150 adults with plans to grow that number in 2018. We rely on grant monies and support of community organizations, such as Sturbridge Rotary, to enable us to carry on our mission,” says Holly Christo, Executive Director.
Photo Caption: PDG Klaus Hachfeld and Holly Christo, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers.
Rotary District 7910 partnering with Liberty NY Rotary club and Moca, Puerto Rico Rotary club is providing relief from the devastating hurricanes of 2017. We have made a big impact on the wellbeing of the citizens of Moca and the Northwest corner of the island. We’re almost finished completing this reconstruction and we couldn’t have done it without your donations! Many clubs from District 7910 have made generous and significant donations and YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PUERTO RICO!
So far, we have engaged in two missions to the island where Rotarians have managed the vaccination of over one thousand people, provided gifts to kids who missed their Christmas holiday, participated in the reconstruction of destroyed homes and replaced mold and insect infested mattresses for families. We have also purchased refrigerators and washing machines to help maintain sanitary conditions for the residents.
Everyone is raving about this year's District Assembly. Clubs from all over the District sent over 100 Rotarians to exchange ideas and learn best practices.
Facilitated discussions were held on membership, service, foundation, and public relations.
Club treasurers and secretaries learned tips and tricks to making their tasks easier, and newer Rotarians had a roundtable discussion with our District Governors.
District Governor Elect Steve Sager and District Governor Nominee Pam Anastasi are already making plans to expand and improve the workshops for next year.
Make sure to ask the members you sent to share what they learned with your entire club.
Testimonial of Club President, James Hohman /Service Impact
Jon traveled to Africa for a month 4 times a year of his own accord, did the community assessment, ordered all materials, acted as project manager and kept track of all the finances for the grant. Doing a grant in Africa from Massachusetts would not have been possible without Jon. The RC of Gbarnga was 1 year oldwhen we began, they had no resources and Ebola was spreading rampantly in Liberia. Jon worked collaboratively with them and us.
He also made numerous contacts in the community of Deanville, where the project took place. When we needed someone in charge of maintaining the wells for the community, Jon was able to find that person because he had embedded himself in their culture and worked well with the Liberians. This was true on all levels of the grant. Jon traveled to Africa at his own expense 4 times a year for a month each, away from his family, to manage the construction.
Savvas Fotiadis 17 Years in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow +5
Testimonial of Club President, Joe Sullivan/Service Impact
Savvas Fotiadis is always helping other people without expecting anything back. Over the last four years, inspired by his high school teacher and mentor - Mr. K, Savvas has raised about $40,000 to help orphans in Uganda at the GOSSAGE Orphanage in Golomolo village, and the Trio Primary School in the town of Mityana, both in Mukono District, 50 miles west of Kampala.
Through the "Friends of Uganda Orphans" they have supported the construction of a dining hall at the Gossage Orphanage and equipped the kitchen which provides free food to 131 kids at the cost of $600 per month.
Beyond Borders/the Newsletter of Zones 24 & 32/May 2018/page 3
For about a decade, the Bath Sunrise Rotary Club in District 7780 was “stuck” at a hard-core 11 members, who met regularly, did great service, but couldn’t seem to increase in number.
Club president Bob Reed says change began back in 2012 when, as District Governor, I challenged the club to reinvent themselves. “You’re small,” I pointed out in my “official” visit. “You don’t have a bunch of old-timers telling you what you can’t do. And you’re not afraid of work. So go out and make the changes you want to become the club you want. Who’s to stop you?”
What I said slowly took root, and the club decided to go through the strategic Visioning process. Unfortunately—and erroneously—the club was told that it needed to field 30 members in order to qualify for Visioning. Seemingly rebuffed, in 2014-15 the club created its own strategic planning process, under the guidance of then-president Erika Helgerson Bensen.
The Rotary Clubs of Sturbridge and Southbridge have been working hard to get the garden prepared for spring planting. The carpentry students from Tantasqua Regional High School built and installed 24 new planting beds. A week later the girls and a few of the boys from the lacrosse sports teams helped us complete the task of filling all the planting beds with 25 cubic yards of loam and finished in only 90 minutes. The gate has been repaired, the shed cleaned out, and we’re busy raising funds to help purchase garden tools and a sign for the garden.
Stay tuned for more updates on this great community project by two Rotary Clubs to grow fresh, organic vegetables, all of which will be donated to the local food pantry.
Community Food Collaborative with Rotary Club of Sturbridge and Southbridge is thriving!
The Multi-District Rotary Addiction Prevention Task Force has had two recent meetings. It is clear that Rotarians in Massachusetts, New England and around the world are aware of the addiction crisis facing our nation, and they want to help.
To recap, there are 4 segments of addiction assistance: Prevention, Education/Awareness, Treatment and Recovery. While Rotary clubs can play a part in all 4 phases, the task force has decided to focus most of its work on prevention and education initiatives. There is plenty of opportunity to provide funding for treatment and recovery facilities, and that is highly encouraged. But we can provide greater service by focusing “upstream” to help prevent people from becoming addicted in the first place.
Question -- How was the meal packing event in Bedford last Saturday?
Answer - It was awesome. We overshot our fundraising goal of $17,000 and actually raised $17,974. We actually packaged 61,776 meals bringing our six year total to 370,872 meals.
We had representatives from Burlington Breakfast club, Burlington Lunch club (both District 7930 clubs + their interact clubs too), the Billerica club, Concord club, and 37 members of the Bedford club. All 270 volunteer slots were filled two weeks ago and all slots were filled in both sessions Saturday.
Rotary – Making a Difference!!!
Rotary Club of Bedford packages 61,776 meals for Rise Against Hunger!
Patti Mason 10 Years in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow +1
Testimonial of Club President, Nicole Hamel/Service Impact
Patti is the one person that is always there. She volunteers for everyone in our club and throughout the Westford community and provides the rest of the club the inspiration to succeed. She can be seen volunteering for numerous groups providing service for students, seniors, lower income families, the boy and girl scouts and many more.
Worcester Rotary Club members serving dinner to children at “Kids Café,” Worcester Boys and Girls Club. From left to right: Bob Johnson, Rosie Fayard, Mark O’Flaherty, Matteo Gentile, Steven “Tank” Tankanow
Testimonial of Club President, Jacquelin Apsler/Service Impact
When a social service organization has someone as competent and dedicated as Marc Hamilton supporting the many activities of the organization, peace in general and resolution of inevitable conflicts are much easier to maintain. With conflicts and confusions readily resolved with Marc’s help and direction, the economic and community development supported by our many service projects locally and globally are greatly reinforced and enhanced.
MIT Rotaract is a part of the college branch of the larger Rotary International service organization. Rotary’s motto is “Service above self,” and they take on large international projects like working to eradicate polio.
Joseph was involved in Rotary in high school, an experience which inspired him to revive the club at MIT as a freshman. The club has recently received official approval and will begin taking on projects serving the local community through the end of this semester and next semester. Their goal is to get into direct contact with low-income communities and provide advocacy services such as resume workshops as well as volunteering in shelters.
These students share their advice to other students interested in service -- use the talents you have, whatever they may be, to give back.
Check out this cool poster of our very own Rotaractors that will soon be shown around the MIT campus
Another Successful EARTH DAY Cleanup by Rotary Club of Southborough
For the 28th year in a row, the RC of Southborough partnered with Southborough DPW to hold an annual Earth Day Cleanup event in town.
This is a popular community service project that many in town look forward to participating in when spring rolls around. Volunteers checked in at 8:00 am on Saturday April 21st at the DPW office. They selected a cleanup area from a large town map on display & DPW volunteers made of who was going where for cleanup work. This simple process makes it easy to see what cleanup coverage is achieved.
Volunteers were given trash bags, and could also snag this year’s event t-shirt that included the event sponsors listed on the back. Then they headed out to clean up their designated areas. DPW estimates 1-2 trucks worth of trash is gathered each year by volunteers at this event. At noon crews gathered for pizza lunch, also organized by Rotary, at the downtown gazebo. New this year was the RC of Southborough also offering volunteers free tiny trees as part of District 7910’s participation in the worldwide Rotary Arbor Day initiative to plant 1.2 million trees worldwide. The tiny trees were a big hit with the kids!
Rotary Club of Southborough does Earth Day Clean up and Gives Away Saplings!
What are you doing the weekend of May 4 – 6, 2018? If you have been thinking about attending the 2018 Rotary Summit at Mount Washington, you only have 1 day left before registration is closed.
Here is what you Don’t want to Miss!
500+ Rotarians from around New England and Quebec who share your passion for Rotary and doing good in the world. Imagine finding partners and advocates who can support you in your projects, provide new ideas for fundraising and successful techniques to build stronger clubs.
We have an awesome segment on membership at the District Assembly: Rethink Rotary - grow your club - featuring Lawrence Furbish!!! Please make sure your entire membership committee attends the District Assembly. Register here: http://rotary7910.org/…/club-leadership-training-and-distr…/
Lawrence is a phenomenal and engaging facilitator who will help your club succeed with their membership goals!
Lawrence has been a Rotarian since 2006 serving as his club’s community service chair and then, president. In 2012, he lead a Group Study Exchange team to District 1890 in Northern Germany. Since serving as District Governor, he chaired Northeast PETS in 2015-16. Lawrence is currently an Assistant Rotary Coordinator for Zone 32 and the District 7780 Council on Legislation Representative.
Rethink ROTARY - GROW YOUR CLUB - Fantastic breakout discussion at District Assembly on Saturday!
The Watertown Rotary Club is hosting a Dancing With The Stars event May 11th.
The event will feature eight local “stars” and will be MC’d by our Town Council Chairman Mark Sideris. The event will take place at the Helenic Center in Watertown. Cocktail hour is at 6PM and the dancing starts at 7PM. Food will be free to those attending, and there will be drinks available for purchase. We will be raising funds for our club and for the local schools in our town. We would love to see our fellow Rotarians from other clubs!
Tickets can be bought at bit.ly/DWTWS2018 General admission tickets are $40 and VIP tickets are $60. Hellenic Cultural Center
Many of you have heard that the process for entering a grant for next year, 2018-19, has changed. You are right! A new process for District Grants will go into effect for the 2018-19 grant cycle.
Here’s what you need to do to be eligible for district and global grants:
-Your club still needs to sign a Memorandum of Understanding for 2018-19 and send it to Michelle Gasbarro at michellegasba@gmail.com
- Your club must have at least one member who has participated in Grant Management Training in the last two years
- You do need to enter an Annual Fund goal on the Rotary International website under Club Central
-You do need to identify a Foundation Chair in the District website for 2018-19
Once you do these things your club will be qualified to enter a grant.
Founded in 1922, the Rotary Club of Framingham has been serving the Framingham Community for over 96 years. The Club has announced that May 12th will be Service to Framingham Day with specific community needs addressed by the 40+ members, their families and the Interact Club students of the Fuller Middle School!!
Projects will include the clean-up of Simpson Park, planting trees, writing greeting cards for veterans, clean-up of the cemetery sites of veterans in anticipation of Memorial Day, conducting a Bingo game at Waterview Resident Care, landscaping at the YMCA and others still being added. Volunteers will gather at 8:30 at the Framingham YMCA for briefing and assignments. They will reconvene around 12:30-1:00 for fellowship and pizza.
Testimonial of Club President, Claudia Dell’Anno/Service Impact
Laurde Audy is a member of our Club, along with her husband Elias Audy. But Elias is the one who is always celebrated, both in Rotary and in the Town. As his wife and one of our members, I think Laurde also deserves some praise and thanks.
Testimonial of Club President, Majlinda Haxhiaj /Service Impact.
Our Hero provides service/volunteers for starting and running a program, Diaper a Day, which provides diapers for infants and young children. This has a direct impact on maternal and child health.
Lisa started this program in early 2016. Lisa is the parish secretary of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Clinton, MA. The Women’s Infants and Children (W.I.C) program rents space from the church. Lisa saw a constant stream of people with young children coming in, many in obvious need of some assistance. While state and federal programs provide some nutritional needs assistance, they provide no help for this most basic sanitation and health need. The program was initially funded by cash donations and donations in kind by members of Good Shepherd, but it was obvious that this small parish alone could not provide anywhere near enough to even approach meeting the need.
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be April 25th at the Bedford Doubletree, 44 Middlesex Turnpike, Bedford, MA. Just $15 for those who preregister or $20 at the door.
Keep in mind that the format does work better if pre-register. Past events have been very well attended and everyone who attends is excited for the next event!
Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available. There will, also, be a door prize. Be sure to bring at least 40 business cards!
Keep in mind that the format does work better if pre-register. Past events have been very well attended and everyone who attends is excited for the next event!
Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available. There will, also, be a door prize. Be sure to bring at least 40 business cards!
Attend the District Assembly on April 28th from 8:00am -12:30pm at the Sheraton Framingham Hotel & Conference Center. They'll be something for Rotarians - new & long-time! LEARN - PLAN - LEAD!
The District Assembly team is providing an opportunity for all Rotarians in our District 7910 to meet with other Rotarians, exchange ideas, and learn about how your Rotary club can be the inspiration to your communities. There are so many aspects to Rotary that can interest and excite us! The annual District Assembly will allow all Rotarians to explore the best practices of Rotary and share the latest and greatest ideas on how to serve your communities, grow your clubs, engage your youth, obtain grants, and have fun with Rotary according to our shared interests.
Did you know that beyond regular club meetings our District has Rotary Fellowships for members interested in Wine, or Business, or Golf?
How about listening to the new opportunities Rotary has made available to grow your club by allowing for Family Memberships, Corporate Membership, or impacting your community by starting a Satellite Club?
On April 14th, Concord Rotarians, Karl Kussin, Chris Alphen, and Leigh Ann Crimmings met along Cambridge Turnpike in Concord to clean up the road. This long-standing annual service project felt a bit easier this year, as the area didn't look as littered as it has in the past. Perhaps this was due to the many years we have been participating in this project. Or maybe there is a shift in society for the better that keeps people from littering as much as they used to. But still, we filled up 5 large trash bags with debris, keeping all that trash out of the wetlands along the Mill Brook and Crosby Pond!.
This simple service project is something that means so much and makes such a big difference. And although there were only 3 of us out there today, it is my hope that we will inspire others to do their part as well.
High School students at Acton Boxborough Regional High School and Nashoba Valley Regional High School learned a little more about managing finances in the high school’s annual financial Reality Fair, both held on April 6. A Reality Fair provides a financial learning experience for students in an interactive and fun format.
Students research a career and are then presented with a monthly paystub, complete with taxes and student loans. The students must then use their net earnings to purchase housing, utilities, insurance, transportation, food, clothing, and other personal items. They also must consider 401K contributions, entertainment and recreation temptations, and a spin on the Wheel of Fortune, representing life’s unexpected windfalls or misfortunes.
The students gain valuable insight from the experience and for some - it’s their first real exposure to the cost of basic necessities of life. A Reality Fair is also a tremendous opportunity to engage with the high school and local businesses since each event includes some 50 community volunteers. Reality Fair is one of the premier programs several clubs from District 7910 offer to their community on an annual basis!
Two CLUBS host REALITY FAIR - ACTON BOXBOROUGH AND NASHOBA VALLEY
Dave Robertson 9 Years in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow +2
Testimonial of Club President, Leigh Anne Crimmings - Service Impact
Taking charge of RYLA, the Minuteman ARC Carnival and Bowling events, leading the charge to support the Stella Rosie Foundation, running youth programs at the Assabet Valley Boys & Girls Club, providing needed supplies at fundraising events, and including his family in volunteerism.
I am nominating Dave Robertson not only because of all that he does, but also because of how he conducts himself in all that he does. Dave has been a Rotarian for 9 years, and is our Sargent in Arms. He will be stepping into the role as Secretary next year, putting him in line to be Club President, 2020-2021.
Testimonial of Club President, Bob Anthony/Service Impact
Vin is our club champion for the New England Center for Homeless Veterans and brings its commander to present here in Wellesley to large audiences. He brings Rotarians to tour their Center and serve meals to the veterans. He also has delivered thousands of dollars to the Center for mental health services, job training, and the graduation of hundreds of veterans into healthy and productive lives. These service opportunities have helped has recruit new members for our
Would you like to travel to England for two weeks and only pay for your airfare and incidentals? How would it be to have your own personal tour guides, bringing you to destinations that you suggest or to have your new friends suggest unique traveling experiences? Would you like to host an English couple in your home for 4 days and nights, being their tour guide and enjoy the activities and adventures right along them?
If you answered yes, Rotary has just the program for you! The Bandey-Hefler Fellowship Exchange has thrived for 40 years introducing us to friends abroad with whom we’ve kept in touch and visited time and time again. Check out the Bandey-Hefler videos (“Bandey Hefler 2015 Promo II” and “2015 Bandey-Hefler Reflections”). For more information visit our District 7910 website or contact vtom0@yahoo.com or christine@christinepinney.com
The Rotary Clubs of Shrewsbury and Worcester held their second annual book launch event Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. at the Shrewsbury High School. The event is the culmination of a year-long project that created a book of creative writing by students from Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School and Doherty High School in Worcester, Grafton High School and Shrewsbury High School.
The book called “From My Heart 2018” gave students the opportunity to be creative beyond their normal classroom work, to be published which may provide an advantage for college applicants, to meet and socialize with other students who participated and to build their self-esteem.
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be April 25th at the Bedford Doubletree, Just $15 for those who preregister or $20 at the door. Keep in mind that the format does work better if you pre-register. Past events have been very well attended and everyone who attends is excited for the next event! Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available. There will, also, be a door prize. Be sure to bring at least 40 business cards!
The Rotary Club of Framingham on April 2 distributed 900 flowers in vases for residents in seven Framingham nursing homes. Seen loading up: club members Bob Worth, Dick Manelis, and Shikha Dhiyani.
Rotary Club of Framingham Brings 900 Seniors signs of Spring!
Join the Wachusett Area Rotary Club and friends on an excursion to the Big Apple on June 29-July 1, 2018. Your 3 Day/2 Night trip features round trip luxury motor coach transportation, two nights of luxury accommodations at the NEW YORK MARRIOTT MARQUIS in TIME SQUARE, a visit to the 911 Memorial and Museum, tickets to the Saturday evening Red Sox vs Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, an option to see a great Broadway show and so much more. We welcome all Rotarians, their families and friends to join us on what’s going to be an epic trip to NYC.
Rotary Club of the Brookfields Hero Linda Lloyd 1 Year in Rotary Paul Harris Fellow
Testimonial of Club President, Lynn Duffy O'Shea/Service Impact
My Hero provides service to Children and families with food and personal hygiene needs as well as clothing needs. Linda is the Founder and Executive director of AngelsAnswer2(Angels and Backpacks, Pantry etc.). She is in her fourth year. She also provides services for veterans, Seniors with pets, Women with Breast Cancer, and Baby needs as well as being a first responder for disaster relief in our area. Linda has also sent many boxes to the Hurricane relief victims in Puerto Rico and Texas.
Testimonial of Club President, Susan Peghiny/Service Impact
Maureen personifies Service Above Self and supports Rotary’s Community Development and Disease Prevention areas of focus. She deserves to be
recognized as a District 7910 Service Hero because of the way she weaves her personal, professional and Rotary lives together to amplify the work she does for each.
Last year, The Rotary Club of Needham Massachusetts installed a Buddy Bench at the St. Joseph’s Elementary School in Needham. The idea is that when a child feels lonely, they can sit on the bench and the other students know to approach them and include them in their activities. It has been very well received by the school, the kids, and the parents.
The Needham club has just installed its second bench at the Hillside Elementary School. A local mason helps with the installs for free. The bench costs about $700. The Rotary Club of Needham hopes purchase and install Buddy Benches at all of the elementary schools in town by this time next year.
Rotary Club of Needham installs its second Buddy Bench at Hillside Elementary
Come join the AMAZing Fun of our 2nd Project Soar workshop on Saturday April 14th from 1-5pm at the Skyline Flight School located at Fitchburg Municipal Airport.
Youth and adults (from Rotary and Revolving Museum) will create a 10’ long prototype paper airplane using bamboo, cardboard and paper. The design of the airplane will be based on the longest flight paper airplanes from Youth Day.
Testimonial of Club President, Joseph Gagliardi/Service Impact
Vincent (Vinny) Tingley took the leadership role in the Club’s efforts to prevent new opioid addictions in the community in the fall. Within a few short weeks he organized the club’s activity, coordinated it with the Natick Opioid Task Force, completed a district grant application which was approved in a week, and then implemented the training sessions for parents. It was part of a town wide initiative to raise awareness and education especially for parents about Opioid abuse. One of the goals is to make this less of a stigma as it effects all ages and races and economic back rounds.
He has continued to interface with the Natick Opioid Task Force and has offered his assistance to other clubs that want to replicate this project in their communities.
Testimonial of Club President, Denise Wortman/Service Impact
Paul is ALWAYS our go to person for any club activity or service project. He has been an active Rotarian for 46 years, currently Assistant Governor to area clubs, Sergeant at Arms for our club and 100th Anniversary Committee person. As well as his Rotary work, Paul is a Board member for Salvation Army, active member of North Central Chamber of Commerce, a past recipient of the FATV Boulder Award for his commitment to the city of Fitchburg and support of Public Access TV.
Rotary Club of Brookline held its annual Pancake Breakfast this past Saturday serving 3,000 community members and raising $14,000. Funds raised go to support various local charities. One quote from an attendee: "We look forward to this all year. For us, it is a sure sign of spring."
Having the Rotaractors from BU participate and share in the service makes the event over-the-top in terms of both FUN and INSPIRATION!!!
BU Rotaract and Rotary Club of Brookline Flip pancakes for 3,000!
In a ceremony only slightly less festive than the Academy Awards, the 2018 Celebration of Rotary Service Heroes was held on Monday, March 26th, at the Hampton Inn, Natick. The event was the first-of-its-kind District celebration of 21 extraordinary men and women from Rotary Clubs across District 7910 who make a difference and go beyond typical acts of kindness in making a significant contribution to their communities. In addition, 8 Foundation Service Awards were presented and District Foundation Chair, Sanjay Deshpande, received the Rotary Foundation’s Citation for Meritorious Service.
You are Invited to a Community Meeting to Address the Opiate Crisis in MetroWest Boston
April 9th at 7:30AM at the Hampton Inn, Natick
Hosted by Charles River Rotary Club
Dear Fellow District 7910 Rotarians:
You are invited to a meeting to discuss the opioid crisis in our area. This gathering, hosted by Charles River Rotary, will be a CALL TO ACTION to all of us to work together to address regional challenges. We will also highlight some recent successes in the efforts to address the opioid epidemic. (RSVP HERE) Rotary Clubs - please send us info regarding your successful initiatives to share! (Email Christine Guthery, President, Charles River Rotary at cguthery@sparkkindness.org - clubs/activities from outside of MetroWest Boston are welcome!)
On Saturday, March 17th, our Rotary District 7910 hosted its 1st Annual Youth Day. The students from Interact clubs; Rotaract clubs; former RYLAns, and Carlos, our exchange student from Taiwan, gathered in the Cowork and Conference Center in Acton for over 5 hours to make new friends, make history, and make a difference!!!
The students completed the Project Soar preparation and Design competition. All participants at the event designed their paper airplanes and had a competition to see whose would fly the furthest. The shape and designs of the winning airplanes will be used in the actual plane that will be built later this spring.
The evening was to celebrate the contributions of our members to the Rotary Foundation through our unique “Paul Harris Circles” program. Mary acknowledge the PHF recognition event was originally started by our own William C. Lakso.
The PHF recognition is given based on a $1,000 contribution to the RI Foundation over a period of ten years. Each year a name is drawn to receive the PHF recognition. At the end of the life of the circle, all ten people in the circle become recipients of a PHF.
Chair Mary Whitney welcomed Honorees, Rotarians, and guests including DG Karin Gaffney
Mark your calendar:it’s almost “The Best of Times,” the 10th annual celebration of food, drink, and friendship to be held at the Boxboro Regency Hotel on Thursday April 26 from 6-8pm. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough, this event is the perfect way to unwind on a weekday evening. Tickets are $25.00 and can be purchased at Gould’s Clothing, Donelan’s of Acton, Acton Toyota of Littleton; from any member of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough; or at the door.
Rotary District 7910 is pleased to announce the awarding of the David and Eleanor Morley Endowed Global Grant Scholarship to two recipients, both residents of the District. This unique Scholarship established in 2002 honors David and Eleanor Morley. David Morley was a dedicated Rotarian, graduate of Worcester Polytech Institute, and worked all his life for General Electric. David and Eleanor believed in the good works of Rotary and so established this Scholarship in their name to be awarded by D7910 and managed by The Rotary Foundation Permanent Fund. From 2007 to 2010 four recipients received the Scholarship, all WPI graduates. This is the first time in eight years the Scholarship has been awarded, with careful administration by the Scholarship Subcommittee of the District Foundation Committee. Each Scholarship is for $ 35,000. The recipients this year are:
Camilla Vogt of Concord sponsored by Rotary Club of Concord. She will be studying this fall at the University of Oxford School of Government in England. She plans to receive a Masters in Government and later an MBA, both from Oxford. Her focus is investing in innovative agriculture technology to bolster food security world-wide. Her area of focus policy is Economic and Community Development.
Liam Gaziano of Dedham sponsored by Neponset Valley Rotary. At the present time he is involved in graduate studies at the University of Cambridge in England where he is researching the causes of heart disease using a genetic approach. He is working in collaboration with Harvard Medical School and the Veterans Hospital in Jamaica Plain, using the latter's data base as a source of research. He is in the program to receive a Doctorate in Epidemiology. Later, he plans to attend medical school . His area of focus policy is Disease Prevention and Treatment.
A Progress Update on the “Community Food Collaborative” You may recall reading last October 16th that the Rotary Clubs of Sturbridge and Southbridge had applied to create a Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge & Southbridge (RCC). In November, the RCC Charter was issued. The RCC’s first project is the creation of the “Community Food Collaborative” (CFC) located in Sturbridge.
The Mission Statement of the Community Food Collaborative is to help foster a greater sense of community by involving neighbors, volunteer organizations, as well as mentoring local youth. Throughout each growing season, nutritious organic vegetables will be grown and donated to the Saint John Paul II Food Pantry, which serves families in need in both Southbridge and Sturbridge.
A Progress Update on the “Community Food Collaborative” You may recall reading last October 16th that the Rotary Clubs of Sturbridge and Southbridge had applied to create a Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge & Southbridge (RCC). In November, the RCC Charter was issued. The RCC’s first project is the creation of the “Community Food Collaborative” (CFC) located in Sturbridge.
The Mission Statement of the Community Food Collaborative is to help foster a greater sense of community by involving neighbors, volunteer organizations, as well as mentoring local youth. Throughout each growing season, nutritious organic vegetables will be grown and donated to the Saint John Paul II Food Pantry, which serves families in need in both Southbridge and Sturbridge.
Rotary members from 6 clubs attended a fun and festive luncheon on Thursday to celebrate St Patrick’s Day: Westford, Bedford, Littleton, Acton/Boxboro, Chelsmford, and Lowell.
Each Club was given the opportunity to talk about something exciting their club is doing. There was also a 50/50 raffle, and half the money was donated to Polio Plus! Irish Step Dancers performed a few different Irish step dances. It was fantastic Rotary fellowship and the club plans to make this an annual event!
Rotary Club of Westford hosts St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon!
The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley is sponsoring its sixth financial Reality Fair on the morning of April 6 at Nashoba Regional High School. Here’s your opportunity to volunteer and experience first-hand what a Reality Fair is all about. We have the opportunity to provide a valuable life lesson to all 225 10th graders at the high school (Yes, you have to pay for electricity) and have fun at the same time! Volunteer materials will be provided in advance. To sign up or for more information, contact Laura Spear, laura@spear.net.
It's a good time for us to step back and take a look at how we are doing with membership so far this Rotary year. Fact is - there is light at the end of tunnel when it comes to membership trends for our district!
Just looking at the raw statistics, we see what appears to be membership slippage slowing down, if not actually a bit of a turnaround. In the 2016-2017 Rotary Year, District 7910 saw a net loss of 68 members. As of January 31, 2018, we still see a loss for the 2017-2018 Rotary Year of 11 members, but that is a distinct slowing of membership losses.
But wait, there’s more! The “official” statistics quoted above do not include Honorary Members. If you include honoraries in the figures, you see that we had a net loss of 35 members in 2016-2017 and an INCREASE of 23 members this Rotary Year (through Feb. 28)!
22 Clubs have nominated a service hero for the March 26th Service Hero Celebration taking place at the Hampton Inn, Natick from 5 15 to 8pm.
10 clubs have reserved for 10 members to attend! It’s going to be an inspirational evening of celebration, awards, and Rotary fellowship! You don’t want to miss this special night that will leave you feeling VERY proud to be a Rotarian. Registration closes Monday March 19th! Here is the quick link for registration:
These funds will be used to support children’s and youth programs at the library. The library was thrilled with our donation because many of the programs the library offers would not exist without outside funding provided by the Friends.
In the photo: Board member, Robert White, presented the check to Children’s Librarian, Pat Lalli (center) and to Donna Englander, Friends president (right).
The 2018-19 leaders of Rotary gathered together March 8-10, 2018 for one of the most spectacular and inspiring Presidents-elect Training Seminar ever!
Rotary leaders from 45 of our clubs and 14 Assistant governors gathered with their counterparts from all 8 New England Rotary Districts.
Top speakers including RI Director Elect Jeffry Cadorette, End Polio Now Chair Mike McGovern, PDG Drew Kessler and Shirley-Pat Chamberlain wowed the Presidents-Elect an Assistant Governors with their enthusiasm for Rotary and inspiration to become bold changemakers to bring their clubs to the next level.
The Rotary Club of Concord invites you to its 43rd Annual Pops Night featuring the Concord Band with popular jazz singer Amanda Carr on April 6 at “51 Walden, the Performing Arts Center” in Concord.
The doors open at 7 p.m. for you to enjoy refreshments and browse the silent auction. Downbeat at 8. The pops-style seating offers you a chance to unwind and visit with friends. Tickets at $30 each may be purchased online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/crp or by calling Dick Hale at 978-394-5158. Proceeds benefit Concord’s new Minuteman Bike Share with bike rental stations in Concord Center and West Concord.
The Rotary Club of Concord invites you to its 43rd Annual Pops Night
On Saturday, April 21st at the Rotary Club of Bedford’s 6th annual Meals For Kids event, Bedford will reach an amazing milestone: 320,000 meals packaged for hungry kids in developing countries. To enable the meal packaging event, which will be held at Middlesex Community College, the club is in the process of raising $17,000 with major corporate support from BAE Systems and Anika Therapeutics. Support from smaller local businesses and individuals will also help, and the club is also seeking volunteers to join the fun of the packaging event itself.
Rotary Club of Framingham’s Dick Manelis is leading a team of Rotarians and community volunteers on a trip to Guatemala to install clean water filtration systems to the villages on Lake Atitlan who need it most.
On day #1, the team assembled the water purification units and proceeded to the individual homes where they installed, demonstrated and taught.
Then they handed out gifts of various items. The stuffed animals, many courtesy of the Needham Club were a big hit with the kids. So were some rubber ducks courtesy of the Framingham Club.
Tomorrow they will learn how and what to teach re basic sanitation and conduct mini-seminars in different locations. On Thursday, the team will attend a meeting with the local Rotary club to discuss the condition of the lake.
Rotarians and Community Volunteers Travel to Guatemala
Send in your stories for the District’s newsletter of Making a Difference in your community! Write to karinmgaffney@gmail.com and send pictures with a brief article with details of how your club is volunteering to provide support and assistance to members of your community. Talk about the organizations with which you collaborate.
Tell the story of inspiring and selfless acts of kindness! Share and inspire so we can spread the word about all the good works being done by the amazing members of Rotary District 7910!
Tell Rotary's Story as “People of Action” By Laura Spear, Zone 32 Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator
Every club and District can tell its story as “People of Action” in your respective communities. All you need is a good photo! Everything else is available for you on rotary.org to create your own ads — customized to the work your club is doing — for social media or print advertising.
Stories about fundraisers, contributions, or international service are an integral part of what we do, but they’re not necessarily People of Action stories. The People of Action campaign is designed to help better inform our local communities about Rotary and the work we do for the places we call home. To let the rest of the world know who we are, doesn’t it make sense to let our neighbors know first?
A People of Action story connects with people—by showing the positive impact Rotary clubs have on our communities. The best way to do this is by incorporating certain elements effectively into your story, including:
PLEASE join us for this special evening recognizing this year’s Service Heroes! It promises to be a very special evening filled with inspiration, recognition and special surprises. Every Club President has been invited to nominate a Service Hero. Hear the special stories of how these folks are MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
Make it your meeting of the week!!! Discount for table of 10! ($175)
You don’t want to miss our fantastic speaker, Dr. Mary Berge - As a Psychologist and Rotarian, Mary is passionate about serving others. Mary is a Rotary Foundation Alumni, having gotten her start in Rotary 2002 as a GSE team member to Sweden. In the Rotary year of 2008-2009 she served as the District 7330 Governor and later spent three years as a Zone Coordinator responsible for leadership training.
Pictured is a home in Moca destroyed by Hurricane Maria – this picture was taken February 2018
Rotary District 7910 is partnering with the Liberty, NY Rotary Club and Rotary District 7000 (Puerto Rico) to conduct a hurricane relief drive that will help victims of Hurricane Maria in Moca, Puerto Rico, a municipality on the northwest corner of the island, one of the hardest hit areas of the storm.
Funds raised will be used for:
Emergency Shelter and Reconstruction Supplies Flu and Tetanus and Typhus Vaccinations Moca Rotary Club Toy Drive for children
Rotary Club of Watertown held its first Service Saturday on February 24 with over 40 Rotarians and non-Rotarians in attendance. Clubs that participated included Watertown, Wachusett area, Needham, Newton, Weston-Wayland, Marlborough, Westborough, Nashoba Valley and Brookline. Also participating were 2 Interact Clubs, one from Watertown and one from Newton South.
The day started out at The Watertown Boys and Girls club where projects sites were described. The five service sites included Wayside Youth Center, The Residence at Watertown Square, Watertown Health Center, The Carroll Center for the Blind and The Harvard Square Homeless Shelter. Volunteers then divided into teams and went off to their sites where they cleaned, organized, made health packets, painted and spent time with elderly patients. After the service project was over, all gathered back at The Watertown Boys and Girls Club to share their experiences and discuss why they all came out for the event:
District 7910 and District 7930 are collaborating to support another opportunity for clubs to make a difference doing “service” by providing meals to veterans at The New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV) located near Government Center in Boston.
The Week of Rotary covers 12 meal service shifts spread out between May 21 and May 27, in honor of Memorial Day. By proudly partnering with NECHV, you help to ensure that Veterans of every era have the resources they need to live with dignity and independence.
On behalf of District Governor Gaffney and the District Hurricane Relief Committee I would like to extend our gratitude to the following clubs for their generous contributions.
This list is official and current as of February 20th. It consists of both club contributions as well as individual member contributions. Donations have been pouring in and if you don’t see your club’s name, it will show up as soon as your checks have been posted.
Why attend District Youth Day? -- MAKE NEW FRIENDS/MAKE HISTORY/MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Rotary District 7910 is hosting a district-wide YOUTH DAY on March 17th in Acton from 11:30am to 5pm. Participants will include Interactors, Rotaractors, RYLAN’s and Exchange students. There will be two tracks for students:
Track 1 will be a competition/workshop for Project Soar. Clubs can enter their prototype for the design, materials and art work to be chosen for the community-arts project with The Revolving Museum in Fitchburg known as Project Soar to build the world’s largest paper airplane. For more details on this project, see the link: http://therevolvingmuseum.org/project-soar/
Track 2 will be a train-the-trainer session with the Interact project known as Peer Leadership and Depression Prevention.
This event will be a fantastic day of making new friends, making history and making a difference for youth from across our District. Please make sure your youth clubs are aware of this event! For more information or questions, please contact District Co-Interact chairs, Bob Anthony at bobanthony@adolescentwellness.org or Sharon Spaulding at ses@spauldingco.com.
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be held on Wednesday, March 14th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the SHERATON Framingham.
The cost is $15 for Rotarians and $20 for non-Rotarians until March 12th. It will be $20 at the door. Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available.
Framingham Mayor Yvonne Spicer spoke to members of the Rotary Club, and their friends, at a reception the club held for her at the Framingham Country Club on February 20.
Leading the transition from a town meeting/selectman form of government to a mayor and city council arrangement, Spicer out lined her vision for Framingham’s future in a variety of areas, frankly, with humor and grace, and answered numerous questions from the audience.
Rotary Club of Framingham hosts reception for the City's First Mayor
Assistant Rotary Coordinator, Jim Fusco, RI Director Elect, Jeff Cadorette, End Polio Now Zone Coordinator, Carol Toomey and Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator Laura Spear attended planning meetings at RI Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois.
District 7910 and Rotary International are very fortunate to have such a strong and talented leadership team!
Zone Leaders head to Evanston for a weekend of planning!
The Rotary Club of Concord presented a donation to Shelter Box International in the amount of $10,000 on February 15th at Verrill Farm in Concord.
Shelter Box was chosen by RCOC to be the benefactor of its 2nd annual Oktoberfest, 2017, which was held September 23rd at Verrill Farm and featured over 50 brewers, 4 live bands, family friendly activities, and delicious food from Verrill Farm and local food trucks!
Pictured here from Left to Right are:
Rotarians Frank Rigg, June Grace, Chris Alphen, Steve Verrill of Verrill Farm, Shelter Box Volunteer Katherine Fick, Rotary Club of Concord President Leigh Ann Crimmings, Past District Governor Doug Detweiler, Ingrid Detweiler, Dick Hale, Kat Edwards, and Noel Choquette.
Rotary District 7910 is partnering with the Liberty, NY Rotary Club and Rotary District 7000 (Puerto Rico) to conduct a hurricane relief drive that will help victims of Hurricane Maria in Moca, Puerto Rico, a municipality on the northwest corner of the island, one of the hardest hit areas of the storm. Funds raised will be used for:
Emergency Shelter and Reconstruction Supplies
Flu and Tetanus and Typhus Vaccinations
Moca Rotary Club Toy Drive for children
PLEASE CONTACT GARY HOUGH - holdenhunt@aol.com - IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TRAVEL ON THE 2nd MISSION February 24-26!
To see a video from this mission, click on this link here.
Rotary Club of Westford assisted with the 2nd Annual Senior Valentine Luncheon held at First Parish Church United in Westford.
Westford Rotary gave each Senior attending (over 120) a small gift and served the Luncheon. It was a privilege to honor all the seniors on Valentine’s Day which made for a very special day.
Rotary Club of Westford volunteers at 2nd annual Seniors Valentine Luncheon
World Peace & Understanding Dinner Wednesday, February 28, 6-9pm Doubletree, Danvers, MA PLEASE CONTACT DG KARIN GAFFNEY IF YOU WANT TO REGISTER
Locally, there is so much that we need to address. The biggest issue that is threatening our society today is addiction. The opioid crisis has affected almost all of us in some way and it is time to take action. This year's World Peace and Understanding Dinner on February 28th will be focused on this issue.
You're invited - District 7930 showcases response to Opioid Issue at World Peace and Understanding Dinner on February 28th with Middlesex DA Marian Ryan
took a wrecked home from disaster site to building site;
got one household new beds;
two others got grants for work that needed to be done;
we immunized 500 and they will do another 500 in two weeks;
thousands more saw or heard about our efforts and
we dished out a lot of hugs, shed a lot of tears and a ton of 'empathy'
We also engaged a number of local stakeholders - the Church; the doctors and the nurses and the local government and Rotary PR District - which was needed so we can keep the effort rolling.
Hurricane Relief Mission Changes Lives, Makes a Difference
On Monday February 5th District Membership Committee Co-Chairs Cliff Gerber and Judy Merriman provided an overview of new membership types and developing a club specific membership strategy. It was a fantastic presentation filled with new ideas to add to your club’s membership tool kit. If you missed the webinar, watch it now.
2017-18 President of Rotary International, Ian Riseley, has asked Rotary clubs to show their commitment to addressing climate change by planting a tree for every member.
This spring, District 7910’s clubs will plant at least 1500 trees – one for every Rotarian in our district. Tree planting is a great way to combat global warming,g/Stories/clubs-order-your-trees-from-the-district-make-a-difference-plant-a-tree beautify our communities, and generate positive publicity our clubs.
District 7910 will support clubs by purchasing trees in bulk at a discount. These trees may be reserved by your club, in groups of 25 trees, for $50 per 25 trees. Each seedling tree will be potted, so the trees can easily be distributed to Rotarians, students, and partner agencies. Your club may choose to apply a Rotary sticker to the tree’s pot for some projects.
We look forward to hosting you at our five-district 2018 Summit at Mount Washington!
As of February 1, we have over 450 registered participants.
Fellow Rotarians, we look forward to being with you at this exciting and historic event! Join over 500 Rotarians from Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Quebec and Vermont, at the beautiful Mount Washington Resort on May 4-6, 2018.
Join us as we salute the 2017-2018 Rotary Service Heroes. This year’s Rotary theme is Rotary: Making a Difference and DG Karin’s number one goal is to strengthen clubs and strengthen communities by increasing the hands-on service that each club is doing.
Each club President has been invited to nominate one “service hero.” It can be someone from their club who should be recognized for what he or she has done in their club, in the community, or beyond.
The recipient should be someone who has strongly demonstrated “Service Above Self,” and may be an “unsung hero” who has not previously been recognized for his or her efforts.
The recipient could also be a non-Rotarian whose actions are in line with the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
The Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough has made a grant in support to AB United Way of their newly formed AB Cares, a coalition for the prevention of suicide.
Suicide has become an increasingly serious health issue in our communities. In response, the Acton and Boxborough town governments, health and social services, and the religious community have mobilized to create AB Cares. Its goal is to provide social support, provide resources, and bring training to the communities, with the goal that no one feels that suicide is their only option.
The Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough is proud to provide a grant in support of this important work.
AB United Way is proud to co-found AB Cares, a community-based collaborative effort that seeks to prevent suicide across the life span and support all who are impacted by suicide. AB Cares, a community coalition, serves as a community response to suicide.
For the 10th consecutive year, The Rotary Foundation has received the highest rating — four stars — from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S.
In a letter to the Foundation, Charity Navigator notes that "only 1 percent of the charities we evaluate have received at least 10 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that The Rotary Foundation outperforms other charities in America.
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be at the Fay Club 658 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA on February 8th.
The cost is $15 for Rotarians and $20 for non-Rotarians until February 5th. It will be $20 at the door. Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available. There will, also, be a door prize. Be sure to bring at least 40 business cards!
Founded in 2013 as an official Rotary International Fellowship, Rotary Means Business provides Rotarians with business-networking events to meet and socialize with other Rotarians in business.
On February 2, 2018, about 60 people attended the monthly Guest Table community dinner at First Parish Church of Stow and Acton. The menu consisted of salad and bread, ham with pineapple, vegetarian/gluten-free lasagna, and brownies. Members of the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley helped serve dinner and clean up after the event.
Framingham Rotary Club Co-President Dick Manelis presents a check for $17,000 to James Snyder, Manager of Framingham Parks and Recreation, on January 29. The funds will pay for the completion of Phase II of the club’s renovation of Butterworth Park. Phase I saw the installation of modern playground equipment. Phase III calls for the construction of a commemorative walkway and a jogging path.
Rotary Club of Framingham donates $17,000 to renovate Butterworth Park
Over November and December, Interactors from Watertown High School collected toiletries with help of the science department. They were not only able to fill the once empty shelves at the St. Patrick/Sacred Heart Food Pantry but also provided them with several extra boxes filled for when the shelves get low.
The club is continuing with its food drives in February for Peanut Butter and Jelly.
They also want to be more involved with Rotary.
Interact Club at Watertown High School stocks Food Pantry
Club and District leaders gathered Monday night in Framingham for inspiration, brainstorming, training, and fellowship! Speakers from Greater Gardner and Bay Path Interact Clubs shared their ideas for service projects and BU Rotaract President, Sarah Tuberty, asked Rotarians to consider ways to do more service to support our communities. DGE Steve Sager led a Presidents Elect training while Watertown Club President, Lilia Weisfeldt, facilitated a brainstorming session with this year’s Presidents on what can each of us do in the next 5 months of this Rotary year to make our club stronger.
Mid Year Leadership Dinner Energizes Club and District Leaders for Doing GOOD in 2018!
On January 4th, Joyce Graff, Sharon Herman and Susan Rack, all of the Rotary Club of Brookline, joined 59 other Rotary Volunteers from the US, Canada, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Mexico and Australia, along with the four Rotary Clubs of Agra for the 2018 Mega Polio Campaign. It was a three day event organized by Rahul and Sachin Wadhwa of the Rotary Club of Agra Tajmahal.
Though India is Polio free, they share a border with Pakistan, which is not polio free, and are acutely aware that they must keep up with immunizations. Rotary, the Indian Health Department and Wor
On January 4th, Joyce Graff, Sharon Herman and Susan Rack, all of the Rotary Club of Brookline, joined 59 other Rotary Volunteers from the US, Canada, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Mexico and Australia, along with the four Rotary Clubs of Agra for the 2018 Mega Polio Campaign. It was a three day event organized by Rahul and Sachin Wadhwa of the Rotary Club of Agra Tajmahal.
Members from the Rotary Club of Newton and The Rotary Club of Boston #7 had a wonderful time helping out last Saturday at the The Greater Boston Food Bank. We handled over 8600 pounds of food, which made about 7000 meals for the hungry in Massachusetts possible. AND we had fun! Do good, feel great - Join Rotary!
The Rotary Club of Franklin is sponsoring a Valentine’s Breakfast at the Franklin Housing Authority on Saturday, February 10th at 9:00 AM to help seniors enjoy some fellowship together for Valentine’s Day. The event features a warm breakfast, hot coffee and fruit. There will be live music and some special Valentine's Day surprises. The Franklin Club recognized in the late fall that there were a number of local charities that supported families and children with holiday gifts during Christmastime. But there was a need to support low-income seniors, who are often alone during the holiday season, and further isolated as winter continues and they have less opportunities to go out and visit with neighbors.
Rotary Club of Lowell, Dracut, Westford, Merrimack Valley, Groton Pepperell, Tyngsboro Dunstable, Ayer and Andover come together for a 5th Tuesday social!
5th Tuesday in Dracut - 8 Rotary Clubs join for a fun night of fellowship!
5 Rotary clubs combined efforts to meet for fun and fellowship on Monday, January 22nd. Members from Westborough, Marlborough, Northborough, Southborough and Shrewsbury Rotary clubs met at Romaine’s in Northborough for an evening of networking and talking about making a difference through Rotary service.
Shelby Marshall President of Rotary Club of Westborough and Kathy McSweeney, President of Rotary Club of Shrewsbury
Keynote speakers – Rotary President, Ian Riseley, Travis Roy, Razia Jan, Shirley Pat Chamberlain, Arie Voorman, Program Officer on the Polio Teamfrom the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; Former Governor of Vermont, Jim Douglas; Former Governor of Massachusetts, Jane Swift; and Police Chief Robert MacKenzie, Kennebunk PD (Rotarian from the Kennebunk Club who leads that district's Rotary Recovery Initiative targeting substance misuse disorders).
Service Project - Package 20,000 meals for the hungry working with Rotarians, Interactors, Rotaractors, Youth Exchange students….a wonderful Rotary project!
Rotary Leadership Institue's training was held Saturday January 20th at the Boxborough Holiday Inn. The RLI experience was totally inspiring, full of great information, advice and conversations about Rotary. It’s easy to get jazzed and motivated after hearing what other attendees are doing in their clubs and ideas everyone has for getting their club members even more engaged and involved in Service Above Self.
For the past 4-5 years, District 7890 has invited our students from District 7910 to join their exchange students for a wonderful ski weekend. District 7890 is made up of 60 Rotary Clubs located in northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts.
Four of our District's students (2 inbound and 2 outbounds for next year) were able to participate in the fun ski weekend at Butternut Ski Resort. The kids were treated to free lessons, rental and lift tickets on Saturday and Sunday, compliments of Butternut. On Saturday evening, the local Rotary clubs hosted a potluck dinner (photo was taken at the dinner). On Saturday night one of the local Rotarians donated his barn/apartment for the kids to use to stay overnight. It's a wonderful weekend for the kids and everyone has a great time.
Youth Exchange Ski Weekend at Butternut Ski Resort
Our District Governor Elect, Steve Sager, from the Rotary Club of Westborough, has returned from a week of training in San Diego at the International Assembly with 540 other District Goveronor Elects from around the world. This is the final major training of the District Governor journey. Steve is inspired and excited to be leading the 2018-2019 Club Presidents from the 51 clubs across District 7910.
Pictured - DGE Steve Sager with RI President Elect Barry Rassin and his wife, Esther.
With a wave of inspiration, Steve will begin to share his plans for leading all Rotarians to be People of Action. Presidents elect are fired up and ready to train! All Rotarians are excited and passionate for the opportunities to Make a Difference provided by Rotary. Be The Inspiration!
The relief drive, which launched recently, is targeting Moca, Puerto Rico, a municipality in the northwest corner of the island and one of the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Maria in September 2017. Wings Of Michael (Special Airborne Rescue) and OPERATION ENDEAVOR worked together to conduct a reconnaissance mission to identify centers of gravity and a needs assessment.
Rotary Club of Fitchburg East invites you to its 38th annual Super Bowl Brunch held at Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School on February 4th.
The event takes place from 8 30am to Noon and tickets are $14 for adults, $9 for seniors and students and $5 for kids under 10. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Gift baskets are also available for bid. Don’t miss this fun event! This fundraiser helps the club secure funding for the academic scholarships provided to graduating seniors at local high schools
Rotary Club of Fitchburg East holds 38th annual Super Bowl Brunch on February 4th
There will be local vendors, restaurants and caterers competing to have the best appetizer. Prizes are awarded. During the event, there will be a Silent Auction with lots of great items. All proceeds benefit local charities including The Boys and Girls Club, the Salvation Army, YMCA, Greater Waltham Arc, REACH, scholarships for students and much, much more.
Rotary Club of Waltham invites you to the 4th annual Football Food Frenzy
District 7910 is pleased to announce the David & Eleanor Morley Endowed Global Grant Scholarship is now open for interested applicants.
Unique to District 7910 the Morley Scholarship was established in 2002 by a generous Rotarian and WPI graduate. It is managed by The Rotary Foundation Permanent Fund in conjunction with the District 7910 Foundation Committee (Scholarship). The application window is open until February 15, 2018, followed by an interview. A qualified candidate will be announced by March 15, 2018.
Rotary Club Framingham worked with The Imagine Project on Veterans’ wish lists over the holidays. The Imagine Project is dedicated to Making a Difference in the lives of Massachusetts Veterans.
Through the visioning process, the Framingham Club made helping veterans one of its core service areas. Imagine works behind the scenes with Fresh Start Furniture Bank based in Hudson, MA.
How do you create the world’s largest paper airplane? One sheet at a time!
On January 21 from 1 - 3pm, Interact teens will film a video to promote this project that includes developing the design and theme for pieces of the plane. The teens will also customize sheets of paper to use as the skin of the airplane.
When Renae Owens ‘18 was laid off from her customer service job, she knew she had to upgrade her skills by going back to school to get a degree. Her dream of starting a second career in human resources began with an associate’s degree at Quinsigamond Community College and continued at Worcester State as she jumped full time into her bachelor’s degree in business.
A single mother with a 23-year-old daughter, she’s not your typical college student. Owens is pursuing her degree with determination, buckling down on her studies and sustaining a 3.7 GPA with honors. In addition to her own success, she’s also focused on setting an example for her daughter. Click Here for the published article
Rotary Helps Nontraditional Student Pursue Her Dream
On February 10, 2018 the Natick Rotary Club is hosting a benefit dinner to raise funds and awareness on the growing opioid epidemic in their community. The event, held at the Community-Senior Center from 6-9pm will feature speakers from the Town of Natick Opioid Task Force along with Cheryle Lucenta, Co-Founder of Soar Natick and Christine Guthery of Spark Kindness and the Charles River Rotary Club.
Three Rotarians from District 7910 will be participating in a relief mission to Puerto Rico Feb 2-5. Terri Banerjee from the Rotary Club of Framingham, Michael Dexter Smith from the Rotary Club of Weston Wayland (both pictured) and Shikha Dhiyani from the Rotary Club of Framingham.
This team of 3 from District 7910 along with the Rotarians from the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Operation Endeavor and Wings of Michael will be traveling to Moca, Puerto Rico for a Hurricane Relief Mission and participate in relief effort activities coordinated by the Moca Rotary Club and other partners on the ground. Activities will include aiding in food and clean water distribution, emergency shelter construction, flu and tetanus vaccination clinic and toy distribution to children who sustained total losses during the hurricane.
Please join us in Watertown on February 24th from 8:30am-12:30pm for our SECOND Rotary Service Saturday!
Is service one of the main reasons you joined Rotary? Do you sometimes wish there was something you could volunteer to do for a few hours to assist community members and engage with other Rotarians and non-Rotarians? Then Service Saturday may be just what you've been looking for. Join us for our next event and learn how you can jump into this program with your club and in your community.
Clubs are providing outstanding service with District Grants in creative ways.
Approved Grants
The 2017-18 grant cycle is well under way with grants of all types providing service and support to needy causes. Currently grants have an estimated budget of $87,385 with $41,500 in District Designated Funds (DDF). There is still $11,000 available for club sponsored districts grants. Look at what clubs are doing so far to provide service above self.
As it has in prior years, the RC of Southborough partnered with Southborough Youth and Family Services (SYFS) to take care of holiday wish lists for several families in need.
Below are pics of some club members with a few of the wrapped presents that were dropped off the week before Christmas. In all, club members donated over $600 in presents and gift cards. Made members smile to be helping make the holiday season a little brighter for others. Service Above Self never felt so Merry & Bright! To follow what RC of Southborough is up to, like their Facebook page - facebook.com/SouthboroughRotary
Rotary Club of Southboro makes holiday wishes come true
Three Rotarians from District 7910 will be participating in a relief mission to Puerto Rico Feb 2-5. Terri Banerjee from the Rotary Club of Framingham, Michael Dexter Smith from the Rotary Club of Weston Wayland (both pictured) and Shikha Dhiyani from the Rotary Club of Framingham.
This team of 3 from District 7910 along with the Rotarians from the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Operation Endeavor and Wings of Michael will be traveling to Moca, Puerto Rico for a Hurricane Relief Mission and participate in relief effort activities coordinated by the Moca Rotary Club and other partners on the ground. Activities will include aiding in food and clean water distribution, emergency shelter construction, flu and tetanus vaccination clinic and toy distribution to children who sustained total losses during the hurricane.
Three Rotarians from District 7910 will be participating in a relief mission to Puerto Rico Feb 2-5. Terri Banerjee from the Rotary Club of Framingham, Michael Dexter Smith from the Rotary Club of Weston Wayland (both pictured) and Shikha Dhiyani from the Rotary Club of Framingham.
This team of 3 from District 7910 along with the Rotarians from the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Operation Endeavor and Wings of Michael will be traveling to Moca, Puerto Rico for a Hurricane Relief Mission and participate in relief effort activities coordinated by the Moca Rotary Club and other partners on the ground. Activities will include aiding in food and clean water distribution, emergency shelter construction, flu and tetanus vaccination clinic and toy distribution to children who sustained total losses during the hurricane.
Don't miss the Membership webinar Monday February 5th from 7-8pm. District Membership Committee Co-Chairs Cliff Gerber and Judy Merriman will provide an overview of new membership types and developing a club specific membership strategy. They have put together a fantastic presentation that is sure to give you new ideas to add to your club’s membership tool kit. REGISTER HERE.
Reach the Summit! Register for 2018 Rotary Summit before January 15th! After that, there’s no guarantee you can lock in a room at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel. Don’t miss this chance to network with members of our five districts across New England and Quebec. Need more motivation? Travis Roy’s story will leave you INSPIRED!
DISTRICT 7910 Kicks-off Hurricane Relief Drive with a $25,000 contribution to supplement the donations collected by Rotary, Rotaract and Interact Clubs in their Communities.
District 7910’s Hurricane Relief Committee is in full gear and set to accept charitable contributions through the District Charity Fund to assist with relief in Puerto Rico.
Rotary worked with Burgess Elementary School to identify 41 Burgess families going through difficult times this Christmas. The John Paul II Food Pantry along with Rotary members delivered 41 boxes of food which Rotarians had helped to assemble. While the club had previously donated items for the baskets, this was the first year with hands-on delivery of the food, cards and gifts. Club members’ efforts were openly appreciated, giving a much closer look at the impact of our humanitarian work as Rotarians.
Sturbridge Rotary assists community members in need at Christmas
The Rotary Club of Westwood gets together with residents of Foxhill Village to make holiday baskets of greens to be given to the local food pantry. As recipients of the pantry come in to choose their food, they can also pick up a beautiful Decorated basket for their dining table. Helena Drolette, Pres Elect proposed this project three years ago and now all the members look forward to taking a hand in floral design!! A fun and giving project for all!
On December 20th Santa Claus was spotted cheerfully greeting nursing home residents in their rooms with presents and hearty wishes for a Merry Christmas. Meanwhile members of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough continued to sort the presents and then later sing Christmas carols to the residents sitting in common areas.
This gift giving event is an annual tradition of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough where club members purchase and wrap specifically requested gifts for 4-5 residents like lotions, blankets and sweaters. It is truly one of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough’s most spirited annual community service traditions and brings so much joy to the residents and to the Rotarians.
Holiday Gift giving and Rotary Santa Sighting at Life Care in Acton
For over 15 years the Framingham Rotary Club has held a Christmas party for children from Head Start, a federally funded preschool program to promote school readiness for kids from low-income families in Framingham run by the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC). Over 50 children joined Framingham Rotarians for a lunch at Ken’s Steakhouse of chicken fingers, French fries and ice cream. Then, Jojo the Magician, a 15 year old 10th grader from Framingham High School, entertained the children.
Jojo Garcia has been performing magic acts throughout the Metro West area for the past four years, at numerous venues. Following the magic show, Santa greeted the children and gave each presents, which included a hat, knitted mittens and coloring book. The presents were wrapped by Fuller Middle School students who belong to the school’s Rotary-sponsored community service Interact club.
Rotary Club of Framingham hosts Annual Christmas Party for SMOC Head Start Children
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be held on Wednesday, January 10th, 2018 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the SHERATON NEEDHAM HOTEL, 100 Cabot Street, Needham, MA. The cost is $15 for Rotarians and $20 for non-Rotarians until January 8th. It will be $20 at the door. Light appetizers will be served and a cash bar will be available.
For more information on this RMB event, contact Bo Daley, Chair of the District 7910 Rotary Means Business Committee, at 508-841-0671 or bdaley@centralfcu.com
The Youth Exchange committee hosted a holiday brunch on Sunday December 17th. In attendance were current inbound students (2017-18), host families, outbounds for 2018-19, and rebound students and parents from 2016-17, plus Club Counselors and ESSEX volunteers. According to hostess Jeanne Reimonn, “We all had a wonderful time -- making connections and getting excited about youth exchange!”
In January, District 7910 we will have one more inbound arriving from Australia. He will attend Ayer Shirley Regional High School. He will be hosted by the Rotary Club of Ayer.
Inbound Students in Photo
Ta-wen (Carlos) Huang (in green blazer), Taiwan, Bedford Rotary Club
Auriane Veyreinc (in pink shirt - on sofa), France, Milford Rotary Club
Next year the ESSEX Committee anticipates sending five outbounds all over the world and hosting five inbound students. Rotary Clubs are asked to consider sponsoring inbound and outbound students. It's such an important program for our youth. Truly life changing. Rotarians interested in finding out more about this program or hosting, please contact Marcia Davis, Chair | largotutor@verizon.net | (508) 883-3238
Ta-wen (Carlos) Huang (in green blazer), Country: Taiwan
Hosted by: Bedford Rotary Club
Attending: Bedford High School, Bedford, MA
Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Ping Chen Feng - District 3500 Taiwan
Auriane Veyreinc (in pink shirt - on sofa)
Country: France
Hosted by: Milford Rotary Club
Attending: Hopedale High School, Hopedale, MA
Sponsored by: Grenoble South Rotary - District 1780
The Boston University Sargent College Rotaract Club is alive and well. Just this semester, there have been 7 meetings with more than 15 members at each meeting; there have also been 4 Cooking Workshops with the Women and Girls Thriving in Brookline. Rotaractors also made 13 housewarming baskets to deliver to the Friends of Boston’s Homeless and 4 members served 8 hours at the Woods Mullen Shelter.
Photo from the Cantina Night Fundraiser
Three members helped to renovate the Mildred Avenue k-8 school and the club. The mentorship program included Rotary Emerging Leaders Chair Keith Harris, Financial Consultant Dr. Amy Witherbee, and Rotary District Governor Karin Gaffney.
The club also successfully fundraised over $1,000 to help build a Fenway stadium for an inclusive playground in Vacaville, CA. Members are active and engaged people of action who are truly making a difference in the communities around them.
The club is grateful for the numerous opportunities and connections given to them and are especially grateful for its host club, Rotary Club of Brookline for its dedication to their success. One significant opportunity is the sponsorship of 4 members to attend the Rotaract Preconvention in Toronto, Canada next summer. At this 2-day conference celebrating the 50th anniversary of Rotaract, members will learn the legacy of the Rotaractors before them. Additionally they will meet Rotary International President Ian Riseley, connect with other Rotaractors, develop networking skills, and learn of new projects to be involved in. Members will develop a sense of belonging to the larger Rotary Community and will be inspired in more ways to make a difference! Thank you for your support in Rotaract!
The District Holiday party on December 10th was filled with fun and holiday cheer with 110 Rotarians and guests enjoying the sights and sounds of the holidays in the iconic Colonial Inn in Concord.
In addition to great food, holiday music and Rotary fellowship, several awards were presented, including the first CHAMPIONS OF PEACE DISTRICT 7910 AWARD given to Jacqueline Apsler, President of the Rotary Club of Bedford in recognition of her work promoting awareness, understanding, and support for victims of domestic violence.
Also awarded was the District's UNSUNG HERO AWARD given to Palma Cicchetti for her selfless and behind-the-scenes role in refreshing the district website and e-bulletin. 11 Foundation awards were also given to Rotarians from across the district who have helped support grant activities as well as Rotary's fight to end Polio. The evening additionally included the anointing of Diana Nestorova as District Governor Nominee Designate.
After promising to support the District Governor and Rotary International, Diana was given an orb, a cloak and a crown as part of the traditional ceremony to anoint the newest member of the DG chain. The event was merry and bright and a warm and fun way to celebrate the season with fellow Rotarians!
The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, with help from Bolton Local, will hold the next Bolton Repair Café on Saturday, Jan 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The event will be held in the cafeteria at the Florence Sawyer School, 100 Mechanic Street in Bolton. Residents of Bolton and surrounding towns are invited to come and find out what a Repair Café is all about.
At the Repair Café, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, everything centers on making repairs. Knowledgeable volunteers will help repair items such as clean mendable clothing, lamps, small appliances, computers and other electronics, bikes, and toys. They can also sharpen knives, scissors, and garden tools.
Looking for a fun affordable evening? Come and have a few laughs and enjoy a Ham Dinner cooked by our Rotary of the Brookfields members! The 2nd annual Murder Mystery Dinner Scholarship Fundraiser is taking place Saturday January 27th at 5pm at the Warren Senior Center. Tickets are $26 per person.
The Rotary Club of the Brookfields services 7 towns in which there are four high schools. We alternate schools each year giving 2 schools $1000 scholarship each year.
The Theater group is local to the area and does a wonderful acting job. Don't miss the fun!
Rotary Club of the Brookfields Invites You to its 2nd Annual Murder Mystery Dinner
Six members of the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley helped to judge the Nashoba DECA Mock Competition on December 14 at Nashoba Regional High School in Bolton. They are, left to right: Rich Garcia, Steve Jones-D'Agostino, Glen Bunnell, current President Mary Denio Garcia, Past President Carol Toomey, and Howard Kendall.
During the mock competition, Nashoba students presented their business and marketing plans as practice for DECA's statewide competition in January.
Proceeds from the Dracut Rotary Club’s Annual Gingerbread Competition and Display will benefit the Dracut Food Pantry. The event has been going strong for over a decade.
Frank and Rachel Antifonario pose in their Dracut home with their award-winning gingerbread house. This past weekend, their home beat out others in the Rotarian category at the Dracut Rotary Club's Annual Gingerbread Competition and Display. Frank sits on the Rotary Club's board of directors.
Sturbridge Rotary recently inducted three new members from Old Sturbridge Village (OSV). The Village is the third Corporate Membership to join Sturbridge Rotary since Rotary International introduced the Corporate Membership category.
Pictured left to right are Jim, Anne, Michael, Klaus, Carl, Charles.
Carl Gomes, Richard Simon, Fatima Serra Simon and Steve Jones D’Agostino along with several other 'service above self' community members from Greater Worcester are this week on a hurricane-relief mission in the San Juan/Guaynabo Puerto Rico region.
Here’s an idea for a holiday volunteer opportunity that might interest some Rotary members and clubs. Come and volunteer to help distribute Christmas gifts to veterans at New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV) located in Boston.
A great way to add service to your club’s busy schedule is to fit a service project into your regular meeting time. 30-40 minutes is all it takes to accomplish great things when all of your club members pitch in. Advantages of in-meeting service projects include:
Increasing the service hours for your club.
Gives visitors a taste of “service above self”.
A change of pace from your normal meeting routine.
If you missed out on the last Worcester Railers Hockey Game, here is your chance to come to the game and volunteer at our District Information table!
Rotary District 7910 will have an information table at the Worcester Railers Hockey Game Saturday night December 16th. Clubs from the District that send a volunteer (must have a ticket to the game) to sit at the table will have an opportunity to display information about your club during the game.
Check out photos of the District 7910 #Rotarian #WineAppreciation Fellowship's Wine & Dine Night on November 30, 2017 at #HeritageOfSherborn. During this special evening, 22 local Rotarians and guests enjoyed blazing-fireside cocktails and appetizers followed by a delicious four-course meal with a total of four wine pairings. https://photos.app.goo.gl/nzHbwDr6cA6xtEWs2
Rotarian Wine Appreciation Fellowship Wine-Dine Night at Heritage of Sherborn!
Diana Nestorova and I joined the BU Rotaract Club on Wednesday night for their club meeting and participated in an in-meeting service project. Along with the Rotaractors, we assembled housewarming baskets for Friend for Boston’s Homeless.
Rotary District 7910 recently surveyed its membership, soliciting feedback to inform a strategic plan. The survey asked for Rotarians’ views on the support and assistance Clubs receive from the District and what is important to them in carrying out the mission of Rotary. The survey asked for basic demographic information and asked participants to rank the importance and effectiveness of various District programs. It also asked questions concerning District committees, Assistant Governors and District communications. Charts and Data Information
Sixteen members of the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley volunteered during the Stow Veterans Day Breakfast on November 10, 2017 at First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, which was attended by more than 120 people. Also volunteering, were six members of the Interact Club of Nashoba Valley, and five members of Boy Scout Troop 1 Stow.
When we began our training to be District Governor we knew that the awards process for 2016-17 would be delayed because of the change in the ending date for earning awards. We had no idea that it would be November before we received the last of the awards from Rotary International. We are now able to report to the District the amazing number of clubs that received awards for the 2016-17 Rotary Year.
Over a year ago we spoke to all the clubs and reminded them of the importance of using the Club Planning Worksheet and Club Central to record and track the many activities in which they were involved. Here are the results.
Bo Winiker has been a member of the Rotary Club of Brookline for almost 40 years. His later father was a Rotarian as well as his brother. “Brookline Rotary has always been my extended family.”
Come and join Bo and his magical swing band for his 5th anniversary of conducting the Boston Pops Swing Orchestra at Symphony Hall on New Year’s Eve.
NEW YEAR'S EVE AT SYMPHONY HALL with Brookline Rotary's very own Bo Winiker!
In just two hours, our team of 20 kids, adults and Rotarians packed over one hundred 'CheerBoxes' that would soon make their way around the world, bringing joy and our thanks to the men and women who serve in the US armed forces.
As we sat back admiring our towering pile of CheerBoxes, I was completely in awe of the amazing program that Wendy Rocca has created, Operation American Soldier. The CheerBoxes contained everything from travel size toiletries, to non-perishable snacks, to magazines and DVDs, to calendars, to coffee, and most importantly -- a hand written thank you note for their service. Hundreds of CheerBoxes are packed and distributed by Operation American Soldier and its volunteers every year. Operation American Soldier's goal is to show support and appreciation for as many US soldiers as possible every single year.
As Rotarians, we are thankful that we are part of an organization with a motto of “Service Above Self”.
It is not joy that makes us grateful, it is gratitude that makes us joyful.
Thank you to all the dedicated and committed Rotary members of District 7910 who are helping to create positive change around the world. Together, we can make a difference!
Enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends.
For anyone who missed the Webinar for Rotary Club treasurers on 11-16 to learn about the responsibilities and requirements for managing your club's finances. Replay the:
Dracut Club President Chuck Moran and Foundation Subcommittee Chair, Endowments and Major Gifts, Steve Levitsky presented a Paul Harris plus 1 award to LouAnn Jendro.
Thank you to all the many Rotarians from District 7910 who are making the world a better place by supporting The Rotary Foundation.
THANK YOU to all the Rotarians who support The Rotary Foundation
District Grants approved this Rotary year: We have 3 approved grants with $4,500 DDF and an estimated budget of $12,238.69.
Natick- Natick Opioid Task Force- supplied furnishings for the Hidden In Plain Sight room that educates parents how to become aware if their child is using drugs - Estimated Cost $3,000 Grant amount $1,500
Blackstone Valley- Operation Warm- supplies coats to children from newborn to age 18 with warm coats, hats, gloves for the winter season who otherwise could not afford them - Estimated budget $3251.25 Grant amount $1500
Neponset Valley Sunrise- Comfort Zone Camp- supports camp for children who have lost a parent, sibling or care-giver and needs help through the bereavement/adjustment process - Estimated budget $5987.44 Grant amount $1500
Total Estimated Budget $12,238.69 Total Grant Amount $4500
Rotary Club of Concord supplied, prepared and served dinner for over 75 community members on November 14th at Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen in Waltham. The meal is a Thanksgiving-style meal, complete with turkey and the traditional fixings.
A staple of Waltham and surrounding communities, the Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen has been serving hot, nutritious meals to those in need for the last three decades. Every evening, dedicated volunteers from throughout the Metro Boston area gather to prepare and serve food to up to 100 community members without access to affordable, healthy food. The Rotary Club of Concord is among those volunteers, cooking and serving every other month.
When the leaves start to turn The Rotary club of Lowell hosts a dance contest and buffet lunch for seniors and individuals in assisted living and local nursing homes annually in the Merrimack Valley. The club has community service event where seniors get to dance, eat and have fun on a fall afternoon. Everyone gets so excited each year when the fliers go out to the local senior centers and nursing homes.
Pictured are Amy Pressia, PE and John Finnegan, President, Rotary Club of Lowell
The Fifth Annual Acton Boxborough Veterans Day Breakfast was jointly held by the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough and the National Honor Society students of A-B High School. This has truly become a signature event to honor and thank our Veterans.
We had nearly 300 Veterans attend, 20 Rotarians and friends participating as hosts, and 125 National Honor Society students from A-B High School. The students served the Veterans breakfast and had a special bonding time, talking with the Veterans about their service and their memories. For more details of this event see the article and pictures from the Beacon Newspaper.
Annual Veterans Day Breakfast : Honoring and Thanking Acton and Boxborough Veterans for Their Service
Payment Deadline Is Today For Wine Fellowship's Wine-Dine Night On November 30 At Heritage of Sherborn
Cost: $67 per person for Wine Drinkers, and $59 per person for Non-Wine Drinkers. Includes meal tax, service tip and PayPal fee.
Deadline: Payment must be made by no later than this Friday, November 17. Because of space limits, this event is limited to the first 25 paid people.
Payment: Only online payments will be accepted. To make a $67 online payment via PayPal for each Wine Drinker ticket, visit http://bit.ly/2zyBZdQ. To make a $59 online payment via PayPal for each Non-Wine Drinker ticket, visit http://bit.ly/2zkPInF.
Three Important Reasons to Register for the 2018 Rotary International Convention in Toronto…NOW!
1. The registration fee for Rotarians is only $345 US if you register by December 15, 2017. After this date, the registration fee for Rotarians increases to $420. So, you can save $75 if you register by December 15. Register for the convention <CLICK HERE TO REGISTER>
2. Hotel rooms near the convention are going fast! Several are already sold out. You may be competing with as many as 40-50,000 other Rotarians for lodging. Don’t assume you’ll be able to find a hotel room near the RI Convention if you procrastinate. Check out your hotel options and book your room as soon as possible <CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ACCOMMODATIONS>
Julia Cleary of Wayland and Afnaan Qureshi of Weston received the inaugural Rising Youth Leadership Award presented by the Rotary Club of Weston and Wayland on Thursday October 26. State Representative Alice Peisch also presented citations from the House of Representatives to both students in recognition of their selection as rising youth leaders in their communities.
Rotary District 7910 Nominating Committee is excited to announce the selection of Diana Nestorova from the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough as our 2020-2021 District Governor. Diana Nestorova is currently serving and supporting the clubs in District 7910 as Youth Chair and as an Assistant Governor.
Nestorova served as the President of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough in 2015-2016, is a Paul Harris Fellow with two sapphires, received Four Avenues of Service Presidential Citation in 2009-2010 and completed RLI Institute part 1, 2 and 3.
Under her dynamic leadership as President, the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough had one of its most successful years to date for new youth program initiatives, growth in membership and energizing the club membership base in the “service above self” ideal.
Enthusiastic and determined to connect with every member of her club and discover their true passions within Rotary, Diana Nestorova was able to inspire her fellow Rotarians in purpose and participation. With unwavering support from her Rotary Club family, she led her club into a truly spectacular year filled with accomplishments. Nestorova and members of the club initiated several new youth programs while garnering 5 new members (four individual members and securing their first corporate membership-1 principal member and 2 associate members) and supporting all of their existing projects and programs.
At Concord’s Colonial Inn Sunday evening, Dec. 10, 2017 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Click on the image to hear a special video invite!
Along with your best smile, bring a donation for Operation American Soldier, an organization whose motto is “Let no one walk away from mail call empty handed” -- a goal important to the morale of all armed service personnel.
The Rotary Club of the Brookfields is a small Rotary club located in a rural area of central Massachusetts. In May of 2017 we had 10 members and now we have 15 members and expect to add several more by year’s end.
We were a club made up of a majority of members 70 and older. Having lost many due to health reasons we knew it was more than an urgency to get new members in order to survive. We needed more capable people to continue all the projects we do in the communities we serve.
Local Rotarians and their guests are invited to a "Rotary Wine & Dine Night" on Thursday, November 30 from 6:00 to 9:15 p.m. atHeritage of Sherborn, located at 33 North Main St. in Sherborn.
Free parking will be available. During this special evening, attendees will enjoy blazing-fireside cocktails and appetizers followed by a delicious four-course meal with a total of four wine pairings.
District 7910 Responds to Hurricanes’ Impact: Thank You!
Harvey, then Irma, then Maria. Texas, Alabama, Florida, the Caribbean, and then the devastation of Puerto Rico.
Clubs across our district have responded with fundraising drives, gifts to the region, awareness events and more. This was a spontaneous outpouring of Rotary energy. Thank you, District 7910 Rotarians!
Operation Endeavor, Wings Of Michael, and Rotary team members on deck in Port Au Prince on 19 Oct 2017 preparing to transition to the norther city of Cap Haitien to complete distribution of 1,000 clean water filtration systems for 1,000 families - and to train 25 Rescuer candidates in EMS/Rescue skills.
Are you interested in using your talent and skills to help other Rotary clubs succeed? Rotary District 7910 is actively recruiting volunteers to help lead the district over the next couple of years.
The following are some of the key roles that we are seeking to fill:
Rotary Club of Framingham held its 6th Annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser on Saturday November 4th at Joseph P. Keefe Technical High School. Money raised at the Breakfast is used to buy anywhere from 30-35 Air Conditioner units each year for elderly seniors living in public housing. The Rotary club provides the funds to the Framingham Housing Authority, who handles the purchase and installation.
On October 27, Nashoba Valley Rotary visited Dismas Farm House in Oakham. Dismas Farm House www.dismasisfamily.org assists former prisoners by engaging them in the hard work of rebuilding lives, and rekindling hope for themselves and their families. The mission of Dismas is to reconcile former prisoners to society, and society to former prisoners, through the development of a supportive community.
The next Rotary Means Business (RMB) event in District 7910 will be held on Wednesday, November 15th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Acton Cowork + Conference Center, 1 Acton Place, Acton, MA.
Rise Against Hunger has partnered with District 7910 and many of our individual clubs to create meal packaging events that connect our communities with our shared goal to eliminate hunger in our lifetime. Here’s an opportunity to support this organization, which is experiencing unprecedented demand for emergency relief services.
The Franklin Rotary Club, in partnership with Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, held its Chalkfest for Charity event on Sunday, October 22nd to raise money for local service projects supported by the Club.
Shoppers at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets voted for their favorite work of chalk art. Kerry St. Claire was the winner of the People's Choice Award in the Adult category for her Game of Thrones inspired "Khaleesi" drawing. Emily Bourbeau was the winner of the People's Choice Award in the Student category.
Rotary club of Franklin participates in Chalkfest for Charity event
There are 20 active Interact clubs in District 7910. Until last Saturday, there was no easy way for them to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.
One solution that has been proven in a few other Rotary districts is a teen council with leaders routinely communicating among its Interact clubs.
Michaela Benedict (President, Interact Club of Greater Gardner) brought this idea into life for District 7910. The teens at the training event agreed on an immediate district-wide project.
We are excited to announce that Matt Johnsen candidate of District 7910 and the Worcester Rotary Club has been selected for the Scholarship at Chulalongkorn University starting in the summer of 2018.
Rotary Club of Brookline participated on Saturday in the 1st Brookline Inspo:Expo Fair to promote social action projects being done by Brookline organizations.
We invite you to join us as we help Family Access of Newton Honor longtime Rotarian Tony Bibbo as he receives their Lifetime Achievement Award on Sunday, November 5th.
Reese Gorini won the District’s Polio drawing for 2 tickets to Seattle and the World Polio Day tribute at the Gates Foundation. There, she met many of the Rotarians from across the world who have been involved in the eradication efforts which have resulted in only 12 cases of polio so far this year. Reese reports that, “It was a very moving program which showed that slowly but surely, we can achieve results if we unite for a common goal.” Reese took her son, Derek, on the trip to Seattle.
Reese Gorini from the Ayer club attends World Polio Day at the Gates Foundation in Seattle
Rotary club members from various clubs in District 7910 came together to do community service work on various projects in Acton, MA.
Organized by Ann Sorvari of the Rotary club of Acton-Boxborough, and facilitated by the District 7910 Service Committee, volunteers had various assignments to choose from.
The Rotary Club of Westborough and District 7910 have been selected as one of the two recipients of the 2017 Zone 32 Public Image Award. The award was presented to our District during last week’s Zone Institute in Hartford, CT.
The Rotary Club of Westborough continuously promotes the “Rotary Story” through daily use of various public relations tools. The Club maintains an eight-member public information committee which is responsible for website, social media, press releases, collateral production, newsletters, and more.
My name is Elmon Hendrickson and I am Chair of the Rotary’s Annual Fund Subcommittee. As Chair, my goal is to bring awareness to the importance of this Subcommittee and to help raise the necessary funds to provide local and global support so that will have a positive impact on people’s lives.
With your permission, I would love the opportunity to come to speak with your Rotary Club members and make a short presentation on the Annual Fund. If your schedule permits, could you please e-mail me at mhenn5057@aol.com with dates that are available to visit your Rotary Club.
DG 2018 – 2019 Steve Sager is beside Rotary International Director 2018-2020 Jeffrey Cadorette and RI President Ian Riseley and Julia at Zone institute in Hartford Connecticut.
Steve successfully completed Governor Elect training at the Zone Institute!
Join this online, live webinar to learn about the responsibilities and requirements for managing your club’s finances.The first half hour will focus on managing your club’s funds, District and RI dues, reporting for your clubs’ board and budgeting. The second half hour will highlight the differences between your operating funds and charitable funds and whether your club should consider its own 501C3 as well as how and when to use the District Charity Fund. Register today!
EVANSTON, Ill. (September 21, 2017) — Rotary has entered a new partnership with the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) to enhance its peace and conflict resolution efforts with data-driven methodologies and tools, as it honors six ‘Champions of Peace.’
The partnership with IEP – a global think tank that pioneered a conceptual framework for ‘Positive Peace’ – enables both organizations to work together to create an online learning platform with webinars and interactive tools to teach Rotary members and Rotary Peace Fellows to apply new peacebuilding methods to their communities while addressing underlying causes of conflicts. In addition, the partnership allows for the development of local workshops hosted by Rotary clubs to educate communities about positive peace.
The Rotary Foundation has set up a special fund to help in the wake of deadly wildfires in California.
More than 220,000 acres have been scorched and more than 40 people have been confirmed dead. “The magnitude of the devastation that is occurring right now in the North Bay and wine county is vast and far reaching. The recovery and rebuild is going to be a long process but we are confident that we can lead the way in bringing these communities back. Rotarians know how to get things done and won’t stop until we reach the finish line,” said Bob Rogers, Rotary 5130 District Governor.
Here are a few ideas for “micro” service projects that could be done during Rotary meetings. How about writing Thank You for Your Service cards to Veterans and handing them out at your club’s or another club’s Veteran’s Day event?
How about decorating pumpkins for a fall centerpiece for tables at your local senior center or assisted living facility?
How about meeting at a local park and doing a “clean up project” during the meeting time? How about a book drive? Or making sock puppets for a children’s hospital? Or packing backpacks? Any and all ideas for micro-projects that could be accomplished during a Rotary meeting are welcome and encouraged. Service drives engagement. Try a new meeting format and mix it up! Service works, and it’s how Rotary is Marking a Difference!
What would you do with your Rotary meeting if you couldn’t have lunch? How about service?
As Rotary prepares to celebrate World Polio Day on 24 October, an inspiring new film depicting the devastating impact of polio is hitting theaters. Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy star in the love story “Breathe,” now playing in select U.S. theaters and scheduled for wider release over the next month. The movie tells the story of British polio survivor Robin Cavendish, who contracted the disease in Kenya in 1958. Details
District Governor Karin Gaffney and President David Zonia signed the Rotary Community Corps Organization Form during her Official Visit to the Sturbridge Rotary Club, just this Monday, October 16th. This will be a Rotary Community Corps (RCC) jointly sponsored by TWO Rotary clubs, to be known as the Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge & Southbridge.
Rotary created these corps to provide a formal mechanism that provides local non-Rotarian volunteers with an organizational structure to do good in their local communities. As such they operate largely independent of the sponsoring clubs, but still report to them for their actions.
ShelterBox Response Teams in the Caribbean are working with local Rotary contacts and several humanitarian organizations on the complex task of evaluating need and delivering emergency shelter to the families that desperately need it.
ShelterBox is currently coordinating the provision of aid across six countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, the Dominican Republic, Dominica and the British Virgin Islands.
Photo: ShelterBox Tents are delivered on Barbuda as an estimated 95% of the island's structures are destroyed or damaged following Hurricane Irma.
ShelterBox partners with ROTARY, responding in the Caribbean
From red ponchos to pub crawls, Rotary clubs are coming up with a variety of ways to promote polio eradication in October.
In eastern Ontario and western Quebec, Canada, thousands of Rotary members will put on red ponchos and march through the streets of their towns to raise awareness for polio eradication on World Polio Day, 24 October.
Fellow Rotarians, we look forward to being with you at this exciting and historic event! Join over 500 Rotarians from Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Quebec and Vermont, at the beautiful Mount Washington Resort on May 4-6, 2018. Registration is now OPEN. Here’s what you need to know:
KEY PRICES AND INFO: Full registration $300 per person includes all meals through the weekend. Room rates per night including all taxes are $220 for Main Hotel, $195 for Bretton, $175 for Lodge.
The Rotary Club of Bedford has initiated a new membership option known as a Family Membership. On Tuesday, the club inducted with glee its very first “Family Member”, Sze-Wen Kuo. Here’s some information about how this club has structured this new membership type:
Family Members: The purpose of a family membership is to extend the privilege of membership in Rotary to the many spouses and family members who contribute greatly to our club, but as non-Rotarians. To allow immediate family members to achieve full Rotarian status and increase our club’s roster and impact would be beneficial to our club. A Family Member is defined to be one immediate family member (parent, spouse, sibling, child) of a “full” Rotarian who desires to be a Rotarian but is unable to attend all of the lunch meetings.
HELP US FILL THE BOX FOR HURRICANE RELIEF! Falmouth ME middle schoolers got serious about helping victims of the recent natural disasters in the Southern United States. A give-athon was decided by the Falmouth Middle School Community Service Club to support Shelter Box. There were over 20 choices that teachers volunteered to offer. They were all called "a-thons", like yoga-a-thon, and teachers volunteered to staff the room or location where it was being held. Kids signed up in advance for one activity and the teachers took attendance. Kids went home with a pledge sheet to get "sponsored" for their activities and brought their money in the day of the event.
We are happy to announce that Reese Gorini of the Ayer Rotary Club has won the contest to represent District 7910 at the Bill and Gates Foundation in Seattle on World Polio Day, October 24, 2017.
A generous Rotarian donated a hotel and air package for two including two seats at the invitation-only reception for 200 honoring Bill and Melinda Gates. Polio Plus donations between July 1 and September 30 were eligible for the drawing. District Rotarians from twelve clubs contributed $8,225.
World Polio Day is going to be bigger than ever, and we want you to be a part of it. Help Rotary and the global health community make polio eradication a trending topic around the world. We’ve made a lot of progress fighting polio over the years, but we still have a lot more work to do to eradicate it for good. We need your help to make that happen.
Westborough Rotary Hosts Two Community Events in October - 1774 Westborough Militia Training Day & Third Annual Red, White and BOO
On October 14, reenactors portraying the Westborough militia will perform the Manual of Arms as they practice the art of military exercise from 1774. Musket firing demonstrations will be performed throughout the day; a colonial market day will be set up to show a variety of colonial trades and crafts; and Westborough's own Rev. Ebenezer Parkman will harangue and inform the crowds about Britain’s Intolerable Acts which led to the Revolutionary War.
Saturday 9-30, Concord Rotarians hearts sank as misty cold descended upon Verrill Farm, they rose again as wave after wave of hearty families arrived to celebrate Oktoberfest, warming up with lively music, craft beer, games, and food. Enthusiasm for the Shelter Box, recipient of the proceeds, ran high. Final numbers are not in yet, but the Rotary Club of Concord is confident that those whose homes have been destroyed by recent hurricanes will benefit greatly from Oktoberfest 2017.
Click to watch the video
Concord Rotarians have a super successful day raising money for Shelter Box to help hurricane survivors
Rotarians from 5 districts across the Northeast and Quebec spent a day in Portsmouth planning the Rotary 2018 Summit, which will be taking place at Mt Washington resort May 4-6, 2018
Click on the photo to check out this enthusiastic 8 second video
At the 1917 convention in Atlanta Georgia, outgoing Rotary president, Arch Klumph, proposed setting up an endowment for the "purpose of doing good in the world." That proposal and his initial contribution of $26.50 put in motion a powerful force that has transformed millions of lives around the world.”
Who mandated that every club meeting needs to include a speaker and a meal? And that community service can only be done outside club meetings? That “rule” probably never existed anyway, and with the flexibility permitted in the last Council on Legislation, many clubs are experimenting with different models.
From left, Georgia Cummings and Gage Fuller of Wayland and Rachel Garofallo and Michael Martinez of Weston attended the 2017 RYLA conference.
The Rotary club of Weston Wayland is partnering with Gatehouse Media to select one sophomore from each town from October 2017 to May 2018 to be recognized at the monthly Rotary Celebration Dinner.
Left to Right State Rep David Linsksy, Jon Fetherston Charles River Rotary, Sgt. Ed Berman Ashland Police Department, Chief Ed Davis Ashland Police Department, Deputy Chief Steve Trask Framingham Police Department, Chief Hicks Natick Police Department, Christine Guthery, President of Charles River Rotary
The Charles River Rotary Club (serving Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley) hosted a public discussion with MetroWest Public Safety officials on Thursday morning, September 27th at the Hampton Inn in Natick.
Laura Spear, Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator, Zone 32, will lead this webinar and will provide an overview of the voice and visual identity guidelines as well as where you can find logos, templates, branding info etc on the District 7910 web site.
Laura has created a PR kit that is easy to use to help your club develop or update PR items. She has put together a fantastic presentation on how the effective use of PR supports the membership process. REGISTER HERE WEBINAR FLYER
October 24th from 7-8pm - webinar called Public Image De-Mystified
The Rotary Club of Marlborough is very focused on Membership and on Service. We have been lucky to attract good new members to our club last year. As club President, I wanted to focus on engagement and retention. I tried to involve the new members in different roles in the club.
I was looking for other ideas when I attended RLI last year. One of the presenters was a Past District Governor; his club offers a grant to the new members to do a project in their freshman year. I thought this was a great idea and decided to make this my President’s project for my year.
Interested in learning about wine, wine and food pairings and anything else related to wine appreciation, then join the Rotarian Wine Appreciation Fellowship. Click the link to see more photos from the September 22nd Event.
Stay tuned for information on our next Wine-Dinner Event!
In the meantime, Don't Worry, Be Happy!
District 7910 Rotarian Wine Appreciation Fellowship Wine-Dinner Event, September 22, 2017, Point Breeze, Webster
This is an urgent message to all Rotarians in District 7910.
There are only 20 days left for clubs to submit nominations for District Governor and members of the District Board of trustees. The future of Rotary depends on qualified candidates serving the clubs in our district in district leadership positions. The sometimes overused adage comes to mind,. 'You either have to be part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem.'
Please consider nominating someone from your club to be part of the solution. All necessary paperwork is available on the District website.
Time sensitive message from the Nominating Committee
Learn how to strengthen your club by focusing on and increasing Service! The District Service Committee offers a club assembly with an interactive workshop-style presentation that will give your club new ideas for easy-to-implement service projects. Nothing will help more to engage and energize your members than doing more service-related activities in your community.
Sarah Tuberty, BU Rotaract President, attended Interota 2017 from September 2 to September 6 in Taipei, Taiwan.
The 5-day-4 night conference offered diversified programs, including keynote speech, workshops, discussions, cultural activities, service projects, and tours. Rotaractors from all over the world joined together to exchange ideas, share experiences, learn different cultures, and celebrate the milestone of 50 years of Rotaract.
REMINDER to make your donation of $25 or more before September 30th to EndPolioNow at https://www.endpolio.org/donate and be entered into a drawing to win a trip for two to Seattle for World Polio Day.
The Rotary Club of Westford in partnership with the Westford Regency Health Club has planned a Ride to End Polio for the week of November 12th- 18th. As little as a $20 donation entitles you to a free Spin class or an hour use of the health club facility.
Greetings from Rotary. Your Club and District Support (CDS) team is contacting you today to remind you of the IRS annual filing requirement for all Rotary clubs in the U.S. and U.S. territories.
Note: If your club has already completed this requirement for this year, please disregard message.
Don’t let thoughts of winter depress you! District 7910 offers a cure. It's the Holiday Cocktail Reception, a delightful evening of fellowship and cheer for every District Rotarian. Come to the Colonial Inn in Concord on Sunday, December 10 from 5:30 until 9:30 p.m. to swap stories with fellow Rotarians, consume delectable hors d’oeuvres, enjoy holiday music, and make a difference for our Armed Forces personnel though Operation American Soldier (OAS).
Natick Secures First District Grant Approval of 2017-2018 Season
The Rotary Club of Natick successfully secured the first district grant approval of the 2017-2018 season. Maybe your club can take on a similar project? Let us know if we can help.
Wanting to do more service, wanting to help our friends and family in TX and FL, and wanting to collaborate on new ideas.
Rotarians from across District 7910 have formed a committee to consider possibilities for providing assistance and support to the communities impacted by the recent natural disasters in the southern part of the US.
Texas and Louisiana are just beginning what we know will be a long road to recovery after Hurricane Harvey. Meanwhile, Hurricane Irma is in the Caribbean and headed for Florida and the Atlantic coast of the United States. When disaster strikes, Rotarians reach out and ask how they can help.
On Saturday, September 30th we will be holding Visioning Facilitator Training. Registration and continental breakfast start at 7:30am, and the class will start promptly at 8:00am and end no later than noon. It will be held at the MIG Corporation located at 1 Acton Place in Acton, MA. We ask that you please register in advance for the training so we can plan accordingly for the materials and hand-outs – the cost to attend is $10.
This training is open to all Rotarians and we hope many of the current facilitator team will join in this training as a refresher and to meet and welcome new trainer candidates.
Visioning is a process that helps clubs by providing a vision for the future of the club and the beginnings of a written plan that promotes consensus, consistency and continuity. It allows club members the opportunity to dream about what their club could become and helps to renew everyone’s commitment to focus on what they can do to make the club even better than it already is.
Clubs that have completed a Visioning have found the process to be extremely beneficial for giving every member a voice in where the club is heading and what members believe is most important to the club. Several clubs are now scheduling to do Visioning a second time to refresh the planning that was done 3 or more years ago. It’s a great way to build consensus and a team approach to a club’s operations.
Many clubs have expressed interest in having Visioning done for their club, and therefore we need to grow and are looking for more people to join the Facilitation team. Training will include a brief overview of Visioning and the process that we use with the clubs and a breakdown of the team members and the various roles in each session. As a member of the Team, you will have the opportunity to travel to various clubs in the district who want to go through the visioning process; and you can pick which session is convenient for you as you do not have to attend all of them.
District 7910 strives to create a safe environment for all youth who participate in Rotary activities. This is why we have created an educational webinar to inform Rotarians of the steps that should be followed to prevent any infringement on the safety of any youth involved with any District 7910 activity.
This webinar details the latest policies for youth protection as outlined by both Rotary International and District 7910.
The webinar illustrates how any Rotarian who is involved with certain District 7910 youth activities should have a background check conducted in order to ensure the safety of the youth under our direction during these activities.
District 7910 believes that Rotarians who participate in the following capacities are urged to conduct a background check:
Club Youth Chairs
Club ESSEX Chairs
Club Interact Chairs
Club RYLA Chairs
Interact advisers (the Rotary member who is the liaison with the Interact club - may be different from the Club Interact Chair)
Any Rotarian who participates at Youth events regularly
District 7910 was using Massachusetts CORI checks to conduct background on members who requested such however we have decided to switch to the more comprehensive ESSEX (Eastern States Student Exchange) background checks. These background checks go beyond the borders of Massachusetts are the same ones used by Rotarians for student exchanges in 36 District in the northeastern US, eastern Canada, and Bermuda. They have an annual renewal and include a $20.00 fee.
We feel due to the importance of ensuring safety of our students involved with Rotary activities, the move to this program is a valid one.
For more information on the Youth Protection Policy of District 7910, go to Youth Protection on the district website www.rotary7910.org or email me at tmgasbarro@gmail.com or contact me by telephone at 774-345-0100.
Youth Protection Webinar Saturday September 9th at 11am
Wow. When we started down the path of thinking about surveying all the Rotarians in District 7910 we were told to expect a 2% response rate. We were told that we would strike gold if our response rate was up towards 5%. Guess what? Approximately 17% of us took the survey! That is an overwhelming response, and it shows that we Rotarians are passionate about what we do. What is more, many, many of us took the time to write extensive comments and helpful suggestions. THANK YOU ALL!
It would be unfair for me to provide my view of the survey at this stage without a complete analysis, but to avoid leaving you in suspense, I want to share 2 highlights from the survey. It is no surprise that clubs want more help with attracting and engaging membership. Clearly that is a need that we all share, and we are all trying to find ways to make how we conduct our business relevant in today’s society. The other clear message is that you want more opportunities to work on larger service projects with other Rotary clubs. Service is what makes Rotary unique, and doing hands on service is definitely a way to attract new members and engage existing ones.
So, what are the next steps? We are going to analyze the results and comments, and use those results to develop a strategic plan so all 51 clubs in the District can get the tools and resources they need to carry forth the objects of Rotary in their communities and around the world.
The first strategic planning session will be at the end of this month with the District leadership. Our goal is not only to develop a plan but to produce a report with the plan that explains the survey results and how it ties in to the strategic plan for the District.
While it is too late to answer this survey, if you have any suggestions as to how we can help the clubs better, please let me know. Of course, if you want to get involved in helping other clubs improve, we could always use more hands, especially as we build out our teams over the next several years.
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.”
Dr. Zuniga is in Boston through June of 2018, attending the Harvard School of Public Health. He is a District Grant Scholar from District 4130 and the Rotary Club of San Nicolas. The Rotary Club of Brookline is hosting Jorge, and special thanks to Host Counselor, Past President Susan Rack.
Sergio Miguileti is also in Boston to study, working on his master’s degree in International Business at Hult International Business School in Cambridge. Now 23, Sergio was an exchange student out the Rotary Club of Sao Paulo, Brazil and spent a year in Indonesia. Upon his return, he joined Rotaract and has remained an active member ever since. He hopes to attend Rotaract and Rotary events and meetings while studying in Boston.
On August 31st, two scholars from outside the US visited the Rotary Club of Brookline, Dr. Jorge Zuniga from Mexico and Sergio Miguileti from Brazil.
As early as 1911 our founder, Paul Harris, in his essay “Rational Rotarianism” said, “If by interposition of Providence I someday were to find myself standing on a platform in some great Coliseum looking into the eyes of every living Rotarian, and were to be told that I could have one word to say, without an instant’s hesitation and at the top of my voice, I would shout ‘Toleration!’”
Our founder Paul Harris has repeatedly iterated: “Rotarians respect each other‘s opinions and are tolerant and friendly at all times. Catholics, Protestants, Moslems, Jews, and Buddhists break bread together in Rotary.”
And it is this tolerant attitude that prompted Rotary International to adopt the following statement in 1933: “Rotarians in all countries should recognize these facts (differences), and there should be a thoughtful avoidance of criticism of the laws and customs of one country by the Rotarians of another country.” Tolerance is a key to understanding among different peoples and nations.
Tolerance is one of the most important virtues in the Rotary Spirit
Barry Rassin of the Rotary Club of East Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas, has been selected by the Nominating Committee to serve as President of Rotary International in 2018-19. He will be declared the President-elect on September 1 if no challenges are suggested. Rassin’s nomination follows Sam Owori’s death in July, just two weeks into his term as Rotary International President-elect.
Barry Rassin’s goal as President is to strengthen Rotary’s public image and use of digital tools to maximize our reach. “Those who know what good Rotary clubs do will want to be a part of it, and we must find new models for membership that allow all interested in our mission to participate,” he says. “With Rotary more in the public eye, we will attract more individuals who want to be part of and support a membership organization that accomplishes so much good around the world.”
Rassin earned an MBA in health and hospital administration from the University of Florida. He recently retired after 37 years as president of Doctors Hospital Health System, where he continues to serve as an adviser.
Barry joined Rotary in 1980. He has served Rotary as director and is currently vice chair of The Rotary Foundation. He was an RI training leader and the aide to 2015-16 RI President K.R. Ravindran. Rassin received the Service Above Self Award for his work leading Rotary’s relief efforts in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. He and his wife, Esther, are Major Donors and Benefactors of The Rotary Foundation.
Mark Maloney of the Rotary Club of Decatur, Alabama, has been selected by the Nominating Committee to serve as President of Rotary International in 2019-20 and will be declared President-nominee on October 1 if no challenges have been suggested.
“The clubs are where Rotary happens,” says Maloney. His goal is to support and strengthen clubs at the community level, preserve Rotary’s culture as a service oriented membership organization, and test new regional approaches for growth. “With the eradication of polio, recognition for Rotary will be great and the opportunities will be many,” he says. “We have the potential to become the global powerhouse for doing good.”
Maloney is a principal in the law firm of Blackburn, Maloney, and Schuppert LLC, with a focus on taxation, estate planning, and agricultural law. He represents large farming operations in the southeastern and midwestern United States, and he has chaired the American Bar Association’s Committee on Agriculture taxation section.
Maloney also joined Rotary in 1980. He has served as an RI director; trustee and vice chair of The Rotary Foundation; president’s aide; zone coordinator; and a leader on the Future Vision and 2014 Sydney Convention Committees. He serves on the Operations Review Committee and has served on the Rotary Peace Centers Committee. He has received the Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service and Distinguished Service Award. Maloney and his wife, Gay, are Major Donors and Bequest Society members.
We look forward to welcoming you to the 109th Rotary International Convention in Toronto, where you’ll find inspiration around every corner. The convention is an incredible opportunity to meet fellow Rotarians from around the world, exchange ideas, and learn from each other. It’s the best way there is to celebrate a year of successful service and renew our energies for the year to come.
Rotary is a worldwide service organization whose mission is to do good in the world. Its 1.2 million members are volunteers, working to make this world a better place and not for awards. Recognizing their efforts is what the District 7910 Recognition program is all about. Recognition opportunities for 2017-2018 are available on the district website www.rotary7910.org. The awards list describes three types of recognition that your club or club members can attain this Rotary year from Rotary International, The Rotary Foundation, and District 7910.
Please be aware of the various deadlines. Some award nominations are due as early as mid-September, for example the Zones 24 and 32 Public Image Award Nominations. Others encompass the entire Rotary year. You can find more information about the awards and the nomination requirements at www.rotary7910.org.
Go to the About District 7910 pull-down menu, and select the Resources menu item to find the awards list and the club Planning & Awards form.
Young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 who are interested in helping others join Rotaract Clubs. Thus they develop new skills and knowledge that will assist them in their personal development. They look for a way to make a difference in their community and communities around the world. They promote better relations between all people worldwide through a framework of friendship and service. They work hard for future generations to be part of the global decision-making process.
Welcome to Susan Rack as the new Rotaract chair of the District. A Paul Harris Fellow, Susan has been a member of the Rotary Club of Brookline since 2005. She served on various committees, she was a Secretary and a President Elect before assuming the role of the President of Rotary Club of Brookline in 2015-2016. She was sitting on the District PR Committee for several years. This year she attended the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta, which inspired her to take more active role in our District. Rotary Club of Brookline has been a sponsor of the Rotaract Club at Boston University for many years and Susan has worked very closely with the young people in the Rotaract Club. She is thrilled to join the District’s Youth Service team and is determined to create more opportunities for the young adults across our District.
Give to PolioPlus between July 1st and September 30 and you’ll be entered into a drawing – you could be Sleepless in Seattle to commemorate World Polio Day!
This year, World Polio Day will be held in Seattle in recognition of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
A generous District 7910 Rotarian has donated airfare and a hotel room for two to travel to Seattle for World Polio Day on October 24. We have two tickets for you to be in the audience for an invitation-only, exclusive event honoring Bill and Melinda Gates and sharing the latest updates on Rotary’s efforts to eradicate Polio. The donor requires at least $2,500 in contributions to have a drawing for the trip. If not, the donation for travel costs will go directly to PolioPlus.
All you have to do to enter: Make a donation to Polio Plus of at least $25 between July 1st and September 30, 2017.
If you make your donation on-line, it can be made any time right up to September 30. If you choose to do it by check, make it payable to the Rotary Foundation and indicate PolioPlus in the memo section with the name of your club, and mail it by September 22 to: Karin Gaffney 17 Bulkeley Road Littleton MA 01460
Concord Rotarians invite all Rotarians, their families and friends from District 7910 and beyond to help raise funds for ShelterBox by attending Oktoberfest at Verrill Farm in Concord on Saturday Sept. 30 between 11:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. At this Bavarian-themed, family-friendly event you’ll hear live bands, sample food, ciders and craft beers, enter a pie-eating contest, outwit a magician, get 500your face painted, show off hula-hoop skills, jump in the bouncy house, shop craft vendors, visit community organization booths, and much more. Tickets are $20 prior to the event, $25 at the door for age 21 and over, $5 for under-21 and non-drinkers, children under 4 free. Visit concordrotaryoktoberfest.com.
When the Rotary Club of Concord announced its goal to purchase 20 ShelterBox tents using proceeds from Oktoberfest, it knew that ShelterBox quickly provides emergency shelter and lifesaving supplies on the frontline of disasters. Concord Rotarians did not, however, anticipate the immediate need posed by the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
We have since learned that ShelterBoxUSA has been working with FEMA to put in place shelter options for displaced people and repair options for damaged homes, including the provision of ShelterBox Tents and ShelterKits. The ShelterBox Response Team includes two Texas Rotarians, who are on the frontline assessing immediate and ongoing needs.
No doubt your club will want to help the flood-ravaged victims of Hurricane Harvey. What better way than to support ShelterBox, a Rotary partner. The Rotary Wheel is on every ShelterBox and Tent.
Rotary will have a ShelterBox on display at Oktoberfest. You may step inside and examine its contents. The large green box contains a family-size tent as well as items like solar lights, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, and thermal blankets. Each ShelterBox costs $1,000. Rotary would also like to purchase ShelterKits. ShelterKits contain all of the essential tools people need to start repairing and rebuilding homes. The kits cost $100.
The Rotary Club of Concord is seeking sponsors for Oktoberfest with a range of opportunities listed on its Oktoberfest website, concordrotaryoktoberfest.com. The site also offers information about having a booth at the event. Check out the food trucks, breweries, bands and more. Plan to have fun and help others!
Rotary Club of Concord’s Oktoberfest Aids Hurricane Victims
Hurricane Harvey has had a disastrous impact on communities in Texas and Louisiana. Many Rotarians are asking how can we help. A couple suggestions for where to direct financial donations to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey are below. Rotary has always been about community building and is not structured as a disaster relief agency. There are many things Rotary can, and will, do to provide long term help to the people and communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey. We are forming a committee to begin exploring ideas for projects to help rebuild the affected areas. If you would like to participate in the efforts to help with a project, please let me know.
For financial donations, please consider the following:
Rotary clubs along the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana, USA, are collecting emergency relief funds to help flood victims of Hurricane Harvey; several districts located along the Gulf coast in Texas and Louisiana have established disaster relief funds, including districts 5890,5910, and 5930in Texas, and district 6200in Louisiana. You can find information about how to contribute to other district funds in Texas on district 5840's website.
ShelterBox, an independent charity and Rotary’s project partner, is also providing support to families displaced by the storm. Hundreds of light privacy tents will be deployed to evacuation centers throughout Texas for families to use temporarily.
You may also donate to DISASTER AID USA, a Rotary-sponsored organization that urgently needs supplies for victims of Hurricane Harvey. Please visit the Disaster Aid USA website for more information:http://www.disasteraidusa.com.
Concord Rotarians invite all Rotarians, their families and friends from District 7910 and beyond to help raise funds for ShelterBox by attending Oktoberfest at Verrill Farm in Concord on Saturday Sept. 30 between 11:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. At this Bavarian-themed, family-friendly event you’ll hear live bands, sample food, ciders and craft beers, enter a pie-eating contest, outwit a magician, get your face painted, show off hula-hoop skills, jump in the bouncy house, shop craft vendors, visit community organization booths, and much more. Tickets are $20 prior to the event, $25 at the door for age 21 and over, $5 for under-21 and non-drinkers, children under 4 free. Visit concordrotaryoktoberfest.com for details.
When the Rotary Club of Concord announced its goal to purchase 20 ShelterBox tents using proceeds from Oktoberfest, it knew that ShelterBox quickly provides emergency shelter and lifesaving supplies on the frontline of disasters. Concord Rotarians did not, however, anticipate the immediate need posed by the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
We have since learned that ShelterBoxUSA has been working with FEMA to put in place shelter options for displaced people and repair options for damaged homes, including the provision of ShelterBox Tents and ShelterKits. The ShelterBox Response Team includes two Texas Rotarians, who are on the frontline assessing immediate and ongoing needs.
No doubt your club will want to help the flood-ravaged victims of Hurricane Harvey. What better way than to support ShelterBox, a Rotary partner. The Rotary Wheel is on every ShelterBox and Tent.
Rotary will have a ShelterBox on display at Oktoberfest. You may step inside and examine its contents. The large green box contains a family-size tent as well as items like solar lights, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, and thermal blankets. Each ShelterBox costs $1,000. Rotary would also like to purchase ShelterKits. ShelterKits contain all of the essential tools people need to start repairing and rebuilding homes. The kits cost $100.
The Rotary Club of Concord is seeking sponsors for Oktoberfest with a range of opportunities listed on its Oktoberfest website, concordrotaryoktoberfest.com. The site also offers information about having a booth at the event. Check out the food trucks, breweries, bands and more. Plan to have fun and help others!
Rotary Club of Concord’s Oktoberfest Aids Hurricane Victims
Over the last 6 months, I’ve received so much great feedback from our district on the topic of Membership. More than anything else, we’ve heard that clubs want more help in structuring flexible membership options that can be rolled out without undue complexity. There are organizations all over the world providing the opportunity to give back. If we’re going to maintain and grow our membership base in our clubs, we need to find a way to open our doors to a wider group of service-oriented individuals. In order to do this in a way that maintains the option to continue with a traditional membership, we are working on a “membership menu” from which clubs can pick and choose which membership types they’d like to offer. There will be no requirement that a club uses these offerings, so if the decision of your leadership team is that the existing membership structure won’t benefit from having additional flexibility – that’s your club’s decision to make. For those clubs who do find a benefit from adding on additional membership offerings, there will be a team of folks who are trained on how to roll them out. We currently have multiple clubs who will soon go into a pilot phase to test the models and provide feedback before rolling out to the district in the new year. If you would like to be a part of this pilot please send me a note.
Second, we have rolled out a new process for leads that come from Rotary International to our district. Every month we receive on average 4-5 new membership leads from individuals who log onto Rotary.org and click “Join Rotary”. In the month of August alone we’ve already received 7 new leads that have been sent by our team to the prospective member’s local club president, membership chair, and assistant governor. If you’re club receives one of these leads it’s an opportunity to connect with not only the prospective member but their friends, family and colleagues! For more information on this process send me a note and I’ll be happy to explain further.
I want to thank you all for your terrific feedback and hard work as we move through this Rotary year. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime.
This past weekend Carlos (Taiwan), sponsored by the Bedford Club, and Auriane (France), sponsored by the Milford Club, joined ten other international students from District 7980 and 7890 with District 7910 Chair, Marcia Davis, for an orientation weekend on Laurel Island in CT. Carlos and Auriane will be in our district until next July. In January they will be joined by a young man, age 15, from NSW Australia. He will be with us for the calendar year of 2018. The Ayer Club will be hosting him and he will attend the Ayer Shirley High School. We are currently looking for host families. If you can help please contact District Chair, Marcia Davis at largotutor@verizon.net or 508-882-3238.
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When it comes to finding new members for his Minnesota Rotary club, Tom Gump doesn’t just walk the walk, he trots the trot: the turkey trot. Gump is a former president of the Rotary Club of Edina/Morningside, which makes boosting membership a priority. In fact, that’s the fourth item on a list of 10 tips to attract and retain members which has been prepared – and practiced – by the club. It’s tip No. 10 that finds Gump clad in a turkey suit. More on that shortly.
The 2018 Montreal Zone Conference is a unique event, and we want to invite you to be a part of it. Whether you’re an incoming District Governor, District leader, Past District Governor, or a Rotarian with an interest in becoming more engaged in Rotary….the Montreal Conference is for you! The theme “People Coming Together” fits our goal of providing you with an extraordinary and unforgettable event. This is why we're inviting everyone to be a part of the excitement!
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The organization is dedicated the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self”. The members support and raise money for local and national beneficiaries, including DOVE-Domestic Violence Ended, Habitat for Humanity, School on Wheels, Blue Hills Regional Technical School, Suits for Success and Clean Water for the World.
Leah is a second generation Rotarian, following in the footsteps of her father, Mike Thornton, who introduced her to Rotary when she was a teenager. “I am both humbled and excited to assume this position with this remarkable group,” she said. “We have grown so much in the past few years and we are looking forward to keeping the momentum going. We have some ambitious goals going forward for youth, education, literacy, global wellness, leadership and membership."
One aspect of Rotary that makes it so unique is the annual change in leadership. It seems like we’ve only just arrived…….and it’s already time to leave.
RYLA 2018 was a fantastic success on June 21-24th at Fitchburg University. There were 201 RYLAns, 36 Group and Program Facilitators and close to 100 volunteers. 650 people attended the RYLA closing ceremony..jpg)
very genuinely seemed to have loved it. 
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Join Rotary District 7910 on August 24th at the Lowell Spinners for our “End Polio Now” Campaign Purchase Box Seats using promo code ROTARY at Lowellspinners.com/Tickets.JPG)
It’s finally summer! That means it’s time for Wings and Wheels Cruise-In/Fly-In at Minute Man Air Field, 302 Boxboro Road in Stow MA. Come and see for yourself! The fun happens from 5-8 pm, Thursday nights in June, July, and August, (except July 5th).
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Club President in 1968 and Paul Harris was still alive. Glenn Fossa was sworn in as the 101st President of the Club.
Sudbury River, in Framingham. The club recently finished building a wood chip trail at the park, which members have cleaned up after a number of recent winters, under the direction of the Framingham Department of Parks and Recreation.
With thehelp of the Rotary Clubs of Dracut and Nashua, we hosted 133 attendees from 13 Towns, including 61 Disabled Individuals, for a wonderful day of Fishing, Food, and Fun. The weather was great, the Fish were biting, and the food was delicious. .png)
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Wow! Wow!! Wow!!! You guys rock!!!! 31 of our clubs applied for District Grants for the 2018-19 Rotary Year with total participation of 36 clubs. The total budget for these 31 applications is greater than $170,000.
Wow Wow Wow! 2018-2019 Presidents ROCK! 31 clubs have applied for District Grants for the 2018-19 Rotary Year with total participation of 36 clubs. Deadline for application was June 1 and the response was tremendous!
Register now to play at the Rotary Club of Concord’s 30th Annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament Mon. June 25, 2018 at the Concord Country Club.
For the past 100 years, The Rotary Club of Fitchburg has served the community — both locally and worldwide .
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Community. This three-hour multi-district event supported by 7910 District Governor, Karin Gaffney and 7930 District Governor Dave Gardner, brought together 75 stakeholders representing public health, public safety, recovery and grief supporters, family members, clergy, medicine, treatment and private business to learn about a new Rotary Toolkit designed to engage communities in a discovery and learning experience about the driving forces of addiction that includes brain science and big business profit-driven strategies. The event’s featured guest was 
Join Rotary District 7910 on August 24th at the Lowell Spinners for their "End Polio Now" Campaign
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A highlight of the Rotary Club of Acton-Boxborough's year has long been its December visit to the Life Care Center of Acton, complete with Santa Claus, gifts for the residents, and enthusiastic caroling in the hallways. This year, the club decided to continue its service throughout the seasons by expanding this community partnership.
The Tour de Natick is a family bike ride held each Father’s Day on the Natick Common by the Rotary Club of Natick. The route is a 6 mile loop leaving the common at 11 AM and returning for lunch immediately following.
On Monday May 14, the Framingham club held a luncheon at Ken’s Steak House honoring ten graduating seniors from Metrowest area high schools (Framingham, Ashland, Holliston, and Hopkinton) who will each receive a $4,500 scholarship from the club to attend college. The club began giving scholarships in 1954—with the help of a large donation from club member Fred Turenne—to deserving high school seniors and has been doing so every year since. In the last 10 years alone the club has given out $450,000. The Framingham Rotary Club is a service organization made up of men and women from different walks of life who want to better the community in which they live and work.
Please join us to learn how YOU can help fight addiction in your community. 
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The last Rotary Means Business event of the 2017-18 Rotary year in District 7910 is on 
project resulted in 20,000 packed meals. They included leadership sessions with former Governors of Vermont and Massachusetts, Rotary’s response to the Addiction Crisis, the latest on the Fight to End Polio by the Gates Foundation, Survivors of Human Trafficking, End 68 Hours of Hunger, and Public Image Tips for Success.
My sincere and FOREVER GRATITUDE to the following amazing Rotarians from our district who climbed new mountains, in terms of planning for a District Conference and participated on a 5 District Summit committee of 35 to plan for almost 3 years our amazing 2018 Rotary Mt Washington Summit..jpg)
Rotary Donates to Literacy Volunteers
Rotary District 7910 partnering with Liberty NY Rotary club and Moca, Puerto Rico Rotary club is providing relief from the devastating hurricanes of 2017. We have made a big impact on the wellbeing of the citizens of Moca and the Northwest corner of the island. We’re almost finished completing this reconstruction and we couldn’t have done it without your donations! Many clubs from District 7910 have made generous and significant donations and YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PUERTO RICO!
Jon Rossman
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The Multi-District Rotary Addiction Prevention Task Force has had two recent meetings. It is clear that Rotarians in Massachusetts, New England and around the world are aware of the addiction crisis facing our nation, and they want to help.
Question -- How was the meal packing event in Bedford last Saturday?
Patti Mason
Marc Hamilton
Another Successful EARTH DAY Cleanup by Rotary Club of Southborough
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We have an awesome segment on membership at the District Assembly: Rethink Rotary - grow your club - featuring Lawrence Furbish!!! Please make sure your entire membership committee attends the District Assembly. Register here: 
The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be April 25th at the Bedford Doubletree, 44 Middlesex Turnpike, Bedford, MA. Just $15 for those who preregister or $20 at the door..jpg)
On April 14th, Concord Rotarians, Karl Kussin, Chris Alphen, and Leigh Ann Crimmings met along Cambridge Turnpike in Concord to clean up the road. This long-standing annual service project felt a bit easier this year, as the ar
ea didn't look as littered as it has in the past. Perhaps this was due to the many years we have been participating in this project. Or maybe there is a shift in society for the better that keeps people from littering as much as they used to. But still, we filled up 5 large trash bags with debris, keeping all that trash out of the wetlands along the Mill Brook and Crosby Pond!. 
nt and recreation temptations, and a spin on the Wheel of Fortune, representing life’s unexpected windfalls or misfortunes.
Dave Robertson
7 Years in Rotary
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The Rotary Clubs of Shrewsbury and Worcester held their second annual book launch event Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. at the Shrewsbury High School. The event is the culmination of a year-long project that created a book of creative writing by students from Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School and Doherty High School in Worcester, Grafton High School and Shrewsbury High School. 
Tues. April 10, 2018
Rotary Club of the Brookfields Hero
Rotary Club of Newton’s Hero
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Rotary Club of Natick’s Hero, Vincent Tingley.jpg)
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A Progress Update on the “Community Food Collaborative”
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22 Clubs have nominated a service hero for the March 26th Service Hero Celebration taking place at the Hampton Inn, Natick from 5 
The 2018-19 leaders of Rotary gathered together March 8-10, 2018 for one of the most spectacular and inspiring Presidents-elect Training Seminar ever! 
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Rotary Club of Framingham’s Dick Manelis is leading a team of Rotarians and community volunteers on a trip to Guatemala to install clean water filtration systems to the villages on Lake Atitlan who need it most. 
Stories about fundraisers, contributions, or international service are an integral part of what we do, but they’re not necessarily People of Action stories. The People of Action campaign is designed to help better inform our local communities about Rotary and the work we do for the places we call home. To let the rest of the world know who we are, doesn’t it make sense to let our neighbors know first?
District 7910 Rotarians,
Why attend District Youth Day? -- MAKE NEW FRIENDS/MAKE HISTORY/MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
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The next Rotary Means Business event in District 7910 will be at the Fay Club 
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For the past 4-5 years, District 7890 has invited our students from District 7910 to join their exchange students for a wonderful ski weekend. District 7890 is made up of 60 Rotary Clubs located in northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts.
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Three Rotarians from District 7910 will be participating in a relief mission to Puerto Rico 
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hool, entertained the children.
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The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, with help from Bolton Local, will hold the next Bolton Repair Café on 
Looking for a fun affordable evening? Come and have a few laughs and enjoy a Ham Dinner cooked by our Rotary of the Brookfields members! The 2nd annual Murder Mystery Dinner Scholarship Fundraiser is taking place Saturday January 27th at 5pm at the Warren Senior Center. Tickets are $26 per person.
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Self”. 
he club has community service event where seniors get to dance, eat and have fun on a fall afternoon. Everyone gets so excited each year when the fliers go out to the local senior centers and nursing homes.
Rotary Club of Framingham held its 6th Annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser on Saturd
ay November 4th at Joseph P. Keefe Technical High School. Money raised at the Breakfast is used to buy anywhere from 30-35 Air Conditioner units each year for elderly seniors living in public housing. The Rotary club provides the funds to the Framingham Housing Authority, who handles the purchase and installation.
The next Rotary Means Business (RMB) event in District 7910 will be held on 
RC of Framingham has been helping Joseph P. Keefe Technical High School run an annual Financial Reality Fair for its students for several years. 
The Rotary Club of Westborough and District 7910 have been selected as one of the two recipients of the 2017 Zone 32 Public Image Award. The a
ward was presented to our District during last week’s Zone Institute in Hartford, CT.
EVANSTON, Ill. (September 21, 2017) — 
Here are a few ideas for “micro” service projects that could be done during Rotary meetings. How about writing Thank You for Your Service cards to Veterans and handing them out at your club’s or another club’s Veteran’s Day event? 
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District Governor Karin Gaffney and President David Zonia signed the Rotary Community Corps Organization Form during her Official Visit to the Sturbridge Rotary Club, just this Monday, October 16th. This will be a Rotary Community Corps (RCC) jointly sponsored by TWO Rotary clubs, to be known as the Rotary Community Corps of Sturbridge & Southbridge. 
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The Rotary Club of Bedford has initiated a new membership option known as a Family Membership. 
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Westborough Rotary Hosts Two Community Events in October - 1774 Westborough Militia Training Day & Third Annual Red, White and BOO
At the 1917 convention in Atlanta Georgia, outgoing Rotary president, Arch Klumph, proposed setting up an endowment for the "purpose of doing good in the world." That proposal and his initial contribution of $26.50 put in motion a powerful force that has transformed millions of lives around the world.”
Membership Matters - Building in Flexibility
Update on Rotary Hurricane Relief Funds and Efforts Includes new information as of September 30, 2017
2017-18 Club Officers:
Natick Secures First District Grant Approval of 2017-2018 Season
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Wow. When we started down the path of thinking about surveying all the Rotarians in District 7910 we were told to expect a 2% response rate. We were told that we would strike gold if our response rate was up towards 5%. Guess what? Approximately 17% of us took the survey! That is an overwhelming response, and it shows that we Rotarians are passionate about what we do. What is more, many, many of us took the time to write extensive comments and helpful suggestions. THANK YOU ALL!.png)
Rotarians - PLEASE forward the registration link (
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Rotary is a worldwide service organization whose mission is to do good in the world. Its 1.2 million members are volunteers, working to make this world a better place and not for awards. Recognizing their efforts is what the District 7910 Recognition program is all about. Recognition opportunities for 2017-2018 are available on the district website 
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Concord Rotarians invite all Rotarians, their families and friends from District 7910 and beyond to help raise funds for ShelterBox by attending Oktoberfest at Verrill Farm in Concord on Saturday Sept. 30 between 11:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. At this Bavarian-themed, family-friendly event you’ll hear live bands, sample food, ciders and craft beers, enter a pie-eating contest, outwit a magician, get your face painted, show off hula-hoop skills, jump in the bouncy house, shop craft vendors, visit community organization booths, and much more. Tickets are $20 prior to the event, $25 at the door for age 21 and over, $5 for under-21 and non-drinkers, children under 4 free. Visit concordrotaryoktoberfest.com for details. 
ShelterBox tents using proceeds from Oktoberfest, it knew that ShelterBox quickly provides emergency shelter and lifesaving supplies on the frontline of disasters. Concord Rotarians did not, however, anticipate the immediate need posed by the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. 
Over the last 6 months, I’ve received so much great feedback from our district on the topic of Membership. More than anything else, we’ve heard that clubs want more help in structuring flexible membership options that can be rolled out without undue complexity. There are organizations all over the world providing the opportunity to give back. If we’re going to maintain and grow our membership base in our clubs, we need to find a way to open our doors to a wider group of service-oriented individuals. In order to do this in a way that maintains the option to continue with a traditional membership, we are working on a “membership menu” from which clubs can pick and choose which membership types they’d like to offer. There will be no requirement that a club uses these offerings, so if the decision of your leadership team is that the existing membership structure won’t benefit from having additional flexibility – that’s your club’s decision to make. For those clubs who do find a benefit from adding on additional membership offerings, there will be a team of folks who are trained on how to roll them out. We currently have multiple clubs who will soon go into a pilot phase to test the models and provide feedback before rolling out to the district in the new year. If you would like to be a part of this pilot please send me a note.