This Rotary year has been particularly special for Rotary clubs worldwide. Districts are reintroducing programs following an extended period of disruption. This year marked a return to in-person meetings and the revival of flagship programs like the Youth Exchange. Our first outbound students in quite some time, due to obvious reasons, will return home from Korea in June. Excitingly,thank you  Susan Frey from the RC of Cocoa Beach. DGE Julia Babbitt has already appointed Ellen Cruse also from RC Cocoa Beach as the new Youth Exchange chair, signaling a promising expansion of the program. Ellen will have immediate access to all Youth Exchange resources, recognizing that continuity is essential for our Rotary programs.

We've had an incredible year with the Interact program. Under the leadership of Chair Lorriane Hernandez,from RC Lake Worth, the program was rebuilt from scratch. Information was organized, inactive clubs were rechartered, and an impressive seven new clubs were established. We now boast 27 Interact Clubs in our district, marking a significant achievement.

Additionally, two Rotaract Clubs have been reinstated, with a third on its way. There are hopes for a new Rotaract club in Boca Raton next year, potentially bringing our district's total to four fully active clubs, in accordance with Rotary International guidelines. This year, we will host our inaugural Rotaract Conference on June 8.

And the good news continues.

We welcome three new Satellite clubs, and the Riviera Beach satellite club has transitioned into a fully chartered Rotary Club. This expansion is bolstering our district's membership, signaling growth once again!

The PolioPlus Society is flourishing, and we are nearing our goal of 500 members in the district. This momentum sets a strong foundation for the upcoming Rotary year. Donations to Polio eradication efforts, alongside contributions to the Annual Fund, are reaching remarkable levels. Remember, our District is matching donations to the Annual Funds, until May 15th—act fast!

As evident, these achievements may not be widely broadcasted on social media, but they form the necessary infrastructure for our district's growth! A strong RYLA depends on robust Interact programs, which also play a vital role in promoting the Youth Exchange programs. Increasing our membership enables us to boost donations to the Rotary Foundation and gather more support for our local projects. It's all interconnected, and our success relies on having everything working in perfect harmony for our growth!

I can't forget two important announcements:

Our District Conference is just a couple of weeks away, and you won't want to miss the fantastic lineup of speakers! This conference will be unlike any you've attended before. Instead of breakout sessions, we'll all come together for a collective learning experience and to be inspired by our amazing speakers. It's an opportunity for everyone to connect and network with our fellow Rotary family members. Get ready for some good comedy and dancing—we're going to have a blast!

Also, please remind your club president not to forget to cast your club's vote to select our district representative for the committee that will choose our next Zone Director. The Nomination Committee, led by PDH Jimmy Sisserson, is doing an outstanding job, and we're conducting the selection through the clubs' choices.

 

Thank you very much for all you're doing to Create Hope in the World!

 

I am incredibly glad for the amazing district committee members and their chairs for all the good results we have achieved so far. Membership is growing, and in a couple of weeks, new clubs are coming! Donations to PolioPlus have soared, and a campaign to increase the number of Paul Harris Fellows in the district will be launched next week. Interact clubs are being reorganized, and new ones are being chartered. The Youth Exchange program and RYLA are back.

Don't think for a moment that I did this. I didn't do a thing! This happened because of each one of you. You are the ones who keep this district rolling! You are the ones who Create Hope in The World! Thank you for this!"

We need to continue our mission of creating hope in the world. With four months remaining until the official commencement of the new Rotary year, we need to keep our commitment to maximizing our impact during this transition period. We need to work even harder now to deliver a good and well-functional District to DGE Jula Babbit and her team to deliver The Magic of Rotary! We are a family, and we work as a team.

I understand the importance of continuity and maintaining the momentum we've worked so hard to build. It's essential that we do not allow this interim period to become a period of inertia. Instead, let us view it as an opportunity to further advance our district's goals and initiatives.

In the next four months, I challenge each and every one of you to redouble your efforts in service to our communities. Let us leverage the resources, partnerships, and momentum we've cultivated thus far to make an even greater impact. Whether it's through ongoing projects, innovative initiatives, or collaborative endeavors with fellow Rotarians, let us continue to embody the spirit of Rotary in all that we do.

We are here to support you every step of the way. Together, let us harness the power of our collective passion and dedication to effect positive change. Let us leverage our positions of leadership and influence to inspire others and drive meaningful progress in our district and beyond.

As we look ahead to the challenges and opportunities that lie before us, I am confident in our ability to rise to the occasion and continue to CREATE HOPE in THE WORLD. Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to Rotary's mission and leave a lasting legacy of service, compassion, and positive change.

 

No lame duck in District 6930!

 

Love you all,

 

 

3. Boosting Engagement:

Big shout-out to everyone for fostering an atmosphere of trust and engagement. Leading by example, we're keeping the Rotary spirit alive, encouraging active participation and shared commitment.

4. Rolling with the Punches:

Kudos to our adaptability! Personal responsibility and a hunger for learning have fortified us against the unexpected. Let's keep that resilience strong as we face whatever comes our way.

5. Love and Solidarity:

In true Rotary fashion, let's acknowledge the love and solidarity binding us together. Our collective strength has been a game-changer, helping us navigate challenges with grace.

As we navigate the next leg of our Rotary journey, share your stories, triumphs, and challenges. Your experiences shape our collective narrative, making each day in Rotary unique.

Let's make these upcoming months count. Our actions, no matter how small, contribute to the larger story of Rotary service. Together, let's leave a lasting impact on the communities we serve.

Thank you for being the heartbeat of our Rotary spirit. Keep sharing your passion to Create Hope in The World .

Please let me know. How am I doing so far?

 

Our accomplishments have been significant: implemented committees, revitalized the Interact and the Youth Exchange Program, and completed training seminars according to the international Rotary agenda. We are one Rotary family, from north to south, east to west, working together with dedication and hope.

 

This new year presents us with the opportunity to welcome for the first time in our district the President of Rotary International, Gordon McInally, a historic milestone that we will celebrate at the Rotary Foundation lunch on January 14.

 

We are starting the second stage of the Rotary year with positive membership growth and a full schedule of events!

 

In January, we will begin video conferences to address questions about Membership and Public Image, in addition to continuing official visits to clubs. In April, we will visit the One Rotary Center in Evanston to learn even more from them. In June, the District Conference, and at the end of June, the Zone 34 Team Training in Jacksonville.

 

We have many things yet to accomplish, and the certainty that many of these things will only be completed with time. Such are the changes. Often, people expect to see changes immediately, but the most significant changes, in attitude and vision, require time to be effective.

 

We are relearning to dream and have passion for Rotary.

 

May we continue to Create Hope in the World by making changes in the lives of those we help, both in our community and around the world.

 

I wish everyone a 2024 full of achievements, prosperity, and solidarity. Let's work together to make a difference and build an even more inspiring future for Rotary.

 

Share Your Passion!

The Peace Pole is a way of bringing people together to inspire, awaken, and uplift the world’s human consciousness.

Peace Poles are now recognized as the most prominent international symbol and monument to peace.
They remind us to think, speak, and act in the spirit of peace and harmony. Stand as a silent visual for peace to prevail on earth.


#CreateHopeInTheWorld
#ShareYourPassion

Owen is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, Polio Society member, and Sustaining member. 
His Rotary journey features leadership as Assistant District Governor, International Project Chair, and District Trainer, with impactful projects in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Africa, Turkey, and the Bahamas.
In his new role, 

Owen aims to inspire the Rotary members, promoting Rotary values and building on the incredible work of past District Governors. Let's foster a culture of service above self and cultivate a diverse, unified District together!
Beyond Rotary, Owen's community spirit shines through initiatives like feeding the hungry, toy drives, and support for Children Home Society and Quantum House. 
His dedication has been recognized through prestigious awards, including the President's Award, Rotarian of the Year, Emerging District Leader Honor, and Service Above Self Award.
Owen holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and Master of Science in Information Technology, He's currently Mortgage Loan Officer with Syntex Mortgage. 
A devoted family man to Andrea and Andrew, he enjoys travel, family time, literature, culinary pursuits, golf, dance, and staying fit.

Join us in congratulating DGND Owen Robinson  ! 

Read full press release here https://bit.ly/41Mxrup

Growing Together

My Dear Rotary family

I know this month's newsletter is arriving a little later than usual. It's usually sent out on the 5th, and for that, I take full responsibility. While we have the best newsletter editor in Zone 33/34 – a big thank you to Joann Meacker for her dedication! – this month, we had some incredibly important news to share, which required me to delay publication slightly.

Our District is growing, but we need to keep our foot on the gas to maintain momentum. November saw our lowest growth of the year, adding 15 members and losing 9, resulting in a net gain of 6. While any positive growth is welcome, this number falls short of our potential.

 

Year-to-date, we've added 114 new members against 72 losses, giving us a net gain of 42. This is a commendable achievement, but it's not enough to lift us from our position as the smallest district in Zone 34. We need to push harder and work smarter.

 

 

 

While I appreciate the efforts of all our clubs, it's concerning that some haven't added a single member this year. Rotary is inherently designed for growth. We thrive on welcoming new members and expanding our impact. Let's work together to understand the challenges these clubs face and find ways to support their growth initiatives.

 

Fortunately, we have several shining examples of clubs achieving remarkable growth, some exceeding 30%. Their success demonstrates what's possible with focused effort and commitment. Let's learn from their best practices and translate their strategies into our own club activities.

 

Looking ahead, we have exciting developments on the horizon. Four new clubs are in the pipeline, with Boynton Beach leading the charge. Our Interact program continues to flourish, welcoming new clubs and revitalizing existing ones. Additionally, RYLA registrations are now open, offering a valuable leadership development opportunity for the next generation of Rotarians.

 

Another highlight is the arrival of the Peace Poles, which will be dedicated by the Roraty International Pesident Gordon McInally. Don't forget to secure your tickets for President Gordon's visit! The best deal is to purchase a table for $120 per person, creating a memorable experience and fostering a sense of community.

 

Finally, let's rally behind the PolioPlus Society. Our ambitious goal is to recruit 500 new members by May 2024. All new members will be recognized at the Foundation Dinner by President Gordon himself. This is an incredible opportunity to be a part of something bigger and contribute to the global eradication of polio.

 

Together, we can achieve remarkable things. Let's work hand-in-hand, share best practices, and support each other in our quest for growth. Remember, "the world needs Rotary more than ever before," and it's our responsibility to make it stronger, bigger, and more impactful than ever before.

 

As we approach the end of the year, Dini and I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for all your accomplishments. You have made this year truly remarkable. Happy holidays to all, and for those celebrating, Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas!

 

Let’s Create Hope in The World!

 

 

Local Compassion: A Call to Action for a Better Tomorrow

 

This month, November, marks Rotary Foundation Month, providing the perfect opportunity to contribute and make a difference.

In the midst of our comfortable lives, it's easy to turn a blind eye to the suffering around us. However, recent experiences have brought to light the harsh reality within our own community.

I found myself in Chicago, surrounded by the stark contrast of wealth and poverty. Tents of the homeless and refugees stood in the shadows of million-dollar apartments. This unsettling scene prompted introspection: How could we, as neighbors, ignore the plea for dignity right outside our doors?

In Boynton Beach West, a once agricultural haven, I stumbled upon a makeshift shelter for a veteran. The juxtaposition of prosperity and poverty in our blessed country is disheartening. The question resonates: How can we allow such disparity to persist?

While global issues may seem distant, our interconnected world demands attention. Diseases like polio, although eradicated, can resurface in unexpected places; traces of this virus have been found in Manhattan sewers. Dengue and Chikungunya, once confined to distant regions, now threaten us in our tropical climate like Florida.

The responsibility to act lies with each of us. Joining the PolioPlus Society for as little as $100 per year, or $25 per quarter can ensure a safe future for our community by eradicating Polio worldwide.

Turning our gaze to immigrants and the homeless, many in our region seek refuge in hidden conditions. As responsible members of the community, we must empathize and extend our help. The Rotary Foundation Global Grants program provides a beacon of hope for a good life, allowing dreams of security, health, education, and employment to flourish.

We can create or support projects globally or even here in our region focused on the Rotary International area of Focus that is: peacebuilding and conflict prevention; disease prevention and treatment; water, sanitation, and hygiene; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; and community economic development.

Contributing to the Rotary Foundation leaves a lasting legacy, saving lives and offering hope to those who need it most.

Today, I challenge you to commit to change. Become a Permanent Donor to the Foundation; with just US$100 per year, you become a sustainable member and join EREY, Every Rotarian Every Year. Let's be a community that cares, takes action, and leaves a positive impact on the world.

To motivate you even more to participate in these two initiatives, I want to give you the opportunity to become a Paul Harris Fellow.

Let me explain how: there will be two opportunities. If you join the Polio Plus Society and/or become an EREY member by December 15, that is, in the next 30 days, you will be entered into a draw that will take place on January 14, 2024, during the Rotary Foundation lunch, attended by RIP Gordon McInally.

You will receive your Paul Harris pin directly from the hands of our President in front of the entire District. This is an expression of gratitude for your efforts.

Don't waste time; take on this commitment and let me know by sending an email directly to me. I will forward it to our End Polio Coordinator JoAnn Meaker and our TRF Chair PDG Pam Russell, indicating your commitment to a Better Tomorrow for our communities.

Let’s continue to Create Hope in the World!

 

I've been a Rotarian for over 30 years, and my first task as a new member was vaccinating children in a favela (a shanty town) in Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, on World Immunization Day. In Brazil, we still administer the vaccine in drops, but it's now changing to be a shot, just like here in the United States. There, we have our mascot, "Joe Little Drip," who helps promote all year long, and the kids love it.

My club, the Rotary Club Boca Raton West, has one of these mascots because when we promote Polio in the Brazilian community, everyone knows and wants to take photos with "Ze Gotinha."

I've traveled to many places around the world, visiting clubs and making friends, and in the last three years, my contact has increased, sharing experiences with governors from around the world. Due to my profession, I identified some needs, and one of them was: What to do for Polio Day?

Districts and clubs around the world get entangled in something that, because it's so easy, becomes complicated because Rotarians always want to do really big things!

"Let's have billboards, let's light up a monument, let's appear on TV..." are just some of the ideas that come to mind.

So, I started the idea: 'Let's share on social media a picture of you as you are eating your meal wherever you are to celebrate Polio Day on October 24 and donate wherever you want!' I created a website, thanks to my company's team, shared the idea with some friends privately, and boom!! My inbox suddenly exploded with so many messages from people wanting to know if I was the originator of this project.

People from all over the world! Japan, Korea, Australia, Brazil, India, Pakistan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and even Australia! I was amazed! I received a call from Susan Rea from Australia, who has had a project similar to this one for more than 10 years, wgmeal.org, and she has now partnered with us.

As a club or district leader, you can help us achieve our goal of a polio-free world by sharing the latest polio updates with your club's members and in your community, and by continuing to raise funds for PolioPlus. Every dollar raised will be matched 2-to-1, up to US$150 million.

Well, take a look at this link and register your club or district, and let's share our passion!! https://rotarypoliodaydinner.org/

Keep dreaming!"

What's a Peace Pole? A Peace Pole is a powerful symbol of unity and hope. It carries a message of peace in multiple languages, serving as a constant reminder of our shared commitment to a harmonious world. It's a visible statement that speaks to all who see it.

Why Does It Matter? Peace is something we all long for, and this project is our way of making a difference. Each Peace Pole will be strategically placed in locations of significance, amplifying its message and fostering a culture of understanding.

How Can You Get Involved? This project is open to everyone. Rotary clubs in our district can lead the way in creating these Peace Poles, and grants are available to support them. It's on a "first come, first served" basis, so act now to bring peace to your community.

Save the Date In January 2024, we'll come together to dedicate all eight Peace Poles during the visit of RIP Gordon McInally, making history and spreading peace.

Join us in this transformative initiative. let's create a more peaceful world, one Peace Pole at a time. Your action today can shape a more peaceful tomorrow. Together, let's make it happen!

I first met Michele when our club gave the toys we gathered through the donations of Hillary’s customers.  Thanks to all who donated to the Rotary Elf Box!  You made many kids with cancer happy. 
 

After a short tour of the KCF facility, I was amazed by Michele’s positive energy, tenacity, and good vibes.  The foundation hosts many activities, but one of my favorite ones is the “Kid’s Night Out.”  The next event will be held on Feb. 3, between 5:30 – 7:00 PM at the KCF center.  Volunteers are welcome to make this night memorable for the kids they support.  The only requirement is that you are not feeling sick and are passionate about making these kids smile.  For those who wish to volunteer, please get in touch with any of the RPB Rotary members or contact the KCF center directly (561-333-8116).

RPB Rotary will collaborate with KCF and Michele to help this great cause!  So, starting this Jan. 24, from 5:30 PM, at Common’s Park (Near the Playground), RPB Rotary is launching the “Grill for a Cause” fundraising drive.  Part of the drive’s proceeds will go to KCF and other RPB Rotary projects.  We hope to see you there and support our local superheroes like Michele!  
 
 

Rotary International's future President for 2024/2025, Stephanie Urchick, visited Boca Raton on January 26 and was welcomed by the Rotary Club of Boca Raton West and their members for dinner at the Pavilion Grille. Many presidents and Rotary dignitaries, including RC Past Director Robert Meconni, were present, making it a memorable and special occasion.

The visit of a Rotary International President 2024/2025 to District 6930 was part of a Training Seminar that District 6930 Governor 2023/2024 Douglas Heizer promoted on the weekend. The last time a RI President came to our city was 20 years ago, so this was a significant and exciting event for all involved.

Stephanie Urchick used the dinner to discuss the need for Rotary growth, and her words were inspiring to the almost 100 people in attendance. The Mayor of Boca Raton, Scott Singer, welcomed the Rotary International President and proclaimed in her honor. District 6930 Governor-Elect Douglas Heizer also extended a warm welcome on behalf of the district.

During the dinner, the Rotary Club of Boca Raton West president Luciana Beucke inducted two new members, Elizabeth Alderete and Luciane Becker. This was a significant moment for the club.

The audience was filled with many Rotary club members from the surrounding areas and from Titusville to Boca Raton.Several District 6930 Past District Governor was at the dinner. Michael Walstrom, Betsy Owen, Phil Lustig, and Steeve Laine were present. The Rotary Club Delray Beach president Nick Basiana and members of their club, the Rotary Club of Downtown Boca Raton president Jeff Weber, and several club members were in attendance. The Rotary Club Boca Raton Sunrise president Gail Lustig and their members were also present; the District 6930 Governor Nominee Vanessa Hagner and the members of The Rotary Club of Boca Raton as were District 6990 and their Governor Michael Kesti with his wife Maria Kesti, District 6990 Governor 2023/2024 Barbara Gobbi, District 6990 Governor Nominee Dennis Caltagironi, and Membership Chair Antonio Pinheiro.

Overall, the visit of Stephanie Urchick to Boca Raton was a success and a memorable occasion for all involved. 

The dinner at the Pavilion Grille was an excellent opportunity for Rotary clubs to unite and build new relationships. The Rotary Club of Boca Raton West was honored to host Stephanie Urchick and is committed to working with her to advance Rotary's mission. The club looks forward to engaging with Rotary International and other organizations to bring about positive change in the world.

See more pictures of the dinner here : https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.942444567125041&type=3