This month's District Roundtable was hosted by the Carrollton Farmers Branch Rotary Club. Read on for a recap of this month's meeting.
Many thanks to the Host Club, Carrollton Farmers Branch, who provided refreshments and led the opening ceremonies. The Club’s President, John Dodd, introduced several of their members including Bill Bexley who provided a short video outlining the Club’s recent projects. All District members were invited to their upcoming March 3rd meeting called “Be Nice” featuring leaders from both political parties.
Updates on the District Strategic Plan’s four initiatives were provided. Under District/Club Relationships, the SPBH Club is presenting a Suicide Prevention Seminar on April 30th. Contact their President, Shirley Weddle, for more information.
We have been successful in increasing membership this year. Additionally, Rotoractors will be considered Rotarians beginning July 1.
Coordination amongst Clubs continues to increase as exemplified by three Plano Clubs working with Richardson and Richardson East on an End Human Trafficking project.
Lastly a Video was shown emphasizing the need to use proper logos, etc. to protect the Rotary brand. Public Image Resource details are available on the District website.
Our Treasurer, Jim Smith provided a Financial Report through January 31 indicating that we are operating within our current revenues available. Per our MOP the December 31, 2021 financial information will also be provided to PDGs and Immediate Past Club Presidents.
We then learned of the results of several Worldwide Projects that District clubs are participating in using Global Grants. Various North Texas Clubs have partnered with Orant Charities for projects in Malawi. Project categories include Education, Agriculture, Medicine and Micro Loans. Over time specific projects have included scholarships, water wells, Covid vaccinations and a mobile Clinic.
The Greenville Club, along with the new End Human Trafficking satellite Club is partnering with a Club in Cozumel to eliminate HT. The Club’s past president, Katy Ridge, stated that Cancun is the No. 2 city in the world for sex exploitation. Also, in North America more males than females are trafficked, mostly for forced labor.
Regina Edwards then shared the 14 year history of the CFB Club's various projects in Jamaica, many of which were in cooperation with the Montego Bay Rotary Club. Projects have included Medical/Hospital supplies, school supplies, providing/supplying a Medical Clinic, shoe drives, supporting a Children’s Home and building wheelchairs.
PDG Dave McSpadden - Waxahachie outlined their current project with a Club in West Kenya to purchase an ambulance – application has been made to RI and the District for a Global grant. The cost of the vehicle including medical consumables is $62,240. For those Clubs interested in financially assisting with this project, contact Eric Epperley at epperley.eric@yahoo.com.
Finally Robert Yudkin, Plano East, discussed his Club’s association with the Guerrero Clinic in Chihuahua Mexico. The Clinic provides eye, dental and medical care. His Club is sponsoring a trip (Cost = $400) to Guerrero on March 24th for any Rotarians who would like to volunteer for a week at the Clinic.
Richard Gilman then spoke of the importance of giving to the Foundation – which is encouraged to be done online. Clubs should give their budgeted allocations now and not wait until June 30 to be sure they are allocated to the proper year, especially for qualifying for District Grants.
Zach Davis discussed planned Legacy Giving to the Foundation.
In preparation for our Annual Business Meeting on April 23, George Tarpley reminded everyone that Clubs need to review and follow the District MOP in certifying Electors.
DG Duplant then reviewed the District Conference scheduled April 22nd and 23rd.
Friday, April 22 we will have a fun Bowling/dinner/games event starting at 6:45 at Pinstack in Irving. Consider becoming part of a team for a little friendly competition that night. Saturday will be a day of celebrating our successes with presentations of accomplishments by both the clubs and the District. In addition to hosting our annual business meeting, we will also hear from at least one of the Rotary International Representatives. District awards will be presented so be sure to check the District web page for applications and more information. All submissions are due April 8. Finally, we will recognize all levels of Foundation giving at the evening Banquet. Saturday's activities will be held at the Brookhaven Country Club in Carrollton. Details and registration instructions are now available on the District website.
The RI Convention will be held June 5th through 8th in Houston. The planning committee has challenged all Texas Clubs to send at least two members from each Club to the Convention. The cost to register is $495 through February 28.
Jim Duffy reported that RYLA Camp this year will be in person May 28 through June 3rd . Proof of vaccination will be required.
The District 4 Way Test contest is scheduled for May 14th.
The Club Leadership Training seminar is being hosted by DGE Templin on March 26th from 8:00 until 12:30 for all club leaders for the upcoming Rotary year. Details and online registration information can be found on the District website.