Rotary in London Magazine - Jun 2018 by Rotary in London Webmaster

ROTARY IN LONDON The Online Journal for the Rotary Clubs of London, District 1130 of Rotary International

CHOGM LONDON CHALLENGE (page 10)

Spring / Summer Issue 2018

A Glimpse inside this issue: The Commonwealth The Rise of our Youth Clubs and Fellowship On the Riviera with The Princess Royal

SERVICE AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

CONTENTS Editor’s Note

D1130: A DISTRICT IN ACTION RI President - Peace Building Conference

RI President ‘Tree Planting’

District Governor Mike Hodge

DG In Service 2017- 2018

Awards and Recognition

The Commonwealth - Drumming For Peace

The Commonwealth Youth Forum

No. 6 York Gate

Torquay with Anne, Princess Royal

Youth Makes Music

Rotary Technology Tournament

Developing Youth Talent in the Community

Young Chef

DG Mike Wren ‘Inspirational Meeting’

Rotary Foundation Chairman Tom Hunt

Bournemouth Conference

Fellowship Missed and to Come

Tovertafel – Dementia Support

Mish Mosh

CLUB NEWS ACROSS THE DISTRICT Greenford, Northwick Pk, Barkingside, Edgware &Stanmore, Gants Hill, Wembley, Enfield Chase, London and Paddington

Rotaract Celebrates 50

Toronto Convention

The World’s Greatest Meal

Why volunteering is good for you

ROTARY HISTORY

Front Cover: The London Challenge at Tower Bridge

HRH The Princess Royal

Teresa & Mike Wren with RI President Barry & Esther Rassin

Rotary in London’s Youth Makes Music at the Royal Festival Hall

RI President Ian Riseley at The Peace Building Conference in Lebanon

Information is published in good faith, but does not necessarily represent the views of the Editor of Rotary in London or of London District 1130. No liability is accepted for the actions of advertisers, as advertisements are accepted at face value. The Editor welcomes news items, articles, photographs and letters, but is not obliged to publish unsolicited material, reserving the right to edit for clarity and length. Contributors must ensure that material submitted never breaches copyright and must obtain necessary permission in writing for reproduction No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to material submitted to Rotary in London magazine.

EDITOR’S NOTE

A NOTE FROM YOUR EDITOR… The content page of this magazine highlights the frenetic pace of action-packed Rotary activities across District 1130, during this second half of Rotary year 2017-18. The Youth Service activities spearheaded by PDG Toni Finkel supported by her team neatly lend themselves for publication at this time of the year, and of course May is our “Youth Service Month“. The future of Rotary will come from today’s youth, and during the last few months we have been impressed with what young people have achieved! A Special ‘thank you’ to Clive Denham and the team organising the “Youth Makes Music” concert at the Royal Festival Hall in February. With the comings and goings of dates and the refurbishment works at the Royal Festival Hall, the team staged a very broad range of talent that performed at the highest levels. It was not an easy task, by any means, but from the concert we heard, we were never aware of just how hard they had worked. District Governor Mike Hodge’s stewardship and attention to detail left no stone unturned, and I was nearly lost for words!! Nearly, but not quite. Rotary shone at the recently concluded Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting (CHOGM) in London, providing a platform for Commonwealth Visitors and Rotarians, led by the District Governor Mike Hodge, to be involved in a wide range of different events. The Hodge Dedication continued with an inspirational message from the incoming RIBI President Debbie Hodge (yes, you guessed it!), at the District Assembly Dinner. Her speech left no one in doubt that her love and beliefs in the “goodness of Rotary” and “Taking Pride In our Rotary Service” will continue in the coming year. And rightly so! To paraphrase the words of John F Kennedy, she called upon our District to, “Ask not what your Rotary Club can do for you, but ask what you can do for your Rotary Club”. **See inside for video link. Incoming District Governor Mike Wren (another example of Rotary Continuity?), expressed an equally strong vision for the year 2018-19. “Be prepared for change and for flexibility in our approach to Rotary at all levels, while not sacrificing quality for quantity”. Congratulations to RIBI President Denis Spiller whose development plan was ratified in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal, at the RIBI Conference in Torquay. RI President Ian Riseley called President Spiller’s “Rotary 2” with its 250 new Club opportunities by June 2018 “A Masterstroke” Lastly, our HQ at 6 York Gate, to be sold in 2018, will be remembered with nostalgia by our Rotarians. DON’T FORGET THE HANDOVER DATE TO A NEW DISTRICT GOVERNOR, MIKE WREN, AND A NEW ROTARY YEAR. 8TH JULY 2018. See the District Notices. Margaret James Cooper - Editor - editor@rotary.org Frances Ellen – Editorial Assistant Dick Nathan –District Blog Writer & Photographer; Jonathan Nish – Webmaster Francesca Albini – Video; Margaret James Cooper - Photographer

RI PRESIDENT IAN H.S. RISELEY PEACE BUILDING CONFERENCE The city of Coventry hosted the second of Rotary’s Presidential Peace Building Conferences in February. The conference, one of six being staged across the world, is the brainchild of Rotary International President Ian Riseley. Other global conferences are took place in Vancouver and Beirut in February, followed by Sydney, Chicago, and the Italian city of Taranto later on. Each focussed on how peace relates to each of Rotary’s six areas of focus, as well as environmental sustainability. The third leg of the tour on February 24th was at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry and had the theme: “Disease prevention and treatment, and peace”. Ahead of the conference, the cricket-loving Australian spoke to Rotary magazine wherein he reflected on his challenges as RI president, Rotary’s place in the world and what is happening in Great Britain and Ireland. On the Presidential Peace Building Conference: “The world is relatively volatile and turbulent. I think Rotary is almost uniquely placed to make a difference in peace. We are just about everywhere in 200 countries and geographical regions.” “Rotary is full of good people and we shouldn’t shy away from that; we are committed to peaceful relations, and I

think Rotary can absolutely make a difference on peace which is why I have organised these conferences. Peace is important and I believe Rotary can make a difference on peace.” On the relevance of Rotary in 2018: “We live in a different society than we did in 1905 when Rotary was founded, which is why we have to be receptive to change.” “That is why, the last Council on Legislation in April last year, was so important for us. The council adopted so many changes to the way Rotary operates, by providing flexibility to the clubs and districts to operate more or less how they like. I think that is really important.” “We need to appreciate the fact that it is not just gathering together as a group of men as it was in Paul Harris’s time to have fellowship. Fellowship is a really important part of Rotary activity, but so is the service we provide around the world.” “And so is the fact that women are an important part of our organisation. We need to be flexible, which is why we are involving younger people, and why it is important we allow Rotaractors to join Rotary clubs if they wish.” For the rest of Ian’s speech visit: https://www.rotarygbi.org/ianriseley-coventry-peace-conference/

Ian was in the country to attend the Presidential Peace Conference taking place in Coventry, which coincided with the Rotary celebrations on February 23rd. The Australian joined Rotarians from across the Heart of England for a Purple Pinkie Day at the Arena Shopping Park in Coventry. There, shoppers were offered a free nail varnish in purple to showcase the Rotary’s End Polio Now. Elsewhere, a number of Rotarians marked Rotary’s birthday with a sponsored climb to the top of the O2 in London, as part of an event organised by the Vectis Sunrise Rotary Club from the Isle of Wight. Proceeds from the event were divided between the Roll Out The Barrel’s water projects in Africa, and End Polio Now. In the past three years, the annual climb has raised more than £80,000 for End Polio Now when combined with the contribution from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, plus a further £31,000 for water and malaria projects across Africa. Following the Peace building Conference in Coventry, RI President Ian Riseley planted a tree from the Japanese city of Hiroshima in the beautiful surroundings of Coventry’s War Memorial Park. The seeds were given to the Lord Mayor of the City and Rotarian John Hartley took six seeds and arranged for a friend of his to grow them. Two trees have now been grown standing about 40” high, one to be planted in the Memorial Park and the other at Coventry University. The tree can grow to 35 to 50 ft tall and has unusually large leaves each being some 12” across. We are told that, after the atomic bomb destroyed Hiroshima city on August 6th 1945, in the following spring it was noted that a tree located

near to the Head Post Office and apparently destroyed began to show signs of life with shoots showing from the rootstock. The Japanese council officials had the stump transferred to the site of what was to become the Peace Park. In the following years as the seeds from the tree appeared, they were collected and put in bags of 24 and given to visiting civic visitors from around the world.

RI PRESIDENT TREE PLANTING

REFLECTIONS ON DG MIKE HODGE’S STEWARDSHIP As I took up the position of District Governor on the 1st July, many said the year would flash by. What did they mean? … A year is 365 days, a little longer in leap years, and it is certainly never shorter. But everyone was right, as I write this note, there are just over seven weeks to the end of my term of office. Rotary in London is in good heart with so many positive things occurring. There is however a frustration that Clubs do seem so reluctant to publicise their activities and achievements on their websites, social media and in particular on Rotary Club Central. It is so difficult for anyone outside of a Club to find out what the clubs are doing. If we don’t tell our story why would anyone want to join us and if a District Governor, RIBI President or RI President can’t ascertain a true picture of the contributions that Rotary makes to our communities how can we demonstrate how effective we are to potential partners. The second half of a Rotary year has a strong emphasis on “youth”. I have been privileged to attend various competitions: Young Musician, Technology Tournament, Youth Speaks and Young Chef and of course the ever popular District 1130 Youth Makes Music. The enthusiasm of all the participants and the very high standards achieved in the different events is awe inspiring. These events do not “just happen” and I would like to record my thanks to all those Rotarians who contribute so many hours and so much effort to make sure that they do happen. Rotary in London has again been the leading District in the world providing host counsellors for Rotary Foundation Scholars wanting to study in London’s prestigious Universities. The 30+ scholars are studying subjects fully aligned with the Rotary Foundation Areas of Focus and are all committed to pursuing careers that will “Make a Difference”. In February many of the scholars were able to attend an event organized by RC Radlett where they provided short précis of their objectives. If your Club hasn’t already had a scholar as a speaker there is still time and they are all very accomplished eloquent speakers. Again I must thank the Clubs and host counsellors for volunteering as without a London based host club the conditions of the Rotary Foundation Grant cannot be met and they would not be able to study in London. April 2018 saw the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) taking place in London. The day before the main event, Rotary joined with The National Citizen Service (NCS) to deliver a personal and social development programme for many of the young people who were attending from the countries of the Commonwealth. During the week of CHOGM Rotary joined with the Purcell School of Music creating Rotary Resound to provide performances at the opening ceremony and several subsequent evening Concerts. More thanks to the Rotarians that made this happen. At the beginning of the Rotary year the Rotary International President, Ian Riseley, asked Rotarians around the world to plant trees to match the number of Rotarians. In reality the target has been exceeded with possibly over 2.5 million trees being planted. In Rotary in London 26 out of 58 Clubs have notified that they took

took up the challenge and we have planted 1250. Well done to all those that have contributed to this activity. My request to all Clubs was to see what they could do to enhance provision in their local communities to assist those living with Dementia. I have been heartened by the extent that Clubs have taken this on with a significant number of Memory Cafes and Dementia Clubs (in partnership with Dementia Club UK) being brought forward. Rotary Clubs and individual members have also taken steps to become Dementia Friends and provide donations to Alzheimer’s Society. Thank you all for engaging with this project. Somewhat from “left field” I was contacted in the autumn by Rotarian friends in Australia putting me in touch with Qantas Airlines who were looking for an organisation in London to distribute their ‘old stock’ airline blankets. 18 Clubs from all our areas, responded to my request for suitable recipients and these Clubs, along with Rotaract, have arranged the distribution of over 1100 blankets to charities supporting the Homeless in London. The 2018 State of the Nation survey identified Homelessness as a major concern and our activities has shown us to be at the forefront of helping partners in the community trying to alleviate the situation. I am pleased that the Clubs throughout Rotary in London have been Making a Difference in their own individual ways within communities across London.

IN SERVICE - DG MIKE HODGE 2017/18

District Governor Mike Hodge 2017-18

Illustration 1

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

London advocate for elderly receives Rotary Community Champion award London Charity Worker Afolasade (Sade) Bright was given a prestigious Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland’s Community Champion award from Peter Kellner, Chairman of the National Council of Voluntary Organizations, alongside other community heroes from across the country, at a ceremony in Cardiff City Hall Friday May 18th. The award was for her work with elderly people in the Barking and Dagenham community and nearby boroughs. Sade spotted that there was a significant number of elderly people in the area who suffered with stress brought on by financial worries, by social isolation following the loss of a spouse or friend, and by coping with aging and physical limitations. She set to work creating projects which alleviate the problems using support within the community. Social and educational events and an inter-generational project which engaged the old and young in a games and activity sessions are proving to be hugely popular. In 2006 Sade set up the Pennu Charity, which focuses on meeting the needs of the elderly. The charity has raised funds for a memory café and a recreational centre where many activities take place. These events have sparked an interest; residents are asking for more opportunities to socialise, meet new people and find information. The events help people to acknowledge key dates such as birthdays and anniversaries, which can bring painful as well as joyful memories. There is a yearly “Celebration of Maturity” event where over 200 elderly people attend and meet the police, local MPs, councillors, financial experts and health professionals as well as enjoying entertainment. Sade’s work is very much hands-on as she attends and delivers the sessions at the events. Denis Spiller, President of Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland, commented: “Sade’s work restores dignity to local elderly people and gives support to their families. Social isolation is devastating but Sade is committed to putting an end to that. She is a very worthy recipient of a Rotary Community Champion award.” Rotary Press Release / Photo from L-R Rotary GBI President Denis Spiller, Afolasade Bright and Peter Kellner (Chairman of NCVO) Afolasade Bright was previously a councillor in Hackney where she became Civic Mayor in 2006. Prior to this she was elected as the non-executive director of Hackney Homes. She has served as a school governor and as the Honorary President of Age Concern UK. She is a trustee of several charities and local voluntary sector organisations as well school governor of two schools in Barking and Dagenham. She worked with the local authority for 18 years, is the founder and president of the Sapphirez women’s organisation and an award winning author with her book: “Dream Big, Stretch Your Boundaries”.

Essex pair’s support of Chernobyl children receives Rotary award Pauline Craven and Alan Hilliar have been honoured with a prestigious Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland Community Champion award for their work helping children with neurological conditions caused by the Chernobyl disaster. They received their accolade from Peter Kellner, Chairman of the National Council of Voluntary Organisations, alongside other community heroes from across the country, at a ceremony in Cardiff City Hall Friday 18 th May 2018. Pauline and Alan joined forces in 2000 when they were in a convoy heading for the Revival Centre, a rehabilitation unit in Chernihiv, Ukraine, which Pauline had become involved with a few years earlier. In 2003 they formed their own registered charity: Felsted Aid for Deprived Children. Since then they have taken aid, with their volunteer drivers, out to the Revival Centre. The journey is a tough four-day drive which comes to 3,400 miles with the return journey. The aid is taken out three to four times a year in vans and trailers carrying approximately seven tons of donated aid on each journey. Toiletries, clothing and shoes for children, nappies, washing powder, toys, medical aid and much more is all sorted, packed, weighed and logged by a team of volunteers at the kindly donated barns on an Essex farm. The aid is also given to other organisations in Chernihiv, including orphanages and hospitals. Items are collected from various UK companies, schools and so on across the UK and the charity has taken the working name of “UK-AID”. The Revival Centre is now a large well established complex with a newly built 60-bed purpose built facility. 30 children and their guardians and parents can attend a rehabilitation programme. The centre treats 2,000 children a year and, since opening in 1996, has treated over 27,000 children who, all along with their families, have benefited from the humanitarian aid which Pauline and Alan take to Ukraine. The Centre’s treatment programmes have now been extended to other countries. The search for Rotary Community Champions was carried out across Great Britain and Ireland with Rotary clubs looking for members of the public who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others. Denis Spiller, President of Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland, commented: “The selfless actions of our champions really demonstrates that every person, everywhere can make a difference. Pauline and Alan’s work has helped children affected by Chernobyl and given support to their families. They are very worthy recipients of the Rotary Community Champion award.” Rotary Press Release / Photo from L-R Rotary GBI President Denis Spiller, Pauline Craven and Peter Kellner (Chairman of NCVO)

“The Oscars of web and social media” The people have spoken. With a majority of internet user votes, Rotary.org won the prestigious Webby People’s Voice Award for best association website. The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences announced the winners on 24 April 2018.

COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING DRUMMING FOR PEACE

Rotary and the Commonwealth Drumming for Peace. Drumming for Peace is not a new idea. However Rotary and the Commonwealth - Drumming for Peace is a new concept brought to fruition by the fact that London was hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and the Forums. The days when Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) were an exclusive three to five day event for Heads of State are long gone. These days the various Forums have an equally central role. In London, the Youth Forum, Women’s Forum, People’s Forum and Business Forum kicked off the Commonwealth Summit. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the CHOGM organising committee in the cabinet office were pleasantly surprised when Rotary and the “Commonwealth Resounds”, which is a leading Commonwealth accredited musical organisation, proposed the idea of bringing together drummers from the different Commonwealth countries to make a unique Commonwealth Sound. The Chair of the Rotary in London District Peace Committee, Sree Vallipuram, reached out to Alison Cox OBE who is the creative director at the Purcell School of Music and the Founder of the Commonwealth Resounds, to take forward this initiative in late February 2018. With the assistance of the renowned percussionist Kevin Hathway, the students of the Purcell School composed the music and choreographed the performance. To ensure wider Commonwealth representation, Sree Vallipuram wrote to all the High Commissioners in London to seek their assistance in identifying talented drummers from their country. The support was overwhelming. There were drummers from India, Ghana, Botswana and the West Indies. Most of them were already in the UK but four performers were flown in from Botswana. Five Rotarians volunteered to participate in the drumming performance. Twenty-four students from the Purcell School, whose ages ranged from 11 to 15, volunteered. A total of 53 performers, one representing each Commonwealth country was assembled and trained in the music and choreography. The training and rehearsals were held at the Purcell School in Watford. Cont..

Whilst Alison Cox and Kevin Hathway dealt with the artistic aspects, Sree Vallipuram dealt with the logistics of accrediting the performers and their helpers, which turned out to be a monumental task. Accreditation for the performers came late as the FCO initially proposed that all performers had to produce their photo IDs on the day of the performance. This was eventually overruled two weeks before the start of CHOGM and all performers had to undergo security clearance and wear CHOGM photo IDs. In addition to passports, additional documentation to show proof of address, etc. was required and it proved a challenge, as many young people did not have the requisite documentation. After prolonged negotiations with the police, the need for some documents was relaxed. However, up to the eve of the performance on 17 th April, a few performers were still not in possession of their accreditation passes. This was accomplished before 7.00am on the morning of the day of the first performance. That is how tight it was. On the morning of 17th April, all performers were up before dawn to dress in their Commonwealth outfits and travel to Westminster to clear security before 7.30am. The large drums and a range of smaller percussion instruments were transported by two vans. The Purcellians arrived by coach. The team was asked to play a welcome performance between 8am and 8.30am as delegates arrived at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre. A drummer from the West Indies joined the Indian Chenda drummers for this session. The rest of the drummers took the opportunity to carry out a short rehearsal on stage before the delegates were seated. At 9am, 2000+ delegates from around the world were seated in anticipation as the group was announced and took up their positions on stage. It was a very spectacular performance as the QE II Centre reverberated to the beating rhythms from the four Commonwealth regions. The performance began with a melody from the East African region, which called for Peace. It was then followed by a crescendo of beating rhythms from the group interspersed with the ebb and flow of the Indian, African, West Indian and Western percussion instruments. There was also a section where the performers used vocal beats and slapped their bellies to create a unique rhythmic beat. Towards the end, the watching delegates clapped in synchrony to the beating rhythms and at the end, there was a massive eruption as the delegates stood up and applauded. Was it worth it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the hours of effort by all the volunteers, getting up very early and the logistical nightmare of having to transport, load and unload all the instruments? It was! Resoundingly so!! For those of us who participated, it was an opportunity

to work with very talented directors and young students. Some of us relished the opportunity to participate with the children as it reminded us of bygone years when we participated with our own children. Additionally, the Rotary brand was displayed on large screens behind the stage. Interest in Rotary from staff members of the organising committee in the Civil Service was also generated. Moreover, the Purcell Students were given an introduction to Interact, Rotaract and Rotary. They requested assistance to set up an Interact Club in their school. DG Mike Hodge who was a volunteer performer in the event, agreed to arrange this through his counterpart in District 1260, the Purcell Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rotary District. Sree Vallipurann

LONDON CHALLENGE, ROTARIANS AT THE COMMONWEALTH YOUTH FORUM

Rotarians from across London were at City Hall by Tower Bridge on Sunday 15 April 2018 in support of the London Challenge organised by the National Citizen Service (NCS). The day revolved around the London Challenge – a go and find this in London and send back a photo from your phone – and a Debating and Discussion session exposing some of the differences between the different Commonwealth Countries represented. The turn-out for the event from the members of the Commonwealth Youth Forum was not quite as strong as hoped, but Rotary in London more than fulfilled its quota. It was also a chance to meet the Chief Executive of NCS, Michael Lynas, Chief Executive of Bite the Ballot Michael Sani, and Tim Hitchens, Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Summit Unit. Judith Diment, Rotary International’s Representative to the Commonwealth was also there. All told, it tested the Rotarians’ knowledge of where, when, and how, in Central London, but everyone found it a most enjoyable day. Yours in Rotary Service, Dick Nathan

GOING GOING GONE! BYE OLD FRIEND N0: 6 YORK GATE Back in 1956 when there were 89 Clubs with a membership of 4000 Rotarians in District 13 - as it was then known - Rotary in London HQ was in Portman Square. The idea was that this location should provide accommodation for a “gentleman's club” with District offices and a games room – how times have moved on! Unfortunately the lease at that time and the company itself were not as well managed as today. Financial disasters ensued with overspends, large overdrafts and cancelled contracts. Clubs declined to support the “Club” and boardroom dissension led to the company eventually selling the building. The only good news was that a small surplus resulted from the sale of the lease which after years of careful investment provided sufficient funds to acquire the lease at 6 York Gate. 6 York Gate was in a poor state and following discussions with the International Students House Ltd (ISH) a lease and leaseback agreement was made whereby D-1130 would occupy the ground floor and toilets with the remainder being leased back, with a rental charge, to ISH. The refurbished 6 York Gate was opened by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother on 7th July 1971. Since that time 6 York Gate has been a second home to London Rotarians. Assemblies, training sessions, Club meetings and parties will have left many happy memories in the minds and hearts of all who have entered the building. It was back in 2010 when ISH first approached the District to see if a surrender of our lease was possible but nothing happened. The same happened in 2015 and this time after consulting with my fellow Directors it was agreed that I should explore the possibility of suitable terms being agreed. Professional advice was sought, negotiations took place and eventually in May 2017 I was able to advise our District Executive that there was a deal on the table that I could recommend for acceptance. I feel that the whole thing was a bit of a shock, but after serious debate they agreed that the terms in principle were good enough to report to the District Council on 27th July 2017. I will not set out in this report the financial terms but not surprisingly my report gave rise to a considerable amount of discussion. After all, leaving 6 York Gate would be a painful decision to many. Where would we go? Who gets the money? Do Clubs get a share? What about a big international project? How are Clubs going to have their say? These were just some of the questions asked. I am delighted to say that the engagement of Clubs in the way forward is paramount in the thinking of the directors under the leadership of the new Chairman, District Treasurer Selwyn Foreman. The consultation exercise has been fully explained in the District Notices dated 28th April 2018 so please read and get your Club members to discuss, and express their opinions. As for the future the District contractually must deliver vacant possession of 6 York Gate to the purchaser by no later than 30th November 2018. After that, “We’ll meet again don’t know where don’t know when but I’m sure we’ll meet again some sunny day!“ PDG Trevor Johnson. Immediate Fellowship House Governors Ltd.

Past

Chairman.

Photo above of 6 York Gate by Margaret J. Cooper The photo below by Google Street View pre-dates 6 York Gate, when the District had Fellowship House at 21 Portman Square, (along with the offices in 10 Gloucester Place, and the caretaker's flat in 11 Portman Close).

Rotary On The Riviera with HRH The Princess Royal

The Princess Royal paid tribute to Rotary members for the work they do in communities across the globe. Princess Anne, who is an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Elgin, in Scotland, spent more than two hours visiting the Rotary in Great Britain & Ireland annual conference in Torquay on April 7th. Besides giving a speech to delegates at the Riviera International Centre, she spent considerable time touring both the Rotary Showcase and the exhibition area, chatting to Rotary members and charity representatives. “This is an organisation I have grown up with, meeting and seeing Rotarians almost wherever I have been all over the world. And they have always been busy,” she told delegates in a 15-minute speech to the conference. “They have been busy supporting others to run fundraising events and activities, as well as their own things – but they have always been busy, and you are still very busy!” Her Royal Highness used the speech to turn the spotlight on a number of charitable projects, include the Chaffinch Trust, based in Elgin. The Trust encourages charities, organisations and individuals to collaborate and work together to improve conditions for those living in disadvantaged areas. “The Chaffinch Trust was set up by a friend of mine” she explained. “The Trust understands and is keen to support a joined-up approach between charities, to make much more effective and efficient use of all the

knowledge and funds that are available in so many different ways in this country, and across the world.” Princess Anne, who is president of the Save the Children Fund, highlighted some of the work that charity had conducted in the early 1980s through the “Stop Polio” initiative, a mantle which was later picked up by Rotary International through Polio Plus and then the End Polio Now campaign. This was a classic case of joined-up thinking, she said. She praised the structure and discipline of Rotary International which has meant that the world is now so close to eradicating polio. “What Save the Children recognised, and has been hugely grateful for, is the way in which Rotary picked up the challenge of stopping polio” she added. “Rotary understood the way it could make a real difference and how well-prepared it is as an organisation to apply that discipline to deliver the polio vaccine over a much wider global reach. “The fact it has worked so incredibly well is a huge credit to every individual member of Rotary, and the way you function as a global organisation.” Princess Anne cautioned that even though the end of eliminating polio is in sight , the world has to remain strong and resilient with a continuing commitment towards immunisation once the disease has been eradicated.

Praising the initiative of Rotary in tackling dementia, its work around peace and the peace scholars, and also with promoting the Duke of Edinburgh Award, particularly among young carers, the Princess underlined the work, which the organisation does at grass roots level. “Rotary is for communities everywhere,” she said. “Rotary understands the communities in which it lives and it is involved, of course, in many projects.” “I see and I know what a difference Rotarians make in Great Britain and Ireland, and also overseas. And with more than 1,700 Rotary clubs here, supporting a wide range of projects, backed by fund-raising and your hands-on service, it is little wonder that Rotary members are busy. We don’t very often get an opportunity to say thank you to groups like Rotary – but thank you, and congratulations.” Dave King Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal - Rotary Conference 2018 - Speech Online https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=JSPgexUPIpo

YOUTH MAKES MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA IN THE KEY OF JOY!

Many Rotarians from London attended the Rotary “Youth Makes Music” Concert at the Royal Festival Hall on 22 February 2018. The programme included a wide range of music from choirs, to a string quartet, to a concert band, to a jazz orchestra, to carnatic music, to a steel band, to a full symphony orchestra, to a rock band and even a solo rock guitarist. Under the compère for the evening, the BBC’s Ellie Crisell, the audience were introduced to each of the acts. All of the artists were schoolchildren or students studying in schools or colleges within the Rotary in London District. All agreed that the performers produced music of a very high standard, and the event was a wonderful window on the young musical talent in London. PDG Dick Nathan (Northwick Park RC Hub Editor)

ROTARY TECHNOLOGY TOURNAMENT

District Activity. MCLS of South Hampstead High School won the Foundation Level Portman Place Blue of Portman Place School won the Intermediate Level

Gold Team of Portman Place School won the Advanced Level.

Photos by M G Audia

Developing Youth Talents and Skills in the Community

YOUTH SERVICES CHAIRMAN PDG TONI FINKEL GIVES AN OVERVIEW OF ROTARY COMMUNITY YOUTH TALENT

We held a very successful joint District Youth Speaks and Young Chef Final at New City College on Saturday 24th Feb. I want to especially thank Alan Coleman, Michael Finkel and Suraiya Kassamally for their help on the registration desk. Sue Jessel, Helen Antoniou, Corrinne, Martin and Sharon for acting as judges for Youth Speaks. Pankaj Chahwala and Scott Maclachlan for being Timer and Questioner. I also thank DGE Mike Wren for overseeing Young Chef on the day, all the local clubs and their members for standing in to help steward and act as hosts and Graham, John Bash and Carole Harris for their help too. Without everyone's support it would not have been such a success. I apologise if I've missed anyone out, as without everyone's support these events cannot go ahead. Youth Speaks We had 6 senior teams and 4 Intermediates and as usual the standard was very high. The senior winners were The American School - sponsored by St Marylebone Club - Topic: “With or without the Power of Positive Thinking”. The Intermediate winners were Chigwell School - sponsored by Redbridge Club Topic: “A 12 Year Old's View of Brexit”. They both went on to represent the District at the Regional Youth Speaks Competition. Young Chef We were expecting 9 contestants but unfortunately were unable to attend on the day. we ended up with 7, one more than last year. We three judges, one from the college and two Rotarians.

two So had via

The standard was high and the winner was Dior from St Marylebone School - sponsored by St Marylebone. The runner up was Shaima from Park High sponsored by Edgware and Stanmore. They went on to compete again at New College in the Regional Young Chef Final on 10th March 2018. Suraiya Kassamally has been doing amazing work this year with the Technology Tournament and managed to hold two competitions! Senia Dedič organised a

Young Musician Competition in the South Area and had 3 contestants going through to the Regional Final on 29th April at Dr Challoners School for Girls, Amersham, HP7 9QB. Pankaj Chahwala organised the District Young Artist and Young Photographer Competitions, doing his usual splendid job, as did Shirley Kirk with the Young Writer Competition. Winner of the Rotary Technology Tournament: “MCLS” of South Hampstead High School won the Foundation Level. “Portman Place Blue” of Portman Place School won the Intermediate Level. “Gold Team” of Portman Place School won the Advanced. District 1130 had the responsibility for organising the Regional Final for Young Chef and this was also held at New City College on 10th March. Districts participating were 1080, 1130, 1240 and 1260. The judges were Lisa Shaw and Tom Gardner, both of whom are very experienced and talented chefs. The winner was Sasha from District 1240 and the Runner up was Ella from District 1260. Our entrants were excellent and the competition winners had won by a few points. It was a very close competition with all entrants displaying wonderful talent. The winners went through to the National Final. YOUTH MAKES MUSIC Chairman Clive Denham, and especially The Rotary Club of Southgate will be interested and proud to know that one of the Schools that participated in the Youth Makes Music Concert supported by the Rotary Club of Southgate namely “St. Anne’s Catholic High School for Girls Gospel Choir”, have been voted to appear in the BBC’s Songs of Praise finals for the Young Choir of the Year 2018, having qualified in the Semi-finals which were featured on Facebook BBC1 channel.

YOUNG CHEF The result of the regional finalâ&#x20AC;¦

Photos courtesy DGE Mike Wren

WINNER: Sasha 1240 | RUNNER UP: Ella 1250 17

AN INSPIRATIONAL EVENING WITH “DG” MIKE WREN

Many Rotarians gathered in Central London on 26 March 2018 for an inspirational evening led by our incoming District Governor Mike Wren. The evening started with Grace led by incoming District Governor Nominee Francis Uwaechi (below right), followed by a substantial meal which had been organised by the District Events Committee at the Imperial Hotel in Russell Square. Although the next Rotary Year begins on 1st July 2018, there is much that is new and needs to be communicated to the Rotary Clubs in London before that date. We had an inspirational speech from the incoming President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, Debbie Hodge, who is incidentally married to our current District Governor Michael Hodge! The whole event was drawn together and

summarised “magically” by the incoming District Governor Mike Wren (above right) who comes from the Rotary Club of Redbridge. We now know how to be inspirational in our Clubs, in our Communities and throughout the world, and cannot wait to get started.

Debbie Hodge and that all important Video at the District Dinner Debbie Hodge, President Elect of Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland, shared the theme for the year 2018-19: “Be the Inspiration”. Being a Rotarian is a life choice made to serve our Community, and we all need to be the inspiration that can make the world a better place. Online: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=nLdD_DkopII&app=desktop Video by Francesca Albini

TOM HUNT, RECOGNITION FOR FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN

Our District Foundation Chairman is moving away from London towards the end of the Rotary Year, and the District Governor along with the Governor Elect, Governor Nominee and Immediate Past District Governor decided that the District needed to make a presentation that acknowledged the significant contribution that Tom Hunt has made in a variety of positions in our District. To great acclaim at a dinner in Central London, Tom Hunt (left in the photo above) received a triple ruby Paul Harris Fellowship pin – an extremely high recognition for the work that he had done over many years. Tom will be sorely missed once he moves away, and we all wish him a very happy time once he moves back ‘up north’!

DISTRICT 1130 CONFERENCE

BOURNEMOUTH 19-21 October 2018 Join District Governor Mike Wren at a different seaside venue: Bournemouth. Enjoy interesting speakers and the entertainment so that you can “Be the Inspiration”! To learn more about the conference and or book online: http://www.rotaryinlondon.org/index.php?c=c&page=cms&title=district-conference Details courtesy of PDG Alan Coleman, Rotary Club of Barkingside

FELLOWSHIP YOU MAY HAVE MISSED DISTRICT SPORTS DINNER AT THE IMPERIAL HOTEL and “A SALT BEEF CHARITY BRUNCH”

FELLOWSHIP YET TO COME”

Tovertafel - a new technology helping people with dementia, by John Ramsay

One in three people born in the UK this year will develop dementia in their lifetime – with numbers currently set to rise to over one million by 2025. But dementia isn’t about big numbers. It’s about an individual’s journey, which is different for each and every person (and family) it affects. My dad was diagnosed with early onset dementia when I was 12 years old and it was incredibly tough helping to care for him and witnessing the changes that were occurring throughout his dementia journey. A few years ago, a friend and I launched Tovertafel (Dutch for Magic Table) in the UK. The Tovertafel projects interactive light games on to any table. Developed in Holland and specifically designed for people with mid-to-late onset dementia, more than 200 Tovertafel across the UK are bringing happy moments to over 3,500 people living with dementia. A number of these Tovertafel have been generously supported by funds raised by Rotary Clubs across the country. We’d love to demo the Tovertafel to other clubs interested to see the difference Tovertafel can make. To find out more, you can call us on 02080031074 or email us at info@tovertafel.co.uk

Tovertafel at Barkingside Rotary Club After a demonstration of this “Magic Table” that allowed dementia sufferers to participate in moving images of different object patterns projected on a table; Rotarian, Sue Coleman described the experience as “mesmerizing, attention focussing, and bringing participants together”.

MISH MOSH

It is very doubtful that there are currently any active Rotarians who can remember a time that 6 York Gate was not the hub of Rotary activity in London. For very nearly half a century this prestigious Central London Nash-designed building has served us well. Formally opened by HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, the new offices were open five days a week during normal business hours, overseen and controlled by Miss Moya Sexton, the full time employee and General Secretary of the District. With nearly 4,000 members, up to 100 clubs and no internet, the administration of the District was a major undertaking which Moya, a single lady who lived nearby in Gloucester Place, undertook with aplomb. Her influence was considerable. Unofficially she could be described as a ‘kingmaker’ and if a Rotarian aspiring to high office got on the wrong side of Moya, he (and it would have been a ‘he’ in those days) might well find himself mysteriously sidelined in the hierarchy. Of course there’s no politics in Rotary - just human beings! By the 1990s computers, spreadsheets, and faxes made administration easier and, on Moya’s retirement in 1993, it was decided that we no longer needed a full time employee. The elected District Honorary Secretary was duly handed the treasured key to ‘Moya’s Office’. These days, meetings can be held online. Information can be sent quickly and efficiently by email and online. For goodness sake, we now have Rotary Clubs that meet exclusively online. Communication gets easier and easier and one can see a time when York Gate could become a bit of a white elephant, and an expensive animal to boot. The opportunity to sell the lease was opportune and has been handled brilliantly by the team involved. Thousands of us have been inside York Gate. Some have been inside thousands of times! It will exist in our memories and conversations long after the ghostly echoes of fellowship, debate, argument and laughter are released when the door is closed for the last time and the keys are handed over before the end of the calendar year. Including the key to Moya’s Office.

ROTARY GLOBAL GRANT SCHOLAR CAITLYN WEBB ADDRESSED THE DISTRICT CONFERENCE AT STRATFORD UPON AVON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; WHO WILL ADDRESS US IN BOURNEMOUTH?

CLUB NEWS

GREENFORD

Rotary Club of Greenford – V Scanner presentation to Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Members of The Rotary Club of Greenford visited Hillingdon Hospital to present a portable emergency use ‘V Scanner’ to their Maternity Unit. The £7,080 scanner was purchased with a generous donation from the estate of the late daughter of Dr. Claude Osborn. Dr. Claude Osborn was a pioneer in the area of midwifery and midwife training. Dr. Claude Osborn was a general practitioner as well as a Past President of the Rotary Club of Greenford. President John Perrett supported by three Greenford Rotarians presented the scanner to Anita Hutchins and Juliette Remaud, Head of Midwifery & Women’s Care at Hillingdon for emergency use and staff training. The “V Scanner” is designed for immediate use during an emergency to check on the health of baby. The usual scanner, although more detailed, is in another part of the hospital and is often in use; the use of this scanner will undoubtedly save the lives of both babies and mothers. The Rotary Club of Greenford hosts an annual dinner, held in honour of Dr. Osborn’s contribution to midwifery and his association with the Rotary Club of Greenford. During the evening a bursary for £300, a certificate and a Challenge Shield is presented to the Top Midwife qualifying that year. Dr. Claude Osborn was born in British Guiana (now Guyana) in 1908 and was the first black member of London Rotary District. He was a keen scout, an active member of the Order of St. John, a General Practitioner and Consultant at Perivale Maternity Hospital in Greenford. He was an undoubted example of the Rotary Motto – Service above Self. PDG David Storrie

Claire Fitzsimons receives The Claude Osborn Award for Best Midwifery Student at the University of West London.

Northwick Park RC & the RI President’s Tree Planting Challenge The President of Rotary International this year is Ian H.S. Riseley from near Melbourne, Australia, and he has challenged each Rotarian to plant a tree for the environment. Now some of our members are less able to plant trees than others, so a group of three young and fit Rotarians took up the challenge on 08 March 2018 and planted about 4 trees for each Club Member at Heartwood near Sandridge in Hertfordshire. The Heartwood Forest is being planted on arable land, and the team was planting oak and cherry trees. During the day, not only did we experience all four seasons, we experienced them time and time again! But the RI President's request was fulfilled, four times over for all of the members of our Club. Photos courtesy of Helen Antoniou: AG Scott Maclachlan and Jon from RC Barnet. Raj from RC Wembley, Dick Nathan, Ritu and Helen Antoniou from Northwick Park planted around 180 trees at Heartwood Forest, Hertfordshire.

Photos: Helen Antoniou

Barkingside Rotary Club Easter, Christmas Toys and Choccies for Sick Hospital Children It was 16 years ago that I was asked to support the sick children at Whipps Cross hospital Leystonstone E.11 in East London. I visited the manager of the children’s ward to discuss how I could help. I then talked to the hospital management department of the hospital. They asked me if we could do something for the children at Christmas. I said I would make some enquiries and get back to them. I made some approaches to 3 Tesco stores and a Waitrose store in my area that all said they would support this very worthy cause with chocolates and toys. I then rang the management at Whipps Cross Hospital to tell them the news and of course they were delighted. Our first visit to the hospital was Christmas 2002. I was accompanied by our club president at the time and a club member. It proved to be a resounding success. As a result, 6 years later, this project was extended to King George Hospital in Ilford. The nursing staff of both hospitals were not forgotten, they too were presented with Christmas gifts. We have continued to support the sick children every year up to the present. Last Christmas, the mayor of Redbridge Cllr Linda Huggett together with our president David Palmer, the community champion of Tesco’s Woodford Green Tricia Reece and myself visited both hospitals. These visits need a good deal of planning and I’m now working on both visits for Christmas 2018. So roll on Christmas, Philip Lester R Photo: Patient with staff member / Group photo with nursing staff

At Whipps Cross Hospital With: London Borough of Redbridge Mayor Linda Hugget, Past District Governor David Palmer, Philip Lester and Hospital Staff.

President Danielle Benson: Rotary Club Edgware & Stanmore with fellow Rotarian nurse Anne Butler on "Know Your Blood Pressure" Day. No problems with Danielle's blood pressure, thankfully! Photographed at Edgware Broadwalk Centre.

GANTS HILL ROTARY CLUB A HEALTHY £12,000 FOR A PRESIDENT’S BALL

Gants Hill Rotary Club spared no expense to hold its lavish Annual President’s Ball on the 24 th March, 2018, at the prestigious Gouman Hotel, Tower Bridge.

THE EVENT WHICH COINCIDED WITH THE CLUB’S 10TH ANNIVERSARYwas attended by 300 people, including Rotarians from 14 different Rotary Clubs. Club President Manmeet Baxi provided insight into the club’s activities over the past year, and the club’s vision for the future. A short presentation was also delivered by President Manmeet’s chosen charity this year, ELHAP, an adventure playground for children with disabilities of all ages. ELHAP is all about the freedom to have fun, be wild, get messy and explore potential. Based in a fiveacre woodland space, ELHAP offers the play opportunities that many of us took for granted as children. District Governor Michael Hodge and past President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland Eve Conway recalled their association with the club over the last 10 years, and provided an inspiring and motivating talk about Rotary’s Polio campaign. Finally, Founding President Sam Baxi and past President Shaheen Readlamb spoke about the journey of Gants Hill club over the last 10 years and the various charities and causes the club has supported during that time. Fantastic fundraising efforts on the evening saw the event raise almost £12,000!!! Taran Baxiand

Edgware and Stanmore Veteran Rotarian Ronnie Rabson at his 90 th Birthday received a Certificate, from District Governor Mike Hodge, for 63 glorious years of Rotary Service. Rotary and Rotarians everywhere thank you for â&#x20AC;&#x153;making a differenceâ&#x20AC;? to humanity.

YOUTH COMPETITION PRESENTATION AT WEMBLEY Each year The Rotary Club of Wembley arranges for local schools to hold an essay or poetry competition. The subject matter changes but is always connected to an important topical issue. The brief for this Rotary Year was to draw on the events leading to the Anniversary of World War One with recognition of sacrifices made in later conflicts. The response from young people was astonishing, attracting more than 150 entries. On 30th January 2018 Wembley held a special meeting to recognise and reward the winner. In the presence of The Mayor of Brent, Councillor Bhagwanji Chohan, and many Rotarians representing 10 visiting London clubs, Jamie Boachie, aged 14 from St. Gregory's Science Catholic School, took to the podium and read, quietly and with dignity, his winning poem 'GONE ARE THE DEAD'. A pin dropping would have been heard. Such sentiments coming from a young man of only 14 years evoked emotion and admiration amongst the very mixed audience. A few handkerchiefs came into use. Mine was one! By good chance PDG Toni Finkel was present and she was able to latch on to this initiative by a single club and explain how our

Rotary Youth Programme operates locally and nationally. Without doubt this event, under the direction of President Raj Pillay, was a huge success spreading the good name of Rotary amongst many schools and the community at large. David Palmer District Membership Chair *The Award Winning Poem can be found on the next page

GONE ARE THE DEAD Gone are the dead, endless in their number In a deep sleep, not arising from their slumber Gone are the brave, rifles in their hands Gone are the fearless that died in no manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land. Gone are the courageous, which fought in dug out trenches Gone are the brave who choked from gaseous stenches Gone are the bold, who fought for our freedom Blessed are they for they shall see Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kingdom Gone are the undaunted, running out of breaths Gone are the daring, slowly awaiting death. Gone are the gallant, noble is their cause Gone are the audacious that fought in the First World War. Gone are the heroic, bogged down in the mud Gone are the resolute, face-down in pools of blood. Gone are the adamant, refusing to give up the fight. Gone are the determined though traumatised at night Gone are the faithful, formerly doctors and Teachers Gone are the loyal, their lives wasted at Ypres Gone are the patriotic, fighting for the nation Gone are the strong-willed who prepared at Battle stations. Gone are the firm, charging in on Horses. Gone are the steadfast, falling amongst the corpses. Gone are the persistent who thought the war would end by Christmas Willingly they fought on receiving scars, sores and blisters. Gone are the relentless, eventually killed and slaughtered Gone are the perseverant, forced away from sons and daughters. Gone are the unshaken, deafened by booming shells. Gone are the obstinate, who suffered living hell. Gone are those who brought us this tomorrow. Gone are the dead, who fought amidst the sorrow. By Jamie Boachie Poetry/Essay Competition Winner As part of the Rotary Youth Program

** THE MULTI-CLUB WORKSHOP ** Thanks to the cooperation of RC Paddington, 47 Rotarians, partners and relatives representing 20 clubs, 7 districts, 6 nations arrived at London from Italy, Russia, Serbia, Sweden, the UK and the US to attend the 11th MultiClub Workshop last September and so enjoy their friendship and promote several large humanitarian projects. A glorious few days, presentation and main speeches can be found at www.rotary-mcw.com. The 12th MCW will be held in Matera, Italy, 5th to the 9th of September 2018!

ENFIELD CHASE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL FOR F A S T The Rotary Club of Enfield Chase has, for several years, had a close relationship with a local primary school. The club has presented all year 6 pupils with a Dictionary4Life and the school has filled Rotary Shoeboxes. The school wanted to take part in the project F A S T (Families And Schools Together) that has been introduced by Middlesex University in conjunction with Save the Children. The project was originally introduced in America 25 years ago. The aim is to empower and involve all parents and to foster family development and cohesion. Its ultimate purpose is to help all children to succeed at home, in school and in the community. A group of partner volunteers were brought together from staff members, parents and members of the community to work with a group of twelve families who all met together one afternoon a week for nine weeks. That is where the Rotary Club of Enfield Chase’s involvement began as club members were asked to be the community partners. The format of the sessions was the same each week with structured activities (based on family therapy techniques) between parent and child, parent and the whole family, parent and one other parent, parent and the parent group and parents and the professionals. Parents spent 15 minutes of uninterrupted one to one time with their child – this was usually the child’s favourite part. Parents gave and received social advice and support for their parenting – this was often the parent’s favourite part. Parents took it in turn to prepare a simple meal for the whole group. The last session took the form of a party with a graduation ceremony, which was attended by the Mayor of Enfield. The volunteer partners had four training sessions of two whole days and two half days and then the sessions with the families were three hours once a week for nine weeks. It was quite a commitment but members of the Rotary Club of Enfield Chase thought it was well worthwhile. The project was very successful; all twelve families stayed for the whole course and it was clear that the parents and children had grown in confidence. Parents were asked to complete an evaluation questionnaire anonymously, the results of which will be known shortly. The group of parents have all decided to continue some aspects of the project by meeting together monthly and will have support from the school and community partners if required. Wendy Fulker, Vice President, Enfield Chase Rotary Club

AN AWESOME NIGHT OF MAGIC ORGANISED BY VASI DANIELS FOR COMMONWEALTH STUDENTS SCHOLARSHIP CHARITY FUND Photos taken by Hiko Tanaka

Reaching Out To Rotaractors I served almost every role imaginable in my 12 years in Rotaract in Australia, before I decided it was time to find a Rotary club. I was invited to join a club whose members were mostly over the age of 50 with the thought that I could inject some youthful experience into it. But it didn't go according to plan; maybe I was a bit too rambunctious or overly enthusiastic. Or maybe they weren't willing to change, even subtly. I almost left Rotary altogether because I stopped enjoying it. I eventually ended up in another club in Turramurra, and I've been able to play a larger role in creating an environment that is engaging members of all ages. Here are some of my insights into why Rotaractors make the best Rotarians! WHY RECRUIT THEM? For starters, Rotaractors make great members because they already know so much about Rotary. They've been educated in how Rotary works, what the structure is, what the main causes are, and they are trained in leadership [skills] that they can translate straight into Rotary. Equally important, they bring new ideas that can invigorate your club. HOW TO RECRUIT THEM The most important thing is investing time in their lives by: Giving them a role to play beyond simply attending club meetings - Ask them to serve on your board or on a committee. Partner with them on some of their Rotaract club's events. Sponsor them to attend a Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) weekend or to attend the Rotary International Convention. Over the course of a year or so, you are going to know who they are, what their experience is, what they are good at, and what they are willing to give, and these are the kind of people who will definitely join your club when they hit 30." Involving them in a project - Offer a variety of projects so they can choose one they are passionate about. And be willing to entertain ideas they bring to the table. It's important to really listen to them. Rotaractors want to feel like they are respected and that their ideas count. For example, draw on their skills with social media, fundraising or international development. Mentoring them - Most young adults are actually attracted to the idea of mixed-age clubs because they are able to benefit from the knowledge and experience of older members. Strengthen the connection between Rotaract and Rotary International during World Rotaract Week (12-16 March 2018) Article by Evan Burrell originally appeared in the March 2015 edition of Rotary Leader and has been edited for clarity.

ROTARACT AT 50 Half a century of changing lives. Rotaract Action Week: Conference 8th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10th June 2018 See the blog for more information: www.rotary.org 33

23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 JUNE 2018 TORONTO, CANADA ONLINE REGISTRATION The last day to register online is 27 June 2018 For more

information: http://www.riconvention.org

INSPIRATION AROUND EVERY CORNER. The International Convention in 2019 is to be held in Hamburg, Germany. 34

LET’S JOIN POLIO.

TOGETHER

ERADICATE

WGM Team Update - 10 May 2018 Dear WGM Team,

“As long as polio threatens even one child anywhere in the world, all children — wherever they live — remain at risk. The stakes are that high.” Bill Gates. This funding initiative is the Joint Project of the RC of Cairns Sunrise, D.9550, Australia and the RC of Hounslow, D.1140, England. PDG Mukesh Malhotra and PP Susanne Rea set up this idea to help end polio around food, fun and fundraising… The latest video featuring Susan, Mukesh, Bill Gates and Bono can be found at: https://wgmeal.com

Below is a brief summary of where we stand as of May 2018:  There have been 4,624 events registered in 78 countries.  More than 280,400 participants worldwide.  USD $2,948,968.80 has been raised (a total of USD $8,846,906.40 with matching funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation). This translates to enough funds to buy more than 14,744,00 polio vaccinations!! Yours in Rotary Service, Scott Rossi

Why Volunteering is Good for You! By Francesca Albini As Rotarians, we know that doing good in the world feels good. But why does it feel good, and what are the rewards of behaving altruistically? A growing body of research suggests that the advantages are many, and at many levels. The psychological and physical health improvements are such that volunteering activities are warmly encouraged by health services, such as the NHS. Although we live in a world of connectivity, brought to us by technology and social media, statistics point to an increased sense of loneliness, isolation, lack of purpose, that can result in low self-esteem and even depression. Volunteering boosts our quality of life, it gives us a sense of purpose, and makes us feel needed. Knowing that we have contributed, even marginally, to the improvement of someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life gives us a sense of achievement, raising our self-esteem. Volunteering improves our social connection and gives us a sense of belonging. It makes us interact with other people, develop interpersonal relationships, and work in teams with a common goal. Great friendships and companionship are often born this way. Concentrating on the needs of others helps us take our minds off our own problems or put them into prospective. We learn to cope better with our own health and other hindrances in our lives. Caring for the suffering, also makes us more aware of our own lifestyles, and we end up taking better care of ourselves and our dear ones. It also improves our sense of gratitude, we appreciate more what we have and focus less on what we lack. Lastly, keeping active, socially connected, exercising our problemsolving skills and learning new things, also makes us live longer. The need to help and engage is intrinsic in human nature, we are compelled to help. At the same time, attention economics is fundamental, and if people are constantly bombarded with demands, they might become overwhelmed and disengage with the issue. It is important that people feel that they are establishing a connection with the sufferers, that they understand and associate with what is happening. Offering choice for peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involvement leads to long-term engagement and encourages integration of empathy in everyday morality. People are different, with different histories, and can help out in different ways, the more they engage with the results, and see the smiles, the more committed and satisfied they become. That is why we are proud to be Rotarians.

HISTORY OF ROTARY The first Rotary Club was formed when attorney Paul P. Harris called together a meeting of three business acquaintances in downtown Chicago, United States, at Harris's friend Gustave Loehr's office in the Unity Building on Dearborn Street on February 23, 1905. In addition to Harris and Loehr (a mining engineer and freemason), Silvester Schiele (a coal merchant), and Hiram E. Shorey (a tailor) were the other two who attended this first meeting. The members chose the name Rotary because initially they rotated subsequent weekly club meetings to each other's offices, although within a year, the Chicago club became so large it became necessary to adopt the now-common practice of a regular meeting place. The "Rotary 4-Way Test" is used to see if a planned action is compatible with the Rotarian spirit. The test was developed by Rotarian and entrepreneur Herbert J. Taylor during the Great Depression as a set of guidelines for restoring faltering businesses and was adopted as the standard of ethics by Rotary in 1942. It is still seen as a standard for ethics in business management.[5] The 4-Way Test considers the following questions in respect to thinking, saying or doing. The 4-Way Test is in the box on the right over the photo of Paul P. Harris. What did his middle â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pâ&#x20AC;? stand for?

VINTAGE PHOTOS

THE 4-WAY TEST 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned? 3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?