Well, May has come and gone, and so almost is the Rotary year of Be A Gift To The World, and how you have shown your gifts, in talents, accomplishments, as well as financial!
Many great fundraising events are being held, as we progress from the snow(!) of Mid-May to the almost 90 degrees to celebrate Memorial Day with family and friends. It was also a time to remember our Veterans, and the Parade of Flags throughout communities everywhere in the District shows how much they all mean to our Rotarians. Thanks to all who participate in these projects, including the Interactors, Scouts, and Friends of Rotary.
PLEASE READ the results of the Council On Legislation. There are several important changes noted, designed to keep our organization strong and growing.
Thanks to PDGs Dennis Huffman and Bob Pattison for attending, and bringing the good news back to us.
Many exciting changes will be coming to all the clubs, as the new slate of officers prepares for the new Rotary Year, and a seasoned group of officers from this year will be available to help with the transitions, and to assist with a strong kickoff. Thanks to all the current officers, and welcome to the new ones, who will be led by the always fantastic Sieg Warren!
And, don't forget, Outgoing officers, the District will always need your experience. We always need talent on the committees who do such a fabulous job. Please let Sieg know where you'll want to serve.
As June approaches, more than a dozen Rotarians will be returning from the Seoul Convention, with lots of stories and pictures to share with us, as well as new messages of what's happening in Rotary around the World. I can't wait to hear about it!
We've had a bang up year in Foundation, as Dr. Pete gets ready to let the Committee know about the Global and District grants to be available for more great works in '16-'17. I'm sure we'll be hearing more great stories from Tim and Anna on how you'll be using the funds.
And, it's time for all to be getting ready for the 100th Anniversary Celebration in honor of Arch Klumph and the Foundation in Cleveland. It's going to be a One of a Kind time, and in our backyard!
We'll also be getting to hear more about 'Pegasus'....stay tuned.
And, for me, one more great month to celebrate all your accomplishments with Joan and I. We've enjoyed all the hospitality, fun and friendship. Thanks!
The District Conference of 2016 is over and it is now time for reflection. We at the Bolivar-Zoar Rotary Club would like to take this opportunity to share our experience and send out a great big thank you to the many people who helped make this event a success.
There are two words that best describe our experience, Revealing and Rewarding.
The event preparation revealed to us the dedication and hard work that was necessary for past host clubs to bring these events to fruition. The reward for us is our becoming part of this group of Rotarians who have shared these experiences.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the people who helped us along this journey.
Thank you :
Members of other local clubs who generously gave of their time and insight.
Warthers Museum for providing a wonderful venue for the Friday night Gala and Tuscarawas Valley school district for coming to our rescue when we needed a facility large enough to accommodate both Rotarians and energetic and exciting exchange students.
Food vendors, we can all agree that they were definitely the “hit” of the weekend.
Speakers and presenters, who provided information and entertainment.
Most of all we want to thank you, the Rotarians who attended the event. We sincerely hope that you perceived the event as a “Gift to You” and a “Gift to the World.
Dr. Peter Apicella, District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair, has created a new website to highlight our District Foundation activities at www.Rotary6650.org. The new website highlights both Local and Global Grant activity and includes an interactive webinar to provide qualification for Rotary Foundation Grants. Rotary documents on the Grant process is available in the Document Center.
“As Local District Grant projects are completed this year, information and photos will be posted for all to admire,” said Dr. Apicella. “The site will archive all the Foundation work we do as a District and in our local clubs to provide ideas for future and collaborative projects for all of us.” Please e-mail to Dr. Apicella about information for inclusion on the website.
Refer questions to Dr. Apicella, DRFCC, Peter@salemrad.com, 330-207-0500 (cell).
This is the third year for District 6650’s Youth Exchange Scholarship Program. With your generous assistance, over the past two years, we have been able to assist over 10 students with the costs incurred in becoming an exchange student. The majority of the funds have been used for airfare expenses. All funds collected for the year are disbursed to our Outbound students based strictly on financial need.
Every year, District 6650 has outstanding students apply to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. For Rotary exchange year 2016-2017, we have 14 students going abroad to the following countries: Italy, Spain, Denmark, Chile, Switzerland, Portugal, France Taiwan, Germany, Belgium, and Brazil. Rotary Youth Exchange is one of the most exciting, rewarding, and life changing experiences that our students embark on in the district. Our students return personally richer from their exchange year, ready to take on new challenges with maturity, independence, and new found confidence. Simply put, Rotary Youth Exchange presents a very special opportunity.
Although the program is less expensive than many other exchange student programs, some students still struggle to raise the necessary funds to participate. The average cost for a student participating in District 6650’s youth exchange program is $5,000, excluding optional trips. These fees cover a student’s outbound training, blazer, pins, business cards, medical insurance, visa, passport, and airfare.
Some of our students work a part-time job, receive assistance from their church, community organizations, and extended family members in order to meet the financial commitment to participate in the program. However, for some, even that is not enough to help them make ends meet. District 6650’s scholarship fund fills that gap. If your club is not currently involved in the exchange student program, this is an excellent way for your club to do so.
A three-person committee, comprised of members not currently serving at the district level, in the youth exchange program, review financial documentation to determine a student’s financial eligibility and level of need. Funds are distributed only after a student successfully completes outbound training and all funds are paid directly to the business and/or government agency providing goods/services.
If your club would like to donate to the Rotary Youth Exchange Scholarship Fund, please make a check payable to “Rotary YEP Scholarship” and mail it to our Assistant District Treasurer: Bonnie Davis, 49682 McClure Rd., East Palestine 44413. We will also accept checks from individuals wishing to donate. Please watch future newsletters to learn how much money was donated and the ways in which you assisted our Outbound students in District 6650. If you have any questions about the scholarship fund, please contact Aletha Carver at (330) 614-1367.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
8:00 – 9:30: Registration
10:00: Golf Tee off
10:00 – 12:00: DJ Anthony / Food & Drinks
11:30: Chili Eating Contest with Jim Loboy!
12:00 – 4:00: Chub Scouts Band
2:00: Raffle & 50/50 Drawing
All Day Fun: Wendy’s Chili, Beer, Pop and Snacks, Smoker Brisket / Turkey, Punching Bag Contest, Putting Contest and tons of fun!
Rotarian Kevin Friesen was host to Scott Schulick, Rotary Assistant Governor for District 6650 Division 1A at the January 12th meeting of the Struthers Rotary Club. Scott discussed the several programs underway on the local and national level in Rotary for the 2015-2016 year and reported on the overwhelming success of Operation Warm this past year. Operation Warm raised over $70,000 to provide coats for needy students in the Mahoning Valley with the ‘Small but Mighty’ Struthers Rotary Club providing funds second only to the Youngstown Rotary among the six clubs in Division 1A. Scott also praised the Struthers Rotary for the excellent job being done to keep the public informed about the goals and achievements of Rotary. Among those achievements are the culmination of a decade long program to eradicate polio worldwide with no new cases in Africa and only Pakistan showing significant cases in 2015 but with none in 2016. Rotary is a group of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world. This year’s motto ‘Be a Gift to the World’ is practiced every day by the local Rotary members.
The Struthers Rotary Club welcomed speaker Becky Keck at their January 5th meeting. Ms. Keck, Executive Director of SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts) was hosted by Rotarian Kelly Becker and presented a history of the SMARTS program and their future goals. SMARTS began in 1997 under the auspices of Youngstown State University but was divested in 2013 due to budget difficulties. This was a blessing in disguise as the severance from YSU resulted in many interested donors coming forward to perpetuate the SMARTS program. In 2014 the organization was reformed as a 501(c)(3) entity, received a donation of office space and continued to provide training in the arts to 9 schools and 150 students with over $215,000 donated to date. The group has recently partnered with the South Side Academy and is providing a music teacher piano to the school. They are currently working with the Warren City Schools and the Kennedy Center in New York City to broaden their classes in visual arts, music, dance, theater and creative writing in the area. An imminent move is planned to the Ohio One Building in downtown Youngstown and this has been financed through their September Fundraiser and Art Sale along with private donations. Those interested may find additional information at www.SMARTSartshcool.org by e-mail at lrkeck1@gmailcom or by calling 330-313-3031. Also at the January 5th meeting, the Struthers Rotary Club welcomed its newest member, Darla Donahue, owner of Pit Stop 4 Pets located at 563 5th Street.
Struther's Rotary Club Newest Member
Newest Struthers Rotary Club member Darla Donahue receives her Rotary Pin and badge from President Drew Hirt
The Rotary Club of Cortland has "Bought out the House" at the Trumbull New Theatre in Niles Ohio March 10. Trumbull New Theatre, or TNT, is a small community all volunteer theatre that allows groups to purchase all seats for an evening as a fundraiser. The Cortland Club has done this the last 10 years but they are inviting past District Governors and members from any other Clubs in 6650 to attend this year's event as well.
The play this year is Thursday March 10 and is a comedy called "Drinking Habits". Tickets are $12.00 each. The lobby is open at 6:00pm for a wine and cheese mixer and reception. Short announcements and introductions are at 6:50 and the play starts promptly at 7:00pm. Event Chair Rod Zeck has approval to earmark all profits from the night to Polio Plus. He has sold tickets so far to members of Warren, Poland and Niles Clubs. He feels this Joint Club Effort is a great way to meet other Club members, share ideas, entertain prospective new members to Rotary and have some laughs as well. The play will end by 9:00pm.
TNT is located at 5993 Youngstown Warren Rd (US RT 422) near Eastwood Mall. The theatre has 176 seats and is barrier free. More information and tickets along with questions can be directed to Rod Zeck at 330.502.9663 or email at rod22z@yahoo.com. Please come and have fun!!
Kinsman Area Rotary members presenting a check for $15,000, as part of matching funds, to Kinsman Township for construction of restrooms and a concession stand at the township park.
In the picture facing from left to right are : Ed Ting, Joni Woofter, Margaret Crupi, fiscal officer, and Bob Nemeth.
In the back row are: Jean Alfonsi and Tim Woofter.
The Rotary Club of Canton's Annual Pancake Breakfast will take place on Saturday, March 19, 2016, and will again be held at McKinley Senior High School. This event will run from 8 am – 1 pm and will once again feature the “Pick Your Prize” raffle with many great prizes to choose from. Admission tickets are $3.00 for adults, children 3 and under are free.
The Pancake Breakfast will include: Pancakes, Sausage, Orange Juice, Coffee and Milk.
The Cleveland Indian’s mascot, Slider, will be there for a meet and greet, the McKinley Jazz Band will play and the “Star Wars” characters from the Ohio Garrison of the 501st Legion and the Rebel Legion will be available to have your photo taken with them during the day.
Any questions, please feel free to contact the Rotary Office at (330) 452-2882.
2016 Vintage Jackson raises funds for Jackson Township YMCA expansion project
The Rotary Club of Jackson Township has announced that the 14th Annual Vintage Jackson will be on April 28, 2016, at the Shady Hollow Country Club in Jackson Township. Doors will open at 6 p.m.
The event features unique wines from around the area, delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts. In addition to tasting favorite wines, guests are also able to bid on spectacular silent auction items.
All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the Jackson Township Paul and Carol David YMCA Expansion Project. In the final year of a three-year commitment to the YMCA Expansion Project, the funds donated by the Rotary Club of Jackson Township are furnishing a Teen Room, complete with furniture, game equipment and study tables.
“The Jackson Township YMCA, located adjacent to Jackson High School, is a mainstay in the “town square” area of our township” said Lisa Parramore, Co-Chair of the of the 2016 Vintage Jackson Event Committee. “As Rotarians, we see the value in giving teens in our community a safe and inviting place to socialize and hang out.”
Past projects include furnishing a family conference room at Pathway Caring for Children, and the Jackson Township Streetscape Project at the Wales and Fulton intersections.
Cost for the event is $60 per person. Tickets may be purchased from any Jackson Township Rotarian, or online at www.jacksonrotaryfoundation.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.
The Rotary Foundation with financial support from Rotary Clubs in Orrville, Wooster, Rittman, Salem, Louisville and Accra, Ghana awarded a $50,000 global grant to support Obaatan Pa Women's Hospital in Accra. The hospital founded by Orrville Rotarian, Dr Amelia Laing and her husband, Dr Cyril Ofori, hopes to reduce the alarming rates of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality common in Ghana and provide women's health services with dignity to those who may currently have little or no routine health care. The grant purchased a utility vehicle to provide outreach services and support daily hospital operational needs, supplies to support monthly outreach clinics, and provided funding to enable US professionals to serve in Accra to train healthcare professionals, service onsite medical equipment, provide outreach services and implement new procedures. The volunteer team members are Sarah Atkinson, ObGyn RN, Suzie Martin, ObGyn RN and Certified Lactation Consultant, Nancy Moser OR RN, Michele McGovern, Surgical Technician, Allen Dicks, Biomedical Engineer and Lynn Horner, RN, Vocational Team Leader. All current and former team members are or were affiliated with the Aultman Health System. Additional grant activities are planned over the next few months to complete the grant.
This is a presentation of the Accra Rotary Club banner by AG and VTT Leader Lynn Horner and Orrville Rotarian and President of Obaatan Pa Women's Hospital Dr Amelia Laing to Orrville Club President Jon Tucker following a presentation by the Vocational Training Team that recently returned from their trip to Ghana.
VTT members Michele McGovern, Nancy Moser, Suzie Martin, Lynn Horner and Sarah Atkinson with Dr Amelia Laing with hospital matrons at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana.
The truck provided by our Global Grant to Obaatan Pa Women's Hospital in Accra, Ghana for outreach and operations.
Orrville Rotarians, Jack Runion and his wife Linda who recently "Stopped by" in Rome to visit our current exchange student Allison Plybon. They surprised her with some of her favorite snacks from home.
Dennison Rotary new member presentation (Bob Michels welcoming Lynn Angelozzi), and Trang and Jay Moreland receiving book from Connie Clark after presenting on notebook project in Vietnam.
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The Struthers Rotary Club welcomed speaker Becky Keck at their January 5th meeting. Ms. Keck, Executive Director of SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts) was hosted by Rotarian Kelly Becker and presented a history of the SMARTS program and their future goals. SMARTS began in 1997 under the auspices of Youngstown State University but was divested in 2013 due to budget difficulties. This was a blessing in disguise as the severance from YSU resulted in many interested donors coming forward to perpetuate the SMARTS program. In 2014 the organization was reformed as a 501(c)(3) entity, received a donation of office space and continued to provide training in the arts to 9 schools and 150 students with over $215,000 donated to date. The group has recently partnered with the South Side Academy and is providing a music teacher piano to the school. They are currently working with the Warren City Schools and the Kennedy Center in New York City to broaden their classes in visual arts, music, dance, theater and creative writing in the area. An imminent move is planned to the Ohio One Building in downtown Youngstown and this has been financed through their September Fundraiser and Art Sale along with private donations. Those interested may find additional information at 
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