The 13th – 19th March is designated World Rotaract week. By developing Rotaract clubs today we are helping to ensure the long term future of Rotary. Rotaractors of today should become Rotarians of tomorrow. If your club has tried to establish a new Club, or re-launch a failed one call Rtn. Andrew Singer on 01656 785628. He would be delighted to hear from you.
We have all seen the dreadful television reports from the Leyte region of the Philippines south of Manila. The need to rebuild homes and the community has been recognised by the Philippine Nurses Association of the United Kingdom and they are seeking support. If you want to help I have the contact information.
Support continues to keep the programme of the RDB on course during this Rotary year and I am grateful to all the clubs in this District who have made a contribution. There is another way that individual Rotarians can help at no cost to themselves. If you have a mobile phone that you have replaced with a new ‘all singing all dancing’ one , why not let the old one earn some money for the Rotary Doctor Bank. All you need to do is contact Rtn. Peter Fox ,Chairman of RDB and he will send you a special envelope to send off your old phone.
That’s it RDB will receive £10.00 and you will have a little more space in the sideboard drawer.
Many clubs have supported whiz-kids in the past. There is another opportunity to help. The charity has been granted a collection on the weekend of the 24th 25th June 2006 at Tesco stores throughout the UK. Being a young charity they do not have the resources to cover all the locations. If any Clubs in the District would like to assist they should call Rebecca on 020 7233 6600.
Clubs wishing to be nominated for the 2005/06 Presidential Citation should be thinking about their applications now. This will allow them to complete any missing element(s) from their programmes. There are 6 criteria. These relate to Membership, Public Image, Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service and International Service. Details on the RI Website or contact me.
I have been privileged this Rotary year to meet three Rotarians who have completed 50 years of club service and I have been humbled by their commitmen and dedication to their club and to Rotary International. Sadly, I also attended the funeral of one of these special people, Rtn.PP. John Hogg PHF, of the RC Rhondda. At the Funeral Service on the 16th February I heard John’s son speak of his commitment to Rotary ‘right to the end’ and of his love for his family, work and the community where he lived. A true Rotarian in every way.
The annual RIBI Conference takes place in Belfast from the 21st to 23rd April 2006. The business session will deal with a number of important issues central to the future of Rotary in RIBI. The presentation of a new Marketing Strategy, which has long term financial implications, is proposed for adoption as well as a report on Strategic Planning for the future. Is your club planning to be represented at Belfast?
Sincerely in Rotary Fellowship,
David Wiltshire
District 1150 Governor