District Events & Meetings
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Ravenna
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Ravenna
Dec 05, 2022 12:00 PM
Eagles Club of Ravenna
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Geauga West
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Geauga West
Dec 07, 2022 7:00 AM
Metzenbaum Center
District 6630 Pre-PETS Foundation Training
District 6630 Pre-PETS Foundation Training
Dec 14, 2022 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Akron
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Akron
Jan 03, 2023 12:00 PM
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
Jan 10, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Hudson Clocktower
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Hudson Clocktower
Jan 18, 2023 12:00 PM
Lager and Vine
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Mantua
DG Visit: Rotary Club of Mantua
Jan 19, 2023 6:30 PM
Restoration 44 Coffee Company
District Public Image Education 201
District Public Image Education 201
Jan 21, 2023 10:00 AM
ZOOM Meeting
Pre Presidents-Elect Training: PUBLIC IMAGE
Pre Presidents-Elect Training: PUBLIC IMAGE
Jan 25, 2023 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM
ZOOM Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Feb 02, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
Mar 07, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Apr 06, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
District 6630 Conference of Clubs - Save the Dates
District 6630 Conference of Clubs - Save the Dates
Apr 28, 2023 8:00 AM – Apr 29, 2023 11:00 PM
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
Membership Steering Committee Meeting
May 09, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
District Finance Meeting
District Finance Meeting
May 16, 2023 5:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
District 6630 Board Meeting
District 6630 Board Meeting
May 16, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Membership Committee Meeting
Jun 08, 2023 6:00 PM
ZOOM Meeting
RYLA
RYLA
Jun 11, 2023 – Jun 15, 2023
Baldwin Wallace
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News from Around the District

DECEMBER 2022 GOVERNORS MESSAGE
DECEMBER 2022 GOVERNORS MESSAGE
 
December 2022
 
 
Happy December!
 
My wife Georgeann and I enjoyed Thanksgiving with friends and family this year and I’ve been taking some time to reflect on what I am THANKFUL for this Rotary Year.   2022 has certainly continued to provide its challenges to all of us, personally and professionally. I am thankful for the way we, as Rotarians and individuals, approach our everyday activities as well as each other. We’ve had to reshape our lives, reconnect with our friends, our loved ones and community partners while we try to continue to work, raise and provide for our families and put service above self.
 
As we close out November and The Rotary Foundation Month, I want to thank our Rotarians who joined us for the District Foundation Gala – Peace, Love and Rotary. 
 
We had a great time honoring our clubs and individuals who made gifts to The Rotary Foundation in the 2021-2022 Rotary year. 
 
We held our Desert Dash and raised over $2,000 for Polio.  Our Spread the LOVE Project brought in 52 Scarves, 172 Hats, 394 Gloves, 435 Socks, 11 Ear Muffs and 30 Hat and Glove sets. These will be distributed to agencies around our district to help those in need.
 
I am THANKFUL for your generosity and to all of our clubs for their service projects to support individuals in need. Working at the local food bank, or donating Thanksgiving meal baskets to families in need, gives families PEACE of mind, shows our LOVE for our communities and brings the ROTARY family together in a time that we should give THANKS for all that we have. 
 
 
 
The month of November brought our Interact students together at
Stow-Munroe Fall HS for INTERACTION.
 
 
Interact Chair Chelsea Talty and the Interaction Committee planned an outstanding Interaction. There were 13 different Interact clubs and our Youth Exchange student represented. A total of 150 students had a busy Saturday learning about rotary projects, leadership, about other cultures from our Youth Exchange students, worked on service projects to support community partners, and chose their District Service Project for the year.  The students voted to support the Akron Children's Hospital. These students will represent us and themselves well in the future.
 
 
December, it is hard to believe we are almost halfway through the Rotary Year. As your District Governor, I am grateful for the opportunities and personal growth that Rotary and my Rotary family provide. I am thankful for YOU, our Rotarians, this year. You are people of action and make things happen, even during the most challenging of times we have seen. You continue to make an impact, grow your clubs and develop new community partners.  Be thankful for what you have done. Be thankful for each other and the ability to serve those in need.
 
As the holiday season is upon us, this is the time of the year for Kindness, Thanks and Giving.  As Rotarians, we embrace these attributes all the time. We spread cheer all year round with the service work we do in our communities and the projects we participate in around the world. Let us continue to spread our cheer into the New Year and embrace the new opportunities ahead of us.  Be kind, be merry and let's have FUN.
 
 
David E Jones
Rotary District 6630 District Governor 2022-2023
Northampton-Cuyahoga Valley Rotary Club
 -- Past President 2017
Rotary District 6630
 -- Foundation Stewardship Chair 2016-2020
 -- RI Conference Chair 2017-2021
 
Cell Phone: 330.603.4107       
Email: DEJRotary@gmail.com
 
“PEACE, LOVE & ROTARY” GALA RECOGNIZES LOCAL ROTARY CLUBSFOR 2021-22 DONATIONS TOTALING OVER $312,000
“PEACE, LOVE & ROTARY” GALA RECOGNIZES LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS
FOR 2021-22 DONATIONS TOTALING OVER $312,000
FUNDS RAISED BENEFIT LOCAL AND GLOBAL PROJECTS, INCLUDING END POLIO NOW FUND
 
It was a “happy hippie holiday” for tie-dye wearing Rotarians in District 6630 as they came together for the annual District 6630 Foundation Awards Gala, November 17th at Windows on the River in Cleveland’s Flats. This event recognizes local Rotary clubs and individual Rotarians for their generous giving to The Rotary Foundation. A total of $312,484 was raised over the course of a year, the largest amount over the last five years. Of that total, $211,185 was directed to the Annual Fund, half of which comes back to district clubs for local and global grants. Another $96,535 was donated to the PolioPlus campaign, Rotary’s signature effort to eradicate polio across the globe.
 
District Governor David Jones congratulated Rotarians for exceeding the fundraising goals and following the legacy set by Arch C. Klumph, a member of District 6630 and Rotary Club of Cleveland. Arch is known as the “Father of The Rotary Foundation”, as it was he who proposed the creation of an endowment during the Rotary Convention in 1917.  Arch Klumph’s grandson, Frederick T “Rory” McGuire, was on hand to congratulate honored clubs. He was joined by 2021-22 District Governor Larry Lohman, as well as Kevin Kelly and Tyler Stokesbary, who serve The Rotary Foundation as Regional Major Gifts Officer and Annual Giving Officer, respectively.
 
Funds from 470 District grants went to projects that made a profound difference, such as partnering with Good Knights to build and deliver beds to local children in need, equipment to start an after school program in Medina Schools, and a vehicle to help students in Hudson learn about the importance of pollinators in our environment. Also, 1,190 Global Grants were also funded in one year alone.
Rotarians from 30 local clubs in District 6630 were recognized and include:

Akron, Aurora, Berea, Burton-Middlefield, Chagrin Highlands, Chardon, Cleveland, Cuyahoga Falls, E-ClubNEO, Fairlawn, Geauga County West, Hillcrest Sunrise, Hudson Clocktower, Hudson, Lakewood-Rocky River, Lakewood-Rocky River Sunrise, Mantua, Medina Sunrise, Mentor, Nordonia Hills, Northhampton Cuyahoga Valley, Painesville, Port-Summit, Ravenna, Stow-Munroe Falls, Strongsville, Tallmadge, Wadsworth, Westlake-Bay Village and Willoughby.
 
The evening’s highlight was the “Dessert Dash”, during which tables making the largest donation to the End Polio Now campaign were able to “dash” over and be first to choose from a table full of delicious and unique desserts.
 
Rotary District 6630 has over 50 clubs serving Northeast Ohio.  With more than 1.4 million members, Rotary brings together a global network of community leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.  For more information, visit rotarydistrict6630.org and Rotary.org.
 
Pictured left to right:
Larry Lohman, 2021-22 District Governor, Major Gifts Officer Kevin Kelley, Annual Giving Officer Tyler Stokesbary, Frederick T. “Rory” McGuire and 2022-23 District Governor Dave Jones at Rotary District 6630’s “Peace Love & Rotary” Awards Celebration.  (Photo: Tina Ingraham)
SUMMER EVENT REMEMBERED
SUMMER EVENT REMEMBERED
“END POLIO NOW NIGHT”
AT CLEVELAND GUARDIANS GAME
RAISED
OVER $6,000 TO ERADICATE POLIO
 
While the snow isn’t flying yet, we’re reflecting back on a fabulous summer event hosted by District 6630 to continue Rotary’s effort to eradicate polio and raise awareness and funds for the End Polio Now campaign.  Our District proudly raised over $6,000 during the July 13th End Polio Now Night at the Cleveland Guardians baseball game versus the Chicago White Sox. Besides being a fun event for all, it was one of the District’s largest events raising funds for End Polio Now.
 
According to event chair Stew Buchanan of the Rotary Club of Akron, more than 300 Rotarians in District 6630, along with those in Districts 6600 and 6650 were in attendance . Each received an End Polio Now t-shirt along with their ticket to the baseball game.  Congratulations to Dean Thayer of the Northampton-Cuyahoga Valley Club who was chosen to throw the first pitch. The fun continued in the Terrace Club as raffle baskets with autographed jerseys, bats, baseballs and other great prizes brought in over $1800. Special thanks go to the Guardians’ own Bob Dibiasio, who came by to visit with Rotarians during the event. Bob’s visit helped ease the sting of the Guardians loss to the White Sox, 2-1.
 
As 2022-23 Rotary International President Jennifer Jones reminds us, “As long as polio exists somewhere, it’s a threat everywhere.”  With that in mind and with our commitment to “Service Above Self,” Rotary will continue this important mission throughout the coming year.
Pictured:
Dean Thayer of Rotary Club of Northampton-Cuyahoga Valley throws the first pitch at Rotary’s End Polio Now Night at Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox.
 
ROTARACT TELETHON RAISES FUNDS FOR PARAGUAY HOSPITAL
ROTARACT TELETHON RAISES FUNDS FOR PARAGUAY HOSPITAL
BW Rotaract Club partnered with Rotaractors in Paraguay and the Rotary Club of San Lorenzo to raise funds for a mammograph machine for the local hospital. San Lorenzo Rotarians zoomed in for the fundraiser. The goal of the annual Telethon on Friday, Dec. 2 was to raise $1,000. The online fundraiser actually earned $1,500 and with more donations expected later this week.
 
The Telethon opened with a tribute to past Berea Rotary president Bob Huge, who also was co-chair of the District's Short-Term Youth Exchange Program. He arranged for Rotaract President Kaylee McKee to visit Paraguay, when she was a high school student. That led to the Telethon fundraiser.
 
One of the highlights was the Lip Sync Contest. Rotaract adviser Marc West nails
 "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston. Rotaractors also saluted Marc for his 25 years as a Rotarian.
 
Once the $700 mark was reached, the Cake Decorating Contest resulted in a win for Christina Psellas.
 
Rotaract President Kaylee McKee was rewarded for all her hard work by getting a pie in the face. She also was egged. Good job, Lulu! Maddie, too!! Maddie put together the awesome videos.
 
HOW CAN I HELP WITH HURRICANE IAN RELIEF EFFORTS
HOW CAN I HELP WITH HURRICANE IAN RELIEF EFFORTS
What can I do to help?
 
Here are a few ways . . .
 
We are now accepting donations to the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Trust for island locals who are in need due to the storm. Donations may be given online at https://bit.ly/3VeJywJ, which is linked to our club’s paypal account. All contributions will be directed to the Trust’s Hurricane Ian fund.

A Go Fund Me page has also been created. The webpage can be found at https://bit.ly/3rOYDaB. This too is linked to the club’s paypal account with 100% of donations designated to individuals, businesses and organizations on island who need our help.

In addition, checks can be written to the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Trust with “Ian” on the memo line and mailed to: Edison Bank, San-Cap Rotary Trust, c/o David Lowden, 13000 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33907. All checks to the fund will be deposited into the account and money will be distributed to locals at the discretion of the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Trust Board.

Information about the Hurricane Ian Relief Fund will be shared on the club website and social media outlets. Please feel free to share widely about the fund, which is specific to locals on Sanibel and Captiva. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at (231) 313-1589 or annie@heightsfoundation.org.

Also, Fellow Rotarian Taylor Osborne Clary has designed hip, high quality “Sanibel Strong” apparel to raise money for our Rotary Hurricane Ian Relief efforts. 100% of profit is being donated to the Rotary Trust fund. Here is the link to her fundraiser: https://bit.ly/3rmtXNW.
RotaryFL.org
The outpouring of concern and support from our Fellow Rotarians around the world is tremendous. Please know that Rotary is here for you, now and always.

If you need anything (water, shelter, food, supplies, etc.), or would like to help by volunteering or donating, please go to: Rotaryfl.org.  This website will help us stay organized and enable us to be more effective. Please share this link widely with family and friends.

We WILL get through this together because WE are Rotarians and WE are people of action.
Hurricane Ian Disaster Fundraiser
Hurricane Ian Disaster Relief Fundraiser
Rotarian Taylor Osborne has created a collaborative fundraiser between the
Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club
and the
Sanibel and Captiva Business Women's Association to provide direct relief to the
victims of Hurricane Ian.

*Proceeds from your purchase will be donated to assist in hurricane relief efforts.
https://hurricane-ian-disaster-relief.myshopify.com/
MEMBER WITH PERFECT ATTEDANCE TURNS 95!
MEMBER WITH PERFECT ATTEDANCE TURNS 95!
"Team Daily" is a group of Akron Rotarians dedicated to helping long-time Rotarian John Daily maintain his perfect attendance record by helping him Zoom into meetings or come in person with them.
 
John has been an Akron Rotarian since January 1, 1966 and
he has maintained perfect attendance since his induction day!
 
They recently  delivered a snow globe to John Daily in honor of his 95th birthday on Saturday, December 3rd.
 
Best Wishes John!
 
ROTARY MEMBER RECEIVED DOUBLE HONOR
ROTARY MEMBER RECEIVED DOUBLE HONOR
Coming off his recent recognition of one of Lake/Geauga's "Top 50 new Small Businesses", Burton-Middlefield member Stuart Miller and his company Geauga Financial Advisors, was just announced in the prestigious "40 Under Forty" by Crain's Cleveland Business, the number one publication in Cleveland and northeast Ohio.  Crain's states that this group of under 40 entrepreneurs come from a diverse array of fields including non-profits, educators, scientists and many others and represent an active group that is getting things done and will lead Cleveland area businesses for decades to come.
 
 
After talking to Stuart about his award, PDG Bob Johnson, a 35-year member of Burton-Middlefield said, "I was most impressed when talking to Stuart how adamant he was about the role Rotary has played in his success.  Not just in business contacts but in getting involved in the community on many different levels and applying the Four Way Test to his everyday business activities and the dividends it pays.  The two go hand-in-hand in many ways."
 
Stuart is a six year member of the RC of Burton-Middlefield and is currently serving as Club Treasurer.  He has attended several District level Rotary activities including a former District Foundation Event and Conference.  He has already expressed a desire to get involved in Rotary at the District level when he and his wife Julie's two infant sons get a few years older.
RYE STEP PROGRAM INTERVIEWS SET TO KICK OFF
RYE STEP PROGRAM INTERVIEWS SET TO KICK OFF
If you know students between the ages of 15-18 ½ who would be excellent candidates to represent America’s youth in a study abroad program – our Rotary Youth Exchange Foreign Study District Scholarship or STEP Programs, information is on the website below.   Please tell them to text or email Susan Colville-Hall (330 714-3765/ colvillehall2@gmail.com) stating *Interested Rotary Exchange* and a time they are available to talk.  I will call them at the time they indicate they are free. 
 
Interviews will take place December 9 & 10, 2022. 
 
Students may begin the application as soon as possible.  The Scholarship is valued at $25,000-$30,000.
 
or the
Short Term Scholarship Program
NEW OBSERVATION PLATFORM BUILT BY BOY SCOUT TROUP 459 WITH FUNDING FROM LODI ROTARY
NEW OBSERVATION PLATFORM BUILT BY BOY SCOUT TROUP 459 WITH FUNDING FROM LODI ROTARY

Eagle Scout candidate Zachary Workinger recently led Boy Scout Troop 459 in the construction of an observation platform at Black River Nature Preserve—Bluebell Valley as part of his Eagle Scout service project.  Funding for the construction materials was provided by the final donation from the now-dissolved Lodi Rotary as part of its nearly 100 years of community service. The observation platform, located near the mid-point of the nature trail, provides a spectacular view of the river valley and the Virginia bluebells that bloom here each spring.

Black River Nature Preserve—Bluebell Valley is located at 8500 Richman Road in Lodi/Harrisville Township. Bluebell Valley is a quiet, remote area in which to enjoy nature. Visitors can expect to experience beautiful views of grasslands and woodlands, interesting walking trails, and lush habitat for butterflies and migrating birds. This area was part of a wetland mitigation and stream restoration project in 2002 that restored 8,000 linear feet of the Black River.

LAKEWOOD ROCKY RIVER CLUBS JOIN FORCES
LAKEWOOD ROCKY RIVER CLUBS JOIN FORCES
It was a beautiful morning when members from the Lakewood Rocky River Rotary Clubs gathered at the Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood for the annual yard clean up.  The Beck Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization that is "dedicated to enriching the quality of life for Northeastern Ohioans" through the performing arts and art education. The history of the Beck Center can be traced back to 1931.
 
For over 10 years, Rotary members have done leaf raking, shrub trimming, courtyard refreshing, and overall sprucing up of the grounds in the fall and spring.  The Center’s Executive Director, Cindy Einhouse, is grateful for all that the Rotary Club’s members do.   Everyone who attends the Center’s programs and theatre performances are greeted with great productions in a beautiful setting.
 
BURTON MIDDLEFIELD ROTARY FEEDS 35 LOCAL FAMILIES AND 136 RESIDENTS!
BURTON MIDDLEFIELD ROTARY FEEDS 35 LOCAL FAMILIES AND 136 RESIDENTS!
More than 35 families-in-need and 136 individuals in Geauga County received Thanksgiving meals including a whole frozen turkey or turkey breast and all the fixings topped with a pumpkin and apple pie by the Rotary Club of Burton Middlefield (BMR) on Saturday, Nov. 19.
Some recipients offered to pick up their food baskets while others had them delivered by Rotarians.  Club President Mike Valentino and his wife Linda ran the entire event along with all the purchasing. Mike using his connections at Dave’s Super Markets acquired very generous pricing from various suppliers.  Recipients expressed overwhelming gratitude upon receiving the baskets.
 
BMR worked in conjunction with the Geauga County Dept. of Job and Family Services to acquire a list of names that met the requirements for this effort. Mike and Linda contacted all recipients and scheduled a pick-up or delivery.  It’s amazing there is this need in our relatively affluent county, but it’s probably shouldn’t surprise any of us as we continue to work our way out of Covid and fight ongoing inflation, rising food and gasoline prices.
 
BMR through the success of our Maple Splash Raffle is proud to be able to financially support this project and many others in our community.  This past year’s raffle allowed for generous donations to more than 20 local non-profits.  This year’s raffle ticket sales will begin shortly after the first of December and run through the grand prize drawing on July 8, 2023, along with our monthly $1,000 cash winners beginning the last Wednesday of January 2023 and continuing through the last Wednesday in May 2023.  Our raffle tickets make great stocking stuffers, hand over and mailable gifts for Christmas.  Go to maplesplashraffle.com after Dec. 5, 2022.
 
Contact: Bob Johnson, goracerbob@aol.com
 
 
E-CLUBNEO LITERACY PROJECT TAKES OFF
E-CLUBNEO LITERACY PROJECT TAKES OFF
Members of Rotary E-ClubNEO (with supervision and help from experienced users Amora and Myra) recently erected the first of three planned Little Libraries – this one located at the “Kids At Play Learning Academy” in Berea.
 
Photos: Christina Tracy, Linda Boardman, Steve Warren, Elana Koh-Bonnell and her children Amora and Myra.
 
   
 
  
NOVEMBER 2022 GOVERNORS MESSAGE
NOVEMBER 2022 GOVERNORS MESSAGE
 
November 2022
 
Happy November!
 
I hope you are having a great Rotary year!  As Georgeann and I continue our “official” visits to the clubs, we continue to be amazed (and humbled) by all you do.  The Rotarians of District 6630 have been wonderful and welcoming.  I enjoyed hearing about community partners and club projects that have made our communities and the world a better place. What a legacy! Thank you!
 
October 24th was World Polio Day. Our District is proud of our support to End Polio. During the 2021-2022 year we raised $96,535 for Polio Plus and were awarded the 3rd overall giving for Polio Plus in Zone 30. The End Polio Now night at the Cleveland Guardians was a success and we raised over $6000.  Medina Ohio proclamation of World Polio Day, Mentors Pints for Polio, and Ohio Polio Challenge helps the communities in our district understand the long-term commitment we have to eradicating Polio in the world.
 
It is fitting in this Thanksgiving month, that we give thanks for all we have.  As Rotarians let us celebrate The Rotary Foundation Month.  In his recent post PDG Larry Lohman stated “I would like to take a moment to thank our District 6630 Clubs and members for their giving to The Rotary Foundation.  We had a very solid year in giving; Annual Fund $211,185, Polio Plus $96,535, our total giving was $312,484.”  The Foundation provides us with a wonderfully efficient opportunity to give back to others. 
 
Rotary District 6630 should be proud of its role in the development of the Rotary Foundation. In 1917 at the Rotary Convention in Atlanta, Rotarian Arch C. Klumph proposed the establishment of an endowment, which would later become The Rotary Foundation.  It has done so much good while maintaining Charity Navigator’s maximum 4-star rating for at least the last ten years.  Our Foundation is such a transparent and efficient charity that the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has provided it with close to a billion dollars in matching funds to help eradicate Polio.
 
Imagine how you might use the money available through our Foundation to do more good in our communities and in the world— and then take action!  I think about projects our members have pursued through grants from The Rotary Foundation that have impacted our communities in ways we may not see for years to come.
 
The beauty of our Foundation (beyond the stellar ratings) – is that it’s OUR Foundation that funds OUR projects, carried out by individual clubs throughout the world, each project the brainchild of a Rotarian. That Rotarian could be you! Many Rotarians throughout our district have seen their ideas come to fruition through our Foundation’s district and global grants. Foundation funds can be used to turn your ideas into action!
 
District grants are easily accessible and are approved – as the name implies – right here in our own district.  Club members from throughout the district sit on the Foundation committee that evaluates grant requests.
 
The District Grant Cycle will begin soon. Would your Club like to participate in a district grant or a global grant?  Don’t know how?  Grant Seminars will be held in the first part of 2023 - watch your email for dates, times and locations.  Two (2) or more members of your club members must participate to be eligible to submit a grant.  I would encourage you to contact PDG Larry Lohman, District Foundation Chair, or Sandy Naragon, Foundation Committee Chair, to present on the Foundation and the district grant process to your club.  Grant Management Materials Toolbox
 
November events:
Thanksgiving – November 24th – Let’s give thanks to our members, our partners and the community
 
Thank you,
 
David E Jones
Rotary District 6630 District Governor 2022-2023
Northampton-Cuyahoga Valley Rotary Club
 -- Past President 2017
Rotary District 6630
 -- Foundation Stewardship Chair 2016-2020
 -- RI Conference Chair 2017-2021
 
Cell Phone: 330.603.4107       
Email: DEJRotary@gmail.com
 
CHAGRIN HIGHLANDS 2022 SPORTS CHALLENGE
CHAGRIN HIGHLANDS 2022 SPORTS CHALLENGE

Chagrin Highlands Rotary ran our annual Sports Challenge for about 35 people with physical and mental challenges on September 17, 2022.  Previous events were held in an indoor gym; this time it was at an outdoor park in Willoughby and the weather was perfect.  The pictures below showed most participants playing games that included a corn hole, a racket ball toss, air propelled foam rockets, and a basketball toss.  We then provided lunch in an outdoor pavilion.  Everyone had turkey, beef, and ham sandwiches, potato chips, and cookies for dessert.   Rotarians and the guests all enjoyed the outing.

  

BROADMOOR BOBCATS REMAIN UNDEFEATED DESPITE CHALLENGE FROM MENTOR ROTARY
BROADMOOR BOBCATS REMAIN UNDEFEATED DESPITE CHALLENGE FROM MENTOR ROTARY
It was youth versus experience when the Broadmoor Bobcats faced off against the Mentor Rotary Club in the inaugural outing for the Bobcats in 2022/2023 and the first since the start of Covid. The Bobcats got off to a fast start, leading 22-2 after the first stanza. Rotarians improved a bit in the second quarter, ending the half at 40-10. The game resumed after a dance party at halftime that invigorated the Rotarian offense. However, the Bobcats remained too much for Mentor Rotary with the final score of 64-45.
 
“Broadmoor Bobcats are really competitive and play hard to win,” said Lee Quignano, Mentor Rotarian. “We do service, we don’t play around. We gave it our all but Bobcats took the win!”
 
“I’ve watched many Broadmoor Bobcats games over the years at the county board, but have never played in one,” said Ann Mahler, Assistant Superintendent at the LCBDD and Mentor Rotarian. “ I cannot express in words what it felt like to have this opportunity to play with the students and experience their joy. This type of experience changes people. I am beyond blessed to work at the LCBDD/Deepwood and this opportunity is just one of the reasons why.”
 
Following the hard-fought but friendly match, the competitors enjoyed friendship over a pizza lunch.
 
The Mentor and Willoughby Rotary Clubs have long had a strong partnership with Deepwood Foundation and the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood as we help enrich, empower and engage individuals who have developmental disabilities as well as our Rotarians.
 
The Mentor Rotary Club would love to welcome visitors and new members at our meetings. Mentor Rotary meets Thursdays at noon at the Mentor Harbor Yachting Club. All interested in learning more about the club can contact Dale Smith at 330-968-7683 or rdalesmith@bellsouth.net.

About the Rotary Club of Mentor
The Mentor Rotary Club was chartered May 22, 1967. The club meets at noon on Thursdays at the Mentor Harbor Yachting Club. We are people of action who believe that we can have fun while serving others. We welcome new members! For information about the club, please go to mentor-rotary.org.

RYE “CLEVELAND DAY” HELD OCTOBER 1, 2022
RYE “CLEVELAND DAY” HELD OCTOBER 1, 2022
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted the District 6630 Rotary Youth Exchange inbound students, potential outbound students and District Rotarians at its annual Cleveland Day on Saturday October 1, 2022. Club President Jennifer Kelly and Co-Chair of the International Service Committee Bruce Jackim helped lead the group on a walking tour of historical downtown Cleveland from Public Square to Playhouse Square. After lunch at the Fifth Street Arcade, the group got a bird’s-eye view of town for the observation deck at Terminal Tower. The day concluded with a walk to the Steamship Mather where the group learned about the history of shipping on the Great Lakes. The Club was glad it could restart this traditional event after a two-year hiatus due to Covid. 
 
  
PORT-SUMMIT CLUB
PORT-SUMMIT CLUB
Port-Summit Rotarians served pizza, applesauce and drinks to the participants at the 2022 Unskating Party at Springfield Lake Roller Rink.
 
Our club has a tradition of supporting this event, which has just returned due to pausing for Covid precautions.  We purchase supplies and serve food and share goodwill will participants.  Other contributors/sponsors include Marco's Pizza and Akron Roller Derby.
 
 
NORTHAMPTON-CUYAHOGA VALLEY CLUB
NORTHAMPTON-CUYAHOGA VALLEY CLUB
Rotary Club Grant Supports WES Butterfly Pollinator Garden
 
It is believed that students learn by doing. With that in mind, the 3rd and 5th grade students at Woodridge Elementary School will benefit from the hands-on learning experience that the newly installed Butterfly Pollinator Garden will bring.
 
Sponsored by a grant from the Northampton Rotary Club, the planning for this project began long before the first shovel hit the dirt. Plants native to Ohio were researched for durability and sustainability as the site on the north side of Woodridge Elementary School was prepared for the new garden.
 
Concurrent with the Nature of Science standards for Ohio’s Learning Standards, learning about the butterfly and pollinator garden brings to life the concepts of ecosystems, scientific investigations, life cycles of species, and observation of wildlife.
 
Students from Mrs. Smagola's and Mrs. Cole’s 3rd and 5th grade classes were chosen to implement the garden plans by digging, planting and watering the garden. Volunteers from the Rotary Club included project coordinator Ray Krusinski, who led the charge of designing the garden and bringing the vision to life. On Oct. 4, Suncrest Gardens and the Woodridge facilities team worked diligently with the students to ensure proper depth and spacing for each planting.
 
“This is a great chance for students to get their hands dirty and use this as a live learning lab” said Krusinski. The finished project left a smile on everyone’s face.
 
A crushed stone path wanders through the garden, offering space for students to study each plant closely. Three benches will be added for students and community members to enjoy the tranquility of the space. Students and Rotary Club members will collaborate to water and maintain the garden so it can be enjoyed for years to come!
 
Permission for use of photos approved  by Woodridge Elementary School
 
AKRON CLUB
AKRON CLUB
 
5,728 lbs. of coffee packaged for
Akron-Canton Food Bank!
 
ANYONE SHOP AT ACME? 
 
 
Rotary Camp is collecting ACME receipts! Help us earn 5% Community Cashback by shopping store brands in Acme Fresh Market. Save your receipts from August 4, 2022 until December 24, 2022.
 
Receipts can either be mailed to Camp (4460 Rex Lake Dr., Akron OH 44319), or be turned in at the weekly Rotary Meetings.
 
Thank you ACME for your continued support to the community!
 
MEDINA, OHIO PROCLAMATION OF WORLD POLIO DAY
MEDINA, OHIO PROCLAMATION OF WORLD POLIO DAY
MEDINA, OHIO PROCLAMATION OF WORLD POLIO DAY
 
 
Rotary International Proclamation
 WHEREAS, Rotary is a global network of neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who unite and take action to create lasting change in communities across the globe; and
 
WHEREAS, the Rotary motto, Service Above Self, inspires members to provide humanitarian service, follow high ethical standards, and promote goodwill and peace in the world; and
 
WHEREAS, Rotary in 1985 launched PolioPlus and in 1988 helped establish the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which today includes the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to immunize the children of the world against polio; and
 
WHEREAS, polio cases have dropped by 99.9 percent since 1988 and the world stands on the threshold of eradicating the disease; and
 
WHEREAS, to date, Rotary has contributed more than US$2.2 billion and countless volunteer hours to protecting nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries; and
 
WHEREAS, Rotary is working to raise an additional $50 million per year, which would be leveraged for maximum impact by an additional $100 million annually from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; and
 
WHEREAS, these efforts are providing much-needed operational support, medical staff, laboratory equipment, and educational materials for health workers and parents; and
 
WHEREAS, in addition, Rotary has played a major role in decisions by donor governments to contribute more than $10 billion to the effort; and
 
WHEREAS, there are over 1.2 million Rotary members in 36,000 clubs throughout the world that sponsor service projects to address such critical issues as poverty, disease, hunger, illiteracy, and the environment in their local communities and abroad;
 
Therefore, I, Mayor Dennis Hanwell, Mayor of the City of Medina, Ohio, do hereby proclaim 24 October "World Polio Day" in Medina, Ohio, and encourage all citizens to join me, Medina Sunrise Rotary and Rotary International in the fight for a polio-free world.  WWW.ENDPOLIO.ORG
 
PHOTO (L to R):
Front - David Lariviere, Toby Butt, Kent Morgan, Kerry Gregoire, Frank Festi, Mayor Dennis Hanwell, Kevin Lauterjung, Drs. Shail & Than Jain, Don Spickler
Back - Bill Lamb, Paul Rose, Jim Shields, John Coyne, Dennie Simpson, Regie Haire, Jessica Hazeltine
JEFFERSON CLUB FOUNTAIN PROJECT
JEFFERSON CLUB FOUNTAIN PROJECT
The Jefferson Rotary Club is very proud of their Fountain Project. In beautiful downtown Jefferson at the Ashtabula County Courthouse stands the statue of a Civil War Soldier that was erected in 1914. Rumor has it that the Soldier was purchased through Sears. It was originally built as a beautiful fountain. The fountain came into disrepair and was them turned into a giant flower bed. The flower bed wasn't tended to regularly and weeds began to take over. In the early 1990's the Jefferson Rotary Club got permission from the County to take over care of the Soldier and decided to try and repair the fountain. The club sold personalized bricks that form a walk way around the soldier to help with costs. In 1996 the fountain was restored and is now a centerpiece for the community. More recently the Jefferson Rotary Club has had to replace the pump and reseal the concrete to prevent leaks. The Jefferson Garden Club also donated beautiful Day Lillie's that surround the exterior. Every spring the Rotary Club cleans and fills the fountain and every fall the Club drains it and collects the coins that people may drop in. The Treasurer will count the coins , add $100 and send a donation to Make A Wish Foundation.  It's a great service project that all the members and the community enjoy.
 
 
HEIGHTS OF GREATER CLEVELAND CLUB NEWS
HEIGHTS OF GREATER CLEVELAND CLUB NEWS
On October 19, 2022, the Rotary Club of the Heights of Greater Cleveland held the 31st annual awards recognition for Shaker Heights Fire and Police Depts. Each year the respective departments select a first responder that models Service above Self. This year the recipients for 2021 were:
 
-Police Award: Det. Brian M Walsh
-Firefighter Award: Joseph Leiben
 
Both recipients were honored by Rotary members while being joined by family, friends and staff from both departments. District Governor David Jones joined the celebration with his own remarks. Each award recipient received an individual plaque and stipend as well as their had name added to their department's wall plaque. 

Photo from right to left:
Front- John Sobotincic, Charlie Mayer, Maria Kaiser, Shamsi Lashgari-Saegh, Ruth Severiens, Karen Ault, Bob Ault
Back- Adam Davis, Det Brian Walsh, Paul Qua, Joseph Leibin, Julie Brouhard, Candi Hazelwood, David Jones
 
Rotary Club of the Heights of Greater Cleveland-Club 3560 Update-Oct. 2022
 
Small but mighty. That’s what some might say about the Rotary Club of the Heights of Greater Cleveland. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Club has remained busy and involved in recent years with a variety of activities concentrated in three primary areas: education, the environment, and community outreach. In addition to service projects and monthly club meetings, Club 3560 makes an effort to relax and have fun each month by hosting a club social at the Tavern Co. on Lee Rd. in Cleveland Heights.  Guests are welcome at bi-monthly club meetings held at Shaker Heights Country Club or the Tav Co social events. Check the Club’s website for more info, or RSVP to Club President Candi Hazelwood. (photo- group sitting around table @ TavCo)
 
 
 
Meet Our New Club President
Candice “Candi” Hazelwood has taken the reins of the Club, succeeding immediate past President Adam Davis who served from 2019 to 2022. Candi comes to the Club as a retired educator and joined Rotary only one year ago, moving quickly into a leadership role. Candi began her career as a teacher of students with disabilities at Shaw High School in East Cleveland, then became a principal at a vocational consortium for students with multiple disabilities, CEVEC, where students were taught to work through training and job coaching. Candi later served as Mayfield High School’s assistant principal, and finished her career through the regional offices for State Support Teams funded through Ohio Department of Education. Welcome Candi! 
 
Turning 90 But Still Serving Others
Long time Club member Maria Kasier has turned 90!  Kaiser is a faithful attendee of Club 3560 meetings, socials, and volunteers alongside other club members at the environmentally-conscious Medwish.  A mother of five, Kaiser is also an accomplished artist and has items selected for art shows annually. Kasier is passionate about the environment and focuses specifically on reducing the use of plastic.  Maria is proof positive that you’re never to old to consider how you can make an impact and serve others.
 
Education
 
The V. Blakeman Qua Scholarship Awards
On June 15, 2022, the Rotary Club of The Heights of Greater Cleveland awarded the annual V. Blakeman Qua Scholarship Awards to five local high school seniors, at a luncheon at the Shaker Heights Country Club. These scholarships are named in memory of V. Blakeman Qua, a former president of the Rotary Club of Shaker Heights who also established the scholarship fund for the Club. The ceremony was moderated by President Adam Davis, who also presented the Scholarship Awards. The 2022 Scholarship Recipients were: Ayande Joseph from Shaker Heights High School, Francesca Butch from Shaker Heights High School, Paige Colbert from Cleveland Heights High School , James Huff also from Cleveland Heights High School and Alina Roach from Shaker Height High School. The Scholarship Recipients read their Student Essays to the Rotary Club Members. Scholarships are offered annually; check the club’s website for more details.
 
Environment
 
Club Partners with Youth Ending Hunger (YEH)-Interact,
Heights Tree People and Shaker Heights High School to Plant New Trees
Members of Youth Ending Hunger-Interact at Shaker Heights High School, along with Bob Ault and other Club members, enlarged the tree canopy by planting four trees around the Shaker Heights School Administration Building on 15600 Parkland Drive on Saturday May 14, 2022.  The environment-benefiting project was a joint effort, with the Heights of Greater Cleveland Rotary Club receiving the donated native trees species from Heights Tree People, who also provided planting and cultivating advice. Rotarian's have provided continual tree watering through out the subsequent months to ensure the new trees thrive. 
 
MedWish- Sorting, Repurposing of Unused Medical Supplies Saves Lives, Environment
Rotary Club of the Heights volunteers with MedWish, a local medical supply recycling nonprofit, on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. MedWish receives bulk donated medical supplies from local hospitals, which then are sorted, inventoried and prepared to be shipped to medical relief organizations around the world. These actions save lives as well as keep vital medical supplies out of landfills. 
 
Outreach
 
Club ShelterBox Sponsorship with District 6630 In Memory of Jack Young
The Rotary Club of the Heights of Greater Cleveland has co-sponsored a Shelter Box with other clubs in District 6630 for the first time, in Memory of Jack Young, past District Governor. Shelter Box has become the largest Rotary Club project in the world, responding to disasters and conflict across the globe and providing emergency shelter to over one million people. Since ShelterBox was founded, it has grown from one club’s adopted project to Rotary International’s only Project Partner in disaster relief. Individual Heights club members collectively gave $250 towards the shelter box in Honor of Young.
 
Annual Shaker Heights First Responder Awards
Local first responders couldn’t “work from home” during the pandemic -- they remained on call and available to assist anyone in need, often elderly and vulnerable residents suffering from COVID-19 symptoms.  The Club recognized those amazing efforts in Oct. 2021 at an overdue Shaker Heights Police and Fire awards ceremony held at Shaker Heights Fire Station 1, 17000 Chagrin Blvd.  This event has been held and sponsored by the Club on an annual basis until COVID-19 caused a hiatus, and a combined event for both 2019 and 2020 was therefore held in 2021. Thankfully the event returns again this fall, and is scheduled for Wed. Oct. 19th at 8 AM back at Fire Station #1. 
 
Shaker Lakes Nature Center Hike-Run- Sept. 18
Club members including Candi Hazelwood (President) and Ruth Severiens (Treasurer) were on hand for the Sept. 18th annual walk, run and hike sponsored by the Nature Center of Shaker Lakes. Candy and Ruth helped with the snack tables as runners and walkers returned to the finish.  The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes has also hosted the Club’s annual pancake breakfast in recent years, which the Club hopes to resume in the near future. (photo of Candy & Ruth in Shelter Area @ Shaker Lakes.
BEREA CLUB MAKES MORE KIVA LOANS
BEREA CLUB MAKES MORE KIVA LOANS
Berea Rotary made 13 more loans through KIVA recently. Chair Matt Lombardi says activity has been really low because of COVID. The new loans bring our total to 894 with a value of $22,400.
 
The recent loans were made to Kenya, Paraguay, Uganda, Mozambique, Tajikistan, Burkina Faso (4), Vietnam (3) and Guatemala. The loans will support food and clothing for resale, cattle and livestock, building a home toilet and farming supplies. All loans were made to individuals who are going into their third loan cycle or greater.
 
The number of countries we are able to make loans to has been limited  and those countries have the greatest risk for currency exchange loss.
 
Thanks to Matt for continuing to chair this worthy project in unsettling times.
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OUR CAUSES

The collective leadership and expertise of our 1.2 million members helps us tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, locally and globally. We are united by common values and vision for the future as we sharpen our focus with targeted specific causes that will reach communities most in need.

We have identified specific causes to target to maximize our local and global impact. At the same time, we understand that each community has its own unique needs and concerns.
Through  and other resources, we help clubs focus their service efforts in the following areas.

PEACEBUILDING AND CONFLICT PREVENTION

Today, 42 million people are displaced by armed conflict or persecution. Through our partnerships with several leading universities, Rotary Peace Fellows develop the skills to strengthen peace efforts, train local leaders to prevent and mediate conflict, and support long-term peace building in areas affected by conflict. We provide up to 100 peace fellowships per year at Rotary Peace Centers.

DISEASE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

More than 100 million people are pushed into poverty each year because of medical costs. We aim to improve and expand access to low-cost and free health care in underdeveloped areas. Our members educate and mobilize communities to help prevent the spread of major diseases such as polio, HIV/AIDS, and malaria. Many of our projects ensure that medical training facilities are located where the workforce lives.

WATER. SANITATION, AND HYGIENE

More than 2.5 billion people lack access to adequate sanitation facilities. At least 3,000 children die each day from diarrheal diseases caused by unsafe water. Our projects give communities the ability to develop and maintain sustainable water and sanitation systems and support studies related to water and sanitation.

MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH

At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, we provide immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services, and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Our projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs.

BASIC EDUCATION AND LITERACY

Sixty-seven million children worldwide have no access to education and more than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate. Our goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy.

COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Nearly 1.4 billion employed people live on less than $1.25 a day. We carry out service projects that enhance economic and community development and develop opportunities for decent and productive work for young and old. We also help strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities.

SUPPORT THE ENVIRONMENT

Providing our members more ways to bring about positive change in the world.

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