Rotary Rap

February 23, 2008 - 2nd Annual Rotary Foundation Dinner

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ROTARY HONOURS THREE FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE

The Rotary Club of Anguilla held a very successful Second Annual Rotary Foundation Dinner last Saturday at Roy’s Bayside Grill. In addition to celebrating the 103rd anniversary of Rotary International on February 23, 2008, Rotary honoured three local Anguillians for their outstanding service to the community – Sandra York Gumbs, Stella Horsford, and Eric Reid.

Sandra York Gumbs. Sandra York Gumbs has a passion for the enhancement of the common man and strongly believes that sharing quality time with family members and others in the community has the potential to produce quality and uplifting human relationships. She founded in 2002 the Comprehensive Learning Centre, one of the most notable education institutions on the island, where CXC and modular-base courses are offered to students. The number of students continues to grow, along with their success rate.

The greatest satisfaction is when students, who were certain that they had no chance of achieving anything, actually gain academic success and acquire new or better paying jobs that enhance their lives and the lives of their families.

Rotarian Lester Forman presents the plaque of recognition to Mrs. Sandra York Gumbs.

The emphasis at the Centre is on values, integrity and responsibility. Academic success must be coupled with these core attributes to serve humanity well.

Mrs. York Gumbs is also the Administrative and Financial Manager in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Utilities. Prior to joining the Anguilla Public Service, Sandra served as a teacher, first at the Convent High School in St. Kitts and then at the West End Primary School in Anguilla. She holds an Advanced Certificate in Quality Management and a Masters in Business Administration.

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Stella Horsford. Stella Horsford is a stalwart educator who holds quiet, but deep, convictions of the importance of family and family life. In 2007, in recognition of her social contribution to the development of Anguilla in the field of Education, Mrs. Horsford was awarded the Anguilla Day Badge of Honour and the Queen’s Certificate at the 40th Anniversary of the Anguilla Day Revolution.

Rotary President, Seymour Hodge, presents Mrs. Stella Horsford with her plaque of recognition.

Mrs. Horsford taught at Valley Second School (now Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School) from 1960 to 1989, and was the first Deputy Principal at the ALHC School. In 1996, Mrs. Horsford received the Deputy Principal’s Award and recognition for her 29 years of invaluable service to secondary education in Anguilla.

In 1989, Mrs. Horsford was appointed Principal Assistant Secretary in the then Ministry of Social Services. She has acted as Permanent Secretary on several occasions.

Mrs. Horsford is active in the Soroptimist International of Anguilla as the President-elect, Member and Past President!

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Eric Reid. Leith Errington Reid, known to all as Eric, was born in Anguilla, but moved to the US Virgin Island in 1964 in the hope of finding work. He lived and worked between St. Thomas and St. Croix for about 10 years where he learned the transport business and developed a keen interest in politics. In 1982, he established his own transport business in Anguilla (Island Transport Services) and also his own bakery, which he ran successfully for many years.

Mr. Reid immersed himself in Anguilla’s political life. He first sought political office in 1976 as an independent candidate. In1977, he joined the Anguilla National Alliance (ANA). He was first voted into office in 1984, and has never lost an election since. Eric has now served as a Minister of Government for approximately fifteen years, and as a Member of the Opposition in the House of Assembly for six years.

As a Minister of Government, in the Ministry of Social Development, Eric met and responded appropriately to all challenges. He considers his crowning moment to be the commissioning of the Health Authority of Anguilla (HAA) in December 2003.

However, only two days after realizing his dream, Mr. Reid suddenly and tragically lost his sight in 2003 December. He refused to be diminished or restricted in any aspect of his life, and this attitude may be his greatest contribution to the social and spiritual development of our island community.

In a country where, hitherto, person with disabilities were, it seems, expected to remove themselves from everyday activities such as work and social functions, Eric Reid has been instrumental in forging a new place in society for handicapped individuals. In his manner of living, Mr. Reid has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to Anguillians, young and old.

Rotarian Preston Bryan presents Mr. Eric Reid with his plaque of recognition. Mr. Reid’s wife assists.

February 7, 2008 - Dr. Tony Snell of NHF addresses Rotary

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Dr. Tony Snell addresses the Rotary Club of Anguilla

In the photograph, Rotarian Anne Edwards thanks Dr. Snell for his informative presentation.

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Dr. Tony Snell, Director of the National Health Fund (NHF) for the government of Anguilla addressed the Rotary Club of Anguilla at the recent meeting on Thursday, February 7. Dr. Snell presented an overview of what the NHF will deliver to the island community of Anguilla. The following presents some of the highlights of this new plan to be implemented in the near future for all Anguillians.

More people suffer from heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer today than ever before. Diabetes, which is actually a cardiovascular disease, has reached epidemic proportions on the island. The objective of the NHF – which is based very much on a UK model -- is to ensure that all Anguillians have access to good quality, timely, and equitable health care. The goal is to remove financial barriers to quality health care access for all Anguillians.

Financial support for the NHF program will come from the employers and employees alike. Mandatory participation will ensure effective administration. Public education will be a necessary factor in the successful promotion of the NHF.

Coverage and entitlement to health service will include everyone, and will include, with some conditions, basic primary care (family medicine), basic dental, basic vision, and basic prescription drug coverage.

Dr. Snell is trying to work through the many challenges to implementing the NHF on the island, but he feels that the benefits will be worthwhile: equitable health care for all and early intervention and treatment of the many serious diseases that have reached disturbing proportions on the island.

If you are a community-minded individual and are interested in being considered for membership in Rotary, please contact the Rotary President, Seymour Hodge, at 729-3574. The Rotary Club meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

February 1, 2008 - Rotary donates to Road School

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Rotary Club of Anguilla Donates to Road Primary School

This week, Teacher Michael and Teacher Janice from Road Primary School accepted a cheque for $500 from the Rotary Club of Anguilla to help with costs of tiling the classroom floors at the school. The Rotary Club of Anguilla is devoted to service in the community.

If you wish to learn more about Rotary, check our website at http://www.rotaryanguilla.org. The club meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

In the photo: Rotarians Ralph Smith, Lester Forman, President Seymour Hodge, Teacher Michael and Teacher Janice of Road Primary School.

January 31, 2008 - Health Authority of Anguilla attends Rotary

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NEW HEALTH AUTHORITY TEAM
attends Rotary Club of Anguilla meeting

Members of the “new team” at the Health Authority of Anguilla (HAA) attended the recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Anguilla and shared with the Rotary Club members some of the goals and directions of the revitalized and rejuvenated Health Authority.

Shown in the photo are Dr. Kennedy Simmonds, Director of Medical Services at the Hospital; Mr. Ralph Hodge, Finance Manager; Mrs. Darlene Baptiste, Chief Executive Officer; Rotarian Dr. Franklin Lloyd, Chairman; and Rotarian Mr. Preston Bryan, Board member.

Mrs. Baptiste, the newly appointed CEO, emphasized that the Health Authority is looking forward to positive changes with the goal of excellence in its daily operations. Rebuilding public confidence and excellent stewardship of funds will be top priority.

The new team is excited about this new direction for the HAA. They hope to confront serious health issues in the community, and improve the quality of health care for the people of Anguilla. The team hope to accomplish their goals in partnership with the people of Anguilla, who, they hope, will buy into the process.

January 31 - Louis Price addresses Rotary Club

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Louis Price addresses recent meeting of Rotary Club

Good health was again the topic at the recent Rotary Meeting held on Thursday, January 31, with two separate presentations – the first by local fitness instructor, Louis Price, and the second, a very important announcement by the Anguilla Health Authority.

Guest speaker, Louis Price, spoke about Taking Responsibility for our own Health and Fitness, and by doing so, avoiding having to use the services of the Anguilla Health Authority. Mr. Price advocates three times the Letter S -- Stamina, Stretching, and Strength. If we are proactive, we can slow the aging process.

Stamina. Stamina refers to cardiovascular fitness. As little as one-half hour of vigorous exercise three times a week can show a huge difference in a very short time. “Exercise at a level of exertion that allows you to work up a sweat but still be able to talk while moving.” Mr. Price recommends cross-training. Focus on a variety of activities like swimming, walking, and cycling. Good cardiovascular health will give you extra energy.

Make the time. Take the time for yourself, or your body will force you to take the time -- in the form of illness.

Stretching. Stretching for at least five minutes will improve your overall flexibility. Stretching relieves physical tensions that result both from emotional and physical stresses. Hold the stretch position for about 30 seconds. A good overall stretching before you sleep will help reduce morning aches and pains.

Strength. Wear-and-tear is inevitable as you age. Because muscles overlap your joints, it is important to keep the muscles toned so that they can support the joints. Toned muscles will help to increase the mobility of your joints so that they work well without pain.

When involved in a fitness program, don’t compare yourself to others – only to yourself. Whatever you do is a step in the right direction! But it is important to take that first step!

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Anguilla Health Authority. Visiting surgeon, Dr. Randy Zuckerman from Cooperstown, New York, spoke briefly about some of the plans already in motion with the new team at the Anguilla Health Authority. Dr. Zuckerman will return to Anguilla in March with a team of surgeons from New York who will bring with them all the equipment necessary to provide laparoscopic surgery at the local hospital. The team of surgeons will provide surgical services to patients in Anguilla, and will leave that equipment here to benefit Anguilla. Local physicians will also be trained in this type of surgery for the benefit of the Anguillian population.

Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery or keyhole surgery, is a technique in which operations in the abdomen are performed through small incisions as compared to larger incisions needed in traditional surgeries. Advantages are less pain, shorter recovery time, and reduced blood loss.

The new team at the AHA is already making giant strides in following through with the changes and improvements that they have promised the people of Anguilla! It is hoped that this program will be only the ground floor of a very important program that will continue for years to come.

Left, guest speaker, Louis Price, thanked by Rotary Club President, Seymour Hodge.

Left, visiting surgeon, Dr. Randy Zuckerman, with Rotary President Seymour Hodge.

January 17, 2008 - Dental Health essential to one’s overall health

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Dental Health essential to one’s overall health
Dr. Lindel Brookes addresses the Rotary Club of Anguilla

Dr. Lindel Brookes, Prosthodontist and Senior Dental Surgeon with the Anguilla Health Authority, spoke to the Rotary Club of Anguilla at the regular Rotary Club meeting on January 17. Dr. Brookes led a very interesting and animated discussion about the proper and effective methods of cleaning one’s teeth. Preventative dental measures are important to all ages – the elderly included. It is important to take care of one’s teeth so that your teeth will last you a lifetime.

Good dental health will ensure the ability to chew food. The ability to chew one’s food determines one’s state of health. The immune system depends on one’s nutritional intake; consequently, the ability to chew food well is always important.

The bacteria associated with periodontal disease is the same bacteria that causes heart disease and stroke. Good overall health is not possible without good dental health.

Dr. Brookes spoke specifically about Dental Implant Therapy, and how there is much expectation of good results with today’s medical technology. Dental implants may be expensive, but not having teeth could be far more costly. The more education people have about good dental health, the more capable they are to make decisions regarding the quality of life.

Thank you to Dr. Brookes for sharing his knowledge and time with the Rotary Club of Anguilla. For more information about Rotary, check the website at www.rotaryanguilla.org.

In the photos: Dr. Lindel Brookes addresses the Rotary Club.

Rotarian Anne Edwards thanks Dr. Hughes for his presentation.

January 10, 2008 - Ms. Lynette Rogers of the Diabetes Association addresses the Rotary Club of Anguilla

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Ms. Lynette Rogers from the Anguilla Diabetes Association addressed the Rotary Club of Anguilla at its recent meeting on Thursday, January 10. She presented some very interesting facts about Diabetes on the island of Anguilla. Diabetes is a cause for concern on this little island. However, with education and with early detection, no one need fear the disease. I

Ms. Roger’s important message was, first and foremost, early detection. Get yourself tested! Early detection allows diabetes to be a very manageable disease. Also, keep yourself educated about what exactly diabetes is and what it means to be diabetic.

Diabetes is a disease related to genetics; however, other contributing factors include changes in our lifestyles. We are more sedentary than we were a few years ago. We are also eating more fatty and less healthy foods and snacks. We are too busy to take good care of ourselves, and it shows. People who are overweight and inactive are prime candidates for diabetes.

Currently, statistics show that 18 per cent of all Anguillians either have diabetes or are affected by diabetes. The Anguilla Diabetes Association hopes to work towards the most timely and effective management of diabetes care for persons with diabetes and those affected by diabetes. The Rotary Club of Anguilla has promised to assist the Anguilla Diabetes Association in its goals.

The Rotary Club of Anguilla is seeking to increase its membership in order to fulfil its goal of doing good works on the island. For more information about how you can become a member of the Rotary Club of Anguilla, please contact any Rotarian. The club meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Shown in the photos are Ms. Lynette Rogers of the Anguilla Diabetes Association and Rotary President, Seymour Hodge.

How Rotary is Truly International - Week of December 17, 2007

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HOW ROTARY IS TRULY INTERNATIONAL

Rotary International is the first service organization and already has accomplished a wonderful century of service. The scope of Rotary service is limited only by the imagination of its members. In this short article, by Daphne Su for Rotary International News, we see that U.S. Rotarians have made life better for school children in Cuba! ...and just in time for Christmas! How remarkable!

U.S. Rotarians aid Cuban schoolchildren

Julio Garreaud, international service chair of the Rotary Club of Hispano-Latinos of Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, was strolling down a street in Havana, Cuba, when he passed by a local school.

"I caught a glimpse of children in class. Everything – their chairs, tables – [was] very used, of poor quality," he recalls. "That moment created my desire to make a difference with schools."

Garreaud asked 40 Rotarians, friends, and relatives to help him deliver school supplies to Cuba from 23 November to 1 December 2007. They transported about 2,000 pounds of pencils, writing pads, scissors, and other supplies worth US$6,000 to Havana, as well as clothing, shoes, and five wheelchairs. They visited an art school, high school, and an elementary school, chosen as recipients by Garreaud's local contacts.

"Most people don’t realize the situation in Cuba," he says.

Garreaud secured travel permits through a Cuban friend who owns a travel agency. Current U.S. rules allow volunteers to travel to Cuba on humanitarian missions.

Each participant covered all their own travel expenses, plus $500 as a donation to the project. This is the first international project for the Hispano-Latinos club, which was just chartered in March.

For more information about Rotary, and how you might join this prestigious organization, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose. Next meeting is January 3, 2008.

PEACE - Rotary - Humanity in Motion

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...Week of December 10, 2007

December is Family month on the Rotary calendar.

Rotary International is a prestigious global organization that promotes fun, friendship, and family. With the Christmas season approaching, PEACE may be a very appropriate theme.

The District 7020 Governor, Dick McCombe from Nassau, was in Anguilla last week for a visit.

His purpose was to inspire the club to bigger and better things.

To show that Rotary is all about having fun while serving the community, while inspecting the playground equipment at Road Elementary School, he actually tried it out, as you can see in the photograph.

Others in the photo with the District Governor are Rotarians Ralph Smith, Seymour Hodge (Current President of the Anguilla Club), and the Assistant District Governor from St. Maarten, Louis Wever.

PEACE. Udo. Heiwa. Paz. Frieden. Salam. Pace. He ping. Fred. Shalom. Paix. Shanti. Peace.

Some ideas resonate in any language. That’s why Rotary has developed educational programs and provides scholarships around the world to promote peace and conflict resolution.

Together we can create a more peaceful world.

For more information about Rotary, and how you can become part of this prestigious organization. check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

RI joins forced with Bill Gates - December 3, 2007

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Rotary International and Gates Foundation together commit $200 million to eradicate polio

EVANSTON, Ill., U.S.A. (Nov. 26, 2007) -- Rotary International today announced a partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that will inject a much-needed US$200 million into the global campaign to eradicate polio, a crippling and sometimes fatal disease that still paralyzes children in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East and threatens children everywhere.

The Rotary Foundation has received a $100-million Gates Foundation grant, which Rotary will raise funds to match, dollar-for-dollar, over three years. The Evanston-based volunteer service organization will spend the initial $100 million within one year in direct support of immunization activities carried out by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), a partnership spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), Rotary International, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and UNICEF.

"The extraordinary dedication of Rotary members has played a critical role in bringing polio to the brink of eradication," says Bill Gates, cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "Eradicating polio will be one of the most significant public health accomplishments in history, and we are committed to helping reach that goal."

The polio eradication grant is one of the largest challenge grants ever given by the Gates Foundation and the largest grant received by Rotary in its 102-year history. Polio eradication has been Rotary’s top priority since 1985. Since then, Rotary has contributed $633 million to the eradication effort.

"Rotary members worldwide have worked very hard over the years to reach this point, and it is rewarding to see our approach validated in such a significant way by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation," says Dr. Robert Scott, who leads Rotary’s polio eradication effort and chairs The Rotary Foundation, the not-for-profit charitable arm of Rotary that will administer the grant. "We hope that this shared commitment of Rotary and the Gates Foundation will challenge other donors – including foundations, governments and nongovernmental organizations – to step up and make sure we have the resources needed to rid the world of polio once and for all."

Adds Rotary International President Wilfrid J. Wilkinson: "This endorsement of Rotary's polio eradication efforts by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is just the catalyst and challenge Rotary members need to keep our promise to the children of the world that polio will be eradicated."

Founded in Chicago in 1905, Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders who provide humanitarian service and help to build goodwill and peace in the world. Rotary’s global membership is approximately 1.2 million men and women who belong to more than 32,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.

For more information about Rotary, and how you can become a part of this prestigious organization, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

The Magic of Rotary - November 26, 2007

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The magic of Rotary

District Governor for Rotary District 7020, Richard McCombe, from Nassau, will be in Anguilla to visit the Rotary Club of Anguilla on December 6, 2007. This club visit will be just one of many he has made during his year as District Governor.

DG Richard writes the following:

The theme for this year, “Rotary Shares”, best describes the special common thread that binds us as Rotarians – the personal commitment to share our time, our talents, our treasure and our empathy, as we provide “Service above self” to the communities of the world. Our compassion and our ability to open our hearts to those in need, combined with our commitment to share our time, talent, and treasures for those who are less fortunate, is also what makes Rotary so magical.

-- Like the magic you see in the eyes of a person receiving their first wheelchair and for the first time they can get around on their own

-- Like the magic of the smile of a child when you give them their first book

-- Like the magic of happy faces when you bring a water well to a community.

This is the Magic that causes ordinary Rotarians such as ourselves to do the extraordinary things we do. Rotary’s magical contribution to the needy in the world begins with every Rotarian’s desire to help others. Without the individual Rotarians in the clubs throughout the world, Rotary would not exist. The needy would suffer even more than they do today.

Be proud of the accomplishments Rotary has achieved in the world. But more than anything, be proud of the part Rotarians have played in making the world a better place.

As Group Study Exchange member, William Simkins, said so well at our District Conference a few months ago, “Everything we do is History in the making. Let History and our Legacy show that as Rotarians we do not give what we can spare or what we have that is extra, but that we give of ourselves in our passion to make the world a better place.”

To continue to do the good in the world, we must continue to grow Rotary. Share Rotary with others and share our accomplishments. Find like-minded individuals from our Family of Rotary and bring them into our organization in whatever way best suits them. Our combined efforts and growth will help us to continue to do the good in the world that we are known for.

Come Share the Magic of Rotary.

For more information about Rotary, check the local website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary and the United Nations - November 19, 2007

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A little Rotary History

Rotary International is the world's first service club organization. Its more than 1.2 million members volunteer their time and talent to further the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

Throughout its history, Rotary International has collaborated with the United Nations, governments, and nongovernmental organizations to improve the human condition.

The greatest example of Rotary’s effective collaborations is its flagship program, PolioPlus, which aims to eradicate polio worldwide. Working with spearheading partners UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization, Rotary has contributed over US$600 million and countless volunteer hours to help immunize more than two billion children against the crippling and often fatal disease.

Cooperative efforts are also a key element of Rotary’s local service. Rotary clubs in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, for example, have worked with Habitat for Humanity to build houses for deserving families in the community. Similar collaborations have helped Rotary’s 1.2 million club members promote goodwill, service, world understanding, and peace in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.

Rotary and the United Nations have a long history of working together and sharing similar visions for a more peaceful world.

In 1942, Rotary clubs from 21 nations organized a conference in London to develop a vision for advancing education, science, and culture after World War II. That event was a precursor to UNESCO. In 1945, 49 Rotarians went to San Francisco to help draft the UN Charter. Rotary and the UN have been close partners ever since, a relationship that’s apparent through PolioPlus and work with UN agencies.

For more information about Rotary, check the local website

http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

(Source: Rotary International news)

World Interact Week - November 12, 2007

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WORLD INTERACT WEEK

Anguilla’s Rotary Interact Club has been newly revived. Congratulations to all who are participants in this exciting and inspiring venture.

Last week – November 5 through 11 – was Rotary World Interact Week. What is INTERACT?

Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young people. Made up of members ages 14-18 or secondary-school age, Interact gives young people an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects. Along the way, Interactors develop their leadership skills and initiative while meeting new friends.

Through their service activities, Interactors learn the importance of

• Developing leadership skills and personal integrity
• Demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others
• Understanding the value of individual responsibility and hard work
• Advancing international understanding and goodwill

Interactors have access to the many resources of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation of RI. Rotary International provides the administrative support that helps Interact clubs thrive.

When RI President Harold T. Thomas traveled the world during his year in office in 1959-60, he discovered a deep and widespread feeling among Rotarians that Rotary’s potential for developing youth service had not been fully realized. In 1960, Thomas appointed a committee of five Rotarians to explore the issue, and two years later, 23 students at Melbourne High School in Melbourne, Florida, USA, came together to form the first Interact club.

The word Interact stands for “international action,” and today nearly 200,000 young people in more than 110 countries belong to some 8,700 clubs, making Interact a truly international phenomenon. All over the world, young people are spreading fellowship and international understanding through a wide array of Interact service activities.

The newly-revived Anguilla Interact Club meets at 3:15 p.m. every Wednesday in Room 6 at the high school.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary's Polio Efforts - November 5, 2007

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STAR POWER ADDED TO ROTARY’S POLIO EFFORTS

November is Rotary Foundation month, and it is the Rotary Foundation’s efforts worldwide that have helped to reduce the incidence of poliomyelitis to almost nothing in the world today. That eradication effort began for Rotary in 1986, when there were nearly 1000 new cases every single day. Now, there are many fewer than 1000 newer cases every year.

Rotarians from all over the world take part in National Immunization Days (NIDs) during which they administer oral polio vaccine to young children in the affected countries. Because it’s an oral vaccine, the one administering the medicine does not have to be a doctor or nurse – and that is why the ordinary Rotarian can get involved and make a difference.

Recently, Rotary International News reported that a little “star power” was added to this polio effort in Ethiopia. An excerpt follows:

Rotarians taking part in a polio immunization campaign in Ethiopia recently enjoyed a boost of star power for the eradication effort. Singer Beyoncé Knowles, scheduled to perform in Addis Ababa, met the group and helped administer the oral polio vaccine before taking the stage on 20 October.

"Beyoncé was so impressed with Rotary’s commitment to not only provide funding but to make the trip to administer the vaccine," said Ezra Teshome, of the Rotary Club of University District of Seattle, Washington, USA, who led the effort. Teshome immigrated to the United States from Ethiopia in 1971 and has headed up seven other immunization drives in his homeland.

The fight to end polio has made significant progress in Ethiopia, which has not reported a single case of the disease this year. The country recorded 22 cases in 2005 and 17 in 2006 after an outbreak in the Horn of Africa.

In addition to raising and contributing funds, over one million Rotarians have volunteered their time and personal resources to help vaccinate more than two billion children in 122 countries during national immunization campaigns.

Source: Rotary International News - 30 October 2007

Humanitarian Award - October 29, 2007

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ROTARY INTERNATIONAL HONOURED - 2007 HUMANITARIAN AWARD

The United Nations Association of New York has honoured Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation of RI with its 2007 Humanitarian Award on 25 October, in recognition of Rotary’s significant efforts to provide safe water and sanitation and its commitment to sustainable development worldwide.

"In the years since Rotary International has started focusing on water as one of its annual service emphases…we’ve learned just how much can be accomplished with relatively little, how a single small water project, perhaps a pump or a filter, can change the life of a community," says RI President Wilfrid J. Wilkinson. "However, our work has also included participation in many other major water projects."

The award is presented annually in observance of United Nations Day (24 October). This year's award ceremony focused on the global water crisis. Other honorees include Antony Burgmans, former chair of Unilever, and Cirque du Soleil's One Drop Foundation for their deep commitment to water care initiatives and sustainable development.

Prof. Jeffrey D. Sachs, director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University and special adviser to the UN secretary-general, served as honourary chair of the event.
Last October, the association honoured Robert L. Corcoran, president of the General Electric Foundation and Ann M. Veneman, executive director of UNICEF, for their significant work in global education.

The proceeds from the black-tie dinner will benefit organizations and enterprises working to alleviate water-related problems around the world.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose. You too can be part of this exceptional organization.

Commitment to End Polio - Week of October 22, 2007

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ROTARY’S COMMITMENT TO END POLIO

Rotary and its spearheading partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative remain committed to reaching all children with the oral polio vaccine (OPV).

Nigeria is one of only four countries where the spread of the wild poliovirus has not been stopped. Since the outbreak was identified in August 2006, four mass immunization campaigns have been completed, and more are scheduled.

More than 70 Rotarians from the United States and Canada volunteered this past weekend with fellow Rotarians, volunteers, and health workers to administer the oral polio vaccine to children as part of a nationwide immunization campaign in Ethiopia 18-20 October.

Significant progress has been made toward ending polio in Ethiopia, which has not reported a single case of the disease this year. The country recorded 22 cases in 2005 and 17 in 2006 after an outbreak in the Horn of Africa. Vigilant surveillance remains critical, especially during the upcoming season of traditional pilgrimages that bring many travelers to the region.

For as little as 60 cents worth of vaccine, a child can be protected against this crippling disease for life. To date, the annual number of polio cases worldwide has been reduced from 350,000 in the mid-1980s to approximately 2,000 cases in 2006. Only four countries – Afghanistan, India, Nigeria, and Pakistan – are still polio endemic.

Rotary’s commitment to end polio represents the largest-ever private sector support of a global health initiative. In 1985, Rotary members worldwide vowed to immunize all the world’s children against polio. Since then, Rotary has contributed US$620 million to polio eradication, of which $7.7 million has supported immunization campaigns in Ethiopia.

In addition to raising and contributing funds, over one million Rotarians have volunteered their time and personal resources to help immunize more than two billion children in 122 countries during national immunization campaigns.

For more information about Rotary, check our local website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose. You, too, can become part of this excellent organization.

(source: Rotary International news)

Rotary around the World highlights Vocational Service Month - Week of October 15, 2007

2007-10-15T10:12:00.001-07:00

ROTARY AROUND THE WORLD HIGHLIGHTS VOCATIONAL SERVICE MONTH.

Rotary International reports that teenaged students in a troubled neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, are being given a chance at a promising future. Teenagers are learning to bake bread with the idea of preparing them for the job market as they pursue their regular studies.

Three Rotary Clubs from Rio de Janeiro joined forced with clubs in Germany and India to put together this exciting program. Together, they were able to gather club and Rotary District funding of US $33,000 with which they purchased industrial baking equipment, including an oven, a kneading machine, and a mixer to set up shop just a few doors away from the school.

Brazilian Rotarians have been partnering for the past decade with clubs from Germany and elsewhere on a series of 17 Matching Grant projects to help young people from the community, which struggles with unemployment, drugs, and prostitution. Projects have included providing nutritious lunches and offering shop and graphic arts courses.

“Today, more than 5,000 children are safe, off the streets, and have a future because Rotarians care,” said Past District 4570 Governor Adélia Villas, a longtime Rotarian volunteer at the site.

In May, students baked their first product: French rolls. “I am really happy,” said 16-year-old Nayara Araújo de Oliveira. “I never thought the bread would turn out so tasty. Now this is my favorite class. I like being able to see the results of our work so fast.”

Noting how the students shared their first bread with the kindergarten children, District Governor Villas, said: “Here you can feel the love that exists in this school. You see how different this school is from others.”

Through Rotary, a better world is possible.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose. You too can be part of this exceptional organization.

October is Vocational Service Month

2007-10-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL DESIGNATES OCTOBER AS
VOCATIONAL SERVICE MONTH - October 8, 2007

The second of the four Avenues of Service, Vocational Service, fosters and supports the application of the Ideal of Service in pursuit of all vocations. Inherent in the Vocational Service Ideal are :

1. Adherence to, and promotion of, the highest ethical standards in all occupations, including loyalty to employers, employees, and associates, and fair treatment of those with whom one has business or professional relations;

2. The recognition of the worthiness to society of all useful occupations; and

3. The contribution of one's vocational talents to the problems and needs of society.

Vocational Service is the responsibility of both a Rotary club and its members. The role of the club is to develop projects that help members contribute their vocational talents. The role of members is to conduct their professional lives in accordance with Rotary principles and to share in projects which the club has developed.

Vocational Service evolved from the classifications principle - a feature originally unique to Rotary that limited active membership to one representative from each business or profession. This classification system remains the basis for each Rotarian's personal obligation in Vocational Service - to serve as a representative of that classification within the club. This knowledge and experience gives each club the resources to complete projects that address all aspects of the second Avenue of Vocational Service.

THE FOUR-WAY TEST

Rotarians are concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives. They embrace the philosophy of "The Four-Way Test," written in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor after he took over a company that faced bankruptcy.

It asks the following four questions:

"Of the things we think, say or do:

1. Is it the TRUTH?

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

October - Rotary Vocational Service Month - Week of October 1, 2007

2007-09-29T08:48:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER – ROTARY VOCATIONAL SERVICE MONTH

Every 14 hours of every day a new Rotary club is chartered in one of the more than 150 countries in which Rotary exists. This steady growth in new clubs is extremely important in extending the worldwide programs and influence of Rotary International. New Rotary clubs may be established anywhere in the world where the fundamental principles of Rotary may be freely observed and wherever it can reasonably be expected that a successful club can be maintained.

In the annual Rotary calendar, several months are designated to emphasize major programs of Rotary International. October is Vocational Service Month. During this period, clubs highlight the importance of the business and professional life of each Rotarian. Special activities promote the vocational avenue of service.

Of great importance to Rotarians and their vocations is the Four Way Test. This “test” provides guidelines for the ethical conduct of Rotarians in what they think, say and do:

1. Is it the truth?
2. Is it fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Rotarians are successful professional and business executives who follow these guidelines in their daily lives. Once a week, the opportunity for Rotary fellowship occurs at each club meeting. Warm and personal friendship is the cornerstone of every great Rotary club.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary in the Public Eye - Week of September 24, 2007

2007-09-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

ROTARY IN THE PUBLIC EYE

When Rotarians think of Rotary, we think of our noble goals and motives. When the world thinks of Rotary, it can think only of our actions and the service we have performed.

Rotary International has performed countless humanitarian projects around the world. Rotary is an organization of business and professional people united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

The Rotary Club of Anguilla has a proud history since its inception in 1978. For more than ten years, the local Rotary Club, under the direction of Rotarian Dr. David Bergland, now a retired veterinarian and Honourary Rotarian, sent crippled children to Shiners’ Hospital in Chicago every year for remedial treatment.

For several years, the Club held a "land raffle" in which over US$100,000.00 was raised and dispensed in educational, musical and audio visual equipment for the schools of Anguilla.

In addition to the land raffle, for many years, the Club held an annual "car raffle" in which approximately US$25,000.00 was raised each year for funding materials and resources for the schools, hospital and clinics around the island. Over a period of several years, a playground was built in each of the primary schools of the island. This project was under the direction of Rotarian Paul Neuss, now deceased.

Emergency relief. The Club has rebuilt roofs of houses that were damaged in hurricanes, repainted old peoples’ homes, and contributed to emergency relief in neighbouring islands as required.

The Club has also donated wheelchairs, crutches, and canes to those in need.

For more information about Rotary, and how you might become a member of this prestigious organization, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

New Generations Month - Week of September 17, 2007

2007-09-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

September - Rotary New Generations Month

September is New Generations Month. It could be called “the month of our future” because investing in our youth is our future. Rotarians take pride in the fact that we have youth programs for just about every age group with Rotarians serving as active, caring sponsors.

Interact. Interact is a program for students ages 14-18. Interact clubs can be based in the community or in schools. The school does not “take over” entirely, but works closely with the sponsoring Rotary club to implement meetings and projects. Interact clubs support many of the same causes that Rotary clubs do. For example, Interactors have helped raise funds for tsunami victims, organize outings for poor children, and renovate homes in developing countries.

Rotaract. Rotaract is a service club for students ages 18-30. Rotaractors can meet either at a community establishment or at a school. Rotaract clubs are able to take on more ambitious projects and work more independently. They generally focus on professional development, public speaking, and career development.
RYLA. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (better known as RYLA) usually operates as a camp and is sponsored by multiple districts. Rotarians and young people from all over the region meet and exchange ideas. Rotarians run the seminars and incorporate recreational and cultural activities.

Youth Exchange. Perhaps the most popular program of all is Youth Exchange, which allows students ages 15-19 to experience another way of life by living abroad with a host family. The student is often immersed in a new language, new religion, new political system, new currency, and new traditions. The student will find friends in the host country and create a friendship that will last forever.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Definition of Rotary - Week of September 10, 2007

2007-09-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

Definition of Rotary

How do you describe the organization called “Rotary”? There are so many characteristics of a Rotary club as well as the activities of a million Rotarians. There are the features of service, internationality, fellowship, classifications of each vocation, development of goodwill and world understanding, the emphasis of high ethical standards, concern for other people and many more descriptive qualities.

In 1976, the Rotary International Board of Directors was interested in creating a concise definition of the fundamental aspects of Rotary. They turned to the three men who were then serving on Rotary’s Public Relations Committee and requested that a one-sentence definition of Rotary be prepared. After numerous drafts, the committee presented this definition, which has been used ever since in various Rotary publications:

“Rotary is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build peace and goodwill in the world.”
Those 31 words are worth remembering when someone asks, “What is a Rotary Club?”

The current Rotary International President, Wilf Wilkinson, gives this advice: "I ask you all, this year, to share Rotary freely and fully. Work hard, and work with love. And remember that everything you do in service to others is part of the magic of Rotary, the magic that allows ordinary people, like you and me, to do absolutely amazing things."

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

(Source: ABCs of Rotary)

Sharing Rotary - Week of September 3, 2007

2007-09-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

Sharing Rotary

Over 400 Rotarians and their guests gathered in Fort Lauderdale Florida USA on 24-25 August 2007 at the seventh and final Presidential Conference this Rotary year specifically focused on membership development and retention.

Attendees heard from several speakers, engaged in two panel discussions and interacted with others in structured networking exercises -- all in pursuit of strengthening the organization by attracting, recruiting and retaining Rotary club members.

Rotary International Director Barry Rassin, the convener of the conference, spoke of his own experiences in Rotary and how much the organization has become a part of his life. He emphasized the importance of remembering the tremendous favor that ever Rotarian is first given when a membership offer is extended. He extolled those at the conference to return the favor by, in turn, recruiting others to become Rotarians, too.

In addresses the evening before the conference and during the daylong conference itself Rotary International President Wifrid J. “Wilf” Wilkinson made it clear that the opportunity -- and the responsibility -- of keeping Rotary International a strong, vibrant organization is in the hands of current Rotary club members.

“Never in our history has the world needed more that which Rotary provides through projects, programs and hope for the future,” said President Wilf.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Source: Rotary International

Rotary's Wheel Emblem - Week of August 27, 2007

2007-08-24T19:24:00.000-07:00

Rotary’s Wheel Emblem

A wheel has been the symbol of Rotary since our earliest days. The first design was made by Chicago Rotarian Montague Bear, an engraver who drew a simple wagon wheel, with a few lines to show dust and motion. The wheel was said to illustrate “Civilization and Movement.” Most of the early clubs had some form of wagon wheel on their publications and letterheads.

Finally, in 1922, it was decided that all Rotary clubs should adopt a single design as the exclusive emblem of Rotarians. Thus, in 1923, the present gear wheel, with 24 cogs and six spokes was adopted by the “Rotary International Association.”

A group of engineers advised that the geared wheel was mechanically unsound and would not work without a “keyway” in the center of the gear to attach it to a power shaft. So, in 1923, the keyway was added and the design which we now know was formally adopted as the official Rotary International emblem.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

…from The ABCs of Rotary

Fellowship along with Service - Week of August 20, 2007

2007-08-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

Rotary means Fellowship along with Service

From the earliest days of Rotary, members have referred to each other on a first-name basis. Since personal acquaintanceship and friendship are cornerstones of Rotary, it was natural that many clubs adopted the practice of setting aside formal titles in conversations among members. Individuals who normally would be addressed as Doctor, Professor, Mister, the Honourable, or Sir are regularly called Joe, Bill, Charley, or Jerry by other Rotarians. The characteristic Rotary club name badge fosters the first-name custom.

In other parts of the world, mainly in Asian countries, the practice is to assign each new Rotarian a humorous nickname which relates to some personal characteristic or which is descriptive of the member’s business or profession. A member nicknamed “Oxygen” is the manufacturer of chemical gas products. “Trees” is the nickname for the Rotarian in the lumber business, “Building” is the contractor, and “Paper” is the stationery or office supply retailer. Other members might carry nicknames like “Muscles, “Foghorn” or “Smiles” as commentaries on their physical features.

The nicknames are frequently a source of good-natured fun and fellowship. But whether a Rotarian is addressed by a given first name or a nickname, the spirit of personal friendship is the initial step which opens doors to all other opportunities for service.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

[Source: The ABCs of Rotary]

Exchanging banners - Week of August 13, 2007

2007-08-11T06:28:00.001-07:00

Rotary Traditions - Exchanging banners

One of the colourful traditions of many Rotary clubs is the exchange of small banners, flags or pennants. Rotarians traveling to distant locations often take banners to exchange at “make-up” meetings as a token of friendship. Many clubs use the decorative banners they have received for attractive displays at club meetings and district events.

The Rotary International board recognized the growing popularity of the banner exchange back in 1959 and suggested that those clubs which participate in such exchanges give careful thought to the design of their banners in order they be distinctive and expressive of the community and country of which the club is a part. It is recommended that banners include pictures, slogans or designs which portray the territorial area of the club.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Shown in the photograph is Rotarian Ralph Smith recently exchanging banners with the Rotary Club of Nassau.

A Century of Service - Week of August 6, 2007

2007-08-07T09:30:00.001-07:00

Rotary - A Century of Service

Rotary International, the world’s first service organization, was founded by Paul Harris in 1905. Within a few years after that founding, Rotary had grown immensely and had become a powerful force for world peace and service to humanity. “Rotarians not only sensed that they had an organization in which they could enjoy fun and fellowship, but also were beginning to believe they could make the world a better place.”

Ethics and service became a large part of Rotary’s policy even in the early years. “During the worst days of World War II, Rotarians in England convened a conference on education and cultural exchange, and that meeting subsequently led to the formation of UNESCO, one of the agencies of the United Nations. When the UN charter was signed, Rotarians were serving as ambassadors and ministers, captains of industry, and religious leaders of all faiths.”

Some characteristics and principles have been paramount to Rotary’s success through the years. Rotarians maintain a commitment to tolerance, high ethical standards, fellowship among members, community service – especially toward children – and world peace.

Rotary shares is the international theme for this year, and Rotarians have shared their time and efforts since the first club was founded. They continue to share their time and efforts to serve their communities today.

For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

(With excerpts from A Century of Service by David C. Forward)

Rotary Ideals - July 30, 2007

2007-07-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

ROTARY IDEALS

Rotary – the world’s first service organization – is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

Here are some words and wisdom of Paul Harris, founder of Rotary International.

…about Tolerance:

“Friendship was the foundation rock on which Rotary was built and tolerance is the element which holds it together. There is enough atomic energy in every Rotary Club to blow it into a thousand bits were it not for the spirit of tolerance.”

…from a message to the Rotary Club of Buffalo in 1922

“Rotary has succeeded because in Rotary the standing of a man depends upon his deeds, not his creeds; and because its course leads toward the brightest and most alluring human objectives: the brotherhood of man.”

…from The Rotarian magazine in February, 1916

“The rise and fall of civilization will depend upon the thoughtfulness or the thoughtlessness of men. The greatest thing that can happen to man or nation is to stimulate the individual or the national thoughtfulness.”

…from The Rotarian magazine, September 1912

“The importance of placing and maintaining Rotary standards and ideals aloft cannot be overestimated. The star of hope in the Rotary ethical firmament must be high. It is hardly possible for it to be too high. May it be high enough so that there will always be something to strive for.”

…from The Rotarian magazine, February 1921

“The only way anyone can prove his love of his fellow man is through service to his fellow man.”

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

If you have more than you need, you are wealthy - July 23, 2007

2007-07-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

If you have more than you need, you are wealthy

The last day of the recent 2007 Rotary International Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, showcased the variety of service opportunities Rotarians enjoy, from working on grassroots projects to serving at the highest levels of Rotary International’s leadership.

Two are mentioned here, taken from the Rotary International website.

A young woman from Turkey, Emine Yüzay, gave a moving speech highlighting how the results of Rotarians’ service can expand and multiply. Five years ago, Yüzay, who was born without arms, was an illiterate 17-year-old. Then she took part in a Rotary-sponsored Concentrated Language Encounter (CLE) program in her working-class neighborhood of Istanbul.

After learning to write with her feet, Yüzay now teaches other women to read and write, demonstrating the ripple effect that so many Rotary programs have. “I tried to do my best to pass what I had learned in CLE courses to other women,” she said. “I have never felt so proud and confident in my entire life.”

This spring, the Rotary Club of Istanbul arranged for Yüzay to receive prosthetic arms, which she is still learning to use. She said that she was astonished recently when she heard of a recent RI theme: Lend a Hand. “Now,” she told the assembled Rotarians, “your hands are mine, and my hands are yours.”

Hyrum Smith, a member of the Rotary Club of Salt Lake City, inspired Rotarians with his talk about what he called the abundance mentality. “When you can look in the mirror and say, I have sufficient for my needs, at that moment, you are wealthy,” he said. Smith encouraged Rotarians to decide whether they have more than they need, and if so, to use the difference to do good in the world.

You too can become a Rotarian. You too can make a difference in the world while enjoying the opportunities for fellowship and service. Please take time to learn about Rotary. It will be well worth your time! Then you will no longer have to ask "What is Rotary?"

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Shines Again - July 16, 2007

2007-07-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Rotary Shines Again

Rotary strives to promote peace through education. Since 1947, The Rotary Foundation has awarded more than $1.1 billion in humanitarian and educational grants and is one of the world’s largest privately funded sources of international scholarships.

– Rotary Centers for International Studies in Peace and Conflict Resolution is a two-year master’s-level program that trains future diplomats and leaders in the art of peace building and conflict resolution. The program selects and sends up to 60 Rotary World Peace Fellows annually to study at seven participating universities worldwide.

– Rotary awards approximately 1,000 Ambassadorial Scholarships yearly to university students around the globe to study in another country for three months to two years. These students serve as ambassadors of goodwill.

– Rotary Youth Exchange. Some 8,000 teenage students around the world participate in Rotary’s Youth Exchange program each year. Participants study in another country and learn about its history,
language, and culture.

– Rotary’s Group Study Exchange (GSE) is a unique four-to-six week cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for young professionals ages 25 to 40.

Anguillians are eligible to participate in any of these programs. Please keep us in mind as you approach graduation or post-secondary study.

For more information, please check our website – www.rotaryanguilla.org – or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Why I am a Rotarian - July 9, 2007

2007-07-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

WHY I AM A ROTARIAN

The new Rotary International President is Wilfrid Wilkinson from Canada. He tells why he is a Rotarian in the following, first published in 2006:

“I was looking for an organization which would allow me to combine my professional activities with a desire to serve my community, which had been instilled in me by my father from a very young age. When a man I came to know as the district commissioner for the Trenton, Ontario, Canada, Boy Scouts contacted me, I could not refuse to meet him.

“Accompanying my proposer was another Rotarian who went to the same church that my family and I attended.

“Something they said to my wife, Joan, and me struck a chord. Associating with the business leaders of Trenton, a town where we had lived for less than two years, was very appealing.

“Small towns are great for raising a family, but getting to know people socially was something both Joan and I wanted. Knowledge of Rotary’s programmes, first locally and then internationally, captured my imagination and allowed me to progress from being a new member to an involved Rotarian.

“Experiencing an international convention in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1964 fanned the flames for service and showed m the true inter-nationality of Rotary.

“During the odd peaceful moment, Joan and I often think of the towns and cities we would not have visited, the speakers and world leaders we would not have heard, the truly great international projects that we would not have seen, and the friends that we would not have known if I had not been asked to join Rotary in November of 1962.”

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Fellowships - Another reason to join Rotary

2007-07-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

Another reason to join Rotary – Fellowships!

The Rotary Club is the world’s first service club, formed in 1905 in Chicago by Paul Harris. Since that time, Rotary has grown to include 1.2 million members and clubs in more than 200 countries around the world.

The Rotary Club offers members many benefits in addition to the opportunity to serve their communities. Rotary Fellowships is one of those benefits, and yet Rotary Fellowships seem to be one of the best kept Rotary secrets.

A ROTARY FELLOWSHIP is a group of Rotarians who unite themselves separately from Rotary International to pursue a specific worthwhile activity which advances the Object of Rotary. Fellowships are formed around interests or hobbies, so Rotarians with those similar interests can get together to promote Rotary at the same time as enjoying their personal interests.

A Fellowship includes Rotarians in at least three countries. Rotarians from all over the world share their passions and do the good works of Rotary through those avenues.

Some Fellowships that may interest Anguillians are the following international fellowships:

--Cricket-Loving Rotarians
--Dog-Owning Rotarians
--Fishing Rotarians
--Home Exchange Rotarians
--Rotarian Lawyers
--Rotarian Physicians
--Rotary-on-Stamps
--Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians
--Wine Appreciation Fellowship

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

July is Literacy Month - June 25, 2007

2007-07-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

Literacy and Rotary International – July is Rotary Literacy Month

For many years, Rotarians have been active in efforts to reduce illiteracy, from building schools and paying salaries of teachers to serving as tutors to collecting and distributing books and audiovisual materials to libraries. Rotarians are working with governments to create large-scale replicable literacy projects in the developing world.

The RI Board of Directors has designated July as Literacy Month, a perfect time for Rotary clubs to develop their own literacy projects as well as raise awareness of Rotarian efforts worldwide to eradicate illiteracy.

Considerable progress has been made in recent decades in reducing illiteracy; yet, close to a billion people lack the most basic literacy and numeracy skills. Millions more are functionally illiterate, lacking the skills necessary to meet the demands of everyday life. UNESCO illuminates some of the greatest challenges for those tackling illiteracy:

-- 98 per cent of the world’s illiterate population is in developing countries
-- 50 per cent of the world’s illiterate people live in India and China
-- More than 50 per cent of the population of Africa is illiterate
-- 2/3 of all those who lack literacy and numeracy skills are women
-- More than 130 million school-age children are not attending classes

When reading with your child, every story can be an exciting and fun learning opportunity! Here are some tips to make it happen:

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE

Pick a convenient time to read with your child each day. Many families find bedtime ideal. Other times may include after a meal, in the tub or after school. Keep a book with you while you’re out of the house in case you have to wait somewhere with your child. Try to read to your child at least once a day.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotarians Make a Difference - June 18, 2007

2007-07-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Rotarians make a difference

Rotarians around the world make a huge difference in the lives of individuals and communities. The Rotarian, Rotary’s long-standing international magazine, provides some excellent quotations from prominent Rotarians through the years:

…on Rotary’s support for humanitarian initiatives

“Rotary has the ability to organize campaigns to mobilize support for some of the worthiest causes that exist, and that makes Rotary a precious resource.” (Kofi Annan, secretary-general of the UN)

…on women in Rotary

“Just the face of Rotary has changed. But Rotary’s commitment to service has not changed -- and that’s why we join, because we want to serve.” (Sylvia Whitlock, first female president of a Rotary club)

…on Rotary ethics

“In order for us to improve the world in which we live, each Rotarian must show high ethical standards in private life and professional life. Rotary does not force members to act with integrity; these qualities must be present in the heart and mind of each Rotarian.” (Paul L. Santens, RI director, 1995-97)

…on Rotary and peace

“I am convinced that a just and lasting peace will never b achieved with the military weapons of war; but rather, it will only be built using Rotary’s tools of peace – friendship, goodwill, tolerance, helpful humanitarian service, and car for those who live in poverty, hunger, and hopelessness.” (Clifford L. Dochterman, 1992-93 RI President)

For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Reaches out to the Community - June 11, 2007

2007-07-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

Rotary Reaches Out to the Community

Mother Teresa of Calcutta, India, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. She has been recognized and acclaimed throughout the world for her selflessness and her humanity. In 1981, Mother Teresa spoke the following at the Rotary International Convention in Sao Paulo, Brazil:

“If we really want to love, if we really want to live, we must love until it hurts…No Rotarian whose motto is Service Above Self, I think, should call himself a Rotarian if he does not make time to serve…If we love, we begin to serve. And this is where that beautiful motto begins that the Rotarians have made this year, Take Time to Serve.”

Every year, the Incoming Rotary International President adopts a motto. The motto for the current Rotary year is “Lead the Way.” The motto for the new year which begins July 1 is “Rotary Shares.”

The incoming president for the Rotary Club of Anguilla for the 2007-2008, Seymour Hodge, hopes to share Rotary with all Rotarians and all others on the island of Anguilla. It’s a chance to serve our community and make the world a better place.

Rotarians around the world make a huge difference in the lives of individuals and communities. For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

What you should know about Rotary - June 4, 2007

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What you should know about Rotary

What is Rotary. Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and helps build goodwill and peace in the world. Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 32,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.

Members. Members of a Rotary club are part of a diverse group of professional leaders working to address various community and international service needs, and to promote peace and understanding throughout the world. Rotary is the world’s first service club.

Benefits. The benefits of membership in the local Rotary Club are numerous: You will have

-- the opportunity to effect change for the better within the community
-- the opportunity to develop leadership skills, and
-- the opportunity to gain an understanding of — and have an impact on — international humanitarian issues.

As a Rotarian, you will also have the opportunity to develop relationships with community and business leaders.

District Conference. The Rotary District 7020 Conference 2007 was held in early May in the Cayman Islands.

International Conference. The International Conference for 2007 is planned for the week of June 18 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Even if you don’t travel as far abroad as Utah, you will have many chances to meet others like yourself in our own District 7020 which includes many of the islands in the Caribbean – Anguilla’s neighbours.

Rotarians around the world make a huge difference in the lives of individuals and communities. For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

A Caribbean Rotary History - May 28, 2007

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A little Caribbean Rotary history

Rotary International has been a strong and powerful force in the Caribbean since the late 1950s. The first club chartered in the district was The Rotary Club of St Thomas in 1957, followed by The Rotary Club of St Croix in 1958, and by The Rotary Club of Kingston, Jamaica, in 1959. Rotary International continued to charter non-district clubs; until 1973, there were some 41 clubs with charters.

The Rotary Club of Anguilla was chartered in 1978.

The District 7020 is composed of 68 clubs in 10 different countries or territories (as of July 1, 2006) :

- Anguilla - 1 club
- Bahamas (except Grand Bahama) - 7 clubs
- British Virgin Islands - 2 clubs
- Cayman Islands - 4 clubs
- French West Indies (St-Martin & St-Barthelemy only) - 3 clubs
- Haiti - 15 clubs
- Jamaica - 22 clubs
- Netherland Antilles (Sint-Maarten only) - 2 clubs
- Turks & Caicos - 2 clubs
- U.S. Virgin Islands - 10 clubs

The total Caribbean membership is 2,548 as of January 2004.

Rotary club members are part of a diverse group of professional leaders working to address various community and international service needs. Through community service and other means, Rotary club members help promote peace and understanding throughout the world. Our members are our most important asset. They are the force that allows Rotary to carry out its many humanitarian efforts and achieve its mission.

For more information about Rotary and how you might join us, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Disaster Relief - May 21, 2007

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Rotary assists in Disaster Relief

Rotary District 7020, which comprises Anguilla, includes a total of 64 Rotary Clubs in 10 different countries or territories.

The district is located in the Caribbean, on two geographical areas, separated by Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. On the West side, there are 46 clubs, including Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Haiti, Jamaica, and Cayman Islands. On the East side, there are 18 clubs: US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, French West Indies (St. Maarten and St. Bart’s) and Dutch St. Maarten.

Rotary International has recognized the need for disaster preparedness in this District. Rotary raised over $1.2 million USD for the community after Hurricane Ivan ravaged the Cayman Islands.

In January, 2007, numerous experts and Rotarians were brought together in a North American Disaster Relief Conference in New Orleans to address plans for dealing with similar disasters in the future.

A major concern being addressed is communication prior to, during, and after disasters. Rotarians are assisting in the set up and distribution of a Satellite Telephone system via Global Star. At present, the system is being tested in our District.

The Rotary District 7020 Disaster Relief Plan should be in place by May of 2008. The plan will likely include liaison with the various Government plans as well as other non-governmental organization in the islands and around the world.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Youth Exchange - May 14, 2007

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ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE

Since 1927, students and host families all over the world have had their horizons broadened and their lives enriched by the generosity of Rotary's Youth Exchange program.

Administered by Rotary clubs, districts and multidistrict groups, the program today involves more than 82 countries and over 8,000 students each year.

The first documented exchanges date back to 1927, when the Rotary Club of Nice, France, initiated exchanges with European students. Exchanges between clubs in California, USA, and Latin American countries began in 1939, and exchange activities spread to the eastern United States in 1958. In 1972, the RI Board of Directors agreed to recommend Youth Exchange to clubs worldwide as a worthwhile international activity that promotes global peace and understanding.

Long-term exchanges usually last for an academic year. Short-term exchanges vary from a few weeks to three months. You will not attend school on a short-term exchange, but you will most likely live with a host family.

Exposure to new cultures and ways of life can foster a better understanding between people from different lands. That understanding can be the foundation on which lasting peace and harmony can someday rest.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary is Friendship and Family - May 7, 2007

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ROTARY IS FRIENDSHIP AND FAMILY

Friendship and family are the foundation of Rotary. Friendship and family are the rock on which Rotary service is built.

Rotarians lead the way. Rotarians build lifelong friendships. Rotarians improve international understanding. Rotarians encourage tolerance of diversity in age, gender, ethnicity, culture, religion and profession. Rotarians promote world understanding and peace.

Rotary supports and nurtures the concept of the Family at the club level. Rotary fosters a sense of family atmosphere within our clubs. This family atmosphere contributes to membership growth. This family atmosphere helps us to strengthen our clubs and our commitment to service.

For more information about Rotary and the Family of Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Shares - April 23, 2007

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ROTARY SHARES

Are you someone who wishes to contribute to your community? Are you a former Rotarian? A potential Rotarian?

ROTARY is the world’s first service organization. Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

The theme for the upcoming Rotary year is Rotary Shares. Sharing Rotary does more than strengthen Rotary; it ensures that Rotary continues a second century of service. Rotary Shares means inviting people to join their local Rotary clubs.
Rotary Shares is a call to action.

The incoming president of the Anguilla club, Seymour Hodge, asks everyone to focus on sharing their leadership, skills, and dedication to the club to make Rotary stronger. Rotary will only be able to continue sharing if it continues to grow. Without new members, nothing else matters.

In addition to new members, the Rotary Club of Anguilla is also reaching out to former club members, including club members' widows and widowers. The opportunities you have to help your community or the world community-at-large may not come your way again.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Shares - April 16, 2007

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ROTARY SHARES

“The 2007-08 theme Rotary Shares will act as a daily reminder of what ordinary people can accomplish through the extraordinary work of Rotary,” said RI President-elect Wilfrid J. Wilkinson at the 2007 International Assembly recently in San Diego.

"What makes Rotary great is our expressing the love in our hearts through the work of our hands and our minds," said Wilkinson. "As Rotarians, we don't just sit back and talk about loving other human beings. As Rotarians, we demonstrate that love, and we share that love, through helping each other."

Almost everything Rotary does involves sharing, Wilkinson said. "We share our time, we share our talents, and we share our money with others who need our help."

Furthermore, he said, "In Rotary, sharing doesn't mean giving away what you have to spare, what you don't need for yourself. Sharing means giving of yourself, selflessly, for the good of others."

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Changes the World - April 9, 2007

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ROTARY CHANGES THE WORLD

Several of Rotary’s major programs are listed here in brief – PolioPlus, Humanitarian Grants, and Disaster Recovery.

Polioplus. Rotarians have mobilized by the hundreds of thousands to ensure that children are immunized against this crippling disease and that surveillance is strong, despite the poor infrastructure, extreme poverty, and civil strife of many countries. Since the PolioPlus program’s inception in 1985, more than two billion children have received oral polio vaccine.

To date, 210 countries, territories, and areas around the world are polio-free and 134 have been certified.

3-H Grants. Health, Hunger, and Humanity Grants fund large-scale, multi-year projects around the world that enhance health, alleviate hunger, or improve human development. Since 1978, 287 projects in 75 countries have been funded at a cost of $74 million. In 2005-2006, 11 new projects were approved. Program awards were $3.1 million.

Disaster Recovery. Created in 2005-2006, this program allows Rotarians to contribute funds in response to specific disasters. During 2005-2006, the Rotary Foundation provided monies for three Disaster Recovery efforts: Hurricanes Stan and Wilma (Guatemala and Mexico), Hurricane Wilma (USA), and the Earthquake in India and Pakistan. Total contributions to the three accounts were $1.3 million. Total awards in 2005-2006 totaled $1.6 million.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Means Service - April 2, 2007

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ROTARY MEANS SERVICE

Rotary follows Four Avenues of Service. The Four Avenues of Service are Rotary's philosophical cornerstone and the foundation on which club activity is based.
Club Service. Club Service focuses on strengthening fellowship and ensuring the effective functioning of the club.

Vocational Service. Vocational Service encourages Rotarians to serve others through their vocations and to practice high ethical standards.
Community Service. Community Service covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community.

International Service. International Service encompasses actions taken to expand Rotary's humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding and peace.

Rotary International through its clubs – including the Rotary Club of Anguilla -- carries out its main service objectives— in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world.

Rotarians develop community service projects that address many of today's most critical issues, such as children at risk, poverty and hunger, the environment, illiteracy, and violence. They also support programs for youth, educational opportunities and international exchanges for students, teachers, and other professionals, and vocational and career development.

The 4-way Test - March 26, 2007

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The Four-Way Test

From the earliest days of the organization, Rotarians were concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives. One of the world's most widely printed and quoted statements of business ethics is The Four-Way Test, which was created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor (who later served as RI president) when he was asked to take charge of a company that was facing bankruptcy.

This 24-word test for employees to follow in their business and professional lives became the guide for sales, production, advertising, and all relations with dealers and customers, and the survival of the company is credited to this simple philosophy.

Adopted by Rotary in 1943, The Four-Way Test has been translated into more than a hundred languages and published in thousands of ways. It asks the following four questions:

"Of the things Rotarians think, say or do:

1. Is it the TRUTH?

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"

Why Join a Rotary Club - March 19, 2007

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WHY JOIN A ROTARY CLUB?

There are many reasons why someone might join a local Rotary Club. In summary,

-- To bring about change within the community

-- To develop leadership skills

-- To gain an understanding of — and have an impact on — international humanitarian issues

-- To develop relationships with community and business

-- To gain a world network of friends and peers

Professional networking. The Rotary Club reflects the leadership in the community – owners, executives, managers, and professionals. These people make decisions and influence policy within the community. Members will find very interesting peers among the Rotary Club members.

Service opportunities. Rotary offers opportunities for humanitarian service in the local community or the international community. Rotarians who participate in service opportunities can contribute to improvements in health care and the environment, and can help try to eliminate hunger, poverty, and illiteracy.

International study/scholarship. Since 1946, Rotarians in Georgia, USA, have promoted world peace through understanding by offering scholarships to international students for one year of study in Georgia colleges and universities. Georgia Rotary Clubs sponsor students recommended by a Rotary Club in their home country.

The students become adopted members of a Georgia "host family," but live on-campus at the school they attend. This is a scholarship program, not an exchange!

Each year, about 80 students from all over the world make friends in the United States and other nations and learn about differing cultures and life styles. Georgia Rotarians believe "Peace is Possible" and through GRSP promote international goodwill through the bonds of friendship and understanding.

To be eligible for this Georgia scholarship, students must be between 18 and 25 years of age by August 1 the year studies begin, must not have studied in the USA, and must be single. The scholarship covers one scholastic year, from August to May, and is for study in colleges and universities located in the State of Georgia.

Students who may be eligible should email Kitty at ladykit@xplornet.com or call Anne at 264-729-1738.

International awareness. Rotarians are active in 166 countries around the world. International service projects and exchange programs foster global understanding of the world around us. The goal is to build goodwill and peace in the world. International service projects provide an exciting opportunity to achieve this goal.

Rotary Changes the World - March 12, 2007

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ROTARY CHANGES THE WORLD

Rotary Changes the World through its programs. Rotary offers students locally to participate in studies in other countries for the purpose of promoting peace and goodwill in the world. A few of the opportunities are outlined briefly here.

Rotary World Peace Fellowships. Each year, up to 60 students around the world are sponsored to study at one of the six Rotary Centers for International Studies in peace and conflict resolution for a masters-level degree.

Since the program’s inception in 2002-2003, 233 fellows from 60 different countries have participated at a cost of nearly $14 million. In 2005-2006, 53 peace fellows from 25 countries began studies at the six Rotary Centers totaling $2.9 million for the two-year program.

Rotary World Peace Fellowship Program – 2008-2010

This is a 2-year Masters program in Peace and Conflict Studies. The scholarship is tenable at one of seven worldwide Rotary Centers. The Rotary World Peace Fellowships are offered on a world-competitive basis. Each Rotary district – including District 7020 and Anguilla -- may submit one candidate for competition in the worldwide selection process for up to 60 Rotary World Peace Fellowships offered annually. Closing date for receiving applications at the district level is May 15, 2007, with interviews conducted during June 2007.

Students who may be eligible should email Kitty at ladykit@xplornet.com or call Anne at 264-729-1738.

Ambassadorial Scholarships. The Rotary Foundation sponsors one of the largest international scholarship programs in the world. Scholars study in a country other than their own where they serve as unofficial ambassadors of goodwill. Since 1947, more than 47,000 scholars from 110 countries have received scholarships at a cost to Rotary of more than $476 million. In 2005-2006, 731 scholars from 59 countries studied in 60 countries. Program awards were $14.8 million.

A strict application procedure is necessary. For the academic year, 2008-2009, District 7020 offers one Ambassadorial Scholarship worth $23,000 USD.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

Rotary Promotes Scholarships- March 5, 2007

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ROTARY PROMOTES SCHOLARSHIPS -- $23,000 USD

The Rotary Foundation sponsors one of the largest international scholarship programs in the world. Scholars study in a country other than their own where they serve as unofficial ambassadors of goodwill.

Are you an Anguillian university student who meets the criteria listed below? Or do you know of an Anguillian university student who would qualify for the following Rotary scholarship available to District 7020? The Rotary Club of Anguilla is one of 18 clubs in District 7020.

For the academic year, 2008 – 2009, a One-year Ambassadorial Scholarship worth approximately $23,000 USD is available to a student in District 7020. Deadline for application is July 1, 2007. This scholarship will assist in funding air travel, tuition, books and housing.

All Ambassadorial Scholarship candidates must meet the following criteria:

-- Must have completed at least 2 years of university or college course work at the time the scholarship period begins OR have a secondary school education with employment in a recognized vocation for at least 2 years.

-- Must be citizens of Anguilla

-- Must not be related to a Rotarian

-- Must make application through the Rotary Club of Anguilla

-- Must make plans to study or train in another country or territory where there are Rotary clubs

-- Must exhibit ambassadorial qualities

-- No age or gender restrictions apply

-- Desire to embark upon a course of study that is in harmony with Rotary’s objectives (alleviation of poverty, health concerns, literacy and education, environment, water management, hunger management, etc.)

Students who may be eligible now or in the future should email Kitty at ladykit@xplornet.com or call Anne at 264-729-1738. Other scholarships are available and more information will be forthcoming in a future Rotary Rap.

Object of Rotary - February 26, 2007

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Object of Rotary

The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, the following:

-- High ethical standards in business and professions

-- The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business, and community life

-- The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.

Rotarians offer service in distinct avenues of service including community and international service.

Rotary, the world's first service club, celebrated its centennial in 2005. You, too, can be part of this exciting opportunity for service in your community.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.

About the Polio Effort - February 19, 2007

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About Polio efforts

Despite tremendous progress in reducing the incidence of polio, the disease still exists. Polio will continue to threaten children everywhere as long as it exists somewhere. In this age of global travel, a new outbreak of polio might only be a plane ride away.

Did you know that . . .

-- Rotary International is the spearheading member of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and is the largest private sector donor.

-- Rotary International has contributed more than US$600 million to the polio eradication activities in 122 countries.

-- In addition, tens of thousands of Rotarians have partnered with their national ministries of health, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and with health providers at the grassroots level in thousands of communities.

Polio is a highly infectious disease that primarily affects children under the age of three and can cause paralysis within hours.

Before eradication efforts began in 1988, polio paralyzed more than 1,000 children a day, which totaled about 350,000 children annually. Now, the incidence of polio has since declined by more than 99 percent.

Vaccinations easily can stave off polio. Vaccinations have prevented an estimated 500,000 children per year from contracting polio. A child can be protected against polio for as little as 60 cents (US) worth of vaccine.

Only four countries are still polio endemic — an all-time low: Nigeria, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

A polio-free world is within our grasp. Join Rotary’s effort to end this crippling disease.

First edition of Rotary Rap - What you don't know but should know about the Rotary Club - February 12, 2007

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What you don’t know – but should know – about the Rotary Club

The world's first service club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, Illinois, USA, was formed on 23 February 1905 by Paul P. Harris, an attorney who wished to recapture in a professional club the same friendly spirit he had felt in the small towns of his youth. The name "Rotary" derived from the early practice of rotating meetings among members' offices.

Today, 1.2 million Rotarians belong to some 32,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The Rotary Club of Anguilla is one of those clubs.

In 1985, Rotary made a historic commitment to immunize all of the world's children against polio. Working in partnership with nongovernmental organizations and national governments thorough its PolioPlus program, Rotary is the largest private-sector contributor to the global polio eradication campaign. Rotarians have mobilized hundreds of thousands of PolioPlus volunteers and have immunized more than one billion children worldwide. Rotary has contributed half a billion dollars to the cause. At this point in time, the goal is very close to being realized, with only a few African countries showing signs of polio resistance.

For more information about Rotary, check the website http://www.rotaryanguilla.org or speak to any local Rotarian. The Rotary Club of Anguilla meets every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. upstairs at the English Rose.