Stories

Rotary Direct

Posted by Alexander Falk on Sep 08, 2024

Put your giving to the Rotary Foundation on autopilot: Enroll in Rotary’s recurring giving program, Rotary Direct, which makes giving easy, fast, and secure. You can schedule a monthly, quarterly, or annual donation from your credit card that empowers Rotarians to change lives in communities around the world.

You can sign up online, using this link, or by scanning the QR code in the image. Or, if you prefer a more traditional paper-based route, you can print and fill out this form, and then mail it to Rotary International in Evanston.

Either way, you'll be doing good in the world and will support the many wonderful projects that the Rotary Foundation enables Rotarians to do.

Help PDG Lori's Raise for Rotary Challenge

Posted by Pooja Singla on Sep 08, 2024

Let's 'Raise For Rotary' and help our District 7930 to be represented at the Rotary International's Zone 28 & 32 event.

A minimum of $1000 raised will enter one person in the Zorb competition. IPDG Lori Karas gracefully volunteered to represent our District 7930 at this event. Therefore, it's time for us to help raise $1000 for our District's representative at the Zone. Please donate before September 17 to get Lori into the Zorb competition.

The competition is on the 18th of September at the Zone Leadership Conference in Toronto.

Here's DG Lori's Raise for Rotary fundraiser page.

The target is to raise $200,000 for Rotary foundation at this event by holding a Zorb Competition among the various Districts.

Lynn Rotarians Fill & Distribute Backpacks

Posted by William Reilly on Sep 06, 2024

For the past several years Lynn Rotary and the Salvation Army (SA) joined forces to assist with the annual backpack distribution to Lynn School children. Prior to the actual distribution, Lynn Rotarians were on duty at the local Walmart, donating and collecting school supplies from entering customers. Walmart and Fox 25 TV in Boston made significant donations of the supplies.

The Lynn Rotarians spent two days at the Lynn SA in late August 2024. The first day they “Stuffed the Packs” with the donated supplies, several Rotarians donated their time to sort and fill the backpacks. The enclosed picture shows from back to front: Steve Upton, Pat Gill, John McCarthy, Ray and Mackie Bastarache, Eileen McCarthy, and Cindy McCarthy. All Rotarians.

The second day, August 29th, about a dozen Lynn Rotarians, were on duty at the SA helping to distribute the backpacks to about 700 well deserving students. The students receiving the backpacks generally had to be prequalified, based on income.

Public Image Update

Posted by Tim Kelley on Sep 05, 2024

Public Image is important to get Rotary's message out. Here are some resources to enhance your PI and expand your club's reach.

Brand Center: New resources are always being added to the Brand Center. You can now find an event template for promoting your fundraisers, service projects, or social gatherings. No need to create something from scratch, and your flyers will automatically be brand compliant.

Learn about 3 Actions You Can Take Today to Impact Public Image by watching a recording of a webinar conducted in July. (Available from the Zone 28 & 32 website)

Tell your People of Action stories to your local community and to us! We're always looking for good stories to share across Zones 28 and 32. Contact us with your stories and learn more on Brand Center.

Boston Rotaract Holds Installation Celebration

Posted by Arunima Raya Chhetri on Sep 05, 2024

The Boston Rotaract Club had its installation on the 25th of August 2024. The District Governor graced the event with his presence. The event started with light starters and welcome of the DG Tom Hankard, Rotarians Pooja, Keith and Christina, Rotaractors, Interactors, and their friends and family. Vice president Sam welcomed everyone with a quick speech followed up with icebreakers. Sofie and Yuvraj hosted the event where the Immediate past president Rishabh and past secretary Shagun reflected on the events and achievements of the previous Rotary year. The DG shared his words of encouragement and helped with the oath-taking of the new board members for the year 2024-25. Followed up by a short speech from the new president Arunima and the secretary Usha. After some light dinner, a potluck party, we ended the night with fun games, bonding and many memorable pictures.

Peabody Rotary on Path to Beautification

Posted by Adam Levine on Sep 05, 2024

The Rotary Club of Peabody has continued its work in partnership with the city to refurbish the Independence Greenway Bike Path, Club Co-President Cindy Moore said.

The Rotary Club’s motto is “Service Above Self,” and Moore said the goal of members is to help the city’s community.

The club has helped install water fountains, new signage, and “beautify” the path over the past three years, she said.

“It’s just one of the ways that we work to help make our community a better community,” Moore said.

The final project related to the path is installing informational signage at the trailhead near the Lahey Medical Center and Northshore Mall, which will happen in September, she said. Afterward, the club will help with upkeep on an as-needed basis.

Club member and Peabody Community Development Director Curt Bellavance and Club Treasurer Dan Vassallo have had a “crucial” role in this project, she said.

“If there are any other things in the city that we can help look nicer or beautify, we are here to help the City of Peabody and to do things to help our community,” Moore said.

Wakefield Donates Supplies to Caribbean School

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Sep 05, 2024

The Wakefield Rotary Club recently completed its multi-year project to collect and donate school supplies to benefit a Caribbean school. This year, the club selected the Sandy Point Primary School on St. Kitts.

In just three weeks, Wakefield and Lynnfield Rotarians, friends and family collected school supply items to be hand-delivered to the school. Wakefield Rotary Club Secretary Suzanne Bowering reported that over 700 pencils, 400 pens, 60 notebooks, and hundreds of other supplies were collected totaling approximately 140 pounds of school supplies. Last year, the club collected 230 pounds of supplies for the Dominican Republic with a match going to the Boys and Girls Club.

School supplies were packed into three suitcases and delivered to the island by hand in late August by Bowering, Wakefield Rotary Past President Lisa Roderick and Lynnfield Rotarian Janice Casoli. Bowering commented, “One of the joys of being part of Rotary International is participating in international service projects. It’s also great that we could collaborate on the project with our neighbors at Lynnfield Rotary.”

Robert C. Wood Memorial Heroes Event Returns

Posted by Tom Hankard on Sep 01, 2024

Calling all Heroes! Save the date of Thursday, November 14, 2024, for the return of our Heroes Celebration.

As in past years, Clubs will nominate a person in their community who isn't always recognized for their extraordinary service to others.

Our event will be held at Danversport Yacht Club. Watch for more info to follow -- but be on the look out for a deserving nominee.

Let's celebrate some great people, be astonished by their contributions, and celebrate the Magic of our Rotary Foundation.

Membership, Foundation, and Public Image Forum

Posted by Tom Hankard on Sep 01, 2024

The three bedrocks of Rotary are our members, our Foundation that benefits the World, and spreading the word of all the good things we do to positive impact our communities.

Join us October 8, 2024, at the Four Points Sheraton in Wakefield, for an interactive session focused on these three important Rotary topics with information you can take back to your Club and use immediately, dinner with fellowship, and a keynote speech from PDG Tom Gump from Rotary District 5950 in Minnesota.

Tom has founded multiple innovative Rotary Clubs, is a member of RI's Membership Growth Committee, has spearheaded local and large international grants, and is currently Aide to our Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick.

The cost per attendee is $40 and you can register here!

In Loving Memory of Andrew Maddox

Posted by Tom Hankard on Sep 01, 2024

It is with great sadness to announce the untimely passing of Rotarian Andrew P. Maddox.

A dedicated member and past president of the Rockport Rotary Club, Andy lost a short battle with cancer last week. He was a friend to many of us and served his club with distinction. For District 7930, Andy served as chair of our District Public Image Committee and held a passion for youth services; serving on our Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Committee and volunteered with our comprehensive Youth Exchange Program.

Personally, I will remember Andy as a man of great chracter and dedication to his wonderful wife Lisa and family, his career, his community, and the organization that unites us all, Rotary.

Andy's death notice is below, a Celebration of Life for him will be held in the future. Donations in Andy's memory are to be directed to the Rotary Foundation; a fitting tribute to a devoted Rotarian so that Rotary programs can live on into perpetuity in Andy's memory.

Donations can be made here.

Andy's full death notice can be found here.

Club Visioning

Posted by Terry Rezendes Curran on Sep 01, 2024

In Rotary year 2013-2014 then District Governor John Hall brought Visioning to District 7930. For the next several years over half the clubs in the District went through the Visioning Process. You may ask, “What’s the Visioning Process?” Clubs that want to redefine their goals and vision for the future can, with the Districts’ help, have an evening where they explore where they want to see their club in the future. Interest has again risen within the District to do Club Visioning.

We are looking for Rotarians to join a newly formed Visioning Committee. There will be a training on-line, but the actual sessions are done in person, so a commitment is needed to go to another club and facilitate the process. The sessions are designed to take place within a 3 hour period and the hosting club provides dinner for all. If you are interested in joining in, please contact PDG Terry Curran at 617-501-3521 or email to, TerryCurran7930@gmail.com.

Introducing Service Project Center

Posted by Pooja Singla on Sep 01, 2024

Introducing the Service Project Center, our new project management platform! Enhancing Engagement – a part of Rotary’s Action Plan - IREA!

The Service Project Center, Rotary’s new hub for everything related to service, is now live. It gives you a better way to manage and share information about your service projects.

With service networking moving to this new platform, Rotary Showcase has been retired. All Rotary and Rotaract projects that were posted on Rotary Showcase have been migrated to the Service Project Center, which is being released in phases.

The initial features include:

Improved speed and performance

A more consistent user experience across different devices and screen sizes

The ability to collect more accurate project location data

Project management access for all club officers

Visit Service Project Center today!

Salem's Hawaian Luau

Posted by Carolyn Shapiro on Aug 28, 2024

The Rotary Club of Salem, MA partnered again this year with the Salem Council on Aging to host a fabulous Hawaiian Luau this year. Filled with music and dancing, good food and laughter, there were more than 125 people in attendance. It was a huge success!

Special thanks to the Council on Aging for their partnership each year. Together, we create "magic!"

Swampscott Holds Cookout for Individuals with Disabilities

Posted by Buck Weaver on Aug 28, 2024

On Saturday, August 24, outside the Swampscott Senior Center, the Swampscott Rotary Club held our 42nd annual cookout for people with limited abilities from the North Shore.

We coordinate with NE-ARC and Bridgewell and we served 100 guests as they also enjoyed games and music, provided by our 42-year DJ, Rotarian David Legere.

Besides Rotarians, friends and their family members we were greatly assisted by members of the Swampscott/ Marblehead Elderact Club.

Newburyport Fashion Show Sept. 17

Posted by Lisa Darke on Aug 25, 2024

Join us for a night of Fun, Fashion and Fundraising! Our third annual Fashion Show to benefit the Rotary Club of Newburyport will showcase Fall and Holiday styles on the Main Stage!! September 17, 2024.

This years’ event offers 2 ticket options. VIP tickets include early admission, pre-show reception, and swag bag!! Limit 50 tickets.

General admission tickets get you into the show! 50/50 raffle tickets and other fun surprises will be offered throughout the evening.

$75 for VIP Reception. $45 General Admission.

For tickets and info click here.

Volunteer at Reading's Fall Street Faire

Posted by Tim Kelley on Aug 25, 2024

Reading Rotary is proud to present the 16th Annual Reading Fall Street Faire on Sunday, September 8. Drawing thousands every year to downtown Reading, it’s one of the most beloved and largest events in the area.

Many volunteers are needed to pull off this event. Any neighboring Rotarians and friends who can lend a hand will be greatly appreciated. If you can, please sign up to help. We will have well over 100 booths, entertainment on 3 stages, lots of amusements, food, beer garden, children's activities, and lots of fun.

To volunteer sign up at this link. Or contact Tim Kelley with any questions or visit the RFSF website for information.

Please come to the Reading Fall Street Faire on September 8. The Faire runs from noon to 5 pm in downtown Reading.

Rotaractor Patel Participates in National Conference

Posted by Nishant Patel on Aug 23, 2024

Nishant Patel, a dedicated Rotaractor from the Rotaract Club of Boston, recently attended the Ascension Conference (AscenCon 2024) in Chicago, held during the second weekend of August 2024. This gathering, known as Ascension, is a Multi-District Information Organization (MDIO) where Rotaract Clubs from the mid-northeast of America, alongside several South American countries and the Caribbean Islands, come together to exchange insights on Rotaract operations, changes, and goals. The MDIO directly reports to Rotary International, making it a significant platform for fostering collaboration and innovation among Rotaractors. Rotaract is Rotary for members aged 18 to 35. D7930 has two Rotaract clubs: Boston Rotatact and Endicott Rotract.

Rotaract District 7930, represented by Nishant, proudly announced its successful application to join the Ascension MDIO Rotaract Network. With this approval, Nishant will soon coordinate an onboarding call with the Ascension team to formalize their participation.

AscenCon 2024 was a vibrant and inspiring event filled with opportunities for learning, networking, and cultural immersion. Nishant had the privilege of connecting with passionate Rotaractors and Rotarians, learning from distinguished speakers, and engaging in interactive discussions that enriched the collective experience of all attendees.

Belle Isle Commits $2K to Rotaplast Mission

Posted by Vera Carducci on Aug 22, 2024

The Belle Isle Club, home of DG Tom Hankard, was so impressed with the vision and details of the upcoming Rotaplast Mission presented by DG Tom and Past DG Terry Rezendes Curran that they easily proposed and passed a motion to donate $2000 towards this most noble endeavor.

The Belle Isle Club considers itself the "Little Engine That Could", we are not the biggest Club in District 7930, but we are ALL HEART and if WE can do it the rest of the Clubs in District 7930 can do it too! Let's get it done!

BBR's Rita Shah Receives President's Award

Posted by Tim Kelley on Aug 19, 2024

Burlington Breakfast Rotary proudly reports that Past President and current Co-President Rita Shah has been recognized by President Biden with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteer Service.

Anshu Bakshi, former Director of Friends of Indian Senior Citizens (FISCO), recently informed the members of BBR:

We are writing this message to inform our Indian community and to express my heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed founder, Ms. Rita Shah, for being awarded the President Volunteer Service Award. This prestigious recognition is a testament to her hard work, dedication and passion in the field of social work.

Ms. Shah's contributions have made a significant impact on society, and her tireless efforts have been felt by many. She has worked diligently at Saheli, Burlington Rotary, and founded the Friends of Indian Senior Citizen organization, which aims to bring together the Asian senior community with compassion. Her selfless service, vision, and leadership have inspired countless individuals and advanced the field of social work in many ways.

Join the 2025 Rotaplast Mission to Cebu

Posted by Terry Rezendes Curran on Aug 16, 2024

Do you want to join the 2025 Rotaplast Mission?

Things you should know. The mission departs from San Francisco on March 8 and returns to San Francisco on March 23. You must travel with the group on this portion of the trip so that the equipment boxes can be counted as your second piece of luggage. This is done as a group booking through Rotaplast and will cost you approximately $1,200. You are responsible for your flights to and from San Francisco, you can use airline or credit card points if you have them, the cost is anywhere from $400 to $900 depending on when you book. You are welcome to add time before or after the trip. The hotel is included for double occupancy. Single rooms run about $850 for the 10 days. A breakfast buffet is included at the hotel daily, and lunch and snacks are provided at the hospital daily. There is a hospitality room at the hotel, a contribution of approximately $50 is suggested to provide evening snacks.

View the Zone Public Image Webinar Recording

Posted by Tim Kelley on Aug 15, 2024

Our Zone Public Image teams held a wonderful webinar, July 29 titled: 3 Actions to Impact Public Image Today.

This webinar set out impactful steps your Club can take now to improve your Public Image. If you want to add more skills to your Rotary toolbox, this webinar is a must see.

The recording is available here.

Celebrating 25 Years of Camp Rotary Leadership

Posted by Sue Gallant on Aug 15, 2024

For over a quarter of a century, Brian Magrane served as President of Youth Services Managers Inc., the operating arm of Camp Rotary in Boxford, Massachusetts. Among his many accomplishments, he guided the camp through the building of its new state of the art dining hall and modern kitchen. On Monday, July 22, 2024, Board members, campers, family, and friends, joined together for the dedication of “Magrane Overlook” to honor his unwavering passion and commitment to Camp Rotary.

Overlooking the beautiful Stiles Pond, “Magrane Overlook” provides a beautiful space for campers to reflect on the beauty of the waterfront while learning about nature. As Brian Magrane steps down from his role of President, his legacy and contributions will be remembered for years to come. The Camp Rotary Board extends its deepest gratitude for 25 years of exemplary service and leadership.

Danvers Cleans Up

Posted by Andi Hall on Aug 13, 2024

Danvers Rotary is stepping forward again for the greater good as they have spent weeks with much-needed trimming and cleanup of the traffic island at the corner of Poplar and Maple in Danvers.

This landscaping task is headed by Danvers Rotarians, Jim Jezowski, President of AcuLab Measurement Standards, Inc, Beverly and Rob Della Croce, AVP at Metro Credit Union, Chelsea. Together, they have a combined rotary membership in Danvers for almost 2 decades.

“We both passed by this island every day and decided to take on the cleanup project to improve the appearance of the intersection”, says Jezowski.

Parkway Rotary vs Kiwanis Softball Game

Posted by Ray Fitzgerald on Aug 13, 2024

Parkway Rotary is looking for players to join us in our battle with Kiwanis in support of the Jason Roberts Challenger League next month. Please contact Ray Fitzgerald, Club Secretary and Team Manager if you can join us.

The softball game is Wed., Sept., 11th, 6 pm at Ohrenberger School Field, 175 West Boundary Rd., West Roxbury. Rain date is Sept. 12.

Tickets $25.00 can be purchased by Venmo @RosWestRoxKiwanis (phone confirmation number 4124) or by check or cast at Hennigan Insurance Agency, 1766 Centre, St., West Roxbury.

Tickets include T Shirt and Chef's Cookout Dinner: sirloin cheeseburgers, gourmet hot dogs, potato chips, sodas, cookies and brownies.

Details are also in the attached flyer.

34th Annual Red, White & Blue Breakfast

Posted by Jack Costello on Aug 13, 2024

The Manchester-Essex Rotary Club held their annual Red White & Blue Breakfast on June 29th 2024, at Tucks Point stating at 7:30 am to 11:30 am. In addition to the pancakes there were, pony rides and face painting for the kids, musical entertainment by the Old Salts Jazz Band, and the very popular water taxi to shuttle guests from the Manchester town center to Tucks Point.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this yet another great Red White & Blue Breakfast! This year's club co-president Ken Riehl says it here; "As our first new presidents' message to the Club, we begin by thanking you sincerely for your terrific support of our marquee community event - the Red, White & Blue Breakfast this past Saturday. Albeit a bit chilly, it was a fantastic morning with 1,100 in attendance including many families and kids who loved the delicious food, the fun music, facepainting and pony rides. We also did well in both our $5,000 drawing and 50/50 raffle."

District Governor Nominations

Posted by Tom Hankard on Aug 10, 2024

Nominations for District Governor for 2027-2028 are being accepted starting August 12, 2024. Deadline to submit nominations: Monday, October 14, 2024.

This important individual leads and supports the clubs in the district by inspiring and motivating them to Do Good in the World! All clubs are encouraged to propose suitable candidates who meet the qualifications to serve. One of these requirements is that at the time of taking office, must have been a past president of a club, completed seven years of membership in one or more clubs, and to have attended governors-elect training seminar and International Assembly. If you feel that your club has such a leader among your members, please consider nominating them to help fulfill Rotary's ongoing missions.

The nomination form can be downloaded here. In addition to the nomination form, please include a Rotary-focused resume of the candidate, as well as the candidate's vision statement of what they would like to accomplish for our district in their year as district governor. Completed nomination forms and the additional documents should be sent to DG Tom Hankard at tomhankard@yahoo.com.

Zone Membership Meetup Webinar

Posted by Tim Kelley on Aug 09, 2024

The Zone Membership Webinar Series continues August 12. It's the second Monday of August (because the first Monday was a holiday in many places). "Open Mikes" - Mike Gibson and Mike Huie will share some of the magic that allows them to attract ~20 members in a year! You will learn about a 5 step plan to grow your club and about how follow-up tools in ClubRunner have been used effectively. Share, share, share!

The link is always on the Zone website. And here it is as well.

ShelterBox All-Hands Rotary Roundup Webinar

Posted by Bill Tobin, Shelterbox on Aug 09, 2024

As ShelterBox approaches our 25th year in global disaster relief, we would like to invite you and all club members and associates in District 7930 to our “ShelterBox All-Hands Rotary Roundup,” on Wednesday, August 28th at 12 pm PT / 3 pm ET via Zoom.

This 30-minute session will focus on the power of our partnership with Rotary and will feature ShelterBox USA President, Kerri Murray, a member of the Rotary Club of Montecito, Ca. and ShelterBox Response Team member, Brian Glenn, from the Rotary Club of Denton-Lake Cities, Texas.

Sangkoo Yun selected as RI President 2026-27

Posted by Tom Hankard on Aug 09, 2024

Sangkoo Yun, from the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang, Seoul, Korea, has been selected as the Rotary International President for 2026-27. His nomination will be confirmed on September 15, if unchallenged.

Yun holds degrees from Syracuse University and an honorary doctorate from The University of Edinburgh.

He is the founder and CEO of Dongsuh Corp. and President of Youngan Corp., with significant involvement in civic organizations and cultural heritage preservation.

A Rotary member since 1987, Yun has held numerous roles including director, trustee, and RI learning facilitator. He co-chaired the Keep Mongolia Green Project for eight years and served on several RI committees.

Yun received The Rotary Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award and honors from Queen Elizabeth II and the presidents of Mongolia and Korea.

He is a Republic of Korea Army veteran and an elder at Andong Presbyterian Church. Yun and his wife, Eunsun, are major Rotary donors and have two children.

Learn more about Sangkoo here.

Andover Supports Tornado Disaster

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Aug 05, 2024

RAGBRAI, Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, is more than just a bike ride, it is an epic eight-day rolling festival of bicycles, music, food, camaraderie, and community. It is the oldest, largest, and longest multi-day bicycle touring event in the world. On May 21st of this year, a large and destructive tornado struck cities and communities in Iowa reaching its peak intensity in Greenfield, Iowa leaving four residents dead and over 200 homes, the hospital and the fire department destroyed. The community is raising funds to help rebuild Greenfield, Iowa.

On Tuesday, July 23rd, Greenfield welcomed RAGBRAI riders to their town. The RAGBRAI route took riders through areas that were affected by the storm. It was hoped to have been under better condition, but the bicycle riders were welcomed, nonetheless.

Join the PolioPLUS Society

Posted by Charlie Foskett on Aug 05, 2024

The PolioPLUS Society provides consistent funding for polio vaccination programs and improvements in health practices, sanitation, nutrition and the prevention and treatment of other diseases such as yellow fever, malaria, Ebola, etc. whose unchecked presence cultivates opportunity for the spread of highly contagious polio virus mutations. As a Rotarian, your participation in PolioPLUS is critical fuel for the engine of Rotary's decades-long polio eradication effort.

Join Up Now!

In 2022, D7930 launched the District's PolioPLUS Society. If you are a Charter Member, please remember to make your annual $100 donation to PolioPLUS now: https://my.rotary.org/donate

And if you haven’t done so before, you can join the PolioPLUS Society now by pledging to donate a minimum of US$100 each year until the world is certified polio free. Enrolling is easy: https://fa.lk/PolioPlusSociety

Wildfires Devastating our Friends in Western Canada

Posted by Tom Hankard on Aug 02, 2024

This first-hand account of the wildfires in Jasper, Alberta, Canada comes from District 5370 Governor Brian Edwards.

Hello Rotary family,

We are devastated that large sections of the town and park of Jasper, our jewel in the mountains, have suffered such fire damage. The town has lost about 1/3rd of the structures, mainly residences. It is currently shut down, without water or power.

Approximately 10,000 town residents and 15,000 park visitors were successfully evacuated, with no known injuries. We thank the firefighters who put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe, the police, first responders, town and park officials and no doubt many others who calmly look after us. And the members of the Rotary Club of Jasper, who provided traffic control support in this time of crisis. All are safe and accounted for, although dispersed across Alberta and British Columbia.

Nominate Members for Advancing Women in Rotary

Posted by Tom Hankard on Aug 02, 2024

The Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award honors one Rotary member each year, regardless of gender or length of Rotary membership, for actively working to advance women in Rotary.

The award was established by a group of Rotarians in 2017 and is named for the first female Rotary club president, who went on to lead change for women and girls around the world through Rotary.

Any member can nominate another member in good standing for this award during August. Write to riawards@rotary.org with questions.

To learn more about Past President Sylvia of the Rotary Club of Duarte, California. click here. Link for past recipients of "Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award."

Nominate another member here.

August is Membership and New Club Development Month

Posted by Peter Majane, District Membership Chair on Aug 02, 2024

With the month of August upon us, we recognize Membership and New Club Development Month. In order to grow Rotary and increase our impact, we need “all hands on deck” to share the gift of Rotary with new acquaintances, old friends, co-workers and neighbors, and all who are interested in service and want to be a part of an organization that is doing good in the world.

The second strategic priority of our Rotary Action Plan is Expand our Reach. If more people affiliate with Rotary as members, participants and partners, we’ll grow our capacity to make a greater impact. This priority focuses on how we can share our values with new audiences, create new ways to bring people together to experience the power of Rotary, and prove we are an organization that’s inclusive, engaging, compassionate, and ambitious on behalf of the world. Please take a couple of minutes to view this video with Director Chris Etienne and Bina Ahmad sharing the success of growing Rotary in District 7230 (NY city area).

Beat the Heat and ALS in Wilmington

Posted by Hannah Roberts on Aug 02, 2024

The Wilmington Rotary Club is pleased to announce that the next Community Ice Bucket Challenge will be held at Rotary Park on Saturday, August 24. Starting at 10:00 AM, everyone is invited to enjoy the pleasure of dumping ice water over their head!

As in years past, all donations in any amount will be forwarded to the Angel Fund of Wakefield. The Angel Fund is an organization committed to finding a cure for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Through the work of Dr. Robert Brown at the UMass Medical Center, progress has been made but the cure hasn’t yet been achieved and additional funds are still needed. As in past years, ALL monies donated are fully donated to further this important research.

Purple Pigs for Polio

Posted by Linda Sullivan on Jul 31, 2024

World Polio Day is just twelve weeks from now - 24 October 2024 ...what is your club doing to END POLIO NOW? Whether you're planning a plunge, pizza for polio or another fun activity to raise awareness of eradicating polio, let's get the word out! Perhaps you might want to share your creative ideas with our District Newsletter so that others may benefit and help make this the year that we eradicate Polio.

And if you are looking for ideas, the Marblehead Rotary Club has had great success with a rather simple idea: Purple Pigs for Polio! Each week Purple Piggy Banks adorn our luncheon tables, and Rotarians and guests are invited to feed them with spare pocket change and/or green, leafy bills. You would be surprised how much these pigs can consume! Last year alone, their bellies were filled with almost $4,000 from weekly feedings and Happy Dollars during the month of October. With the Gates Foundation, 2:1 match, that's almost $12,000 raised to continue our global polio eradication effort. If you're interested in Purple Piggy Banks for your club, Amazon links where you can find purple pigs in various sizes (we use the larger pigs on our tables) follow:

Medium Purple Piggy Bank: https://a.co/d/g1ef3bS
Large Purple Piggy Bank: https://a.co/d/h42Pe4b

Second Monday Social with Melrose Rotary

Posted by James Oosterman on Jul 31, 2024

Rotarians from around the district, along with their friends and family, are invited to Melrose Rotary Club's new Second Monday Social. Each "Second Monday" club members, along with their guests, meet at JJ Grimsby's restaurant at 301 W. Wyoming Ave, Stoneham, MA from 5:30-7:00 for a social get together. The next Second Monday Social is August 12.

"It's a great way to meet members from other clubs, chat with new and old friends, and the food and drinks are great, too" says club co-president, Don Putney. In addition to the opportunity to gather socially, there is an opportunity to financially support a worthy cause and vote for the organization to receive the donations. The current "Vote Your Charity" options are aid to Ukraine, a school in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and a local area food program. All of the donations collected at the Second Monday socials will be awarded at our December social to the cause that received the most votes at our July thru December gatherings.

Co-presidents Don Putney and Mark Hutchinson hope that you'll us at our next social on Monday, August 12th!

Andover Donates Endoscopic Surgical System to Ukraine

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Jul 30, 2024

Earlier this spring, the Rotary Club of Andover in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Cherkasy, the Rotary Club of Kyiv-City, Ukraine, and the Cambridge-Isanti Rotary club coordinated and donated an Olympus endoscopic surgical system at a cost of $16,900 to Yemilchnye Hospital in Ukraine.

Endoscopy, often referred to as gastroscopy, is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to observe the inside of the body and perform less invasive surgery without major incisions.

The system was purchased and shipped by Andover Rotary with a grant from the Andover Rotary Charitable Trust, a Rotary District Matching Grant, and donations from club members.

Gloucester Pancake Breakfast

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Jul 29, 2024

Come for the Pancakes, Stay for the Waterfront Festival!

Saturday, August 17, 2024, Stage Fort Park

Dig into a fresh stack of blueberry pancakes at this year’s Gloucester Rotary Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser at Stage Fort Park on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

This community-friendly tradition brings people together for a good cause and offers a hearty al fresco breakfast with stunning views from the bandstand. Finish up a plate of pancakes and head down the hill to the Gloucester Waterfront Festival, sponsored by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, running on Saturday-Sunday, August 17-18. A special free parking area is available for Pancake Breakfast attendees. For information on Gloucester attractions, visit www.capeannvacations.com.

Tickets for the Pancake Breakfast are $10 per person, $6 for children six and under, and are available in advance online (https://gloucesterrotary.org/page/pancake-tickets) or from any Gloucester Rotarian. Tickets will also be available on the morning of the breakfast. Proceeds from the Pancake Breakfast will benefit local projects that support people. The Gloucester Rotary has served Gloucester and the world beyond for 100+ years.

Rotary Webinar: The State of Membership

Posted by RI Membership Development Team on Jul 26, 2024

Rotary is a membership organization. That means that the unique skills and contributions of our members are the driving force behind everything we do. To accomplish everything we want to do, we need our club, district, and zone leaders to commit to growing Rotary and Rotaract. That’s why growing our membership is one of our top priorities.

Register now for the upcoming webinar The State of Membership on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at Noon EDT. A recording will be available to everyone who registers.

During this 45-minute webinar, we will:

Review the current state of our membership as of 1 July 2024
Discuss the recent research findings from the all-member surveys
Share ideas about how club and district leaders (YOU!) are improving the club experience for members. All ideas generated will be shared with everyone who registers.

We look forward to hearing your thoughts and questions.

Registration Link.

Refuse to be a Victim Seminar

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Jul 24, 2024

Most attacks happen when you are not aware of what is going on around you. Come learn how to REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM.

This seminar, taught by Andover Sportsmans Club members, Steve Cooper, Allan Arena and Cheryl Crawford, will cover awareness tips and techniques to keep you safe in your living quarters (home, dorm room, apartment, etc.), when in public, during transportation and while using technology. It is not a hands-on self-defense class.

When: Aug. 14th, 5-6:30 pm
Where: South Church, 41 Central St., Andover
Who: Teens ages 15 plus and college-bound students. Adults/parents are welcome.
Cost: $15 per person or $40 per family

To register click here.

Questions? Email Diana Kiesel, Event Coordinator. Co-Sponsored by: Rotary Club of Andover and the Andover Sportsman's Club. Space is limited, please pre-register to guarantee your spot. Net proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club of Andover Charitable Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Download event flyer here.

We're Going Back to Cebu!

Posted by Terry Rezendes Curran on Jul 21, 2024

District Governor Tom is pleased to announce that we have secured the sponsorship for the next Rotaplast Mission to Cebu in the Philippines.

We will be departing on March 8, 2025, and returning on March 23, 2025. Rotaplast is a Rotary adjacent organization, started and supported by Rotarians worldwide. Their mission is to alleviate the suffering of children with facial deformities in low-income countries through free corrective plastic surgeries (cleft lip and palate).

This is a great opportunity for clubs to be part of an international service mission. We hope that all clubs will contribute to raising our goal of $85K. We also need volunteers to come with us. Contact PDG Terry Curran at TerryCurran7930@gmail.com or call at 617-501-3521 if you are interested or have any questions.

Focusing on Partnerships to Increase our Impact

Posted by Tom Hankard on Jul 19, 2024

As a part of this year's One by One Membership Initiative, introduced at our District Installation, all Rotarians have pledged, during the next Rotary year, to invite one person to a Rotary meeting, event, or service project.

The goal is to increase your club's net membership by one member. If every club in our District increases membership by one net member, we will have the most growth in decades.

One way to grow our membership is by enhancing our relationships with or finding new partners for our clubs to work with. When we find new ways to serve our community, our impact as an organization increases, and our community recognition grows.

Rotary has put out some great tips on inspiring partners to work with us. Take a moment to read and talk about it at your next club meeting! 10 Tips to Inspire Partners to Work with you on a Service Initiative.

Have you Visited The Learning Center Lately?

Posted by Tim Kelley on Jul 19, 2024

Now is the perfect time to brush up on your Rotary knowledge base at the Learning Center. The Learning Center has seen a lot of activity in the last two months of the year. Members from 49% of clubs visit the Learning Center! That's a 9% increase compared to what was shared in May. Is your club in the 51% that have not visited The Learning Center?

What do you do when looking for answers to questions about all things Rotary? Well, you are in luck. Rotary International’s Learning Center offers many online courses/modules with information about all aspects of Rotary.

All these courses are E-Learning. They consist of videos that you can review from the convenience of your computer. Catalog areas include: About Rotary; Club & District Leadership; Membership; Professional Development; Public Image; Service; The Rotary Foundation. Special shoutout to new courses on Public Speaking created in partnership with Toastmasters. Check it out. You will be glad you did.

The Learning Center can be found here. You will need to login with your My Rotary login. If you do not already have one, you can follow the prompts to register. If you have questions, please reach out to Tim Kelley.

Newburyport Awards Scholarships

Posted by Deborah Andrews on Jul 15, 2024

The Rotary Club of Newburyport is proud to announce our 2024 college scholarship recipients! We provide $15,000 in scholarships annually to local graduating seniors. Each student receives $5,000.

The club is greatly impressed with the following three outstanding scholarship recipients. Anna Romano from Triton received the Norman Russell Memorial Scholarship and will be attending Assumption University. The George A. Cashman Community Service Scholarship was presented to Simone Chabot from Newburyport who will be attending Providence College. Jeremy Barry from Newburyport received the Norman Russell Memorial Scholarship and will be attending the College of William and Mary. We look forward to hearing about their future accomplishments.

Pictured left to right are Salisbury Chief of Police and scholarship committee member Tom Fowler, scholarship recipients Simone Chabot, Jeremy Barry, and Anna Romano, Newburyport Public Schools Superintendent Sean Gallagher, scholarship committee member Susan Viccaro, and scholarship committee member Guillermo Molina.

4th of July in Rockport

The Rotary Club of Rockport celebrated the 4th of July in style! The day always begins with the reading of the Declaration of Independence in Dock Square at 10:00am. The crowd is instructed to respond with a “Huzzah” when something good is read, or a “Fi” when something reprehensible occurs! Rotarians are dressed in period costumes and encourages audience participation.

Later in the day, festive club members participated in the parade on a float decorated with the Statue of Liberty and signs inviting new members.

Reading Calls Vendors and Sponsors to its Fall Street Faire

Posted by Tim Kelley on Jul 11, 2024

Reading Rotary is proud to present the 16th Annual Reading Fall Street Faire on Sunday, September 8. It will be bigger and better than ever! Drawing thousands every year to downtown Reading, it’s one of the most beloved and largest events in the area. If you want to be a part of it, now is the time. Sign up before it's too late!

Vendor registration has opened online at readingfallstreetfaire.com. More details of the event are on the website.

Sponsorship opportunities still available including: Inflatable Zone; Acoustic Corner; Family Fun Zone; Beer Garden; Lamp Post Banners; and more. Sponsorship inquiries may be directed to sponsorsforfallstreetfaire@gmail.com for further information.

This year’s Fall Street Faire will include:

Live entertainment on three stages

Local vendors, clubs, and non-profits

Dedicated children’s area with games and activities

Amusement zone with inflatables

Delicious food choices

Beer garden and tailgate area to watch the NFL on a big screen

Support this beloved community event. See readingfallstreetfaire.com for more details. Questions can be directed to Tim Kelley. We hope to see you there!

Woburn Presents Frizzell with PHF

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Jul 09, 2024

At a recent meeting, the Rotary Club of Woburn presented a Paul Harris Fellow to David Frizzell. David is a retired Fire Chief from the town of Belmont. Dave received this awarded for his dedication to the youth in Boy Scout Troup 502 currently sponsored by the George A. Campbell Post 101 in Woburn. He has mentored over 15 boys in their attainment of the rank of Eagle Scout. The prestigious Eagle Scout rank is highest rank that a young man or woman can a attain in Scouting. In addition, he has assisted in many of the administrative functions and training of adult leaders. Also in attendance at the Rotary Luncheon meeting were 4 Eagle Scouts. Presenting the Paul Harris Award to David Frizzell was Rotary Club of Woburn Past President and Paul Harris Fellow, Bill Sullivan.

Pictured here from left to right ar Zach Bates, John Juliuson, Rotary Past President Bill Sullivan, Paul Harris recipient David Frizzell, Matthew Frizzell, and David Mullally.

Rotaract Summer Hike

Posted by Arunima Raya Chhetri on Jul 09, 2024

On July 7, the Boston Rotaract 2024-25 tenure commenced with a memorable hike to Middlesex Fells Reservoir. About a dozen Rotaractors turned out for this fun event. What began as a planned 3-hour trek from Oak Grove to the reservoir turned into a rewarding 6-hour expedition, underscored by the initiative to collect trash along our return route.

Upon reaching the picnic spot, participants enjoyed a cultural exchange showcasing diverse Rotaracting styles and traditions from around the world. Highlights included performances of dances and songs, as well as sampling snacks from countries such as Nepal, the United States, Mexico, Iran, and India. Everyone was thankful for hosting the event and looking forward to more of this.

Global Scholar Acadia Thielking

Posted by Alexander Falk on Jul 08, 2024

Imperial College London, United Kingdom

Master of Science in Epidemiology

Acadia Thielking, who graduated from Wesleyan University in May 2021, was chosen to represent District 7930 as the 2024 Global Scholar in the Rotary Foundation’s Area of Focus of Disease Prevention and Treatment.

Acadia, who lives in Somerville, has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Science in Society from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. She is passionate about using mathematical modeling to improve infectious disease health outcomes and address the growing threat of drug resistance worldwide. Her goal is to bridge the gaps between community-driven research, mathematical modeling, and policymaker decision-making to improve large-scale health outcomes.

Winchester Awards $22K to Students

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Jul 05, 2024

Winchester Rotary continued its annual scholarship awards and celebrated five graduating seniors' academic and service achievements by awarding $22,000 for their college education.

This year's winners were Adam Lubomirski, UMass Amherst; Ila Stanley, Middlebury College; Devon Headley, Babson College; Jonathan Christmas, Cornell University; and Edward Cutting, University of Michigan.

Gloucester Announces Photo Contest

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Jul 05, 2024

The Gloucester Rotary will publish a 12-month Cape Ann photo calendar for 2025 as a fundraiser. All profits will go to the Gloucester Rotary’s many community and international activities.

The 2025 calendar theme will be Flowers of Cape Ann. In Order to publish a beautiful calendar, the Club is requesting high quality digital photos that reflect the natural beauty of Cape Ann throughout the year. As we will be featuring one photo per month, we need images from each season: winter, spring, summer and fall. Photographs from Gloucester, Rockport, Essex and Manchester will be accepted.

Full contest rules and requirements are available online at www.gloucesterrotary.org. All entries must be received by 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 15, 2024. Contest contact: Matt Langis, 978-381-2500, photocontest@gloucesterrotary.org.

Rotary Showcase Will be Changing

Posted by Peter Majane on Jul 03, 2024

Rotary Showcase, our service project management platform, is undergoing a major upgrade that will enhance your ability to track service projects and yearly service goals.

In the coming weeks, Rotary Showcase will be retired, making way for the Service Project Center (SPC), a dynamic and feature-rich hub for all service projects. You’ll find better tools to manage your projects, improved speed, and streamlined processes with the new platform.

Below are the key updates and the actions you should take before 30 June:

1. Platform Update:

• Our current platform, known as Showcase, will undergo a significant update.

• It will be replaced with a new platform called the Service Project Center.

• To ensure a smooth transition, update service projects in Showcase before 30 June.

Danvers Donates Freezer to Food Pantry

Posted by Becky Kilborn on Jul 03, 2024

Danvers Rotary Club purchased a new double door commercial freezer for the Danvers Food Pantry. The $6,800 donation provides additional freezer storage for food donations which arrive weekly from various sources including the Greater Boston Food Bank and Stop & Shop. The Danvers Food Pantry serves on average 240 families each month with 344 families actively receiving services this year. By year end a 25% increase is anticipated over last year. Through May 2024 the Pantry distributed 72,000 pounds of food.

Recently a group of Danvers Rotarians visited the Food Pantry to thank the volunteers and view the new freezer. The Danvers Food Pantry was started 30 years ago and is staffed by over 30 volunteers who coordinate collection and distribution of Pantry supplies to serve needy Danvers residents.

Gloucester Rotary Comedy Show

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Jul 03, 2024

Tickets are now available to the annual Gloucester Rotary Comedy Night, featuring Brad Mastrangelo, Jody Sloane, Jeff Koen, and Boston's Dave Rattigan on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Cruiseport Gloucester, located at 6 Rowe Square on Gloucester's harborfront. Doors open at 7 pm and the show starts at 8 pm.

Don't miss this evening of fun and laughter! Tickets are $30 each and are available from any Gloucester Rotarian or contact Mark Vadala (978-490-0939).

This event always sells out!!

The Magic of Rotary Explained

Posted by Tom Hankard on Jul 01, 2024

The Magic of Rotary has arrived!

For those of us who have experienced Rotary in action, we know the "Magic" Rotary has given to the World started in 1905 in Chicago by some guy we know by the name of Paul Harris.

Our new Rotary International President, Dr. Stephanie Urchick, was inspired to create this year's theme while she was on a water project mission in the Caribbean.

This video is a great watch. I was in the room when President Stephanie shared the story of two young boys seeing clean water pour out from a well.

Happy Rotary New Year

Posted by Tom Hankard on Jul 01, 2024

Happy Rotary New Year! We had a fantastic District celebration, ushering in the Magic of Rotary. In the words of new RI President Stephanie Urchick, "You create the magic with every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member."

Nearly 300 District 7930 Rotarians celebrated New Year's Eve with their new club presidents, assistant governors, district leadership, and Rotary International Director and Treasurer Drew Kessler!

Thank you all who were there to share in the magic. Rotarians heard from speakers and guests reinforcing the need for Rotary in our communities. Over 46 Rotary and Rotaract Club Presidents and 16 Assistant Governors were installed by Drew Kessler, truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Membership Webinar Series #3

Posted by Tim Kelley on Jun 30, 2024

Don't miss the next in the series of Membership Webinars, coming July 8 at 7:30 pm.

Here's your reminder for the monthly Simply Irresistible Monday Membership Meetup!

Monday – July 8, 7:30 pm. July's topic: Building Partnerships for Service.

It would be wonderful if every club had someone attending. The session is suitable for all leaders and aspiring leaders with an interest in change.

The link is the same for every session. Click Meeting Link here. Also, the recordings from the previous sessions are on the Zone site.

Lynn Awards 6 Scholarships

Posted by William Reilly on Jun 30, 2024

The Rotary Club of Lynn awarded six scholarships to outstanding high school seniors on June 20, 2024 at Old Tyme Italian Cuisine. There were over 35 very qualified applicants, and those were narrowed down to these 6. It is a difficult task to eliminate applicants, and this year was made more difficult due to the lack of FAFSA information. The lack of FAFSA was due to a change by the Federal Government concerning the process. The Scholarship Committee had to make decisions without reviewing the financial ability of the family to pay the tuition.

From L to R: Joselyn Armas, Lynn English; Marianna Garcia; KIPP; Lewis Hopkins, St. Mary’s; Judith Gomez, Lynn Vocational Institute, and Angel Frias, KIPP. Absent when photo was taken Fadilat Amisu, Lynn English.

Share Your Rotary Stories

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Jun 28, 2024

Has your club recently hosted an event or project or are you planning something in the near future that you would like to share with your fellow District 7930 Rotarians?

The weekly eBulletin depends on the content provided by clubs, so please submit your stories and we will publish them on the district website and in the next eBulletin. Stories that showcase your club or event should be submitted via the website portal at this link. Your club's successes and events can give inspiration to other Rotarians.

The deadline for submitting items for the weekly District 7930 eBulletin is Friday morning in order to be included in the following Monday's edition. If the eBulletin being prepared is getting to be too long and the story submitted is not time-sensitive, we may choose to delay including it until the following week.

For some guidelines on creating stories, please read more!

Importance of Using the "New" Branding

Posted by Tim Kelley on Jun 28, 2024

Question of the month: Why should I update my club's Rotary logo? I like the old one better.

Consistency in voice and visual identity, including the Rotary master brand or logo, is important for highlighting Rotary's impact and gives value to our work. This consistency helps reinforce the message of Rotary's mission and the effectiveness of our initiatives. Your club can help build brand recognition by using our logos correctly and consistently. Always use your customized club, district, or zone logo when promoting your club or other Rotary entity or its activities. Please do not use the Rotary logo without your club identifier. Otherwise, it implies that the promotional activity is from Rotary International and not your own Rotary club.

Danvers Food Pantry Fundraiser

Posted by Barry Kaplan on Jun 27, 2024

The Danvers Club scratch ticket raffle offers a 1/100 chance to win $1000 worth of lottery tickets for just $50.

Scan the QR code or Venmo @danvers-rotary to buy your raffle. We draw the winner when the last ticket sells. There aren't many left!

See danversrotary.org for details.

Salem Rotary Awards $50K to Salem Students

Posted by Adria Duijvesteijn on Jun 26, 2024

The Salem Rotary Club has been making Salem a better place for local residents and has contributed to communities around the globe for over 100 years. The largest impact they make each year, however, is to local Salem high school-aged students. This spring, the Salem Rotary Club was pleased to present $50,000 in Scholarship and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Awards to senior students from Salem.

Last week, the Club held their annual Salem Rotary Scholarship luncheon where they awarded $40,000 in scholarships to 14 Salem seniors.

“This is the most special meeting we hold each year, and it is a joy for our members to meet students and their families whose lives are positively impacted by these awards,” said Jennifer Close, Salem Rotary Club President.

Beverly Making the Community Beautiful

Posted by Jackie Rapisardi on Jun 24, 2024

Beverly Rotary Club members took on the task of cleaning out and planting colorful flowers and plants on the rotary near the Montserrat Station in Beverly. The Club sponsors that location each year to keep Beverly beautiful . It ends up being a fun event, with cars going by happily honking at the Rotarians as they take care of the garden. Following the afternoon planting, a social is held at a Rotarian's house around the pool. The saying, "Good deeds get rewarded" is surely true in this case!

Wakefield's Father's Day Fishing Derby a Great Success

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Jun 24, 2024

The Wakefield Rotary Club hosted its annual Father’s Day Fishing Tournament at Lake Quannapowitt on Sunday, June 16th. The free event, open to all ages, welcomed about a dozen families fishing for various top spots. Wakefield Rotary Event Coordinator Gene Mullen explained, “The weather this year held up great.” He added, “This family event is really a highlight for our club each year.” Loaner rods were made available thanks to Mass Wildlife and bait was donated by Boats & Motors on North Avenue in Wakefield.

The patient anglers began to see lots of action as kids, parents, grandparents and relatives reeled in sunfish, yellow perch and bass. The fish, once measured and recorded by our judges, were released back into the lake. The event concluded with awards for the largest fish caught by category presented to Connor for his 7-inch sunfish and a tie between Logan and Hazel who each reeled in a 9” yellow perch.

RI Director Drew Kessler is Special Guest at our District Installation

Posted by Tom Hankard on Jun 21, 2024

Rotary International Director and Treasurer Drew Kessler will join us and install our incoming Club Presidents at our District Installation on June 27! The opportunity to meet a sitting Rotary International Director does not happen often.

Tickets are still available for our Happy Rotary New Year Celebration at Danversport Yacht Club. The fun starts at 6 pm on Thursday, June 27. Along with fun and laughter, a full Chinese food buffet will be served.

Do not miss out on the celebration! Register here. Registration is still open!

4 Ways to Get New Members Engaged Quickly

Posted by Peter Majane, District Membership Chair on Jun 21, 2024

When you help new members feel valued and connected to a club from the beginning, they’re more likely to stay and be part of the club’s growth. Here are four ways you can keep new members engaged:

1. Introduce newcomers to the rest of the club using the club’s website, newsletter, or email. You can also highlight new members at meetings or service activities (ask them first!) or organize small get-to-know-you sessions. Encourage current members to make them feel welcome.

2. Learn about new members. The member interest survey will help you understand their background, interests, and what they’re most excited to do with the club. Be ready to recommend Rotary activities that match their interests.

3. Pair new members with mentors who can help them feel comfortable and welcomed. Mentors can teach new members about the club and its activities, answer questions about Rotary, and suggest ways they can get involved. A mentor can also introduce them to members who share their interests.

4. Create an inclusive club experience for everyone by considering how different members are able or prefer to engage. Do people use captioning apps, need an accessible website, or want translations? Learn what your members need and make it easy for them to participate.

Incorporating these strategies in your orientation process will help new members feel welcome, supported, and valued. Doing this can lead to long-term growth and success for your club.

If you have questions or would like support with Membership, contact Peter Majane.

Woburn Celebrates 100 Years of Rotary

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Jun 21, 2024

On Thursday June 6, the Rotary Club of Woburn celebrated 100 years of giving back to the City of Woburn with a Gala celebration held at the Woburn Elks. The evening included a delicious buffet by Chef Jason, Raffle prizes, live cover band "3 Floors Up," recognition and Citations from Mayor Michael Concannon’s Office, State Representative Rich Haggerty & Rotary District Governor Lori Karas.

Through a generous grant from the Cummings Foundation, the Rotary Club of Woburn has been able to financially support important programs to make the City a better place to live & work. These programs include:

Burlington Breakfast Plants Garden

Posted by Darshana Thakkar on Jun 17, 2024

Burlington Breakfast Rotary collaborated with Sunrise Senior Living in Burlington to create a vegetable garden for seniors. Sunrise Senior Living is an assisted living community that offers a range of living options with services.

Pictured are People of Action Burlington Breakfast Rotary at work.

Danvers Rotary Supports Food Pantry

Posted by Becky Kilborn on Jun 14, 2024

Recently a group of Danvers Rotarians visited the Food Pantry to thank the volunteers and view the new freezer. The Danvers Food Pantry was started 30 years ago and is staffed by over 30 volunteers who coordinate collection and distribution of Pantry supplies to serve needy Danvers residents.

Rockport Rotary Builds Classroom in Uganda

Posted by Nikki Marin on Jun 14, 2024

This past year, the Rockport Rotary Club built a classroom for Ugandan children with the support of a district grant. This comes as a result of the club's strong partnership with an organization called Village2Village Project, which focuses on serving vulnerable children in an impoverished area in rural northeastern Uganda, East Africa. The mission of Village2Village Project is to provide comprehensive, empowering, respectful, and compassionate care for vulnerable children and their families, one life at a time. The project provides basic needs support and education to over 225 children, most of whom have lost one more parent due to HIV/AIDs or violence.

Burlington Breakfast Honors Don Tocci

Posted by Frances Fazio on Jun 14, 2024

On May 25, Burlington Breakfast Rotary participated in the Stoneham Memorial Day Parade. Our late Rotarian, Don Tocci, was the Posthumous Grand Marshall of the Parade. He was honored for his "Service Above Self" activities to his community, the Rotary community, to Veterans, and everyone who was fortunate enough to meet him. Our founder, Kevin McKelvey, gave a moving speech about Don. We are honored to have been part of this parade.

Gloucester Rotary Playground Ribbon Cutting

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Jun 06, 2024

To celebrate their 100th Anniversary in 2023, the Gloucester Rotary chose to install new playground equipment at Stage Fort Park as their centennial gift to the City of Gloucester. This was an expansion of their playground project, which recognized Rotary International's centennial celebration in 2005.

Working with the City of Gloucester, the Gloucester Rotary purchased and gifted playground equipment to the City. The equipment was installed this spring and children have been flocking to the improved playground in the past several weeks.

RI Council on Resolutions Submission Deadline June 30, 2024

Posted by Joan Arsenault on Jun 06, 2024

Council on Resolutions

Rotary International’s Council on Resolutions meets each year to vote on proposed resolutions submitted by clubs, districts, the RI Board, and the general council or conference of RIBI and any urgent enactments proposed by the RI Board. Adopted resolutions are then considered by the RI Board or the TRF Trustees. Each district’s Council representative participates in the Council on Resolutions, and every club and district may propose resolutions. If your club or district is considering proposing a resolution for the Council on Resolutions, please click on this link to download the guidelines.

Proposed resolutions from clubs and districts for the Council on Resolutions must be received by Rotary International on or before 30 June prior to the Council on Resolutions, including the governor’s confirmation of endorsement. There are no exceptions to the deadline.

Free Father's Day Fishing Derby in Wakefield

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Jun 05, 2024

The Wakefield Rotary Club will be again sponsoring the Father’s Day Fishing Tournament at Lake Quannapowitt. The fun-filled morning is free and open to all ages on Sunday, June 16th. Wakefield Rotary Past President Gene Mullen announced, “Anglers, mark your calendars and prepare your tackle boxes! The much-anticipated Fathers Day Friends and Family Fishing Derby is back, promising a morning filled with fun, excitement and of course, plenty of fish tales.”

Lynn Recognizes 8th Grade Students

Posted by William Reilly on Jun 04, 2024

On May 30, 2024, the Rotary Club of Lynn continued with its 30+ year tradition of recognizing 8th grade students from Lynn Middle Schools. These are students who have struggled with some adversity during the school year or have shown empathy toward others in an outstanding way. This recognition meeting, at the Old Tyme Italian restaurant was the third and last such meeting for the current academic year.

Mental Wellness Webinar Invitation

Posted by Lori Karas on Jun 03, 2024

I am pleased to announce that the Zone Mental Health Affinity Cohort is hosting another Zone-wide webinar on mental health on Tuesday, June 11th, at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT. This webinar will focus on self-care for Rotarians.

5 Winchester Rotaries Connect

Posted by Richard Spalding, D1110 AG on Jun 03, 2024

By Richard Spalding, Assistant Governor of District 1110, and member of the Rotary Club of Winchester, UK

Five Rotary clubs that share a name, Winchester, met online together for the 23rd time on 18 March. What started during the pandemic has continued into a cherished tradition that is enriching each of the clubs. These include the Rotary Club of Winchester, UK; and the United States clubs of Winchester, Kentucky; Winchester, Massachusetts; Winchester, Tennessee; and Winchester, Virginia.

Marblehead Awards 5 Scholarships

Posted by Rosie Segil on Jun 03, 2024

Yearly, Marblehead Rotary awards four to six students a one-time scholarship and one a four-year scholarship for excellence in academics, leadership, community service, and extracurricular activities. This year, we are proud to announce five outstanding awardees.

Parkway Rotary vs. Kiwanis Softball: Sept. 11

Posted by Raymond Fitzgerald on Jun 03, 2024

Parkway Rotary is having its annual softball game against Kiwanis to raise funds for the Jason Roberts Challenger League (baseball league for kids with various disabilities) on Wednesday, September 11th (rain date Thursday, September 12th) at their field at the Orenberger School in West Roxbury. Time TBD. There will be food and drinks at the game. More information to follow.

Most importantly, we need players! We are calling all you Rotarian ballplayers. If interested in playing and/or attending please contact Ray Fitzgerald, Club Treasurer (and Team Coach).

Calling all Presidents-Elect 2024-25

Posted by Linda Doliber on Jun 03, 2024

Identifying potential club leaders and re-energizing long-time members are important aspects of a club President’s responsibilities. Many incoming 2024-2025 club Presidents are now setting their budgets for the coming year. Please consider a budget line item of $80-$100 to either partially or wholly subsidize at least one of your club leader’s participation at Rotary Leadership Institute, April 26, 2025, location to be determined, but within District 7930 commute.

A highly interactive and informative one-day session on the organization, goals, and possibilities of Rotary, it is led by experienced faculty, and it is not necessary for participants to be currently serving club officers.

More info on curriculum? Go to www.rlinea.org or email Linda Doliber, District 7930 Site Chair. “The Magic of Rotary” will happen at the club level guided by strong leaders! Invest in yours!

BBRC Amazing Summer '24 Raffle

Posted by Pooja Singla on May 31, 2024

You don't want to miss the chance to win the Amazing Raffle Prizes at the negligible cost. Grand Prize is '2 Tickets for a Red Sox Game' and 10 more equally attractive prizes
Burlington Breakfast Rotary (BBRC) has extended it's Raffle drawing date from June 6th to June 20, 2024 in order to expand it's reach to all. The club looks forward to the mutual support of our fellow Rotarians in the District to help BBRC support the community! $10 per ticket, 6 for $50.

Please contact President Elect Fran Presti-Fazio or Pooja Singla at for payment details!

BBRC is looking forward to a successful Raffle.

For a list of prizes, click Read more.

Don't Miss Membership Series June 3

Posted by Peter Majane on May 30, 2024

Here's your reminder for the monthly Simply Irresistible Monday Membership Meetup – it’s almost June!

Monday – June 3^rd, 7:30 pm. This one will be fun – it’s about Rocking the Boat – on purpose. There will even be pirates!

It would be wonderful if every club had someone attending. The session is suitable for all leaders and aspiring leaders with an interest in change.

The link is the same for every session. Meeting Link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86755780910?pwd=pOP9Y2J6g78EkCgPLFnDT4kH5OOgfc.1

Also, the recording from the first session is on the Zone site. Clubs should consider using the first 25 minutes as a program. The recording starts at the beginning of the presentation and it lasts 25 minutes. The Q&A are part of the recording but for a club program, just stop after 25 minutes. Great for those days when there is no speaker. Or if you want your club to become irresistible.

50/50 Foundation Raffle Extended to 6/15

Posted by Lori Becker on May 30, 2024

Our Rotary Foundation Annual Fund SHARE Fundraiser for District 7930 is underway! Get your tickets today!

• 50% of the money raised will be donated to the Annual Fund SHARE of the Rotary Foundation.

• 50% of the money raised will go to one lucky winner of this 50/50 raffle.

Our Annual Fund SHARE needs your help so that we can provide additional funds for our club projects. Our goal is to raise $40,000 through raffle ticket sales which would mean $20,000 to the Annual Fund SHARE and $20,000 to one very lucky raffle winner.

$30 per ticket. Winner will be chosen on June 15, 2024. You do not need to be present to win.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Ipswich-Rowley Flags for Heroes

Posted by Ann Witzig on May 28, 2024

Our Ipswich-Rowley Rotary is celebrating the heroes from our nation, our community, our relatives, and our friends, by commemorating a flag to them, from May 24 to June 8.

Please register online to sponsor your hero here.

Each flag sponsorship is $35, and the proceeds help Rotary provide local scholarships and fund community service projects.

Mary Gallivan Joins Ipswich-Rowley Rotary

Posted by Bob Wicks on May 28, 2024

Mary Gallivan was recently inducted into Ipswich-Rowley Rotary. Mary currently serves Ipswich as Assistant Town Manager and Human Resource Director. A dynamic and innovative human resources leader, her strong community service commitment extends well beyond her official duties and includes, among others, volunteering at the Ipswich Council on Aging, Ipswich Illumination, and the Ipswich Food Pantry (The Open Door). Throughout her life, Mary has sought opportunities to assist those who are suffering, in need or in crisis; as a town leader, she encourages other employees to help.

Her personal interests include participating in community events, running, horseback riding, and walking our beautiful community trails. Mary enjoys relaxing with her family, spending time at the beach, and reading.

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary is thrilled to welcome Mary to the Rotary family, where we achieve more together than we can alone.

From left President Ann Witzig, Mary Gallivan, and her sponsor President Elect Tom Murphy. (Bob Snow photo.)

Rockport's Lobster Raffle

Posted by Janelle Favaloro on May 28, 2024

The Rotary Club of Rockport is kicking off summer with its second annual Lobster Raffle! We have partnered with a local seafood restaurant to provide our 4 raffle winners with 20 pounds of fresh lobster meat! Nothing says summer like "lobstah" from Rockport!

Tickets available from any Rockport Rotarian or at:

Tuck's Candy & Gifts, 15 Main St., Rockport

Wharf Rat, 1 Dock Sq., Rockport

Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, 24 Harbor Loop, Gloucester.

Winners will receive gift certificate for 20 lbs of live lobster, redeemable at Roy Moore Lobster Co., 39 Bearskin Neck, Rockport.

For more info download flyer here.

Memorial Day Remembrance

Posted by Tim Kelley on May 27, 2024

This Memorial Day we honor and remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

#MemorialDay #serviceaboveself #createhopeintheworld #createhoped7930 #thankyouforyourservice

Early Bird Registration Opens for Calgary Convention

Posted by Tom Hankard on May 25, 2024

From May 25 to 29, Rotary International is offering a super early bird pricing rate of USD $475 for the Calgary Convention to be held on June 21 to 25, 2025.

With an International Convention so close to us, now is the time to experience Rotary on a whole new level! Calgary is a beautiful place and we will all be "white hatted," the highest honor the City of Calgary bestows.

If you are interested in participating in a District 7930 hotel block at Doubletree Calgary North, $119 per night USD, email DGE Tom Hankard, so we can get you on a list!

The price will go up on May 30, save money and register now! Registration link.

Thank You from RYLA Team

Posted by Christina Harris on May 25, 2024

What an incredible RYLA weekend! It was awesome to see these young leaders step out of their comfort zones, make new friends, and gain invaluable skills. Despite the rainy and chilly weather, the enthusiasm and engagement of 50+ teenagers from all across our District and 7950 was inspiring (and we loved having 7950 join us)!

We are all so proud of our returning RYLA Alumni - they trained for 4 hours a month for 6 months to prepare - they absolutely crushed it as Family Leaders!! The RYLA Lead Team, Rotaractors, Rotarians and other volunteers worked so hard to provide a fun, engaging and safe environment for growth to happen - you all inspire me by your hard work, wisdom, dedication. You are AWESOME (and for the record, I’m really going to miss seeing each of you on a regular basis!!). Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Happy Rotary New Year

Posted by Tom Hankard on May 24, 2024

Don't delay, register today! Registration closes June 23!

Celebrate and support your incoming Club President and others at this year's District 7930 Installation!

Join us on Thursday, June 27 at 6 pm at Danversport. Cocktail hour will be on the deck (weather permitting) and enjoy a night of fun and friends and a Chinese food buffet.

Registration is open here.

Attendees will be seated by club. For any special requests contact Tim Kelley.

Virtual Lunch with Veteran's Committee

Posted by Matt Schroeder on May 22, 2024

As we take time this weekend to remember all of the brave men and women who have served our country, it is a good time for Rotary to look ahead for opportunities in your club to engage and support the individuals and families of anyone who has served or is still serving our great nation.

Over the last year the District Membership Committee has been working to gather stories of club activities focusing on the Veteran community and share ideas for clubs to engage with local Veterans in their respective towns and cities.

On Wednesday, June 5th, 12 pm, the District Veteran's Committee will host a Zoom call for anyone looking to share a success story or looking to get some ideas on what they do within their club in the upcoming year.

Membership Series Continues June 3

Posted by Tim Kelley on May 22, 2024

Monday Membership Meetup for June! Mark your calendar for the first Monday of every month. It will be Magical! Keep the alliteration going. Next session is June 3 at 7:30 pm.

This one will prompt you to Rock the Boat...on purpose.

Here is the link. Please share with your clubs.

For Zoom link click here.

Ipswich-Rowley Centennial Project Groundbreaking

Posted by Bob Wicks on May 19, 2024

On April 25, the Ipswich Housing Authority (IHA) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the creation of an outdoor community space centrally located within its property at 95 County Road. The area abuts Bowen Hall which houses The Open Door/Ipswich Food Pantry. The project is partially funded by Ipswich-Rowley Rotary as part of its Centennial anniversary gift to the town. Several years ago, the club also played a major role in restoring Bowen Hall for the food pantry.

Ipswich-Rowley Rotarians present for the groundbreaking were President Ann Witzig, Centennial chair Martha Mauser, IHA liaison Chris Doktor, Open Door Director of Operations Jen Perry, and Events chair Lisa Shanko. Open Door CEO, President and Gloucester Rotarian Julia Hazen LaFontaine also is seen in the photo.

Ipswich-Rowley Supports Youth Campers

Posted by Bob Wicks on May 19, 2024

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary's Scholarships Chair Kathy Frederick presents a check for two Ipswich YMCA youth camp scholarships to Ipswich Y Executive Director and fellow Rotarian Chris Bevilacqua. Looking on are President Ann Witzig and Director Dr. Doug Shealy.

These scholarships will provide for two campers from Ipswich and/or Rowley to attend the Y’s Cedar Mill Camp in Rowley this summer.

The club also held a cleanup project at the camp this past weekend.

View ClubRunner Nova Preview Recording

Posted by Tim Kelley on May 17, 2024

Did you miss the ClubRunner Nova preview? ClubRunner first announced its new version in February with huge changes underway -- ClubRunner Nova. ClubRunner staff previewed ClubRunner Nova on a live webinar on May 13. If you missed it live, the video of the webinar is now available here. Club are encouraged to have at least one member view the recording to get a view of the new platform and its capabilities.

New updates to your ClubRunner subscription will include:

Universal log in: You can now log in directly to your club or district website directly from www.clubrunner.com.

Rotary's Action Plan

Posted by Tim Kelley on May 15, 2024

Rotary International is focusing on the use of the Rotary Action Plan as a planning tool to help grow Rotary at the club level. RI President Elect Stephanie Urchick is encouraging Districts and Clubs to use the Action Plan resources to bolster the health of Rotary.

Rotary's Action Plan. People of Action know that achieving any vision, big or small, requires a plan.

We pioneered a model of service leadership more than a century ago based on person-to-person connections. That model is just as powerful today as ever. Except now, those individual connections span the globe. Today's Rotary doesn't just reach out to act on communities' needs close to home; we transcend borders, generations, languages, cultures, and historic differences to create hope for a better world.

When we imagined where Rotary is going in the next 100 years, we developed a plan built on four priorities: increasing our impact, expanding our reach, enhancing participant engagement, and increasing our ability to adapt.

Lynn Installs Buddy Bench at School

Posted by William Reilly on May 15, 2024

When Irene Cowdell first heard about a new Rotary initiative called “Buddy Bench/Happy to Chat Bench,” she exclaimed to her fellow Rotarians, “I know exactly where Lynn Rotary should put a bench like this.” The Buddy Bench initiative is an effort to encourage conversations in the community. It is thought that if a person is sitting alone on a bench, another may also sit and then initiate a conversation. Cowdell, a retired Lynn Public School teacher and administrator, identified the Fallon School on Robinson Street as the perfect place for the special bench. Fallon houses an alternative Pre-K through grade five program that provides a variety of academic and therapeutic supports for its students. The school utilizes a strength-based behavior management system to help reintegrate its students back into regular programs.

“Our goal has always been the same,” said Fallon Principal Nancy Takis-Conway. “We strive to create a positive learning collaborative that fosters respect and compassion. I’m so thrilled to have this bench for our students. Many of our children have the perception that they’re not popular; have no friends and simply feel isolated. Our students know what to do now when they see one of their classmates sitting alone on Buddy Bench. They come over and engage in conversation or asked them to join in the game.”

Joining Principal Takis-Conway Wednesday were several Fallon teachers, along with Rotarians Steve Upton, President Jean-Marie Minton and Deputy Superintendent Deb Ruggiero.

No Mow May

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on May 15, 2024

I realize we're halfway through the month already, but I want to address No Mow May as it seems like such a good idea. Just one bullet point from many I've been reading says:

In May, there are many other plants in bloom and the flowers in the lawn will not provide any additional food resources for pollinators. Clover and dandelion flower even with a consistently mowed lawn.

If you want to use No Mow May as an excuse not to mow, go ahead, but to attract pollinators to your garden, plant natives. The recommendation from The Monarch Gardner is "Mow Less Summer". Plant native plants and watch the pollinators thrive.

For more information contact Andrea Lacroix with the District Environmental Committee.

Lynn Rotary and Reading Coop Sponsor Special Games

Posted by William Reilly on May 07, 2024

On May 2nd, 2024, the Lynn Rotary and the Reading Cooperative Bank hosted 468 Special Needs students for the 54th annual Special Games. Virtually all the Lynn students in Special Needs classrooms, if they are able, participate in this activity.

Many Rotarians and dignitaries attended the games. They all greeted the Lynn Police who ran from the Police Station (about 1.5 miles) to Manning Bowl. Prior to the official start, the students passed through a “Lane of Honor” consisting of Rotarians, Reading Cooperative Bank volunteers, Police, dignitaries, School Officials, Firemen and others. Ms. Kerry Ranieri, VP Community Banking & Development Officer, Reading Cooperative Bank started the games with a shout out of “Let the games begin.”

It speaks to the involvement of the leaders of Lynn who attended the Games, including Mayor Jared Nicholson; Deputy School Superintendent, Debra Ruggiero, Fire Chief Dan Sullivan; Police Chief Chris Reddy; State Representative Brendan Crighton; and numerous City Council members and School Committee members.

Lynnfield's Build A Bed Needs Volunteers this Saturday

Posted by Ron Block on May 06, 2024

Lynnfield Rotary is ready to build more beds on Saturday. Join us on May 11, 2024, at 9:00 AM in Market Street, Lynnfield, in the plaza by Starbucks, Panera and Otto Pizza. In case of inclement weather, we will meet in the cafeteria of Lynnfield High School. Download Build A Bed flyer here.

Lumber, hardware, tools, and expert instruction to construct the bed frames will be provided. People will work in groups of up to four builders. Volunteers are welcome to join us-individuals, families and organizations may participate. Children are invited with adult supervision.

The event is fully booked. All available beds have been claimed, but we need more builders. Thank you to our community for your wonderful support. You are providing beds for 30 children in Massachusetts an undoubtedly changing their lives.

Please share this information with friends, family, and business associates.

If you have any questions, contact Ron Block.

Interact Green Hunt

Posted by Grace Brogan on May 05, 2024

Hello District 7930 community! On Saturday, April 27th from 10-12 the District Interact Council of 7930 held their very first service project; The Green Hunt! The event was a fun and unique competition between neighboring Interact clubs to accomplish the goal of reducing litter within a community. It was held in Stoneham, on a warm sunny day and we were excited to see Stoneham Interact and Rotary along with Lynn Interact, as well as members from the North Reading and Wilmington clubs there! We accomplished our goal of reducing litter with a friendly competition and were excited to see how enthusiastic our fellow Interactors were!

The District Interact Council of 7930 is completely student run, and created the Green Hunt to motivate both Interact and Rotary into engaging with each other through an environmentally friendly competition. It was electric during the competition as each Interact club scrambled to their assigned sites and rushed to clean up litter during the allotted 1 hour and 15 minutes they were given. In the end, Lynn Interact claimed the victory and won a three-hundred-dollar prize. It was a fantastic experience!

Help Needed for Rotary Youth Exchange

Posted by Bob Ford on May 03, 2024

Rotary is one of the world’s greatest secrets, and Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is an even bigger secret. But RYE is one of the best programs in Rotary that serves both the local and international communities. The U.S. needs to improve and broaden the education that we provide to our children. RYE allows a high school student to grow and thrive through a challenging international experience. That experience involves our students going on exchange to a foreign country, and foreign students coming here, for a full academic year. Exchange students are totally immersed in the culture, language and family life of a teenager in their host country. Host families play a significant role in the exchange student’s life, while bringing their exchange student’s experience into their homes for their own children to experience and to be encouraged to take on the challenge themselves.

Woburn Donates Smoke/CO Detectors

Posted by Brian Ouellette on May 01, 2024

Last week Rotary Club of Woburn completed a service project by presenting the Woburn Senior Center with a donation for Smoke/CO Detectors for Woburn residents that either don't have them or need replacements. Members of Rotary Club of Woburn join the Woburn Fire Department to help install the detectors. Amy O'Brien from the Woburn Senior Center accepts the check from Rotary Club of Woburn President Brian Ouellette. Thanks to Cummings Foundation for a grant that makes this possible.

Host a Global Scholar

Posted by Lori Becker on Apr 29, 2024

Host an Inbound Global Scholar? What does that mean?

Being a host means looking out for the scholar as they plan to come to the U.S. and while they are here. Scholars live on, or off, campus at the University that they are studying with. Scholars are graduate students coming here to further their studies to gain a Master’s or Ph.D. here in the U.S. Some even come to the U.S. with their families!

As a host, you can help them navigate the area, connect with groups in the area and figure out how to do things while they are here like taking the bus to NY or visiting the Cape and New England. Being away from home can be tough and having a host family here for you can make a big difference.

In addition, scholars make GREAT speakers for your club! They all have very interesting stories and are inspirational speakers.

If you'd like to host a scholar this year, please contact AG Lori Becker at Lori@cfefitness.com to be placed on our "Yes! I want to host" list.

Gloucester to Honor Carole Sharoff

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Apr 29, 2024

Carole Sharoff will be presented with the Gloucester Rotary’s Paul Harris Distinguished Service Award at a special dinner on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Cruiseport Gloucester, located at 6 Rowe Square in downtown Gloucester. The Paul Harris Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Gloucester Rotary and recognizes Ms. Sharoff’s many contributions to the community at large as well as to Rotary as a former club board member, secretary, and President.

Carole is the founder and CEO of Atlantic Vacation Homes and AVH Realty, Inc. and was recently awarded the vacation rental industry’s Pioneer Award with the notation that “This entire industry owes her a debt of gratitude for everything she has done.” She served on the Vacation Rental Management Association’s Board as Secretary and on the Executive Committee. She was a Presenter at the Annual Million Dollar Women’s Symposium at Salem State University Enterprise Center. Locally, she serves on the board of Action, Inc., has been a board member of the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, Discover Gloucester and was copresident of Temple Ahavat Achim when it was destroyed in the tragic fire of December 2007. Under her leadership, a new Temple rose from its ashes at its original site on Middle Street. In all areas of her service, Carole focuses on improving the organization’s approach to Diversity and Inclusion.

Two Weeks until Somerville's 100th Event

Posted by David Worzala on Apr 28, 2024

Dear Rotary Friends,

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Somerville Rotary Club is 100 Year Anniversary. The 100 Years of Service celebration is taking place on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the George Dilboy Post, Davis Square, Somerville. Ticket information can be found here.

This event will highlight the Somerville Rotary Club’s accomplishments over the years and its plans going forward. The District Governor and Mayor of Somerville will attend. The Club will celebrate several people and organizations that have made an impactful contribution to many families and individuals at risk of food insecurity, homelessness, domestic abuse, and other life challenges in our community. These special people have long partnered with the Somerville Rotary Club and have together worked toward meeting Rotary’s “Service Above Self” goals.

We hope that you will join us and our celebration of service to our community. Rotary is service and service helps make our community.

Sincerely,

Celebration Committee: Gene Brune, Gene Ferraro, John Keegan, Ann Kirby, Gilda Nogueira, David Worzala

Zone Webinar Series Upcoming

Posted by Cindie Kish, Zone Membership Coordinator on Apr 26, 2024

We’re excited to announce a series of webinars starting May 6, 7:30 PM Eastern. Join us each month for dynamic, fast paced sessions full of concrete strategies you can use to grow your clubs!

Our May 6 kick off session: Simply Irresistible: Keys to building a thriving club.

Everyone is welcome! District and Club leaders are encouraged to attend. Spread the word!

For Zoom link click here. We’ll have more details to share with you over the next few weeks.

Help Expand our Reach on Social Media

Posted by Tim Kelley on Apr 26, 2024

Help us Expand our Reach on social media. We had to start a new D7930 Facebook Page. Our original Page is currently out of commission. We ask all Rotarians and friends to Like and Follow our new Page. Please invite your FB friends to like and follow. Our original Page had over 1000 followers. Our new page now has just over 160 followers. We need Rotary members to take part in increasing the impact and reach of Rotary's Public Image.

We ask all Rotarians on Facebook to help Expand Our Reach by inviting your contacts to Like and Follow our new Page.

I also want to note that our District also has a D7930 Facebook Group. What is the difference between our Page and our Group?

Arlington's Flags for Heroes

Posted by Bill Hayner on Apr 23, 2024

Arlington Rotary announces Flags for Heroes 2024. Community members have the opportunity to sponsor a flag in memory or honor of the men and women who are serving or have served as members of the Military, Police Officers, Firefighters, First Responders, Parents, Teachers, Coaches, Mentors, Community Leaders, and fly for all the people who have made a difference in their lives.

Arlington Rotary has dedicated this year's installation in memory of George Reynolds Jr., longtime Arlington resident and Rotary member for 62 years who died this year.

Flags for Heroes is a way to honor people who are your heroes. They may be men and women who are serving or have served as members of the military, first responders, parents, teachers, coaches, mentors, community leaders or other heroes. You may sponsor as many heroes as you want, and a flag with the name of your heroes will be flown at Park Circle Water Tower on Park Ave in Arlington.

Burlington Rotary Nubingo FUNdraiser

Posted by Lori Becker on Apr 23, 2024

Grab a ticket, or buy a table and join Rotary Club of Burlington for an awesome FUNdraising event! It's a combo of bingo + DJ + prizes + dancing + raffles.

Friday, May 3
Woburn Elks Club
7-11 pm
$50 per person
Click here for tickets.

It would be GREAT to see some friends at this event & help kickstart our fundraising in a big way. This event will really help out the Burlington community and our scholarship fund for high school students. If you can, please come!

Will our Club President, Lori Becker, be hula-hooping? It's HIGHLY likely.

Woburn Centennial Celebration Registration Now Open

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Apr 22, 2024

Please join us for fun night as Rotary Club of Woburn celebrates 100 years of "Service Above Self". There will be a live cover band, catered dinner, raffles, fun and fellowship!

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Cocktail hour 6 pm

Dinner 7:15 pm

Woburn/Stoneham Lodge of Elks #908

295 Washington Street, Woburn

RYLA Applications Deadline Extended Again

Posted by Christina Harris on Apr 19, 2024

The deadline for RYLA 2024 Applications has been extended to April 30. Why? Because we want to IMPACT more kids and we cannot do it without your help!

Please reach out to your schools, your Interact Clubs, your Rotarians, even your neighborhoods. The RYLA experience is not just about leadership. It is a prefect antidote for young people who want desperately to reconnect. It can help them pick up some of the social ground they lost during the COVID experience, and regain desperately needed self-confidence.

We believe there are at least another 20 students on the North Shore ready for RYLA - they just don’t know it yet! Here is a link to a great teaser video from Allie Foley.

RYLA 2024 will be held May 17–19, from Friday at 3 pm to Sunday at 3 pm at Camp Rotary in Boxford.

Reading Completes Rotary Readers Project

Posted by Tim Kelley on Apr 19, 2024

Reading Rotary just completed its Rotary Readers project during the Read Across America month of March. Rotary Readers is an annual literacy project where reading books and a backpack are given to each Reading Public Schools student in kindergarten. This year over 300 literacy bags were delivered by Rotarians to local elementary schools. In addition, Rotarians read to each Kindergarten class as part of Read Across America.

This literacy project has been adapted from Rotary’s previous dictionary and thesaurus giveaways. Teachers expressed their preference to have the younger students receive reading books. Basic Education and Literacy is one of Rotary International's Areas of Focus. This particular project was adapted from a Girl Scout Gold Award literacy project by Mary Kate Kelley, who is a Past President of RMHS Interact and one of its Charter Members.

Pictured here is Rotarian Margaret O'Sullivan with happy kindergartners.

Somerville 100th Anniversary Celebration

Posted by David Worzala on Apr 19, 2024

Come Celebrate the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Somerville Rotary Club and its contributions to the city over the past century. The event will highlight the Rotary motto Service Above Self. We will applaud people and organizations that epitomize service to the community. It will also be a fun evening of food, music, and fellowship.

May 14 at 6 pm

George Dilboy VFW Post 529

351 Summer St.

Somerville, MA 02144

Click here to purchase tickets.

Deadline Extended for District Conference

Posted by Lori Karas on Apr 19, 2024

New deadline is April 26. Make it a family event. Children 12 and older may attend.

District Conference May 4. Join us at the Boston Museum of Science! Celebrate a Rotary year of Creating Hope in the World.

Start your conference experience at 3:00 pm with Watson Adventures' Scavenger Hunt through the Musuem of Science by working in teams of 6. You can create your own team of 6 or be joined with others.

At 5:00 pm when the Museum, closes we'll be escorted to a private room for hors d'oeuvres, dinner and awards. Plus a special presentation - D7930 Creating Hope in the World.

Price is $225 per person - includes parking at the museum garage, admission, scavenger hunt, food and awards. Cash bar will be available. Register here. I look forward to seeing you there! Don't delay!

ClubRunner Nova Webinars

Posted by Tim Kelley on Apr 17, 2024

Are you ready for a new ClubRunner?

ClubRunner first announced its new version in February with huge changes underway -- ClubRunner Nova. ClubRunner staff will share some exciting updates and showcase ClubRunner Nova with an early preview! Join the CR Nova preview webinar May 13 at 6pm to get a sneak peek of the new platform and its capabilities.

In case you missed their announcement webinar where we unveiled our exciting vision for ClubRunner, you can watch the recording and explore the Q&A here.

Discover the latest additions to your ClubRunner subscription:

Universal log in: You can now log in directly to your club or district website directly from www.clubrunner.com.

Cloud events: Elevate your event management with advanced features such as tickets, product sales, optional donations, custom registration forms and more.

Donations: Set up fundraising campaigns connected to their own bank account and invite your community to donate online.

Mobile Message Broadcasts: Send push notifications from the club or district level to members through the mobile app. Great for important reminders and last-minute updates!

Winchester Supports Wonderbooks for Local Schools

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Apr 13, 2024

Winchester Rotary and WFEE (Winchester Foundation for Educational Excellence) donated Wonderbooks to Winchester Public Schools's five elementary libraries. A Wonderbook is a book with audio built in, which allows readers to read along while listening to a professional narrator. This models fluency for all students, including striving readers, language learners and vision impared students. The libraries are excited that these books will make them more inclusive for all students and will build their love of learning.

Winchester Golf Tournament May 20

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Apr 13, 2024

Attention, Golfers! Winchester Rotary looks forward to our 35th annual golf tournament on Monday, May 20, 2024, and expect another great event again this year at the Winchester Country Club. We expect to sell out again this year. Registration is now open!

Click here to register.

Rotarians from Japan Visit Arlington

Posted by Pooja Singla on Apr 12, 2024

On Wednesday, April 10th, the Arlington Rotary Club hosted visiting Rotarians from Yokohama and Kanagawa Rotary of District 2590 in Japan. The Japanese Rotarians were here to visit Global Scholars studying in Boston. Arlington hosted the visiting Rotarians for breakfast. Our District Governor Lori Karas and DG Akira Higuchi of Rotary District 2590 exchanged flags.

Two inbound Global Scholars from Japan already in Boston area - one a neurosurgeon at MGH and another pursuing Music degree -- also joined the meeting.

DGN Pooja Singla and AG Lori Becker was also in attendance for the festivities.

Boston Rotaract Skating Event

Posted by Arunima Raya Chhetri on Apr 11, 2024

Boston Rotaract recently sponsored a bonding event. Rotaractors gathered to ice skate at the Rink at 401 Park. It was a great success as the club is building up its membership.

Rotaract brings together people ages 18 and older to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun through service.

To contact Boston Rotaract, check out our Facebook page or email Boston Rotaract President.

Wakefield's New "I Have a Story" Series

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Apr 11, 2024

The Wakefield Rotary Club has recently grown to welcome five new women into its ranks. The growth inspired incoming Club President Wendy Maguire to launch a new speaker series with the aim of getting to know our members on a more personal level. “We all know what each other do for work. But I’m really interested in getting to know our members more,” Maguire explained. “What are their interests? Do they have any secret talents? What motivates them?” In an effort to accomplish just that, Maguire launched a new speaker series called “I Have a Story” earlier this week during the club’s regular lunch meeting at Brightview. Members and guests are invited to volunteer to speak on their interests, rather than just their work.

The first to volunteer was Wakefield Rotarian Paul Adams. Adams joined Rotary in 2017 and is a past Wakefield Rotary Board member. “I’ve been playing the banjo for about 15 years. I’ve never mentioned that at Rotary,” he said. Fitting the bill for Maguire’s speaker series, Adams stepped up to the microphone this past Tuesday to speak about the banjo, its roots in Africa and the Caribbean, share some of his favorite bands, and even perform himself. “I really enjoyed sharing that part of me,” he said. “It’s something that I’ve always been interested in and I was glad to share it with the club.”

Gloucester's 100th Anniversary Project Moves Forward

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Apr 09, 2024

The Stage Fort Park Playground Improvement Project-- Gloucester Rotary's 100th Anniversary Gift to Our Community-- has moved forward another step!

In March, old equipment was removed and the new playground equipment was installed! More work is to be completed before the project is finalized, but this was a major step.

Important note: The equipment is not yet open for children to use. Please respect the caution tape surrounding the new equipment.

Learn more about this project--including how you can support it-- by clicking here.

Earth Month with Environmental Committee

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on Apr 09, 2024

The Environmental Committee wants you! Please join us on April 24th at 6pm to share what your club is doing, especially as we celebrate Earth Month.

Don't forget to book me to speak to your club about Plastics. The talks I've done so far have been received very well and has sparked numerous discussions about all aspects of plastics. Plus I have free giveaways when you invite me in.

Please email Andrea Lacroix for the zoom link for the April 24th meeting.

International Potluck for Polio

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Apr 08, 2024

The Rockport Rotary Club hosted an International Potluck for Polio and we encouraged people to come in the costume of the country they were representing. The variety of foods and drinks that the Rotarians prepared was awesome, some did come dressed, and we raised over $800 for the children of the world!

District Conference at Museum of Science

Posted by Lori Karas on Apr 05, 2024

District Conference May 4. Join us at the Boston Museum of Science! Celebrate a Rotary year of Creating Hope in the World.

Start your conference experience at 3:00 pm with Watson Adventures' Scavenger Hunt through the Musuem of Science by working in teams of 6. You can create your own team of 6 or be joined with others.

At 5:00 pm when the Museum, closes we'll be escorted to a private room for hors d'oeuvres, dinner and awards. Plus a special presentation - D7930 Creating Hope in the World.

Volunteers Needed for Boston Veteran Center April 25

Posted by Raymond Fitzgerald on Apr 04, 2024

Parkway Rotary is looking for 2 or 3 volunteers to assist us in serving meals to homeless veterans at New England Center and Home for Veterans on Court Street in Boston around the corner from City Hall. It will be April 25 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. Please contact either Brunna Cunha, Club President, or Ray Fitzgerald, Club Treasurer if you can help us out. Thank you.

Chelsea Derby Fundraiser

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Apr 04, 2024

The Rotary Club of Chelsea is holding a Chelsea Rotary Derby to raise funds to support their local scholarship program and send twenty Chelsea youth to Camp Rotary for a week. The event will be held Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Anthony’s in Malden. Tickets for a chance to be a horse owner are $100. Four tickets will be drawn to represent each of the four horses in the 1st race, twelve tickets will be drawn to represent each of the six horses in the 2nd and 3rd races. The race will be 10 “furlongs” in length. Betting on individual horses will be conducted. There will also be numerous door prizes. Dinner tickets are $60 and are separate from the $100 race tickets. Corporate sponsorships are available for $1,000 and include four race tickets, four dinner tickets. For race or dinner tickets please contact Bruce Mauch at 857 544-9041. Checks should be made out to Rotary Club of Chelsea Charitable Foundation. You can also Venmo the funds to Douglas-Mauch, scan the QR CODE on the flyer or click here.

Rotary Foundation Committee is looking for volunteers

Posted by Alexander Falk on Apr 03, 2024

Our District 7930 Rotary Foundation Committee is looking for additional new volunteers for the coming Rotary year 2024-25. If you are passionate about doing good in the world through the many projects supported by our Rotary Foundation, please consider joining this important district committee. We have several different working groups on the committee, focused on areas such as global grants, district grants, polio eradication, annual fund, Paul Harris Society, global scholarships, endowment, and major donors. If you are potentially interested in joining the committee and would like to learn more, please reach out to incoming District Rotary Foundation Chair 2024-27 Alexander Falk via email at al+7930@falk.us - thank you!

RYLA Applications Deadline Extended

Posted by Christina Harris on Apr 02, 2024

The deadline for RYLA 2024 Applications has been extended to April 12. Please encourage any prospective students to get their applications submitted.

RYLA 2024 will be held May 17–19, from Friday at 3 pm to Sunday at 3 pm at Camp Rotary in Boxford.

Applications for RYLA can be found on this year’s Linktree page. See the fabulous RYLA 2023 Video here. This year, we are excited for the first time to join forces with District 7950 and their students and are welcoming up to five students from every town, until spots fill up. So be sure to have students apply soon!

If you have any questions, please email me, Christina Harris, or call me at 978.270.6706. Thank you again for your support of the RYLA program!

Gloucester & Manchester-Essex Partner with Arise Rwanda

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Apr 01, 2024

Thanks to generous donations from the Gloucester and Manchester & Essex Rotary Clubs, a District 7930 Managed Grant, and private non-Rotary donations, a $45,000 generator was purchased for Kivu Hills Medical Center in 2023. The generator finally arrived in February after contending with massive rainstorms, which led to treacherous potholes and mudslides. It was an extreme challenge for the truck carrying this generator. Thankfully, the road will be paved soon.

There is currently no medical clinic locally for the 30,000 rural residents of Boneza, and the Kivu Hills Medical Center will also provide services to millions of people in the surrounding regions when it opens its doors later in 2024.

Flags for Heroes Fundraiser

Posted by Julia Phelps on Apr 01, 2024

Is there a hero in your life, past or present? Why not honor them by sponsoring a flag in their name at this wonderful community event? The honoree could be a veteran, an active-duty service member, a first responder, police, firefighter, EMT, teacher, coach, an essential worker, a family member, humanitarian, or best friend. Your hero's name will be personalized on a medallion, which will be attached to a full-size American flag and will be given to you as a remembrance when the display is taken down.

Flags will be proudly displayed at the Amesbury Servicemen's Memorial Honor Roll on Main Street (across the street from Amesbury Middle School). Flags will be on display starting Memorial Day, May 27th through Flag Day, June 14th. You can recognize your hero by sponsoring a flag for $75.

Sponsorships are available for business and community groups. Each sponsor will receive the number of flags list below, in addition to special recognition on Amesbury Rotary's website and all publications. Sponsorships rates and benefits are as follows:

Strut Your Stuff with Beverly Rotary

Posted by Jackie Rapisardi on Mar 28, 2024

Come to an evening of song, dance and fun!!! The event is on April 12th at Danversport Waterfront, 6:00 pm-10:30 pm. Proceeds will benefit the charitable causes of Beverly Rotary Club Foundation, including local scholarships. When you come to a Beverly Rotary event, it's always lively. We have music by the famous "Spike the Punch" band. It's casual dress because we want you to let your hair down to dance, eat, drink and have fun!

Tickets are $85 which includes admission, food (appetizers, food station, dessert and coffee/tea), silent auction, live auction, 50/50 raffle, tower of gifts game, putting contest and beer/wine raffle. There's also a Dance Contest for the most memorable dance!
For info how to purchase tickets, sponsor or preview auction items, click here. Download event flyer here.

COME JOIN US!!!

April 9 District Learning Assembly Updates

Posted by Tom Hankard on Mar 28, 2024

Calling all Presidents-Elect, Club Treasurers, Club Secretaries, Public Image, Membership, and Foundation Chairs -- and all Rotarians!

Our 2024 District Learning Assembly takes place Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Four Points Sheraton, 1 Audubon Road, Wakefield!

Important learning sessions start at 5 pm, followed by fellowship, our District Managed Grant Qualification, and a special presentation regarding Rotary's new Action Plan.

This is an important and worthwhile session for all Rotarians. Register today. A buffet dinner will be served and a cash bar will be available during fellowship and dinner. Click here to register. Registration deadline: April 4 at 9:00 am.

Woburn Centennial Celebration

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Mar 25, 2024

SAVE THE DATE! Rotary Club of Woburn will be celebrating 100 years of service to the community on the evening of June 6th, 2024. The celebration will feature a live cover band, raffles, a catered buffet meal, cash bar, dancing and special announcements. Registration will be opening soon. Come celebrate with us! It will be a fun night!

Rotaplast Needs Volunteers

Posted by Terry Rezendes Curran on Mar 22, 2024

Rotaplast is back up and operating and our District is exploring sponsoring a mission in the Rotary Year 2024-2025 with District Governor Tom Hankard. They have already done a mission to Columbia, with Chelsea Rotarian Juan Gallego as the mission leader. The Cebu Mission, which we had sponsored for many years, has been moved to March so we are investigating other missions. Rotaplast sends multidisciplinary medical teams to provide free reconstructive surgery, ancillary treatment, and training for the comprehensive care of children with cleft palates/lips and other deformities.

In the meantime, there is an opportunity for Non-Medical Personnel to volunteer for an upcoming mission to Vietnam. Rotaplast is looking for non-medical volunteers to join a surgical trip from June 30 - July 12, 2024.

Woburn Donates Birthday Party Kits to Food Pantry

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Mar 21, 2024

Twice a year for the past eight years Rotary Club of Woburn has provided Birthday Party Bag Kits to the local food pantry at the Council of Social Concern. Last week about 30 kits were assembled with $20 worth of goodies each. The bags contain cake mix, icing, candles, party plates, napkins and flatware for struggling local families.

Ipswich-Rowley's Food Pantry Drive

Posted by Bob Wicks on Mar 19, 2024

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary successfully completed its annual food drive to benefit The Open Door’s Ipswich Food Pantry and is pleased to announce that 1230 pounds of food was collected in February at seven locations in Ipswich and Rowley. The Open Door staff said they appreciated both the quantity and the quality of the food donated.

Since Valentine’s Day falls in February, the theme for this year’s drive was “Share the Love” for our neighbors in need. Rotary is grateful for the support of our participating drop off locations and to our friends and neighbors who donated food this year. Donations were collected at the Ipswich offices of The Institution for Savings, BankGloucester, Brookline Bank, the Ipswich YMCA, the Ipswich Public Library and North Shore 24 Fitness in Rowley.

NEPETS Calls Leaders to Action

Posted by Tim Kelley on Mar 18, 2024

Hundreds of Rotary leaders assembled in at the Marriott in Newton March 7 through 9 to take part in President Elect Training Seminar or PETS. Our District joined with six other Rotary Districts for Northeast PETS (NEPETS). These Districts cover Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and parts of Maine and Quebec.

PETS is training for Presidents and Assistant Governors (AG) who will begin their roles on July 1.

Every Rotary year there are new Club Presidents, District leaders and leadership in Rotary International. Our new leaders came to learn about and discuss Rotary's Action Plan, new emphases and projects that your Club will be part of in the coming year. The President’s curriculum included sections on Vision and Action Plan, DEI, Membership, The Rotary Foundation and Public Image. There was also great opportunity to network with other Club Presidents to gain connections and inspiration from the countless service opportunities in the Rotary world.

Tomorrow's the Day for Taste of North Shore

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Mar 18, 2024

Tomorrow (March 19) is the day! Rotarians, their friends and families are all invited to the area's culinary spotlight: Peabody's Taste of the North Shore. The event will begin at Danversport at 6 pm. Join us for a celebration worthy of our 20th anniversary! We have a record number of restaurants (30!), a growing list of sponsors, and fantastic activities (grab bags, raffles, silent auctions) throughout the night working together to make this best Taste yet.

Don't have your ticket yet? Go to peabodyrotarytaste.com. Admissions will be sold at the door, but if we sell out of raffle tickets (we did last year), you won't be able to purchase them upon arrival. Don't miss out on your your chance to win $10,000. Purchase one of only 300 raffle tickets sold for the grand prize, today!

We hope you'll join us tomorrow night for food, fun and fellowship as we raise money for scholarships supporting the next generation of Peabody leaders.

Alexander Falk Named District Foundation Chair

Posted by Tom Hankard on Mar 17, 2024

With pride and excitement, on behalf of myself DGE Tom Hankard, along with DGN Pooja Singla and DGND Terry Rezendes Curran, Immediate Past District Governor Alexander Falk has been appointed District 7930 Rotary Foundation Chair starting 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2027.

The mission of The Foundation of Rotary International is “to help Rotary members advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment, and alleviating poverty.” Alexander Falk has shown he epitomizes our Foundation mission in word and deed. The incoming District Governor track look forward to and will depend on his leadership.

RYLA Alumni Spotlights

Posted by Christina Harris on Mar 15, 2024

Applications for RYLA (May 17-19) can be found on our Linktree page. This year, we are excited to join forces with District 7950 and their students for the first time. Be sure to have students apply soon, as spots will fill up.

There's no better way to learn more about RYLA than by hearing from those who have experienced it! Below you'll find RYLA Alumni share their valuable lessons and what they have gained from attending our weekend.

"RYLA not only provided me a sense of community among like-minded peers but encouraged me to pursue a career that allowed me to continue participating in those same passions." - Alissa Smith

"In just three days, I developed my leadership skills all while making meaningful connections with the members of my RYLA family. There is simply no other experience like it!" -Maddie Cass

Somerville Gets Update on Plastics

Posted by Ann Kirby on Mar 14, 2024

On March 12 the Somerville Club welcomed Eileen Ryan, Founder of Beyond Plastics Greater Boston. Eileen gave an excellent and animated presentation on current and future environmental issues with plastics. She updated the Club on proposed bills in the Massachusetts Legislature and provided materials for members to become active in the process. The Club looks forward to following up with Eileen and Andrea Lacroix, the District Environmental Chair.

Pictured here left to right are Sylvia Walker, Co-President; Gene Ferraro, incoming Co-President; Eileen Ryan, Beyond Plastics Greater Boston and Gilda Nogueira, Somerville Member,

Able to Host Interactor for a Week?

Posted by Sarah Furie on Mar 13, 2024

Through a Rotary connection, I have heard that an Interactor from Brazil, District 4540, is honored to be taking a course at Harvard mid-April and is unable to afford housing. She and her Rotary network are asking if anyone is generous enough to host her for one week: April 17-22.

Please reach out to Daniel Rondi through email at danielrondi@adv.oabsp.org.br for more information

Student Guest Speakers Visit Chelsea

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Mar 13, 2024

The Rotary Club of Chelsea recently had as their guest speakers the project managers from the Northeast Metro Tech DECA Chapter. DECA is a non-profit student-run organization that prepares high school students in business, marketing, finance and hospitality. The student members participate in various business events and competitions to advance their knowledge and leadership skills.

In thispicture are Michelle Broome, Chapter Advisor, Lilliana Mendez, Project Manager, Julianna Arevalo, student, Almi Abeyta, Chelsea Public Schools Superintendent, Iliana Reyes, Project Manager and Jennifer Hassell, Executive Director Chelsea Chamber of Commerce.

Rockport's International Potluck for Polio

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Mar 13, 2024

The Rockport Rotary Club is hosting an International Potluck For Polio on Thursday, April 4th, starting at 5:30. Entrance cost is $25 per person and it will all go to Polio! If you would like to join us please contact Ingrid Brown and let her know if you’ll be bringing an app, salad, main meal, dessert, or beverage to share, what country you are representing, and we are encouraging costumes.

For World Polio Day last year more than $836,000 was raised online. Let’s add to what D7930 can add to our donations by June 2024!

Tickets Still Available: Salem's Night at the Speakeasy

Posted by Adria Duijvesteijn on Mar 11, 2024

Salem Rotary presents A Night at the Speakeasy Annual Auction, March 20, 6 pm at Historic Hawthorne Hotel. Please save the date and get your tickets today!

Your $125 ticket includes creative food stations, a silent auction and raffles as well as a fabulous, good time!

We hope to see you at the Speakeasy! Creative attire suggested but not required!

For tickets or more information, visit: https://salemrotary.com/event/a-night-at-the-speakeasy/. We look forward to seeing you there!

Ipswich-Rowley Welcomes Town Historian

Posted by Bob Wicks on Mar 11, 2024

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary recently inducted Gordon Harris as a new member. Gordon is a semi-retired carpenter and, since 2014, the official Ipswich Town Historian. This is a significant responsibility since the Ipswich Town Seal commemorates the town’s unique distinction as the ‘Birthplace of American Independence,’ stemming from the resistance in 1687 of town leaders and citizens to burdensome taxes imposed by the British Crown. In his capacity as our official historian, Gordon is a prolific researcher and author of new and interesting articles about the town’s colorful past. As a carpenter and historian, he also assists homeowners in researching their historic homes.

Another Fun and Fab Left-Right-Center Night

Posted by Stephanie Nelson on Mar 11, 2024

Join Melrose Rotary for another round of LRC! April 5, 7-11 pm. Now at a new location - the Knights of Columbus Hall at 23 W. Foster St. in Melrose.

Cash Prizes, 50/50, Raffles, Pizza, Popcorn, Cash Bar.

Doors open at 7:00 PM - Games start when your table is full.

$20 per person - Tables of 10 available - Seating is limited!

Tickets may NOT be available at the door.

This is a 21+ Event. Click here for tickets.

Rotary Peabody Honors Veterans

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Mar 10, 2024

The Rotary Club of Peabody recently presented a check for $1,000 to the Peabody Veterans Services Department. The club held a "Walk For Veterans and a Day of Service" on Veterans Day 2023 to recognize veterans and raise funds for Peabody's Veterans Services Department. That department helps veterans with disability claims, making appointments, rides to those appointments, financial assistance, education and other veterans' benefits, as well as the bi-annual Veterans Day breakfast. The day of service was led by Peabody Rotary Service Coordinator Stephanie Johnson, as the club cleaned up the area around the Soldiers and Sailors monument in Peabody Square. We also encouraged Peabody residents to do service for veterans, yardwork, errands, rides, etc.

Pictured at the presentation are Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt, Peabody Rotary President Cathy Gravel, Peabody Veterans Agent Steve Patten and Peabody Rotarian and veteran Herb Harris.

Somerville's 100th Anniversary Save the Date

Posted by Ann Kirby on Mar 10, 2024

Somerville Rotary announces its 100th Anniversary Celebration. Save the date, May 14, 2024, 6 pm.

George Dilboy VFW Post 529

351 Summer Street

Somerville, MA 02144.

Formal invitation to follow. For information contact Ann Kirby.

Just One Week until Peabody's Taste of North Shore

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Mar 10, 2024

The 20th anniversary of Rotary Peabody's Taste of the North Shore is almost here! We invite all Rotarians and their friends and families to enjoy a record-breaking 30 restaurants serving food, desserts and beverages. Join us at Danversport on March 19th at 6 pm for an evening of food, spirits and fellowship.

There are still a few tickets for our $10,000 grand prize raffle still available. Raffle tickets sold out last year; don't miss out on your opportunity to win! Go to peabodyrotarytaste.com to purchase your ticket. More admission options are available on the site.

In addition to food and beverages, there will be a limited amount of grab bags, silent auctions and our very popular wine, beer and bourbon raffles.

Andover's Citizens Who Care Gala

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Mar 10, 2024

Citizens Who Care & Educator of the Year (CWC-EOY) is the Rotary Club of Andover's longest running program that honors outstanding community volunteers. Since 1996, we have honored people each year who have contributed to the local community through their extraordinary volunteer contributions. Those chosen exemplify what it means to be an "unsung hero."

2024 Citizens Who Care honorees include:

Peggie Ritzer & Kristen Walsh

Martha Tubinis

Steve Cooper

Andover TV (Wess Murphy, Sean Murphy & Sara Antonakos)

Kate Margolese

Denise Wynn

Jennifer Srivastava

Major Wanjun Gao

Brendan Hamm

Ann Knowles

Sheila Graham.

Meat Raffle Fundraiser by Medford Rotary

Posted by Anne Powers on Mar 04, 2024

Medford Rotarians are sponsoring our First MEAT Raffle!
$20 per ticket.
1st prize $500 worth of meat from Dom's Sausage
2nd prize $250 worth of meat from Dom's Sausage
3rd prize $100 Gift Card to Pearl Street Station Restaurant

Proceeds Benefit Medford Rotary Charities & Scholarship Fund. Drawing May 16, 2024.

For tickets contact Anne Powers or our website www.medfordrotaryclub.org.

Medford Rotary Celebrates 100th Anniversary

Posted by Anne Powers on Mar 04, 2024

The Medford Rotary Club gathered at the Medford Public Library to celebrate our 100th anniversary. Many memories, photos and laughs were shared with long-time members 50 years+ and former members. A great time was had by all! We are honored to be in service to the Medford community and we will continue to cultivate, collaborate and support the needs of others in the spirit of Rotary's motto - Service Above Self.

Interact Clubs Visit Reading

Posted by Tim Kelley on Mar 01, 2024

At a recent lunch meeting Reading Rotary hosted members from their affiliated Interact Clubs. Reading sponsors one Interact at Reading Memorial High School, another at Austin Preparatory School in Reading and also one at North Reading High School. All three clubs sent students to RYLA last year and are working on building up their membership post pandemic.

The RMHS, AP and NRHS Interacts each have members participating in the District Interact Council. It was great to have so much young energy present.

Woburn Interact's Successful Fundraiser

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Feb 27, 2024

The Woburn Memorial High School Interact Club recently held their annual fundraiser: "The Dating Game." The fundraiser was a success and the funds raised will help support the Council of Social Concern's food pantry and Woburn Dollars for Scholars. Over $1,000 was raised. Adrian Caruso, Emily Kline, Caden Fleming and Dawson LeBlanc of the Interact Club attended a recent Rotary Club of Woburn lunch meeting to talk about the fundraiser.

Burlington Rotary's Charcuterie Class Fundraiser

Posted by Lori Becker on Feb 25, 2024

Have you ever wanted to try making your own charcuterie board? Bring a friend and learn how to create a beautiful and delicious appetizer display. Our talented chef Cara, of Cara's Creative Charcuterie, will walk your through step-by-step and you will build your charcuterie on a custom board that you get to keep.

Join the Rotary Club of Burlington for our fundraiser on Saturday, March 30 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM at Grand View Farm, 55 Center Street Burlington, MA. Space is limited. Register here.

Registration Fee: $60
Register By: Saturday, March 23

Burlington Breakfast Delivers Buddy Bench

Posted by Fran Fazio on Feb 23, 2024

On February 15, President Darshana Thakkar and Assistant District Governor/District Governor-Elect Pooja Singla of Burlington Breakfast Rotary Club (BBRC) were interviewed by Burlington Cable Access Television regarding the installation of a Buddy Bench at Fox Hill Elementary School. This project is a successful collaboration between District 7930 and the BBRC team.

The Buddy Bench is available for this year’s 500 students to experience a safe space for talking, making new friends, celebrating achievements, discovering, and connecting with each other.

Check out the full interview on BCAT website. View story on YouTube.

Reading Welcomes New Members

Posted by Tim Kelley on Feb 23, 2024

At a recent lunch meeting, Reading Rotary welcomed two new members, Margaret O'Sullivan and Tom Seyffret. President Sheila Clarke did the honors of installing them. Margaret is a realtor with William Raveis in Reading Square. Tom is a manager with North Shore Bank's Reading location also in Reading Square. Both Margaret and Tom have long time ties to the Reading community.

Welcome, Rotarians Margaret and Tom!

Salem Night at Speakeasy Auction

Posted by Jen Close on Feb 19, 2024

Salem Rotary presents A Night at the Speakeasy Annual Auction, March 20, 6 pm at Historic Hawthorne Hotel. Please save the date and get your tickets today!

Your $125 ticket includes creative food stations, a silent auction and raffles as well as a fabulous, good time!

We hope to see you at the Speakeasy! Creative attire suggested but not required!

Tickets can be reserved here! For sponsorship opportunities click here. Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!

Yours in Rotary Service,

Jen Close
Salem Rotary Club President 2023-2024

Winchester Pints for Polio Event

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Feb 17, 2024

The Winchester Rotary is raising funds to end polio with a "Pints for Polio" event at Lord Hobo, 5 Draper Street in Woburn, MA, on March 21st, 6:30 to 9:30 pm.

Tickets ($25 per person) can be purchased here.

Like and Follow D7930's New FB Page

Posted by Tim Kelley on Feb 16, 2024

We have had to start a new D7930 Facebook Page. Our original Page is currently out of commission. We ask all Rotarians and friends to Like and Follow our new Page. Please invite your FB friends to like and follow. Our original Page has over 1,200 followers. Our new page has just over 100 now. We ask for your help. We all need to take a part in increasing the impact and reach of Rotary's Public Image.

We ask all Rotarians on Facebook to help Expand Our Reach by inviting your contacts to Like and Follow our new Page.

Environmental Committee News from Sarasota

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on Feb 16, 2024

I am back from Sarasota where I attended the very first ESRAG Projects Fair. It stands for Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group. I met a handful of very interesting Rotarians doing GREAT things for the environment. You can't leave a Rotary conference without doing a service project. This picture is at a Micro Forest where we helped right trees that were leaning after a large storm and cleared paths. It was fun until I was attacked by red ants! Thankfully we were wrapping up as that happened and I caught the ants climbing up my leg before any damage was done.

Here is the list of projects presented:
Susquehanna Watershed Project
Cape Cod Watershed Institute
Coastal Ecology Sustainability
Camp Kawartha Environment Centre
Lunch out of Landfills
Ottawa Youth Rotary Forest
Ipswich Watershed Grant
Rotary Environmental Innovators Fund (REIF)
Every Club Climate Friendly

Peabody's Taste of North Shore is the Biggest Ever

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Feb 15, 2024

Time is running out to get your tickets to the 20th anniversary of Rotary Peabody's Taste of the North Shore! Our tickets sold out last year; don't miss your chance at the $10,000 grand prize! Tickets are $100 each and include 1 admission and an entry into our grand prize raffle - a maximum of 300 tickets sold. Join us on March 19th, 6PM at Danversport.

We also have a celebration worthy of our 20th anniversary with a record number of participating restaurants. Sample dishes from 30 area restaurants ranging from pasta, charcuterie, short ribs, mac and cheese bar, truffle mashed potatoes, spinach pie, pastries, beer, spirits and so much more! For details go to: peabodyrotarytaste.com for up-to-the-minute details.

We will also have our popular grab bags ($20 each, minimum $25 value), beer, wine and spirits raffles and additional raffles with exciting prizes. Don't miss out on the fun, food and fellowship with your fellow Rotarians. Go to peabodyrotarytaste.com for more info. We hope you'll join us at Danversport on March 19th.

To see participating restaurants and sponsors, download Menu here.

Rockport Serves Valentine's Luncheon to Seniors

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Feb 14, 2024

Rockport Rotary Club hosted its annual Valentine’s Luncheon for the seniors in town at the Fish Shack. They received a haddock dinner, chocolates, red carnations, a Valentine made by the elementary school kids, and were entertained by the High School Chorus. Such a fun and appreciated time!

Lexington Music Madness

Posted by Dan Busa on Feb 12, 2024

Battle of the LHS Acapella Groups,

Friday, March 1st, Cary Hall, Lexington, MA

The audience helps pick the winner! Over $2000 in cash prizes!!

Doors open at 7PM, Performance from 8PM-10PM - Cash Bar for Cocktails & Complimentary Hors d’oeuvres - Tickets: $50 for Adults; $25 for Students under 18; under 12 FREE. (Proceeds to fund Rotary Club of Lexington’s High School Scholarship program)

Apply for tickets here, (let us know how many adults and how many students) we will send you a bill. Or you can pay via Venmo: @Daniel-Busa

RYLA 2024 Updates

Posted by Christina Harris on Feb 10, 2024

Planning and training for RYLA 2024 (May 17-19) is well underway. We had two Family Leader Training sessions at our new location at the Stoneham Teen Center. We did lots of team building activities as well as a deeper discussion of our RYLA weekend! We are excited to have such a great group!

Family leaders for RYLA are what makes our weekend so special. Some of the answers of this year’s Family Leaders were just so meaningful that I thought I would share them with you so you could see the impact you are having by sponsoring students for RYLA. These kids are AMAZING!

Applications for RYLA 24 will be live early to mid-February, so stayed tuned! In the meantime, we are ready to start visiting clubs to share the new video! Please email me, Christina Harris, or call me at 978.270.6706. Download the attached flyer here. Thank you for your support of the RYLA program!

Amesbury 5K Royal Raffle

Posted by Sandy Carlisle on Feb 08, 2024

Friends of Rotary Club of Amesbury, Massachusetts, we're kicking off our biggest fundraiser in a number of years. One lucky winner will win $5,000.00. We're only selling 100 tickets so your chances are good. Raffle ticket only is $100. Admission to event only is $25 per person. Drawing event is March 11 at Ristorante Molise in Amesbury.

You can buy your chance for the big prize or by clicking on this link or order and pay by check in the amount of $100.00 for each raffle ticket you are ordering, plus $25.00 per person for the number of people who will be attending Raffle night in person; made out to Amesbury Rotary, with Raffle Royale written in the memo line, and include your contact information, and the number of raffle tickets and raffle night admission tickets being ordered. Then mail to Amesbury Rotary, PO Box 554, Amesbury, MA 01913, or drop it off at Stoneridge Properties, 20 Market Street, Amesbury.

The evening of the drawing we are also going to have grab bags and a drop bucket for those who attend in person (only $25). Get your tickets today and enjoy a fun evening with good friends, and good food. Any way you look at it, you're a winner.

For more information visit Amesbury Rotary website.

Woburn Rotary Donates Defibrillator to Library

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Feb 08, 2024

This week, Woburn Rotary's annual defibrillator donation was presented to the Woburn Public Library. Library Director and Honorary Rotary member Hermayne Gordon was there to accept the donation.

Also, Rotary Club of Woburn President Brian Ouellette presented a short film he filmed and directed about the library titled "The Renovation & Expansion of the Woburn Public Library". The film documents the construction of the library addition from 2016 - 2019 using drone footage and rare construction footage of inside the library. The film was co-directed by Susan Thifault and written and narrated by former library director Andrea Bunker. Special thanks to former long-time library director Kathy O'Doherty and President of Library Trustees Richard Mahoney for their input on the film.

Miss Mass & Suicide Prevention

Posted by Sophie Saquet on Feb 08, 2024

I am Sophie Saquet, a current senior at North Reading High School, and 2024 Miss North Reading. I am a finalist competing for the Miss Massachusetts USA title this March and I wanted to invite you to take part in this journey! Outside of my passion for pageants, I am member of the North Reading Interact Club, as well as serve as Vice Governor for the District 7930 Interact Council. I love to support the community I represent and to bring to life great opportunities for growth. For this reason, I established a GoFundMe that will not only support the finances required for me to compete in Miss Massachusetts, but half of the amount donated will go directly to suicide prevention. I hope you consider donating to this fund, as this cause is very important to me. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out. Download a flyer with details here.

Sophie Saquet
sophiesaquet1@gmail.com

Marblehead Harbor Spreads Valentine's Cheer

Posted by Linda Dolibar on Feb 06, 2024

At their weekly breakfast meeting, Marblehead Harbor Rotary members assembled Valentine’s Day cheer packs for 47 clients of a local rehabilitation and skilled nursing home. The tiny arrangements contained faux rosebuds and were designed to give lasting happiness in smaller spaces like a bed table or bureau top. A card of good wishes accompanied each bud vase.

Lynn Classical Interact Activities

Posted by William Reilly on Feb 06, 2024

Lynn Rotary recently received an update on all the activities of the Lynn Classical Interact Club. Lynn Classical Interact Club Faculty Advisor and English teacher Lauren Jenkins reported as follows:

The Interact Club has been doing a fantastic job of keeping up with community happenings.

Our students ran a Turkey Box fundraiser, and we received 18 paper boxes that we filled with everything but the turkey. Students at Lynn Classical, who were identified by our family liaison, were able to take these boxes home to their families. We also received almost $600 in donations, so we were also able to give families gift cards to Market Basket. It was a huge success.

Methuen Bocce Tournament

Posted by Lori Karas on Feb 05, 2024

Roll on over to Methuen Rotary's 9th Annual Bocce Tournament. Saturday, March 2, 2024.

3:30 Check in

4:15 Dinner

5:00 Tournament

Methuen Sons of Italy, 459 Merrimack St., Methuen, MA

$200 Teams of 4

$50 per player

$25 per spectator

Meal included

Go, Rotary Girls!

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Jan 29, 2024

Past District Governor Ingrid Brown celebrated Rockport’s inbound Rotary Youth Exchange student Lila Michaux’s sixteenth birthday. Also attending was one of District 7930's newest outbound students, Mari Penaloza, who will be going to Italy for the 2024-2025 school year.
Such a great program!

Picture here are Mari, PDG Ingrid Brown and Lila.

End Polio: an Update with Mike McGovern

Posted by Lori Karas on Jan 29, 2024

As we cap off our Get Movin' to End Polio fundraising - let's join together to learn the latest information from Rotary International Polio Society Chair, Mike McGovern on where we really are with Ending Polio! February 7, 6:00 to 7:00 pm on Zoom.

Mike McGovern is Past District Governor of District 7780 and a member of the Rotary Club of South Portland-Cape Elizabeth, Maine. He currently serves as chair of the International PolioPlus Committee.

To attend this meeting - please register here.

Winchester Volunteers at Boston Food Bank

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Jan 27, 2024

The Winchester Rotary volunteered at the Greater Boston Food Bank on Saturday, January 27th, and helped package 20,000 meals for our neighbors in Massachusetts.

The Greater Boston Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in New England and among the largest food banks in the country. GBFB works to increase food distribution to provide three meals a day to every person in need in Eastern Massachusetts while supporting healthy lives and healthy communities.

For more information or to get involved with GBFB, click here.

Lynnfield's Build A Bed 2024

Posted by Ron Block on Jan 26, 2024

Save the Date – Lynnfield Rotary’s Build A Bed - May 11, 2024, 9:00 am, Market Street

Build A Bed is returning to Market Street in Lynnfield on Saturday, May 11, 2024. In 2022 Lynnfield Rotary hosted its first Build A Bed project producing ten beds for children in Massachusetts. Last year ninety-one volunteers built twenty-two beds, exceeding our goal. We are optimistic for 2024 to be our best year.

Lumber, hardware, tools, and expert instruction to construct the bed frames will be provided. People will work in groups of up to four builders.

The beds cost $350 each. Upon completion, a mattress will be added, and the finished product will be delivered to the child’s home.

Individuals, families, and organizations can participate as follows:

One or more beds can be purchased for $350 each. This allows your team to attend the event and build the frames. If you prefer, your donation will allow a bed to be constructed by our volunteers in your name.

DEI Discussion Series: Handi Capability

Posted by Pooja Singla on Jan 26, 2024

DEI DISCUSSION SERIES #4, February 21, 7:00 to 8:30 pm.

An Inspirational Presentation by Rotarian James Norris, Founder/Owner/Executive director of Handi Capable Fitness helping Handi Capable community and training Handi Capable athletes. James will share his life's experience!

Handi Capable Fitness is dedicated to encouraging people to get out, be active, and be proud of the life they live. On this journey, bodies become stronger and able to push harder. A Handi Capable athlete is someone who sees beyond their challenges and has the courage to be active. It’s not about whether you win the race. Being a Handi Capable athlete is about getting out and taking action, no matter what.

James is also an author of many books such as Feeling Left Out: The First in a Series Children's Books and Feeling Accepted: Coast to Coast: The second in the series.

Rotary Leadership Institute Feb 27+29, 2024

Posted by Alexander Falk on Jan 26, 2024

IT’S COMING! … DON’T MISS OUT!

WHAT: VIRTUAL ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

WHEN: 2 evenings, February 27 + 29, 6:00 - 9:00 pm

WHERE: From the comfort of your own home!

WHO: For any Rotarians who want to learn more about Rotary’s structure, programs, leadership styles, fundraising, and service opportunities. It is not necessary to be on a club leadership track to participate.

COST: $25 for the combined 2 nights

NEW FLYER: Download this PDF to print & hand out to club members

REGISTER NOW AT: https://rlinea.org/ and then on the left side click on More Info under the heading "RLI NEA Seminar - Dist 7930-Wakefield, MA-Virtual; February 27th 2024"

Salem Frozen Flamingo Frolic Location Change

Posted by Carolyn Shapiro on Jan 26, 2024

Greetings everyone! Salem Rotarians will participate in the upcoming "Frozen Flamingo Frolic" - an icy plunge into our cold Salem ocean waters! One of Rotary's primary initiatives is a commitment to ending Polio in the world. Our local Frolic is Salem Rotary's contribution to this effort with Plunge proceeds going to this important worldwide initiative. Note that Salem Harbor Master has advised us to change the original location due to the tide.

When: Saturday, January 27 at 10 AM*

NEW LOCATION: Winter Island Boat Ramp

*Frozen Flamingo swimmers please arrive by 9:45*

Contact: Carolyn Shapiro

Come by to cheer our plungers on, plunge yourself or simply donate to the cause. To donate online, click here on the donate button on our website and select “Polar Plunge.” Direct donation link here.

Frolic-er guidance from the Harbor Master:

Wear water shoes of some kind to protect your feet from rocks, debris, etc.
The area has been icy, so take your time getting down the ramp.
No jumping off the dock or surrounding area; You must enter from the boat ramp.
Be advised that health issues from plunging can occur well after you get out of the water as your blood tries to warm your extremities. If you feel off 15 – 20 minutes after you get out of the water, get checked out to make sure nothing serious is occurring.

Chelsea Inducts Newest Member

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Jan 25, 2024

The Rotary Club of Chelsea welcomed its newest member, Allison Gamble. Allison works for North Suffolk Community Services in Advancement and Grants. She was sworn in by Past President Allan I. Alpert and welcomed by President Almi Abeyta.

Winchester Supports Mission of Deeds

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Jan 25, 2024

The Winchester Rotary capped off a year of support for Mission of Deed in December with a winter coat drive contributing over 75 coats and our annual linen and bedspread donation of over $2000. The club volunteers monthly to assist new clients as they receive new beds, furniture, linens, and kitchen supplies for clients on the north shore.

Winchester Rotary has a long history of supporting the Mission of Deeds, going back to its founding by a Winchester Rotarian. The Mission of Deeds has served over 16,500 clients through local donations and grants since its founding. Consider donating your used furniture to them or joining one of their upcoming fundraising events. www.missionofdeeds.org

Magical Trip to La La Land

Posted by Jackie Rapisardi on Jan 25, 2024

In our latest fundraiser, the Beverly Rotary Club conducted an online auction, raffling off only one item: a trip to LA to see the Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre, with a 2-night hotel stay. The winner at two minutes before the closing time was Jen Lapan. She bid on it for her daughter and roommate, who are studying in the theatre department in college. The two girls took off on their adventure and stayed in the hotel right near the Peacock Theatre. Reports from mom to us are that they had a blast. They hobnobbed with the stars on the Red Carpet. They did some sightseeing and visited Hollywood emmy museums. The city life at night was great too. Our club obtained the tickets from a member's son who works in Los Angeles. Thanks to him, we were thrilled to bring happiness to these young ladies, and simultaneously we raised money toward our projects this year. You can tell from the photo below that it was a trip to remember! And the winner is.......everyone!!!

Be Bold, Get Cold Plunge, East Boston, Feb. 24

Posted by Vera Carducci on Jan 24, 2024

The Belle Isle Rotary and Parkway Rotary Clubs are very excited to be gearing up for our 2nd Annual Be Bold-Get Cold Plunge to be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024. The doors will open at 9am and the plunge will take place at 11am (which is high tide and there is a ramp we walk down and plunge from!)

Like last year, which was a rousing and fun success bringing together many Rotary Clubs in District 7930, the event will be held at the East Boston Yacht Club, 1 Rice Street, East Boston, MA 02128. There is plenty of parking and of course there will be plenty of refreshments and fun for all. Hope to see you there!

Come to plunge or just to cheer. Lots of food (potluck) and fun. Drinks/mimosas (cash bar). Grill to be fired up. Raffles and prizes.

To download flyer, click here.

RSVP to Joe Steffano, Vera Carducci, Tom Hankard or Terry Rezendes Curran.

Wakefield Gives Second Chances

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Jan 23, 2024

They say, "One person's trash, is another's treasure." Recently, the Wakefield Rotary Club put that idiom to the test during the club's Second Chances Auction. The internal fundraiser invited members to bring gently used or unwanted items in for donation. Other members can then bid on them, generally starting with a bid of just five dollars.

Rotarian Wendy Maguire explained, "We've all gotten something for our birthday or holiday that just isn't quite what you'd want or use. That's the stuff we wanted for the auction!" The meeting began with a reflection by Past Rotary President Jim Fitzgerald who reminded the club that Rotary is all about giving second chances...to people, to projects, and to ideas. He ended his reflection with a clip from the song "Second Chances" by Gregory Alan Isakov.

2024-25 Rotary Theme Announced

Posted by Tom Hankard on Jan 23, 2024

The main event at the recent Rotary International's International Assembly attended by District Governor-Elect Tom Hankard in Orlando, Florida, is the unveiling of Rotary's annual theme.

International President-Elect Stephanie A. Urchick announced "The Magic of Rotary" is our theme for next year.

Stephanie recalled how on a service trip, to the Dominican Republic a boy who saw clean water coming out of a new water filter called out to Stephanie for her to show him that "magic" again. Watch a short video of the announcement.

The Magic of Rotary will also be the final annual theme as Rotary International transitions to multi-year themes for both internal and external use.

Andover Providing Warmth from Ground Up

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Jan 22, 2024

In a 2019 article "Socks Are A Critical Component of Our Health" by Harold Cox, the Associate Dean for Public Health Practice and Associate Professor of Community Health Sciences at Boston University School of Public Health, most homeless people face foot care problems because they often lack resources to buy well-fitting, adequate footwear. Many homeless people have a condition called polyneuropathy, in which they lose nerve function and cannot feel irritations of the feet. The thickened skin can then break down to an ulcer and become infected, causing sepsis or even deep bone infections. Lack of access to quality health care can exacerbate these problems. All of this can be mitigated with proper foot care, including access to clean socks.

In Loving Memory: Al Fay

Posted by Lori Becker on Jan 19, 2024

It is with a heavy heart, that we are reach out to share the news that Al Fay, our friend and longtime member of Burlington Rotary, has passed away.

Al was a model Rotarian and, more importantly than that, he was the best example of a good citizen, neighbor, friend, family man, and, simply put, person. He is a true role model of what a community leader should be. Al Fay joined Rotary 12/3/2010 and was a member until his passing. He leaves behind an amazing legacy.

Every conversation with Al was interesting and full of countless stories about his time as Fire Chief, Selectman, early resident of Burlington and more clubs and activities that we can note here.

Please keep Al, his wife Joyce, and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Al was truly an amazing person. Burlington will not be the same without him. Our club will miss him terribly.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Al’s name may be made to the to the Burlington Community Scholarship Foundation c/o Brian Curtin 35 Center Street, Burlington, MA 01803

Get Movin' to End Polio Continues

Posted by Ingrid Brown, District Polio Chair on Jan 19, 2024

Here's your a reminder to get your donations and get fit for 2024! It’s up to you to make the difference for the children of the world, so let’s do this together!

Time to get moving, put on those new exercise outfits and sneakers, and let’s all make some healthy New Year’s resolutions, and raise some serious funds for the eradication of polio! You can choose your own dates, so no excuse about scheduling!

How do you move: (@$25-$50 per hour?)

Clean your house; food shop; yoga or exercise class; ride a bike; ski (if you can find snow); Polar Plunge alone or with a group; join in one of the district events; use your imagination – anything goes!

How do you raise donations:

Ask family members; ask club members; ask co-workers; support yourself

Either set up a Raise For Rotary page or collect $$/checks and have your club send to Rotary End Polio.

District Events so far:

Save the Date for RYLA 2024

Posted by Christina Harris on Jan 17, 2024

It’s that time of year again! We are excited to share RYLA 2024 will be taking place May 17th-19th at Camp Rotary in Boxford, MA. We are ready for this year’s group of students to experience a full weekend of learning, discovering, and connecting with each other. With how busy the end of year can be, make sure to save the date for RYLA 2024 before your schedule fills up!

For more information or any questions, please reach out to RYLA Lead Christina Harris or view the RYLA page on our website.

Adult Mental Health First Aid Workshop

Posted by Ron Block on Jan 17, 2024

Lynnfield Rotary in collaboration with a local community partnership, A Healthy Lynnfield, is offering an 8 hour certificate training in Mental Health First Aid. This is a practical skills based course to teach the public how to respond appropriately to someone that exhibits signs of mental illness or substance use. There are only a few seats left. Rotarians are welcome to register for this nationally renowned program. The deadline is Friday 1/19. Participants are required to attend both sessions.

Download flyer here.

Wakefield Offers Opportunity to Dine Anywhere in the World

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Jan 16, 2024

Where would you go if you could dine anywhere in the world with no limits on how far you travel?

The Wakefield Rotary Club is hosting its fifth chance that offers the winner a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Dine Anywhere in the World Contest offers one lucky winner and a guest the opportunity to win a trip to any destination in the world of their choosing! The winner will receive round-trip airfare for two, an overnight in a 4-star or better hotel and a gift certificate for dinner to the restaurant of their choosing!

Lynn Distributes Dictionaries for 15th Year

Posted by William Reilly on Jan 16, 2024

On January 10, 2024, the Rotary Club of Lynn continued with its tradition of distributing dictionaries to 3rd graders in the 18 public elementary schools in Lynn. Since 2008, the Rotary Club of Lynn has presented over 1,200 dictionaries annually to third-grade students in the Lynn Public Schools. This year marks the 15th consecutive year of this service project for the club and a distribution of over 19,000 dictionaries since its inception!

The Reading Cooperative Bank continued with its financial support of this project by funding the purchase of the dictionaries. Additionally, the bank supported the project by providing the assistance of at least 11 staff members to aid in the distribution.

In addition to the bank assisting the Lynn School District had 15 volunteers to assist in the distribution. The Superintendent, Evonne Alvares, the Deputy Superintendent Debra Ruggiero were among the staff members who contributed their time.

Pictured here with Lynn 3rd graders are Rotarian Ray Bastarache, Lynn School District, Tina Hooufnagiel, and Reading Cooperative Bank's Tess Cunha and Maria Santa.

A Thank You for Swampscott's Baskets

Posted by Buck Weaver on Jan 16, 2024

The Swampscott Rotary Club has been delivering Holiday Fruit baskets for over 40 years. These go to Swampscott and Nahant Senior Centers, Town Departments, senior citizens, widows and widowers and others who may be ill or need extra support.

Over the last several years we average about 80 baskets delivered each year.

Every year we receive numerous thank you notes and cards, but none more interesting (or impressive) as the attached thank you from Nahant resident, Calantha Sears, age 102!

Frigid Fiver 5K in Newburyport

Posted by Deborah Andrews on Jan 16, 2024

The Frigid Fiver 5K is back! Sunday, February 4, 2024 11am at RiverWalk Brewing Co. Come join the Rotary Club of Newburyport and Joppa Flats Running Club to stretch those muscles and have some time with friends! Race proceeds go back into our communities.

Register at this link. The cost is $25 for pre-registration and $30 on the day of race. The first 200 registered participants will receive a long-sleeved shirt, in addition to prizes for the winners, and of course, good food and beer at RiverWalk!

The Rotary Club of Newburyport supports our community through popular events and fundraising. It is because of your support that our Rotary Club has accomplish so much! We hope people know that when one supports the Rotary Club of Newburyport, they are in turn supporting a myriad of other community-oriented initiatives.

Yoga with Peabody: Get Movin' to End Polio

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Jan 12, 2024

The Rotary Club of Peabody is inviting everyone to get moving to end Polio with yoga! On January 25, 2024 @ 6PM, we will proudly join Rotary International and Rotary District 7930 in their efforts to “Get Moving” eradicate polio. Rotary Peabody’s goal is to raise more than $500 There will be two ways to support the Rotary Peabody: get moving at our yoga class or sponsor a Rotary Peabody team member who will be participating in the class.

Want to get moving with yoga? Complete this form to sign up. Then, start your fundraiser through raise.rotary.org/Lori-Karas/challenge290 and recruit sponsors. Yoga participants can choose from 2 levels depending upon their ability and preference:

Ipswich Interact Helps Ipswich Caring

Posted by Bob Wicks on Jan 10, 2024

Ipswich High School Interact leaders of the 2023 Jingle Bell Walk met with Ipswich-Rowley Rotarians last week to announce the revenue from their event, Jingle Bell Walk, nearly doubled from the previous year. They were on hand to present Ipswich Caring with a check for $1,500. Additional proceeds will fund their micro loan projects with Kiva.

For more than 40 years, non-profit Ipswich Caring has assisted Ipswich families in need. With the help of over 200 volunteers, "Ipswich Caring provides financial and in-kind support to youth, adults and families through a variety of programs and services." Like Rotary, this group is dedicated to Service Above Self.

P is for Polio Fundraiser in Ipswich

Posted by Martha Mauser on Jan 09, 2024

Join in on the P is for POLIO FUN-raiser to help eradicate Polio worldwide, January 28th 5:30-8 pm. Sign up with your family, sign up with your friends. Click the link and pick an activity or two. Pool space is available for plunging with families as well. $25/person suggested minimum donation to join in the fun.

Yes! Polio still exists, which can severely disable children and is not curable. Vaccinations prevent Polio. Rotary has significantly contributed to eradicating Polio in 99.9% of the world. Unless we eradicate polio, within 10 years, as many as 200,000 new cases could occur around the world each year. In the past few years, only two countries have reported cases of polio caused by the wild virus, but no child anywhere is safe until we’ve vaccinated every child.

Click and sign up to reserve your activities and times at the Ipswich YMCA. Thank you to the Ipswich YMCA for donating the space for this important fundraiser. If you are not a member, please bring your entrance fee payable to Ipswich Rotary Trust or in cash.

Questions? Contact Martha Mauser mmauser@mauserlaw.com or click this link to register.

Wakefield Welcomes New Member Patricia Birchem

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Jan 03, 2024

The Wakefield Rotary Club is pleased to announce its newest member, Patricia Birchem. Birchem was recently installed into the club earlier this season by Wakefield Rotary Past President, Lisa Roderick and her sponsor, Past President Amy Luckiewicz.

Birchem is most interested in developing economic and community development projects along with scholarships and youth programs through her membership in Rotary. She explained her interest in joining the club, “I was drawn to the guiding principles of truth, fairness, goodwill, friendship and giving back to those in need.” She added, “I’m looking forward to making lasting change in the world and our local community by taking action through service.”

Birchem is a realtor with Leading Edge Real Estate. She grew up in Medford and now resides in Wakefield with her husband Mark. The couple has two children, Isabella and Caleb.

Pictured here is Patricia Birchem at her Installation with Lisa Roderick.

Exciting Updates from Environmental Comm

Posted by Andrea LaCroix on Jan 01, 2024

The District Environmental Committee is up and running and wants your suggestions! If your club has an environmental committee, let's talk and discuss what you are doing and how we can work together to take your projects further.

Water plastics and pollinators... these are the issues the Ipswich-Rowley Club are working on. The Ipswich-Rowley Club has a Global Grant focused on Water Conservation. We have partnered with the Ipswich River Watershed and are seeing positive results. I will be attending the ESRAG Projects Fair at the end of January to showcase this grant.

Is your club looking for a speaker? Please contact me, Andrea LaCroix. I have been making the rounds at many Rotary clubs delivering a very informative talk on plastics. I am available to speak at your club, will have giveaways to distribute and am very excited to come give in-person presentation soon!

May seems like it's far away, but we will begin promoting No Mow May in March.

Due to a scheduling conflict, the next District Environmental meeting will be January 24th at 6pm. Please email me for a zoom link.

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!

Terry Curran Selected for District Governor, 2026-2027

In November, the nomination committee selected Terry Curran, from the Parkway Rotary Club as the District Governor Nominee Designee (DGND). An eBulletin went out to the entire District in November indicating her selection and asking for any challenges. No challenges were submitted by any club in our District by the December 31^st deadline.

Therefore, we are excited to announce Terry has been elected to be the DGND for District 7930 and will serve as our District Governor 2026-27!

Congratulations Terry!

Terry joined the Parkway Rotary Club of West Roxbury, Roslindale and Jamaica Plain in 2007 and served as President of the Club multiple times from 2011-2013, 2014-2015, and 2016-2018. She proudly served on the Club’s Board of Directors for ten years and also served as Club Membership Chair, Public Image Chair, Webmaster and Foundation Chair a position she still holds.

Happy New Year!

Posted by Tim Kelley on Jan 01, 2024

Happy New Year! Cheers to a new year and new opportunities for Service Above Self.

Wishing all Rotarians, partners, friends and neighbors happy and healthy New Year!

Thank you to all who for your story submissions for the eBulletin and website. It is so inspiring to see the work and fun from throughout our District. The link for submitting stories can always be found on our website or find it directly at this link.

May the new year bring you joy, peace, and happiness.

Get Movin' to End Polio: Jan. 1 to Feb 3

Posted by Ingrid Brown, District Polio Chair on Dec 29, 2023

Are YOU ready?? Time to get off your duff, put on those new exercise outfits and sneakers, and let’s all make some healthy New Year’s resolutions, AND raise some serious funds for the eradication of polio! You can choose your own date(s) so no excuse about scheduling!

How do you move: (@$25-$50 per hour?)

How do you raise donations:

Ask family members; ask club members; ask co-workers; support yourself

Either set up a Raise For Rotary page or collect $$/checks and have your club send to Rotary End Polio.

District Events so far:

Peabody's 20th Anniversary Taste of North Shore

Posted by Alysa Hayden on Dec 29, 2023

March 19th, 2024 will be the 20th anniversary of Rotary Peabody's popular and biggest fundraiser of the year. We're inviting all Rotarians to join us to enjoy the best flavors the North Shore has to offer. Our $10,000 raffle (only 300 tickets sold), wine and beer raffle, $20 grab bags (value of $25 or more) will once again be a part of this event. This event supports deserving high school students with scholarships, helps feed food insecure families and funds the service projects we perform year-round to make our community stronger. For more information go to www.peabodyrotarytaste.com to purchase tickets and get more information about sponsorship opportunities. We hope you'll join us!

Public Image Health Check

Posted by Tim Kelley on Dec 28, 2023

Promote your Rotary’s Public Image. A strong and vibrant Public Image is one of 2 proven key tactics for successful and growing clubs -- the other is a large number of service projects. Effective Public Image helps expand your reach and artfully tell compelling stories that demonstrate Rotarians as people of action. The Public Image Committee’s role is to help clubs to have a robust media and social media strategy, an up-to-date website and an engaging online presence in their local communities.

We suggest all clubs engage on social media to boost your Public Image. Social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.) provide streamlined opportunity to get your stories out there. The various platforms can provide a direct way to push your news to the public. Here are some tips to think about.

How can my club boost our Public Image?

RYLA is Coming May 17-19

Posted by Allie Foley on Dec 28, 2023

Save the Date! RYLA is coming May 17-19, Camp Rotary in Boxford.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary International’s leadership training program for young people. Rotary District 7930 has a long-running annual program for high school students.

High school, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are invited to attend a weekend-long event, where they learn life and leadership skills including goal setting, cultural understanding, problem solving, communication, public speaking, networking, community building, team building and more!

For more information check our RYLA page or contact RYLA District Chair Christina Harris.

Holiday Lunch with Global Scholar

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Dec 27, 2023

Ingrid Brown from Rockport Rotary celebrated an International Holiday Lunch at a Turkish restaurant with her former Global Scholar, Makiko Ueda, from Japan and current French Youth Exchange student, Lila Michaux.

Maki’s parents just arrived from Japan to celebrate Christmas with the whole family.

Salem Celebrates Holidays with Foster Children

Posted by Adria Duijvesteijn on Dec 27, 2023

The Salem Rotary Club recently hosted its annual Department of Children and Families Holiday party. This event supports children throughout the North Shore region and allows foster children the opportunity to celebrate the holidays with their foster families and often their siblings who are not able to be housed in the same foster home. Hosted at the beautiful Kernwood Country Club in Salem, this fun afternoon provided fun activities, a magician, stories with Elsa and Anna, good food, gifts, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

"The Salem Rotary Club is proud to support DCF at this annual event,” said Club President Jen Close. “This event is something we look forward to every year, and Rotarians have just as much fun bringing joy to families in our community as the children who attend."

Holiday Greetings from Rotary 7930

Posted by Lori Karas on Dec 22, 2023

Wishing all Rotarians, community partners and friends the happiest Season's Greetings and Happy New Year. Thank you for all you do for your Rotary club and community. We appreciate all you do!

We hope you all are able to take time to spend time with family and friends during this time.

Best Wishes to All and continue to Create Hope in the World!

Wakefield Elects New Officer & Directors

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Dec 20, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club recently announced the election of its new officers and directors at its Annual Meeting. The club elects new leadership each year in accordance with its by-laws. The 2024-2025 Board of Directors include Margie Daniels, Joie Gerrish, Mike Sullivan, Jill McWilliam, Steve Skory, Glen Duffy (Immediate Past President) and Amy Luckiewicz (Past Presidents’ Representative). Suzanne Bowering will serve as Club Secretary, Barbara Worley as Club Treasurer and Frank Fiorentino as Sergeant-at-Arms. Kathy Boyle was elected Vice President/President-Elect and Wendy Maguire will serve as President for the 2024-2025 term.

Chelsea Bell Ringing for Salvation Army

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Dec 20, 2023

Members of the Chelsea Rotary Club helped the Chelsea Salvation Army raise funds for the holiday season by ringing the kettle bells at the Chelsea Market Basket. The Rotarians rang the bells at both entrances from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The Rotary Club has been supporting the Salvation Army by ringing the kettle bells for over 20 years.

2024 Citizens Who Care Nominations Open

Posted by Diana Kiesel on Dec 19, 2023

It's that time of the year again where the Rotary Club of Andover is reaching out to our friends and community for nominations to recognize those unsung heroes among us for the title 2024 Citizens Who Care. To be recognized are Citizens Who Care, Educator of the Year and Student of the Year.

Nominations are being accepted through January 15, 2024 and information can be found on the club's website.

Links to nomination forms can be found below:

Video: Thank You for Foundation Donations

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Dec 18, 2023

Thank you for the time, energy, and financial support you give to Rotary’s mission. Consider showing this great video at your next club meeting:

The Rotary Foundation plans for the future, not just for today, and helps members put ideas into action. In the words of Arch Klumph:

“Rotary has assumed a great obligation to the world … . Its opportunities are limitless, but its income today and of tomorrow will never permit it to do the many things which it could and should do. Let me remind you of these three facts: (1) money alone does little good, (2) individual service is helpless without money, (3) the two together can be a godsend to civilization.”

Thank you for the time, energy, and financial support you give to Rotary’s mission.

Yours in Rotary,

D7930 Foundation Committee

Woburn Serves Breakfast to Seniors

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Dec 18, 2023

Many members of the Rotary Club of Woburn recently participated in an event to cook and serve breakfast at the Senior Center on School St. in Woburn. The senior guests were served scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage patties and strawberries along with orange juice and coffee that was donated by a local Dunkin' franchise. The senior guests were also entertained by a local Irish American entertainer, Mossie Coughlan. Mossie had the guests singing classics such as "Oh Danny Boy" and even got some of them up to dance.

Pictured here is Jim Major preparing pancake mix.

Greater Salem Bell Ringers

Posted by Maria Bertolone on Dec 14, 2023

Members of the Greater Salem, NH Club participated in our annual Salvation Army bell ringing.

For over two decades we have been collecting donations for those in need, the Club matching every dollar we collect.

We continue to engage in the community findings ways to help others and make a positive difference, as we stand by our Rotary motto “Service Above Self.”

Watch the Recording of Webinar with Israeli District

Posted by Tim Kelley on Dec 13, 2023

View the recording of the special webinar hosted by our DEI Committee on December 6. Our DG Lori Karas joined with Israel's D2490 DG Bashir Nusair from District 2490 on how everyday life has changed in Israel since October 7, 2023.

Hear the firsthand accounts from Rotarians on life with warning sirens and rockets. Learn what they are doing to support one another and the community.

View the YouTube video here.

Rotary Moment of the Week: What is Rotary Direct?

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Dec 13, 2023

WHAT IS ROTARY DIRECT?

You can support The Rotary Foundation all year by making a recurring gift with Rotary Direct. Choose how much and how often to give, using this simple and secure tool to make a big impact.

Online credit card contributions can be made monthly, quarterly, or annually, with a US$10 minimum per transaction. You can enroll in Rotary Direct online, use the Rotary Direct enrollment form or The Rotary Foundation Contribution Form, or call the Support Center at +1-866-9ROTARY.

You can change or cancel your recurring gift at any time through My Rotary. Rotary Direct is safe, secure, and easy. Sign up today!

Learn More About Rotary Direct here.

Happy Holiday,
D7930 Foundation Committee

Wakefield Donates 314 Dictionaries

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Dec 13, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club completed its annual Autumn donation of dictionaries to every third grader in Wakefield. 314 copies were hand-delivered to all Wakefield public schools as well as Odyssey and St. Joseph’s School. Diligent Rotarians Suzanne Bowering, Barbara Worley, Tom Stapleton, Joie Gerrish, Paul Adams, Wendy Maguire, Lisa Roderick, and Jill McWilliam visited each school and walked students through some of the resource’s highlights including how to look up the word “volunteer,” the American Sign Language alphabet, and historical information all included in the book.

The project has been going on decades. And although it may seem dated, there is evidence that hard copy dictionaries still have meaning. In a recent article, “Hold Onto Your Paperback Dictionaries, Don’t Throw Them Away,” Third Grade Teacher Heather Stamps highlighted several reasons for their relevance including exposure to new vocabulary and organization. She added, "Paperback dictionaries provide elementary school students with repeated exposure to the alphabetization method of information organization at a fixed cost." Fueled by this article, the feedback from Wakefield teachers and students’ smiles, the Wakefield Rotary Club looks forward to continuing this project for years to come.

Wakefield Donates to Interact Care Closet

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Dec 07, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club recently contributed items to the Wakefield Interact’s Care Closet. The Care Closet is accessible to high school students and contains free clothes and other necessary toiletries for students in need. Rotarians donated items to kick start the closet including items for students as well as hangers and containers for storage. Interact Advisor Bridget Hagerty and Interact leaders Ahmen Othman and Riya Patel visited the club this week to pick up the items.

The Care Closet is still seeking items including teenage clothes, coats, winter boots, toiletries (deodorant, body spray, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, conditioner, soap, feminine products, etc.), laundry detergent, or monetary donations to purchase these items. To make a donation, please contact Wakefield Interact Advisor Bridget Hagerty at the Wakefield High School.

Environmental Committee Holiday Tips

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on Dec 06, 2023

Please join us for the next District Wide Environmental Committee meeting on Dec. 27th at 6 pm. Please email Andrea LaCroix for the Zoom link.

In the meantime, here are tips for a Plastic Free Holiday Season:

1. Choose Plastic-Free Gifts That Prevent Waste. Looking for the perfect practical gift? Reusable metal, glass, or ceramic water bottles and travel mugs are plastic-free gifts that will also help the recipient to reduce future waste! Other zero-waste gifts include bamboo utensil sets, stainless steel straws, loose tea and tea strainers, beeswax food wrap, Swedish reusable cloths, a stainless-steel tiffin (perfect for bringing lunch or keeping in your car to have handy if you go out to eat to bring leftovers home in), reusable bowl covers, reusable cotton tote bags, stainless steel or ceramic compost bins for your kitchen, and so much more.

Lexington's Sand for Seniors

Posted by Yanira C. Burgos on Dec 06, 2023

Rotary Club of Lexington began their annual Sand for Seniors event. Dropping off ice melt to seniors ahead of the snowy season.

Sand 4 Seniors is a volunteer program provided by the Lexington Rotary designed to increase safety during the winter months and help reduce the risk of falls. This program was created for eligible seniors who are either physically or financially unable to acquire their own bucket of an ice melt product.

This program is available to Lexington residents 60 or over, live in their own home and are physically or financial unable to get ice melt themselves.

Medford Malden 134 Year Football Rivalry

Posted by Anne Powers on Dec 05, 2023

The Medford and Malden Rotarians again hosted the seniors of their respective football teams for their annual Thanksgiving Football Rally luncheon on Thursday, Nov. 16th at Pearl Street Station in Malden. President Paul Solano of Malden and Past President Paul Bardaro of Medford were the emcees. Also invited were the Senior football players and captain, the Senior cheerleaders and the coaching staff of both schools. The Superintendent of both Malden and Medford along with the school Principals and other school administrators.

Rotarians from both Medford and Malden Clubs were in attendance along with several Medford Alumni players who were invited to join us.

The Massachusetts high school football rivalry between Malden and Medford dates back to 1889, making it the second-oldest continuous high school football rivalry in the country!

A good time was had by all. Go Mustangs! Go Tornados!

P.S. Medford won the game!

Memorial and Tribute Gifts to The Rotary Foundation

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Dec 05, 2023

You can honor a loved one in a meaningful way with a contribution to The Rotary Foundation that helps sustain our efforts around the world.

The easiest way is to start at rotary.org/donate and select the option to make a donation in honor or in memory of someone. You can contribute to the Annual Fund-SHARE, the World Fund, the Endowment, PolioPlus, the Disaster Response Fund, a specific area of focus or a global grant.

As the donor, you’ll receive gift credit and a tax receipt (where applicable). The person you’re honoring or their family can be notified of your gift by email, or you can choose to print a notification and deliver it yourself.

Consider making a gift to the Foundation today to honor someone you love.

Click Here to Donate to the Foundation.

Yours in Rotary,

D7930 Foundation Committee

Walk the Red Carpet

Posted by Jackie Rapisardi on Dec 05, 2023

You’ve seen the show on TV. Did you ever imagine being there? Well, here’s your chance to be among the stars at the 75th 2024 Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California on January 15th, 2024! What a great event sponsored by the Beverly Rotary Club to support our students so they can become STARS!! TICKETS ARE NOT SOLD FOR THIS EVENT. They are PRICELESS! You get a souvenir book with all the categories and photos in it. You see your favorites walking down the Red Carpet that YOU just walked down. They even stop to take photos and some with just you! You are there as they show it live on television. This is an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime event! This package includes a two-night stay at the Wayfarer Hotel by Hilton, which is minutes from where the Emmys Awards will be held. What an incredible memory you’ll be making!

May I have the envelope please? And the winner is...YOU!!!!

START BIDDING NOW! Auction ends 6pm December 19, 2023.

Download Beverly Rotary's Online Auction Flyer here. Or click here.

Council on Legislation News

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Dec 04, 2023

As the District representative on the Council of Legislation (COL) I wanted to let you know the results of the recent meeting. Twenty six resolutions were transmitted to the Council and 7 resolutions were adopted, all of which were recommendations to the RI Board. TheRI Board will consider these items at its upcoming meetings. The Report of Actions can be viewed here.

Voting results for all 2023 resolutions can be found on My Rotary here.

Should you have any questions about the Council on Resolutions or the adopted items, please contact Council Services at council_services@rotary.org. The deadline for submitting resolutions to the next Council on Resolutions is 30 June 2024.

Yours in Rotary,
PDG Joan Arsenault

Austin Prep Interact Serves at Salvation Army

Posted by Tim Kelley on Dec 01, 2023

On Wednesday, November 22, the Austin Prep Interact Club served pre-Thanksgiving meals at the Salvation Army Cambridge Corps Community Center.

The Interact was accompanied on this service project by Advisor and Reading Rotarian Lisa Simmons. Lisa serves as Assistant Admissions Director at Austin Prep. The Austin Prep Interact is sponsored by Reading Rotary.

Austin Prep is an independent Augustinian Catholic school in Reading serving boys and girls in grades 6 through 12.

The Power of Your Gift to the Rotary Foundation

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault

The impact donors have on The Rotary Foundation is vital. Learn how your contributions can support different Foundation funds and programs.

Complete The Power of Giving course in Rotary’s Learning Center to learn more.

Write to learn@rotary.org with questions.

Looking for a speaker on The Rotary Foundation? Contact Joan Arsenault to arrange.

Yours in Rotary, D7830 Foundation Committee

How Does the Rotary Foundation Recognize Rotary Clubs

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Nov 29, 2023

Donations to the Foundation are essential to securing and expanding our programs throughout the world. We recognize with gratitude clubs that make extraordinary contributions.

100% Paul Harris Fellow Club: These are clubs in which all dues-paying members are Paul Harris Fellows. The club receives a banner. This is a one-time recognition, but the intent is that the club will maintain its status.

100% Foundation Giving Club: This banner is given to clubs that have an average of US$100 in per capita giving and in which every dues-paying member donates at least $25 during the year to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, the Endowment, or approved global grants.

Every Rotarian, Every Year Club: This banner is awarded to clubs that have a minimum Annual Fund contribution of $100 per capita during the year and in which every dues-paying member personally contributes at least $25 to the Annual Fund in that time period.

Top Three Per Capita in Annual Fund Giving: These banners are presented each year to the three clubs in each district with the highest per capita Annual Fund giving.

100% Paul Harris Society Club: This banner is awarded to clubs in which every dues-paying member contributes at least $1,000 during the year to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved global grant.

100% Rotary’s Promise Club: These are clubs in which every dues-paying member supports the Endowment with an outright gift of $1,000 or more or a commitment of at least that amount in an estate plan. These clubs receive a certificate upon request.

Will you help your club be recognized by the Foundation this year? Click here to donate to The Rotary Foundation.

D7930 Foundation Committee

Lynn Hosts 101st Annual Football Luncheon

Posted by Bill Reilly on Nov 24, 2023

The 101st annual pre-Thanksgiving Football Luncheon, hosted by Lynn Rotary, was held on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the Lynn Knights of Columbus. The luncheon is to get the Captains from the five Lynn High School football teams together for a friendly gathering before the Thanksgiving games. Also included were the Cheerleader Captains and the Band Director. The event Chairperson, Sean Reid, said: “Even though there is this tremendous long-standing rivalry we are still one Lynn.” This year marks the 109th Thanksgiving game between Classical and English!

November Foundation News You Can Use

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Nov 20, 2023

1. Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday, November 28th, is a great time to promote Foundation giving. Support our Foundation on Giving Tuesday, November 28th. Make a gift to the Foundation and share your support on social media. The top clubs in fundraising, participation, and online giving will be featured on My Rotary. Read about last year’s honorees.

2. Other ideas to promote the Foundation

a. Share our impact. Take time during a club meeting to show members how the Foundation transforms gifts into service projects that advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by fighting disease, improving the quality of education, protecting the environment, alleviating poverty, and doing even more. Invite a Foundation scholarship recipient or a community member who was involved in or benefited from a grant project to speak about the Foundation’s impact on their life.

Haven Project Presents to Lynn Rotary

Posted by William Reilly on Nov 20, 2023

Tracey Scherrer Friedman, Executive Director of The Haven Project, along with her colleagues Jamie Ayer and Angelica Perez Baez, presented on November 16 to Lynn Rotary information concerning their nonprofit and what they do to help homeless young people in Lynn.

Tracey explained that The Haven Project was the first organization north of Boston dedicated specifically to providing age-appropriate services to a growing, vulnerable 17 to 24 year old homeless young adult population. Since 2011, they have been implementing their mission through six essential focus areas: basic needs, employment, housing, education, health, and community engagement.

District 7930 receives the 2022-23 District Citation

Posted by Alexander Falk on Nov 20, 2023

Past RI President Jennifer Jones informed Past District Governor Alexander Falk today that our District 7930 was one of only 53 districts in the world to receive the District Citation for the previous 2022-23 Rotary year.

This citation is awarded to districts where at least half of the Rotary Clubs have achieved the Rotary Citation for the prior year.

IPDG Alexander Falk is presently scheduling visits to those clubs to present them with their framed Citation certificate at some point in the next 2-3 months and to recognize the great work that those clubs and their presidents have accomplished in the previous Rotary year.

Click on Read more... to read the letter from PRIP Jennifer Jones.

DEI Webinar on Conflict in Israel

Posted by Lori Karas on Nov 18, 2023

Please join us for a special webinar hosted by the DEI Committee - Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 7:30AM

Topic: Everyday life changed on October 7, 2023, in Israel.

Join District Governor Bashir Nusair from District 2490 in Israel, Rotarians from Israel and our District Governor Lori Karas.

During this meeting you will hear firsthand accounts from Rotarians on life with warning sirens and rockets. Learn what they are doing to support one another and the community. We’ll also talk about how we can help, too. Register here.

Benefits of a Service Membership

Posted by Diana Kiesel

Having enough time is always a challenge so at the Rotary Club of Andover, we wanted to remove that challenge from our membership options. A weekly meeting/commitment may be a deterrent for some who want to become involved in a service organization so about 7 years ago, our club added a Service Membership in addition to our Regular (aka Traditional) and Corporate/Family Membership options.

A Service Member at our club can participate in all activities (volunteer opportunities, committees, club and district events, etc.). The quarterly dues are $100 and include one breakfast meeting per month. Additional breakfast meetings are encouraged and incur a nominal fee.

Gloucester Rotary 2024 Calendars Now Available

Posted by Tracy Arabian on Nov 17, 2023

The Gloucester Rotary has published a 12-month Cape Ann photo calendar for 2024, featuring the photography of several local photographers. In addition to the beautiful photography, each calendar includes a raffle ticket for a $50 weekly raffle drawing throughout the year. The calendars are $25 each and proceeds from sales will be used for the Gloucester Rotary’s many community and international activities.

The calendars are available for purchase at the Weathervane Gift Shop, located at 153 Main Street in Gloucester (phone 978-281-1227), at BankGloucester, located at 160 Main Street in Gloucester (978-283-8200), and from any Gloucester Rotary member. Calendars may also be purchased online at https://gloucesterrotary.org/page/calendar.

Rotary Roamers from India

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Nov 15, 2023

The Rotary Club of Chelsea was recently honored to host two Rotary roamers from India. They were Surendra Manjrekar from the Rotary Club of Mumbai Sion and Aniruddha Nakhawa from the Rotary Club of Thane Angels. Rotary banners were exchanged.

InteractCafe Held in Andover

Posted by Alan Michel on Nov 14, 2023

On November 8, the Andover Interact Club hosted the District-wide InteractCafe event which included Interactors from Haverhill, Lawrence and North Andover. At the Cafe, which is a workshop that explores initiatives for interact across the district, Andover interact Club President, Annabel Pierce presented Alan Michel with a check for $500. They raised the funds from the Chamber of Commerce, while volunteering for Andover Days. The funds will be used to match the Andover Rotary Club grant that we are receiving from the Rotary District to purchase the Buddy Bench. Chamber member Bob Lavoie presented the check to Interact President Annabel Pierce. In the photo from left to right are Chamber Member, Bob Lavoie, Interact President Annabel Pierce and interact members Saoirse Daly, Silvia Storch, and Savannah Ross.

Ipswich Welcomes Katherine Platt

Posted by Bob Wicks on Nov 14, 2023

We are happy to announce that Katherine Platt has joined Ipswich-Rowley Rotary.

Katie Platt is the new Officer Manager at Campbell-Porter Funeral Home, formerly known as Whittier-Porter. Now in her 10th year with Campbell Funeral Home, she has assumed responsibility for the High Street location formerly owned and operated by Bob and Kim Porter. Katie is thrilled with this opportunity. ‘I am excited to extend my experiences with different situations and dynamics in new ways with the community.’

In the true spirit of Rotary, Katie has discovered how rewarding it can be to help people during difficult times. ‘When you can make someone smile, it warms your heart knowing that you were able to make that difference.’

Ipswich-Rowley Highway Cleanup

Posted by Bob Wicks on Nov 14, 2023

Last Saturday morning a group of Rotarians descended on our ‘adopted highway,’ removing unsightly debris from the roadside along Route 133 between County Road and the Essex town line. Over the course of about 2 hours, the team collected 8 large bags of trash, helping to maintain the beauty of this picturesque motorway.

As usual, the litter removal squad was organized by President Elect Tom Murphy. Helping this year, were Rotarians Susanne Pedersen (pictured in the photo), Lee McNelly, Nat Pulsifer, and Doug Shealy. This project is part of our larger commitment to protecting the environment.

Environmental Committee News

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on Nov 14, 2023

The next meeting of the Environmental Committee is Wednesday, December 27th. Note, no November meeting as it's the day before Thanksgiving. Speaking of Thanksgiving, here are some tips for a sustainable plastic free Thanksgiving:

1. Choose Scratch Over Store-Bought
2. Shop Local
3. Use Sustainable Decor
4. Serve on Reusable Dishes & Dinnerware
5. Provide or Bring Reusable Containers for Leftovers
6. Compost!

The environmental committee is open to everyone who cares about the environment. There are many areas of sustainability, and the committee is open to everyone and every project idea. My passion is plastics. I am a speaker for Beyond Plastics and available to speak at your club. Please reach out to get me on your club's schedule.

What is a Paul Harris Fellow?

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Nov 14, 2023

Paul Harris Fellow recognition is given to anyone who contributes at least US$1,000 to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved global grant. This recognition, which consists of a certificate and pin, can also be given on behalf of someone else.

More than 1.85 million people have become Paul Harris Fellows since 1957, including notable figures such as former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, former Russian President Boris Yeltsin, and polio vaccine developer Dr. Jonas Salk.

Are you ready to become a Paul Harris Fellow and support The Rotary Foundation at this level? Read about the History of the PHF Recognition.

Yours in Rotary,
D7930 Foundation Committee

Looking for a speaker? Contact Joan Arsenault to arrange for a talk on our member benefit The Rotary Foundation!

Wakefield Honors Military Veterans

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Nov 14, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club has an honored tradition of recognizing the service of veterans year-round through various service projects, donations, and partnerships. This year, however, the club members wish to highlight the service of veterans within its ranks; the club is home to four military veterans and a Peace Corps volunteer.

Jay J. Curley served as a 1st Lieutenant in the Army Infantry, serving in Vietnam. He received the Bronze Star Medal for heroic service. After his military career, his service to others continued at home as an attorney in Wakefield and the Wakefield Rotary Club President from 1987-88. In fact, his dedication to the Wakefield community and beyond is unwavering with 52 years of perfect attendance, more than any other member of the club. He said, “I have always tried to help people from a young age and continue to do so today through Rotary. I did not want to lead a life without giving back. I was a team player in the military and am a team player in Rotary. I like to have a positive approach to helping others.”

Marblehead 5K Run for Body and Mind Health

Marblehead Rotary and the Marblehead community again came together to raise funding for "Inner Explorer," a mindfulness platform designed to support mental health and well-being in schools and centers across Marblehead schools. The annual 5K run attracted 90+ runners on a sunny, mild November morning. Winding through the town's historic alleys and finishing for a relaxed celebration at the Boston Yacht Club over foot-long hot dogs and delicious New England Clam Chowder, it was a smashing gathering of families and friends. Congratulations to Adam Kingsbury of Rose Valley, PA, Ist Male Overall, and Kylynn McKinley of Marblehead Ist Female Overall winners. Cheers to the participants, families, friends, volunteers, sponsors, and contributors, and a big shout-out to our chair, Nancy Gwin, for spearheading this successful event! For a complete list of winners, see https://my.raceresult.com/268500/.

John "Jack" Maloney Memorial Billiard Room

We are pleased to announce the recent dedication of the Community Center Billiard Room in remembrance John "Jack" Maloney. Jack made many significant contributions to the community throughout his lifetime and the Rotary Club of Lexington wanted to honor his legacy. Jack was very active in Rotary International, as President of the Lexington Rotary Club 1975-1976, and as District Governor (1980-1981) of district 7930. Jack was also a multiple Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International. He belonged to the Lexington Chamber of Commerce. He was a Town Meeting member for many years and was appointed to many committees in Lexington. Jack was the former President and Chairman on the board of Depositors Trust Company in Medford and Lexington. Jack was also the recipient of the Lexington Lion's Club White Tricorne Hat in 2003 for his outstanding contributions to the Town of Lexington. He also served on the Boards of North Cambridge Catholic in North Cambridge as well as Cristo Rey High School. For many years he served on the board of the Josiah Hayden Recreation Center in Lexington, serving as Treasurer for 10 plus years.

DG Lori Karas Visits Swampscott and Other Happenings

The Swampscott Rotary Club and President Philipp Zeissig welcomed District Governor Lori Karas, AG Martha Mauser, and PDG Alex Falk. It was our honor host them and have Lori update us on district activities and plans and programs.

During our meeting we also recognized a couple of our extra hard working Rotarians:

Diane O'Brien is our incoming vice president. She is a tireless worker for the town and Swampscott Rotary. Along with several other volunteer organizations she in which she is active Diane also helped found, and now heads, our local Anchor Food Pantry. She organized and ran our October Danny Cahill/Anchor Food Pantry 5K Race which netted $10,000 for our food pantry and a Dan Cahill scholarship. For all her volunteer efforts we recognized Diane with a Paul Harris Award.

For the past three years Doug Dubin Has been president twice, volunteering for whatever we are doing, and always there to fill in if needed. For his great spirit and efforts we recognized Doug with a Paul Harris Award—his third!

Swampscott Rotary again sponsored the food for our town's Veteran's Day breakfast at the Senior Center with a donation of $350.

Wilmington Rotary Annual Auction and Raffle

Wilmington Rotary will host their annual auction and raffle at Knights of Columbus Hall, on November 17, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Doors open 6:00 PM.

LIVE AUCTION, SILENT AUCTION, RAFFLE AND MORE! $10,000 Annual Drawing Live!

Knights of Columbus Hall 12 Middlesex Ave, Wilmington, MA Friday November 17, 2023

For more info, contact any Wilmington Rotary member or Greg Sadowski at 978-657-6167 (office) or 978-808-2681 (cell). gregory.sadowski@edwardjones.com

Feeling Lonely or Isolated? Have Coffee with a Rotarian!

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary is partnering with the Ipswich Council on Aging to bring conversation and companionship to senior members of our community isolated or lonely in their homes. We will first receive training from both the COA and professionals in this field before meeting our senior companions.

If you are interested in creating a similar program in your own community, contact us at https://www.ipswichrowleyrotary.org/

Melrose Hosts Spooky Game Night

Posted by Mary Beth McAteer-Margolis on Nov 09, 2023

On Saturday Oct 28 the Melrose Rotary Club hosted their third game night fundraiser. The Spooky Halloween themed event was a replay of our popular LEFT RIGHT CENTER game with winners taking home over $800 in prizes! Melrose Rotarians and their businesses stepped up to sponsor the prizes.

Our generous sponsors included:
Mark Robinson - Robinson Funeral Home; Mark Hutchinson - Brad Hutchinson Real Estate; Rosylene Forgione - Melrose Eastern Bank; John Gately - Gately Funeral Home; and Judy Clark-Sullivan & Clark Attorneys.

Raffle prizes and best costume prizes completed the fun evening netting Melrose Rotary $4000, part of which will fund our Happy to Chat Bench and our donation of 125 dental supply toiletry bags to Housing Families, a Malden based 501(c)(3) serving housing insecure families in the Melrose Malden Everett area.

Our next round of Left Right Center will be held on April 6, 2024, at the Melrose Knights of Columbus. Mark your calendar now and watch the District newsletter for ticket details!

Wakefield Hosts Fun Halloween Trivia

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Nov 09, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club brought some in-meeting fun to its Halloween meeting on October 31st. Long-time Rotarians Jay Curley and Amy Luckiewicz hosted a three-part trivia game centered on the holiday. “We love our meetings, but having a theme really brings a change of pace,” Luckiewicz said.

Rotarians and guests in attendance, several in costumes, were divided into 5 teams. The first round cenetred on Halloween trivia. “It included history, geography, and questions that didn’t mean you had to be a Halloween expert,” Luckiewicz added. Round Two was a Halloween, horror and suspense movie picture round. The final round was based on the actors and movie trivia featured in the picture round.

Rotary Peabody Receives Citations

Posted by Al Hayden on Nov 06, 2023

The Peabody Club had lots to celebrate last week. They received a citation for 20 years of being Chamber of Commerce members during a Chamber event. Then Past DG Alexander Falk visited to present the Club with 2 awards:

Achieving at least half of the club goals during the 2022-2023 presidential year; and
Being the #3 earner in the District for Foundation donations.

Peabody Rotary sends out extra thanks to Immediate Past Presidient Rob Lowell for guiding them through such a great year.

What is a Rotary Foundation Sustaining Member?

Posted by Joan Kelly Arsenault on Nov 06, 2023

A Sustaining Member is someone who contributes US$100 or more each year to the Annual Fund. These contributions count toward several different kinds of individual recognition and club recognition banners.

For about US$10 a month, you can be a Sustaining Member and help provide life-changing opportunities for people on a yearly basis!

Read About the Annual Fund here.

Thank you for supporting the Rotary Foundation from the D7930 Foundation Committee!

Responding to the Tragedy in Maine

Posted by DG Lori Karas on Nov 04, 2023

Just after October 25, 2023 – I reached out to my classmate Tina Champman District Governor of D7790 to inquire what was needed for those in the Lewiston, Auburn, Bowdoin and Winthrop areas, as they lost 18 members of the community. Due to the lock down and the community taking some time to digest all that occurred I’ve received word. The Governor of Maine has posted to their website the names of vetted and reputable organizations. Please visit Healing Together: Supporting Victims and Families of the Tragedy in Lewiston | Office of Governor Janet T. Mills (maine.gov).

This incident, the scores of news reports of people being murdered both locally and afar, remind us of the need to focus on mental health and wellness. Please take care of yourself, family, your fellow Rotarians, neighbors, and community. If you know someone in need of help - please go to www.masshelpline.com.

Wilmington's Annual $10K Drawing

Posted by Pooja Singla on Nov 03, 2023

It's the time of the year again for the most awaited Annual Fundraiser of Wilmington Rotary!

Grand Prize: $10,000.

Other prizes: $1000, $500 and $250.

A Tax-Deductible Donation in the amount of $100 will enter your name in the Raffle Drawing. (Friends and family can also combine their donations to make up to $100). The Drawing will be in the First Named Person on the raffle ticket. Only 350 tickets will be sold.

What: Raffle Drawing of Wilmington Rotary Annual Auction

Where: Knights of Columbus Hall, 112 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington

When: Friday, November 17, 2003, 7:00 pm

Live Auction! Silent Auction! Raffle and Fun!

Please contact Wilmington Rotary Past President Greg Sadowski at 978-657-6167 (office) or 978-808-2681 (cell) or email gregory.sadowski@edwardjones.com for more information.

Upcoming InteractCafe Schedule Change

Posted by Keith Harris on Nov 02, 2023

The District Interact Council is pleased to invite you to join us for one of our exciting InteractCafes this fall. Student run, these great events are designed to support our Interact clubs and educate Rotarians about their critical support role. Note the location change for the 11/15 Cafe.

November's InteractCafes are.

Ipswich HS - Nov. 1

Andover HS - Nov. 8

Wilmington HS - Nov. 15 (note location change)

The updated dates and locations are also on the flyer downloadable here. There is one in each region of the District. While club presidents and Interact coordinators will be invited directly, it is also important that our District leaders have an opportunity to experience the joy of Interact firsthand. It is also a chance to lead by example - to show these young people that we do indeed believe in them and are committed to supporting them in their efforts.

Rotary Peabody Hosting Veterans Walk Nov. 11

Posted by Herb Harris on Nov 01, 2023

The Rotary Club of Peabody will hold a Walk For Veterans immediately following the Veterans Day ceremonies at City Hall on Saturday, November 11. At the end of the short walk, Rotarians will spend the afternoon cleaning the area around the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the monument itself, at Courthouse Plaza. In the spirit of Rotary's motto “Service Above Self,” we are indebted to those who served for us. Rotarians will assist those veterans who are in wheelchairs.

Members of the District 7930 community are encouraged to join Rotary on the walk. We also ask that donations to the Peabody Veterans Department be made at peabodyrotarytaste.com. In the message area, please enter “Veterans Walk.” Additionally, we ask that our fellow Rotarians spend some time that afternoon (and every day) assisting veterans by doing chores around their homes, running errands or just keeping them company.

Proclamation from Gov. Healey

Posted by Rosie Segil on Oct 30, 2023

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Hear Ye! A proclamation from Governor Maura Healey's office announcing the good news: October 24 is World Polio Day! Marblehead Rotary's Linda Sullivan, the chair of our club's End Polio Now campaign, successfully lobbied the governor's office to declare October 24 as World Polio Day - affirming our district's and the state's Rotary clubs' commitment to keep the promise alive in eradicating Polio. The proclamation:

Chelsea Rotary Presents PHF Certificates

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Oct 30, 2023

The Rotary Club of Chelsea recently had a special dinner to celebrate the offficers and directors for the 2023-2024 Rotary Year. At the dinner the Rotary Club presented PHF certificates and pins to seven new PHFs. The new PHFs are Joan Cromwell, Stacey Gurska, Amanda Alpert, Gail Mauch, June Vinard, Kathy Webber and Marilyn Garcia. A PHF pin and certificate will be presented to Helen Zucco at a future Rotary meeting as she was not able to attend the dinner.

Beverly North of 40 Turkey Raffle

Posted by Brian Murphy on Oct 27, 2023

The Beverly Rotary Club presents its famous North of Forty Turkey Raffle … and the Gizzard of Oz promo video. You can purchase a ticket for $20 and you might win a 40 lb. turkey!!!

The dressed, locally grown 40 pounds plus turkey will be delivered to the winner's home three days before Thanksgiving with an industrial-sized roasting pan, which will be engraved with the winner's name.

The drawing will be held on Thursday, November 9. You do not have to be present to win. You can purchase tickets for $20 each by contacting Brian Murphy at 978-927-8689 or moiph@comcast.net or by paying online at this link. A copy of your ticket stub will be sent to you via email.

For a good laugh view our video to promote the raffle by clicking here.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!!

Parkway Rotary Sponsoring Blood Drive

Posted by Raymond Fitzgerald on Oct 26, 2023

We need your blood! Well actually only a pint of it. As everyone knows their is a blood donation shortage in the Boston area so we are sponsoring a blood drive in conjunction with the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women’s Hospital) on November 28th from 11 AM to 5:30 PM at the Edelweiss Village on 2220 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132. Appointments can be done by logging on to this link.

Download flyer here.

Peace Corps and Rotary: Partnering for Peace

Posted by Ann Witzig on Oct 25, 2023

If you missed any of the Rotary - Peace Corps week session, their videos are now posted at our PFP YouTube Channel.

Here are the topics:

1. Peace through Service, Action, and Diversity

2. Partnering for Peace: How to Make Our Connections Work

3. Partnering for Peace: Connecting Rotary clubs in country with Peace Corps Post

4. Successful Examples of Joint Rotary Peace Corps Project

5. Rotary + Peace Corps = Global Force for Peace

The PFP webpage can be found here.

Hope you'll find them inspiring,

Fred Cowan

PFP WEEK Committee Chair

Wakefield Re-Commits to Fight to End Polio

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Oct 25, 2023

October 24th marked World Polio Day, a day to recognize the 35-year fight to end polio world-wide. This year, the Wakefield Rotary Club re-committed to helping eradicate the disease after raising thousands of dollars over the past ten years by raising awareness and education through a press and social media campaign.

The campaign includes using articles, letters, hashtags and social media clips from EndPolio resources.

Rotarian Women Meet Up for Business

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Oct 24, 2023

Recently, six Wakefield Rotarians, one Lynnfield Rotarian and a prospective member met up for the Wakefield Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business Luncheon at the Quannapowitt Yacht Club. October's guest speakers were three of the Wakefield Police Department's female officers: Officer Kelly Tobyne, Officer Meaghan Roberto, and Officer Micayla Botelho. The women spoke about their different roles in the department and what it is like being a police officer.

Pictured left to right are Suzanne Bowering (Wakefield Rotary), Officer Roberto, Officer Tobyne, Officer Botelho, Janice Casoli (Lynnfield Rotary), Barbara Worley (Wakefield Rotary), Amy Luckiewicz (Wakefield Rotary), Joie Gerrish (Wakefield Rotary), and prospective member Patricia Birchem. Missing from photo was Kathy Boyle (Wakefield Rotary).

Lexington's Annual Senior BBQs

Posted by Yanira C. Burgos on Oct 24, 2023

Rotary Club members participated in an annual tradition, holding BBQs at the three senior living communities in Lexington.

Promoting Rotary

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Oct 24, 2023

President Matt Wigton got Club members to stand at Five Corners in the early morning and promote joining the Rotary Club of Rockport!

Ipswich Interact Leadership Camp

Posted by Bob Wickes on Oct 24, 2023

Recently, four leaders of Ipswich High School Interact took the reins of our weekly Ipswich-Rowley club meeting. In addition to collecting Happy Bucks, making announcements, and coordinating our weekly celebrations, the officers used PowerPoint to update us on their second annual summer camping retreat at Green Meadow Campground in Glen, NH. The event is designed to energize and organize the leadership team for the coming year.

Dubbed ‘Leadership in the Woods’, the chaperoned event lets 13 Board members step outside their comfort zones to plan and budget meals and gear, organize fun activities, and share event duties. Following a fun filled hike on nearby Black Cat Mountain, a guest speaker from RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) introduced a learning and organizing game that uses a color test to help identify personal leadership styes. The group then separated according to their dominant color: red (fiery) do more, blue (cool) do it right, green (earth) do it fairly, and yellow (sunshine) do it together. Each group picked 5 or 6 goals from the Interact Presidential Citation list.

Stoneham Golf Ball Drop

Posted by David Gardner on Oct 22, 2023

Stoneham Rotary 50/50 Raffle Golf Ball Drop on October 24 at 1 pm.

Help us help graduating seniors; you could win up to $2,500. Scan either of the QR Codes or visit stonehamrotaryclub.org and click on Order Tickets in the story about the Golf Ball Drop. You will know by next Tuesday whether you are the lucky winner. In any case, an exceptional student will receive a scholarship to help them in their first year of college.

World Polio Day Luncheon

Posted by Rosie Segil on Oct 22, 2023

Shower us purple, aubergine, lavender, mauve, violet! October 24 is World Polio Day, Marblehead Rotary kickstarted their fundraising event last week with inspired purple everything: pinkie stamps, piggy banks, petals, crocuses, boas, and M&Ms!

Marblehead Rotary plans to continue fundraising for polio throughout the year with weekly banking coins on our purple piggy bank, selling purple flower of the season, and joining with Marblehead Interact clubs for various projects to fundraise for polio.

Happy Halloween from Rockport Rotary

Posted by Matt Wigton on Oct 20, 2023

Rockport Rotarians dressed for the season at our lunch meeting on October 19. A more motley crew, you will not find.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration in Chelsea

Posted by Douglas Mauch on Oct 19, 2023

The Rotary Club of Chelsea celebrated Hispanic Heritage at a recent meeting. The guest speaker for the meeting was Ramiro Torres known as the “freaking Puerto Rican” on his radio show GetUp Crew on HOT 96.9. Born in Everett, Massachusetts and one of the original young Latino influencers, Ramiro Torres has been the voice of morning radio for millions in Boston for over 20 years. Attending the meeting were several students from Chelsea High School and the newly appointed Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez.

Join Us for World Polio Day, 10/24/2023

Posted by Ingrid Brown on Oct 16, 2023

In his World Polio Day message, Rotary International President R. Gordon R. McInnaly explains why we still need your support for our efforts to eradicate polio.

Want to learn exciting news and updates as Rotary seeks to cross the Finish Line to Ending Polio? Stay tuned for our District’s push Get Movin’ to End Polio to be held Monday, January 1, 2024 – Saturday February 3, 2024. Dust off your sneakers, shake the wrinkles out of your work-out outfits, and plan to join us at several fitness organizations – locations to be announced shortly, and let’s get this done!

And a reminder (and thank you) to our Polio Plus Society Charter Members – October is your re-up month to continue your pledge, so go online and continue your commitment to the children of the world.

We WILL make this happen!

Ingrid Brown, D7930 Polio Chair

Newburyport's 100th Anniversary Celebration

Posted by Deborah Andrews on Oct 16, 2023

The Newburyport Rotary Club’s 100th Birthday Party was a rip-roaring, rocking good time, with lively conversation and dancing! Consistently rated one of the best show bands in New England, Decades by Dezyne’s uniquely engaging performance thrilled the audience. Many attendees were inspired to put their dancing shoes to good use.

Senator Bruce Tarr was introduced by Rotarian Louis Rubenfeld. The Senator offered Co-Presidents Nikki Misenheimer and Kimberly Bohlen, and Immediate Past President, Dan Hartman, an official Senate Resolution commending the good works and social aspects of Newburyport Rotary.

Speakers were fabulous and funny! Rotary Foundation Chair Liz Cullen regaled us with the history of Rotary, including some hysterical historical club shenanigans. Past President Claudia Harris introduced Foundation Chair Liz Cullen. Liz and Presidents Nikki and Kim presented Paul Harris Fellow pins to President-elect Lisa Darke and to Jill Moran, Newburyport HS Interact Advisor. Jan Lorrey Flowers’ Rotary blue and gold centerpieces were gorgeous. Of course the Blue Ocean Event Center food and service were amazing, along with the view. It was a fitting way to celebrate Newburyport Rotary’s 100 years!

InteractCafes Coming to Your Area

Posted by Keith Harris on Oct 15, 2023

There will be 4 events.

Stoneham HS - Oct. 18

Ipswich HS - Nov. 1

Andover HS - Nov. 8

Burlington HS - Nov. 15 (note Burlington date change)

The dates and locations are also on the flyer downloadable here. There is one in each region of the District. While club presidents and Interact coordinators will be invited directly, it is also important that our District leaders have an opportunity to experience the joy of Interact firsthand. It is also a chance to lead by example - to show these young people that we do indeed believe in them and are committed to supporting them in their efforts.

Your District Leadership in the Zone

Posted by Tom Hankard on Oct 14, 2023

Recently at our Zone 28 and 32 Learning-to-Lead Training DGE Tom Hankard and DGN Pooja Singla, along with DG Lori Karas, Foundation Chair/PDG Joan Arsenault and PDG Terry Rezendes Curran engaged with Rotarians from around Canada, the United States, French Guyana, and Bermuda!

DGN Pooja was enrolled in GNTS, Governor-Nominee Training Seminar and DGE took GETS, Governor-Elect Training Seminar, and graduated from official training.

Other sessions ranged from videotaping club and district events, DEI, membership, and public image There were many plenary speakers including a keynote address discussing being gay and a Rotarian from Rotarian Brian Rusch.

Reading's 100th Anniversary Celebration

Posted by Tim Kelley on Oct 06, 2023

Reading Rotary has been serving the community of Reading for 100 years. Rotary will hold a 100^th Anniversary Celebration at Meadowbrook Golf Club on November 2 at 6:00. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased at www.readingmarotary.org or at this link by October 26.

President Sheila Clarke is delighted to announce that Reading Rotary will make a special Paul Harris Fellow presentation to Reading native General Jack Hammond, US Army Ret., Executive Director of Home Base. Home Base is a national nonprofit dedicated to healing the invisible wounds of war for Veterans of all eras, Service Members, Military Families and Families of the Fallen through world-class, direct clinical care, wellness, education and research – all at no cost to them – regardless of era of service, discharge status or geographical location. Home Base organizes the Run to Home Base – Red Sox Foundation event at Fenway Park. President Clarke said, “Home Base provides amazing support to Veterans in need. We are so happy to be able to honor General Hammond at our Gala. His service and leadership are so inspirational. You won’t want to miss it.”

42nd Annual Fall Foliage Classic Road Race

Posted by Bernie Creeden on Oct 05, 2023

The Rotary Club of TBM’s 42nd Annual Road Race will be held on Sunday, October 15th. The Race starts at 11:00 am . There are certified 5k and 5 mile courses through the beautiful foliage of the quintessential New England Topsfield course. The races begin and end at the Proctor School, 60 Main Street, Topsfield. Registration is open online and in person the day of the race. Proceeds will benefit local food pantries and other TBM projects.

Download flyer with details here.

Online registration here.

Boo to You, Too!

Posted by Andy Maddox on Oct 05, 2023

Happy Halloween from Rotary Youth Exchange student Lila and her counselor PDG Ingrid Brown! Lila is visiting from France and is off to a great year in Rockport.

Wakefield Welcomes New Member Joie Gerrish

Posted by Amy Luckiewicz on Oct 04, 2023

The Wakefield Rotary Club is pleased to announce its newest member, Joie Gerrish. Gerrish was recently installed into the club earlier this season by her sponsor, Past President Barbara Worley.

Gerrish said, “I was encouraged to join Rotary by a friend and fellow Rotarian. I volunteered to help at Rotary's Build-a-Bed Project. The positive vibes of this group's energy as they strive and work to support projects like this and many others is the catalyst that helped make my decision to accept their invitation to join them.”

Gerrish has lived in Wakefield her entire life, attending Wakefield Public Schools. She has served as a Wakefield Adult Mentor (WAM) since 2002 as a “Big Sister.” Currently, Gerrish serves as the President of the Wakefield Alliance Against Violence (WAAV) and has been a volunteer since 2008. Wakefield Rotary Club President Glen Duffy commented, “Joie has a proven record of volunteering and commitment to the community. She already has jumped right into projects that impact Wakefield and beyond.”

Pictured here are Past President Bob Kimball, Joie Gerrish, and Past President Barbara Worley.

Thank You from The Rotary Foundation

Posted by Joan Arsenault on Oct 02, 2023

Dear Rotary Foundation supporters and partners:

In 2022-23, OUR Rotary Foundation (unaudited numbers*):

• Awarded 1,098 global grants totaling US $68,681,428.*

• Provided 473 district block grants totaling US $27,877,138.*

• Dispersed US $14,788,668 in Disaster Response grants.*

• Trained 100 new Rotary Peace Fellows at Centers around the world and announced the formation of a new Peace Center in Turkey.

• Announced the third Program of Scale Grant, United to End Cervical Cancer in Egypt.

• Estimated that the number of people walking due to the polio eradication efforts of Rotary International and its partners reached 20 million.

YOUR significant support of OUR Rotary Foundation helped make all this possible. We wish to thank you for your continued generosity and choosing OUR Rotary Foundation as one of your philanthropies of choice! Contact Joan Arsenault to arrange for a talk at your club on The Rotary Foundation.

Wellness in a Box -- Mental Health Toolkit

Posted by Joan Arsenault on Oct 02, 2023

While at the Zone Learning to Lead Conference in Toronto, I met a District Governor from D6380 who told me about a mental health toolkit developed by Rotary Action Group (RAG) on Mental Health Initiatives for school or youth group leaders. This toolkit is a train-the-trainer resource for ages 12 and older plus a framework for referrals and increasing providers. The primary resource is the Boston's Children's Hospital 'Break Free From Depression' (BFFD).

Visits these areas for more information:

Wellness in a Box Toolkit

Rotarians Addressing Mental Health Head On

Mental Health Initiatives RAG

Boston Childrens' Hospital BFFD Program

Stoneham Rotary's Kindergarten Book Project

It is with great pleasure that the Stoneham Rotary Club reports on its extremely successful literacy project for Stoneham Kindergarten students. Through a generous donation from Stoneham Ford, the club purchased three titles focused on the experiences new students have in their first days going to school through Book Oasis, our local bookstore.

Eighty-six books of each title were delivered to three different schools, including South School, Colonial Park School, and the Robin Hood School. Each school received one title, and when the students complete their title, the books will rotate to the next school until all three books have been read.

When the books have been fully circulated, a portion of the three titles will be distributed to each school and to the public library. The books have all had bookplates placed so future students will know that the Rotary Club of Stoneham is an advocate for learning to read and we hope that this project becomes an annual program. Over 100 students will have the opportunity to read each of these selected titles.

The response was amazing as seen in the photographs and we hope it builds their interest in reading and ultimately has a positive impact on their reading enjoyment and ability.

Thanks to Craig Celli for his collaboration with the teachers, getting the books ordered, and distributing them to each of the schools with Club President Rosanna Rodriguez.

Swampscott Rotary's Cahill 5K

Posted by Diane O'Brien on Sep 29, 2023

Lace up your running shoes and join Swampscott Rotary for the Cahill 5K and 1-Mile Walk, a community event aimed at honoring the memory of Danny Cahill. The event will support two causes dear to his heart: the Danny Cahill Rotary Scholarship and the Anchor Food Pantry.

The race is scheduled for October 22nd, 2023, at the picturesque Linscott Park in Swampscott, Massachusetts. Registration and sign-in will begin at 7:30 AM, with the race officially commencing at 9:00 AM.

Danny Cahill, a lifelong resident of Swampscott, was not only a dedicated member of this community but also someone who embodied the Rotary motto "Service Above Self." He lived his life with a passion for helping others and making a difference in the lives of those around him.

Nepal's Great Himalaya Trail Project

Posted by Sandford Carlisle on Sep 27, 2023

Creating successful and sustainable eco-tourism and micro enterprise among extremely poor mountain villages. Build on proven initiatives started in eastern and other parts of Nepal over the past 20+ years, harnesses a proven Appreciative Planning and Action (APA) development methodology along Nepal’s 1000 mile Great Himalaya Trail (GHT)—spanning East to West Nepal.

This Economic Development International Project, supported by District 7930 and Amesbury Rotary, is being managed by Amesbury Rotarians Malcolm (Mac) Odell, Mark Bean, and Sandy Carlisle, who would love to present this project to your Rotary Club with an awesome PowerPoint presentation. The Great Himalaya Trail Project is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax exempt NH corporation. To learn more about the project please click on this link.

Please contact Mac Odell via email malcom.j.odell@gmail.com, or to talk or text at 603-770-6006 to set up a date that fits your club’s program schedule.

Winchester Interact Kickoff

Posted by Kurt Heisler on Sep 26, 2023

The Winchester High School Interact club has started the school year by recruiting over 60 new members. The leadership team has a full year of activities planned. Including the upcoming Interact Cafe and volunteering at the Rotary Club's Rise Against Hunger meal packing on September 28th, where the club and community will pack over 10,000 meals.

Woburn Hosts Musical Fundraiser

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Sep 26, 2023

Please join us on Saturday, October 21st for this fun night of Irish American music, dinner, raffles and silent auction items. This Fundraiser will help Woburn Rotary fund service projects throughout the year including CSC Food Pantry, Woburn Veterans, Fire Safety House, Smoke/CO Detectors for seniors and more.

For details download flyer here.

Sun Shines on Lynnfield Golf Tourney

Posted by Jack Moynihan on Sep 26, 2023

The weather was a fitting compliment to 48 enthusiastic registrants who teed it up for the Annual Lynnfield Rotary Golf Tournament at Reedy Meadow Golf Course on Friday September 22. The Golf Committee lead by Committee Chairman, Tom Adamczyk, exceeded all expectations to make this a memorable event.

Although the wind kept safe the Hole in One $5000 prize on the 9th hole, it didn’t prevent the A. A. Dority Team, from taking first place once again with a score of 57. Congratulations to their team of Phil Crawford, Allen Schweitzer, Paul DeVincenzo, Phil Anderson.

They were followed by 2nd place finisher - Ironside Financial Team with a score of 59. Their team consisted of Steve Riley, Vanessa Riley, Chuck Cotting & Christine Cataldo. In 3rd place was Lynnfield Psychological Team with a score of 60. Duffers Tom Adamczyk, Gil Stringer, Mark Braga, & Tony Carangelo rounded out their team.

National Recovery Month

Posted by Becca Harris on Sep 25, 2023

Hello, my name is Becca Harris and I am a proud member of Arlington Rotary, District Registrar, and a member of the recovery community. I am grateful for the support of family, friends, and especially my rotary family. September is National Recovery Month and I think it is very important to raise awareness surrounding mental health, addiction education and recovery.

Did you know?????

• 6.34% of youth and 15.35% of adults in the U.S. reported a substance use disorder in the past year.

• 11.2% of overdose deaths are aged 15 to -24 years old.

• The rate of substance use and related overdose deaths have increased exponentially during the pandemic

Ways your club can help!

Partnering with Other Orgs Yields Greater Impact

Posted by Linda Doliber on Sep 25, 2023

The rain gods held off on September 23, enabling members of the Marblehead Harbor Rotary to volunteer with SPUR and Sustainable Marblehead for an area beach and parks cleanup. The Marblehead Harbor contingent was assigned a woodland trail area with adjoining harbor side conservation land; and they collected a variety of items, including the usual empty cigarette boxes, nip bottles, paper and plastic bags, metal pieces and even one sneaker!

We have found that partnering with local service organizations on volunteer projects improves our impact in the community.

Pictured left to right are Francie King, Bob Erbetta, Judy Gates, and Marblehead harbor Rotary Co-president Linda Doliber.

Environmental Committee Meeting

Posted by Andrea Lacroix on Sep 22, 2023

Join us for our next committee meeting, September 27 at 7pm.

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 857 6083 1674
Passcode: 100600

We want to hear from you and what projects you are interested in. With so many ways to support the environment, let's discuss the ONE thing most important to you.

For questions, contact Andrea Lacroix.

Assistant Governers and Presidents Meeting

Posted by David J Gardner on Sep 18, 2023

On September 12th, the Club Presidents were invited to attend the first-ever combined meeting with the Assistant Governors. DG Lori has made a commitment to keep the Presidents connected throughout the year and her suggestion was to invite them to attend a combined meeting four times a year with the AG's and other district leaders. The goal is to have them share their successes and their struggles with each other and the team that is here to serve them.

There was a great exchange of ideas from our 24 Club Presidents and the majority of Assistant Governors who attended the one-hour meeting. Many ideas to support membership, enhance public image, and focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion were shared and it is obvious that our district is in good hands with our Club Presidents.

The transcript of the meeting and the presentation were emailed to the entire Presidential class and the district leaders who are ready to provide any assistance the clubs need.

Future meeting topics w

ill be assessed via a survey and those ideas or concerns will be the agenda for the next meeting scheduled for December.

In the meantime, Create Hope in the World!

Water Conservations: A Plan for Rotarians

Posted by Ann Witzig on Sep 18, 2023

Rotarians are people of ACTION!

The Problem -- Making sure there is enough clean, plentiful water to support wildlife, homes, and businesses on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Did you know that the Ipswich River provides drinking water for 14 communities and more than 350,000 people?

The Solution -- Water conservation in all of our communities.

Rotarians - Here’s our three-step ACTION PLAN for water conservation plan. Help us by inviting either Ann Witzig (aswitzig@gmail.com) or Joan Arsenault (joan@massteximaging.com) to speak at your next meeting!

Link to page - https://www.ipswichriver.org/water-conservation/

Lynn Rotary Hosting Cornhole Tournament

Posted by William Reilly on Sep 18, 2023

Lynn Rotary will be having the 2nd Annual Cornhole Scholarship Fundraising event on October 1st.

If you can’t attend, donations to the Scholarship fund will be greatly appreciated. Any Lynn resident who is a senior is welcome to apply for a scholarship in the spring of 2024.

We would love to have you attend the event. Hopefully we will have a showdown between the Fire Chief and the Police Chief for all the marbles!

Donations may be sent to: P O Box 8100, Lynn MA, 01904. Checks payable to Lynn Rotary Charitable Corp. However, we would like to have you and your friends at another great event.

Download event flyer here.

Woburn Celebrates Susan Hartmere

Posted by Brian Ouellette on Sep 18, 2023

The Rotary Club of Woburn recently celebrated Susan Hartmere's 30 years of Rotary service. Susan joined Rotary in 1992 and became the first woman to be president of the Woburn Club in 1996. She was also president again in 2018. Susan, a Paul Harris Fellow, was presented with a commemorative clock by current president Brian Ouellette with a plaque that reads, "Susan Hartmere: Thank you for 30 years of Rotary Club of Woburn service. You represent a true example of "Service Above Self."

The Things a District Governor will do to Raise $$ for the Rotary Foundation!

Posted by Andy Maddox on Sep 16, 2023

On Friday, September 29th at the Zone Learning to Lead training in Toronto, Lori Karas, our District Governor, will Bounce for the Foundation!

This event raises money for the Rotary Foundation and supports the good work we do locally and around the globe. Help Lori raise the $1,000 needed to register and participate. You can donate by clicking here.

Of course, every donation to the Rotary Foundation is tax deductible and, if you're a Rotarian, will earn you Paul Harris points.

Wilmington Ice Bucket Challenge

Posted by Chris Neville on Sep 13, 2023

Thank you to all who participated and or contributed to our successful Ice Bucket Challenge on Saturday, August 26 and the subsequent Ice Bucket #2 last week at the High School when the Football Team and both the girls and boys Soccer teams were able to participate.

Shout-outs also go out to the Boys and Girl's Cross Country and Girl's Field Hockey Teams who joined us on August 26th along with Legacy Dance Studio and many of our local families, the Lydon family, past supporters and local residents. The participation of the athletic teams really make this a fun and entertaining experience.

Thanks to Mike Burns, for his continued involvement and organization, the High School Interact Club, the High School Custodial staff, our ice humpers, George Hooper, Jim Fennelly and Greg Sadowski, and the Fire Department for their assistance. Special thanks to Tom Pazyra for taping and editing the programs. Two short You Tube videos here should bring a smile to your face. Video 1. Video 2.

Artists Needed for Cambridge's Chalk on the Walk

Posted by Karen Saltiel on Sep 12, 2023