Stories

New Interact Club A Joyful Finale to the Rotary Year!

On Thursday, June 5, we wrapped up Rotary Year 2024-25 with a proud and heartwarming moment at Hop Lee Restaurant in the heart of Chinatown, NYC — the formal chartering and induction of the Interact Club of Chinatown! 🎉

District Governor Syed Alirahi led the ceremony, officially welcoming 19 bright and passionate young leaders as members of our newest Interact Club — the third new Interact Club established in our District this year! 👏🌟

DG Syed administered the oath to the Club’s Charter President and warmly inducted the new Interactors. Co-Presidents Evelyn Isaacs and Esther Yip, along with their fellow officers and members, proudly represented their new Club, full of energy, ideas, and a deep commitment to serving their community. 💫

Rotary’s youth programs like Interact are more than just clubs — they’re incubators for compassion, leadership, and global citizenship. Sponsored by Rotary Clubs, Interact Clubs are for students ages 12-18, empowering them to connect with leaders in their communities and beyond, while organizing service projects, building friendships, and learning the value of "Service Above Self." 🌍🤝

Our Rotary District 7230 team was there in full support — including Deputy Governor & District Membership Chair PDG Mahbub Ahmad, District Executive Secretary & New Club Development Chair Bina Ahmad, and Area Governors Hugh Maynard-Reid and Abit Ragbeer.

In his welcome remarks, DG Syed inspired the new Interactors by saying: “Today, you take your first step into a global family of service-minded individuals. Your passion for making a difference will now be matched with purpose, guidance, and opportunity. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow — you are leaders starting today.”

🌟 Interactors across our District are already making meaningful impact — from community clean-ups and food drives to mental health campaigns and global initiatives. We are incredibly excited to see what the Interact Club of Chinatown will accomplish next!

Welcome to the Rotary family, Interactors of Chinatown — we are so proud of you! 💙

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New Rotary District Governor Garrett Capobianco Installed with Tradition, Heart—and a Heavy Necklace

At a ceremony equal parts tradition, emotion, and Rotary pageantry, Garrett Capobianco of the Scarsdale Rotary Club was officially installed as District Governor for Rotary District 7230 for the 2025-2026 year. The event took place at the elegant Scarsdale Woman’s Club, a fitting venue for a moment both ceremonious and personal.

Though his term officially begins on July 1, Garret Capobianco’s journey to District Governor kicked off two and half years ago. His installation ceremony began with a heartfelt moment: reciting the oath of office, administered not by a random dignitary but by his daughter and fellow Rotarian, Victoria Capobianco. The incoming Governor, visibly moved, called her “the most important person in my life,” setting the tone for an evening filled with warmth and a palpable sense of community.

Following the oath came Rotary’s symbolic handover rituals. Outgoing Governor Syed Alirahi of the Westchester Rotary Club placed the storied District Governor necklace—a weighty chain bearing the engraved names of all past DGs—around the newly-minted Governor’s neck. “It’s like wearing the history of Rotary 7230 around your neck—and maybe a few pounds of stainless steel,” one attendee quipped.

Then came the passing of the ceremonial Rotary gavel inscribed with the words, “The best is yet to come.” It’s more than just a tool for calling meetings to order—it’s a baton in a relay of service and leadership.

The new DG’s remarks, however, were less about pomp and more about purpose. “Membership will be our North Star this year,” he declared, echoing Rotary International’s global focus. “But more than that, I want to ensure that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion remain the bedrock of our district.”

True to Rotary spirit, Garrett Capobianco wasn’t shy about asking for help. “I've asked members across the District to tell me if they want to serve—and 30 have already raised their hands,” he said. “And unless someone’s told me otherwise, the incredible team from DG Syed’s year will continue. Why mess with a good thing?”

In a moment of gratitude and continuity, Garrett thanked outgoing DG Syed Alirahi and the long line of Past District Governors (PDGs) who came before him. And they were present in force, too—offering brief, sage words from the podium. Among the veterans of service were PDG Mahbub Ahmad, PDG George McKinnis, PDG Marty Schulman, and PDG J. Loren Russell. Each welcomed the incoming Governor and praised Syed Alirahi for his dedication, leadership, and diplomacy during his term.

Outgoing DG Syed Alirahi, never one to shy away from humility, lavished praise on his team and pledged unwavering support to the new leadership, which includes incoming DG Garrett, incoming District Governor-Elect (DGE) Maksud, and incoming District Governor-Nominee (DGN) Serkan. “It’s a relay,” he said, “and I’m proud to have passed the baton to Garrett.”

Garrett returned the favor by presenting Syed with the official Past District Governor pin—Rotary’s version of a gold watch—and a bouquet of flowers to First Lady Shazia Alirahi, whose behind-the-scenes support had clearly not gone unnoticed.

Before dinner was served, Syed reciprocated with recognition medals for all PDGs, his District Executive Secretary, Bina Ahmad and incoming members of the so-called “DG Chain,” proving that in Rotary, gratitude is never in short supply.

The evening wrapped up with dinner and fellowship, a tradition perhaps as sacred as the necklace itself. Over clinking glasses and shared laughter, the Rotary District 7230 family toasted to service, leadership—and yes, to the best that is yet to come.

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Rotary District 7230 Celebrates Generosity and Global Impact at Annual Paul Harris Dinner

On Thursday evening May 29, Rotary District 7230 hosted its annual Paul Harris Dinner, honoring the district’s most committed supporters of The Rotary Foundation. The event, at J.C. Fogarty’s in Bronxville, attended by 45 distinguished donors, celebrated Paul Harris Fellows, Major Donors, Benefactors, and Arch Klumph Society members whose contributions continue to transform lives globally.

Opening the evening was District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair (DRFC) and Past District Governor (PDG) Eric Storberg, who welcomed guests and emphasized the Foundation’s role in Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by PDG Mahbub Ahmad, Chair of the District Grants Sub-Committee. With passion and humor, PDG Mahbub praised attendees as “heroes with checkbooks” and shared powerful stories that illustrated the real-world impact of their generosity.

“Every dollar you give creates a story,” he said. “Sometimes it’s a comeback story, sometimes a love story, but always—always—a story of hope.” PDG Mahbub said donors to The Rotary Foundation, which has been awarded the highest 4-star rating by Charity Navigator for 16 consecutive years, are helping rewrite the futures of many lives around the world.

PDG Mahbub cited several life-changing projects made possible by donor support, including a clean water initiative in Kenya, an education project for young children in the Dominican Republic, training for primary school teachers in Bangladesh, and the revitalization of a basketball court in Yonkers. He highlighted that donations not only impact communities abroad, but also return to the district through Global Grants and District Designated Funds.

The District’s accomplishments include 3,209 Paul Harris Fellows, 68 Major Donors, 57 Benefactors, and 17 Bequest Society Members. This year saw a record-breaking $422,735 raised for the Polio Plus Fund, $400,000 of which came from a single anonymous donor.

Despite the success, PDG Mahbub also called for increased participation, noting that only a quarter of the district’s 1,249 members currently donate, and 17 clubs have given nothing this year.

“Our per capita giving is at a five-year low,” he cautioned, “but the opportunity to turn donations into action has never been greater.”

DG Syed Alirahi asked every new donor to step forward and be recognized. In his remarks, he said, without donors like those present, there will be no Rotary projects anywhere, and the world will be a darker place.

As the evening concluded, guests left inspired by the stories of transformation and the call to continue building a brighter future—one donation, one project, one life at a time.

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Highly Successful 2025 District Conference.

Our much-anticipated District Conference on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the beautiful Terrace-on-the-Park, was a huge success. Nearly 130 District Rotarians joined us on the day when we celebrated our shared successes, honored our clubs, and strengthened our vision for the future.

It was a conference to remember. One of our District's young leaders - Raaid Ahmad, Membership Chair of the Sunshine Rotary Club - successfully delivered an outstanding keynote address that was appreciated by all and has so far garnered over 11 hundred views. 12 Clubs presented their projects, the presenters being recognized by a Magic of Rotary medal. Plaques were also given out to District Officers and Board members, recognizing them for their service. Tributes were paid to those of us we lost during the year.

DG Syed Alirahi spoke about the accomplishments of the district, including bringing in 139 new members, but we also lost over a hundred members. One new Club was chartered. Charter applications for 1 new Rotaract Club and 3 Interact Clubs are pending.

A colorful printed District directory was distributed among the attendees after 3 years. It is a comprehensive publication, containing a pictorial depiction of the year's activities, contact information of all District Officers. Contact information of officers of all Clubs, along with pictures of their respective Presidents, is also part of the Directory. The Directory was printed at no cost to the District.

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Presidents-Elect join Learning Seminar

Presidents-Elect from the six Districts of the Mid-North-East Rotary alliance joined a two-day Learning Seminar from the evening of 20 March to the afternoon of 22 March. This year the traditional PETS was renamed the Mid North East Presidents-Elect Learning Seminar (MNE PELS).

Mid-Northeast Presidents-Elect Learning Seminar (PELS) is a premier learning event for Rotary President-Elects and Assistant Governors. Mid-Northeast PELS provides the required knowledge to serve as Club President or Assistant Governor, as well as inspiration and motivation. Mid-Northeast PELS is a 6-District, 300+ clubs learning event, with the atmosphere of a mini-Rotary International convention. The 2025 PELS continued to be the in-person event it was in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The speakers, District Governors-Elect, educators, committee, and discussion leaders all had one thought in mind: equip and excite Club Presidents-Elect and Assistant Governors for their year of service.

The highlight this year was the presence of RI President Nominee Sangkoo Yun as a Keynote Speaker and Director Chris Etienne. Also present and speaking at a Plenary session was Past Rotary Director and Treasurer Drew Kessler. The Presidents-Elect had small group sessions on Planning the year ahead, Conducting effective meetings, Engaging club members, attracting new members, Preparing to lead, Public Image, Service in the community and Fundraising for the Rotary Foundation. The Assistant Governors has separate sessions on strategy, addressing challenges, and knowing the resources available. There were two panel discussions on membership and Public Image.

On Saturday, at the District meeting, the District budget for 2025-26 was unanimously approved. The budget held the line on per capita dues with no major changes. District Governor-Elect Garrett Capobianco spoke about continuing the successful strategies of the past years emphasizing the importance of membership growth.

On both days, each District had a decade-themed hospitality suite. The theme for D7230 was the 50s. All in all the 2-days were filled with learning, fellowship and fun.

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Serkan Ceylan selected as District Governor 2027-28

Serkan Ceylan, President of the Rotary Club of Scarsdale, has been selected as the District Governor for 2027-28. DG Syed Alirahi made the official announcement in an email sent to all District members.

President Serkan has assumed the role of District-Governor Nominee Designee (DGND) for the balance of the Rotary Year. On July 1 2025, he will transition to District Governor Nominee (DGN). The following year, he will become the District Governor Elect (DGE) and on 1 July 2027 he will take over as District Governor.

DGND Serkan's Rotary life began in July 2006 when he joined the Rotary Club of Bodrum-Karia in Turkey, serving as Club Secretary, and then President in 2013-14. He moved to the Rotary Club of Scarsdale in 2022, serving as the President for the current Rotary year. He is also the Chair of the RYLA Committee this year.

Welcoming DGND Serkan to the District Leadership Team, DG Syed asked District Rotarians to join him "in congratulating DGND Serkan and offering him your support as he steps into this important leadership role. We look forward to his vision and dedication in guiding District 7230 in the years ahead."

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Newest Club Celebrates Charter Ceremony

Our newest Club - the Rotary Club of Pioneers, New York was chartered on 29 October 2024. Following a period of organization, the Club celebrated its Charter ceremony and installation of Club Officers marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with service, fellowship, and impactful initiatives! . Club Officers, members, and Rotarians from 4 other Clubs were joined by more than 50 well-wishers at the Skyline Hall, in Ozone Park on 10 February. The Chief Guest was DG Syed Alirahi and District First Lady Shazia Alirahi. Also attending were Club Advisor PDG Mahbub Ahmad and Area Governor Bina Ahmad.

President-Elect Shahnewaz Rahim opened the ceremony with the 4-way Test and the Thought of the Day, followed by welcoming the DG and the District officials. She then introduced Charter President Noor. DG Syed first installed the Charter President followed by the installation of Club Officers and Charter members. Each Charter member received a welcome package with a Charter member Certificate signed by the DG, a Charter member pin and the Rotary Basics booklet.

In his remarks, DG Syed warmly congratulated President Noor, Club Officers, and all members on the establishment of the Club, saying "the event marks a significant moment in the Club's continued commitment to making a difference in our community and beyond". He presented the Charter President with a plaque.

Charter President Noor thanked all guests saying this milestone represents "our commitment to service, unity and the transformative power of Rotary." He spoke about his Club's projects already undertaken and his plans for the coming months. The club produced a colorful 8-page brochure that included messages from the RI President, the DG, the Club Advisor, the Area Governor, a display of photos of all members as well as pictures from their Club meetings.

The ceremony concluded with a sumptuous dinner.

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Rotary's Polio Chair Mike McGovern visits D7230

World Polio Day was on October 24. Just a month earlier, at the Rotary Action Zone summit in Toronto, Rotary District 7230 was honored as the leading contributor to Rotary’s Polio Eradication Initiative for 2023-24, highlighting the district's unwavering commitment to ending polio worldwide. The observance of the Day in our District was marked by a visit from Mike McGovern, Chair of Rotary’s Polio Plus Committee, who spoke at the Bronxville Library during an event co-hosted by the Bronxville, Scarsdale, and Larchmont Clubs. Members from the Sunshine E-Club, the Heritage E-Club, the Yonkers-East Yonkers Club and the E-Club of Vision were also in attendance, showing strong district solidarity.

“No child is safe until every child is vaccinated,” McGovern emphasized, as he outlined the urgent steps needed to achieve zero polio cases. District Rotary Foundation Chair PDG Eric Storberg introduced McGovern, who detailed the challenges in Pakistan and Afghanistan, where wild polio cases have risen, and the situation in Gaza, where a recent outbreak of vaccine-derived polio was successfully contained thanks in large part by Rotary’s dedicated volunteers. These brave individuals worked tirelessly, vaccinating children during limited two-hour windows of ceasefire.

McGovern also acknowledged the critical support from partners like the Gates Foundation and the U.S. government, expressing confidence in their continued backing. PDG Mary Shackleton, Major Gifts and Endowment Advisor for the Zone, underscored how contributions to the Rotary Foundation change lives and support global health initiatives.

DGE Garrett Capobianco shared an inspiring story from the recent Zone gathering in Toronto, where he met a classmate Governor from the Yukon. Despite being a polio survivor, the Governor’s unyielding spirit served as a beacon of hope and resilience.

DG Syed Alirahi thanked Mike McGovern and the contributors and pointed out that the Magic of Rotary continues to improve the lives of people around the world.

Rotary’s spirit of giving was on full display as Shamim Begum, President of the Rotary E-Club of Heritage, and her husband, DGN Maksud Chowdhury, presented a $1,000 check to McGovern as their club’s contribution. Serkan Ceylan, President of the Scarsdale Club, announced a $2,000 pledge from his club. Thanks to the matching support from the Gates Foundation, these donations will be tripled, resulting in a combined contribution of $9,000.

District 7230’s leadership and collective dedication continue to drive Rotary’s mission to eradicate polio, proving that with unity and determination, the goal of a polio-free world is within reach.

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New Rotaract Club is chartered

Our District celebrated August as Rotary Membership and New Club Development Month by installing the President and the 12 young, energetic, passionate Charter members of the community-based Aspire. NY Rotaract Club, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hope NY. This is the first Club in the District this year and the third new Rotaract Club in two years, bringing the number of Rotaractors in the District to 69 in 5 Rotaract Clubs.

The new members each “aspire” to new heights as they begin their Rotaract journey. The officers were installed by DG Syed Alirahi at an outdoor joint gathering of their sponsor Club – The Rotary Club of Hope New York and the new Club. President Minhaz Ahmed, a former Rotaractor himself. brought together these 11 other Rotaractors. DG Syed presented the Club Charter Certificate to the members. He congratulated them on the new Club and expressed his confidence that they will put their time and energy into serving the community.

President Minhaz Ahmed assured the DG that his members will become an asset for the District and will "aspire" to be a model for other Rotaract Clubs in the District.

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DG Syed thanks Past DG Loren for his service

Upon taking office as District Governor, Syed Alirahi sent the following message to IPDG Loren expressing heartfelt thanks for a remarkable year of service

Dear District Governor Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell and the entire 2023-24 District 7230 Team,

I hope this message finds you well and filled with the same sense of pride and accomplishment that resonates throughout our district after a truly extraordinary year of service. As we reflect on the past year, it is clear that under your leadership, District 7230 has achieved remarkable milestones and strengthened our community in profound ways.

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication and inspiring leadership throughout the year. Your vision and guidance have been instrumental in steering our district towards new heights of success and impact.

One of the standout achievements of this year has been the significant growth in membership. This is a testament to the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere fostered by your leadership, which has attracted new members eager to contribute to our shared mission of service.

The participation of our district in the Rotary Day of Service was another highlight, showcasing our collective commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Your emphasis on community engagement and meaningful service has truly made an impact that will resonate far beyond this year.

Moreover, the image of District 7230 has never been stronger, thanks to your strategic initiatives and effective communication efforts. Your leadership has elevated our district's reputation and visibility, reinforcing Rotary's role as a force for good in our communities.

Lastly, I want to commend you and the entire team for the resounding success of the District Conference held on 29 June at the prestigious Yankee Stadium. It was a momentous occasion that brought together Rotarians from across the district to celebrate our achievements, share ideas, and renew our commitment to service above self. The event was a testament to your meticulous planning and dedication to ensuring a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees.

In closing, I am deeply honored to be part of District 7230 under your leadership. Your passion, dedication, and tireless efforts have inspired us all to strive for excellence and continue making a meaningful difference in the world. Thank you once again for your outstanding service and for making this past year one of the most successful in our district's history.

With heartfelt appreciation and warm regards,

Syed Alirahi

District Governor

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Syed Alirahi installed as 2024-25 District Governor

Syed Alirahi took on the mantle of District Governor for Rotary International District 7230 (D7230) for the upcoming 2024-25 term, following a ceremony held at Castle Royale on Saturday, June 15th. The installation, conducted by RI Director-Elect Chris Etienne, was attended by nearly a hundred Rotarians from across the district.

The evening commenced with a Meet-and-Greet session, transitioning into a formal ceremony where various dignitaries, including representatives from local, state, and congressional offices, honored Alirahi with proclamations and citations for his community service. Among them were US Congressman Jamaal Bowman, NY State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, NYS Assembly Member Mary Jane Shimsky, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner, and Elmsford Mayor Robert Williams. The Westchester Association of Fire Chiefs and the Elmsford Fire Department also honored the DG. See all proclamations & Congratulations.

Outgoing District Governor Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell highlighted the district's achievements during the past year, praising D7230 as the leading growth district in North America in terms of membership.

After a buffet dinner, RI Director-Elect Chris Etienne delivered a poignant address, sharing her personal Rotary journey and emphasizing the impact of Rotary's global efforts, particularly in polio eradication.

The highlight of the evening was the formal installation of Syed Alirahi as District Governor for 2024-25. Alirahi expressed gratitude to his supporters, acknowledging the mentorship of outgoing DG Russell and the guidance of past district leaders. He also shared his family's deep-rooted involvement in Rotary, noting that he, his wife Shazia, their five daughters, and their husbands are all committed Rotarians.

In his inaugural remarks, Alirahi called upon his newly installed district team, comprising Area Governors, Vice-Governor, Deputy Governors, District Secretary, Committee Chairs, and Committee members, urging them to continue Rotary's mission of service and community impact.

The installation ceremony marked the official beginning of Alirahi's term, which starts on July 1st, 2024, promising a year dedicated to advancing Rotary's humanitarian goals locally and globally.

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DG Loren condoles Marlene Mckinnis' death

Marlene Mckinnis, Wife of George Mckinnis, PDG of Rotary District 7230, is no more. DG J. Loren Russel expressed his deep sorrow on her sad demise. In a condolence note he wrote, "It is with great sorrow that we announce the transition of the wife of over 50 years to PDG George McKinnis."

Marlene is survived by her husband, her son Alexander and his wife, Susan; her son Marc and his wife, Lara; her two grandchildren, Jack and Sadie; her sister-in-law Sarah Fambrough; her niece Susan Fambrough, and daughter Anne Estelle; her nephew John Fambrough and his wife, Sandy, and son Josh Hitt; her relatives in Düsseldorf; sister-in-law Rebecca Oberföll; and niece and nephew, Sophie and Max Oberföll. Marlene will be missed dearly by her husband, sons, grandchildren, relatives, friends far and wide, neighbors and community for her nurturing, caregiving, loving and maternal nature.

There will be a Memorial Service for Marlene at the Bronxville Reformed Church on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 10:00am, and a reception thereafter at the Bronxville Field Club.

All are welcome to join the family in celebrating her life.

Rotary Clubs Collaborate Seamlessly to Celebrate Hamilton Club's 100th Anniversary

In a display of remarkable harmony and collaboration, the Rotary Clubs of Bermuda came together to jointly celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Hamilton Club. Led by a dedicated committee, comprised of members from all four clubs on the island, the festivities unfolded seamlessly over a four-day period, presenting a united front that belied the individual club distinctions.

The culmination of this collective effort was a grand gala, befitting the occasion, which provided an opportunity for the community to applaud the collaborative spirit of the team. Adding to the festivities, a golf outing and fundraiser held on Saturday attracted participants from far and wide, including some with limited golfing skills, like one member who humorously likened their technique to dribbling a basketball down the fairway.

However, amidst the laughter and celebration, the event also served a charitable purpose. A raffle and fundraiser aimed at bringing district Rotarians from the US to Bermuda resulted in the selection of PDG Marty Schulman as the fortunate individual to join the festivities. Gratitude was expressed to all who contributed, with any remaining funds earmarked to support the district-wide speech contest winner's presentation at the upcoming district conference alongside the US winner.

The success of this centennial celebration underscored not only the enduring legacy of the Hamilton Club but also the power of collaboration within the Rotary community.

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First Annual Youth Speech Contest

Open to all high school students

who live or attend school in

Manhattan	The Bronx
Staten Island	Westchester County

and Bermuda!

Free to Enter!

Compete for cash prizes!

For more information and to register,

visit Rotary7230.org

or contact Contest Coordinator Alan Gray at alangrayjr@gmail.com

Maksud Chowdhury selected as DGND

DG Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell has announced that Dr. Maksud Chowdhury, President of the Rotary E-Club of Heritage, NY has been selectied by the Distrct Nominating Committee to be the District Governor for 2026-27. Dr. Chowdhury will immediately become the Disrict Governor Nominee Designee (DGND). On 1 July this year, he will become the District Governor Nominee (DGN), transitioning to District Governor-Elect (DGE) on 1 July 2025. He will officially take over as District Governor on 1 July 2026, succeeding Garrett Capobianco..

Dr. Chowdhury is a pediatrician by profesion and was awarded "President of the Year" at the District Conference last year for his leadership in growing membership in his club from 20 to 36, sponsoring a community-based new Rotaract Club and as well as forming new Satellite Club. His wife, Dr. Shamim Begum is President-Elect of their Club and his two adult children are also Rotarians. Here is a link to Dr. Chowdhury's bio.

DG Loren also confirmed the selection by the Nominating Committee of Peter De Nicola of the White Plains Club, as District Treasurer for the Rotary years 2024-25 and 2025-26. He congratulated both DGND Maksud and Treasurer-Elect Peter on their selection.

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Sunshine NY Rotary completes 4 international projects in Bangladesh

The Sunshine NY Rotary Club has successfully completed four projects in the past few months. Three of the projects were implemented in Chattogram, Bangladesh in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Chittagong North while the remaining project was in Chandpur all in Rotary District 3282,

Sustainable Education: Library for students
Under this project, both Sunshine NY Rotary Club and Rotary Club of Chittagong North jointly distributed books and educational supplies among several hundred students of an elementary school in a small remote, underprivileged village.

Providing purified drinking water
Both clubs jointly contributed towards the Installation of a water filtration system for students and faculty of Social Science Faculty of the University of Chittagong,- the second largest public university in Bangladesh. This initiative has benefitted more than 500 students and staff vt to providing them access to purified water. Sunshine NY Rotary Club’s International Director, Ashfaque Salim was present during the formal opening of the water filtration system.

Subsidizing low-cost housing for the homeless.
The third joint project being implemented by the Sunshine NY Rotary Club and Rotary Club of Chittagong North is also in Chattogram where a donation is going to be made for housing of homeless people. Twenty homeless people are to have their own shelters for living under this project.

Children's books for underprivileged girls
50 illustrated children's books were distributed to the young girls at the Monu Mia and Sultana Girls Orphanage in Chandpur. The books written by a veteran teacher, and purchased by the Club Charter President were each stamped with the Sunshine NY Rotary stamp. They were picked up by Rotarian Nazrana Yeasmin of the Rotary Club of Dhaka Phoenix for distribution to the children.

The Sunshine Club provided donations for the four projects. Contributors to the project were from the Charter President and Project Chair/International Director.

Rotary Club of Hope Spends Delightful Evening With 100 Children

The Rotary Club of Hope NY had a delightful evening with over 100 children during a Holiday Party on December 21, 2023, at the "Children of Promise NYC" venue. Organizers deemed the event incredible, labeling it a "Wow Evening" where they reunited with their young friends from CPNYC’s Bronx location.

Initiating relationships with children of incarcerated parents in December 2022, the club attracted over a hundred children in just one year. Club leaders attended the event, expressing joy, sharing happiness, and presenting gifts to the kids, who were thrilled with their new toys. The Hope NY Rotary Club members embraced love and acceptance wholeheartedly.

Club President Kazi Ahmed, Charter President Rownak Ahmed, and the energetic Sanjana Tasneem joyfully accompanied the children. A social media post featuring an album from the event was dedicated to DG Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell for supporting the club in organizing it.

Additionally, the Rotary Club of Hope NY celebrated the birthday of their club advisor, PDG Mahbub Ahmad, on December 22, sharing their joy with him.

Chinatown Rotary Hosts Mental Health Wellness Training

Rotary Club of Chinatown hosted a full-day Community Training on Mental Health Wellness on Saturday, December 9th. The program, attended by Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell, District Governor 2023-24, District 7230, featured a comprehensive agenda addressing early recognition, warning signs, coping with stigma, stress, depression, and anxiety. Chinatown RC co-presidents Dr. Evelyn Isaacs and Ester Yip and National Alliance on Mental Illness- NAMI representative Evelyn Graham-Nyaasi led the program. The training employed interactive methods, including group work, role-playing exercises, information-sharing questionnaires, video presentations, and therapeutic activities, fostering a supportive environment for participants.

DG Loren Visited Bermuda in Early November

DG J. Loren Russell visited Bermuda from November 7 to November 11, 2023, immersing in various activities with Rotaract Bermuda, a very active club within district 7230. Engagements ranged from a warm welcome at Bermuda Airport to Tee Time, Bermuda-Boards, Bonds & Bingo: Game Night, Bermuda Clubs-Mini Island Tour, Pembroke RC Official Visit, Hamilton RC Walk/Run to Conquer Kidney Disease, and more. The photo captures DG Loren's infectious enthusiasm alongside spirited Bermuda club members.

District Training Conference is a success

Our District 7230 Training Conference 2023 ended successfully on Saturday 4 November at Sarah Lawrence College. 79 Rotarians from many Clubs participated in the day-long Training featuring focused sessions for Club Presidents, Secretaries, and Treasurers as well as special sessions on Public Image and Fundraising. The afternoon session after a free boxed lunch, featured a session on DEI and membership.

Opening the Training Conference, District Trainer Eric Storberg thanked those attending. In brief introductory remarks, District Governor Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell said the purpose of the Training is to equip our Club Officers with the necessary tools and develop their expertise to make our clubs vibrant, growing, and service-oriented clubs. He said the learning experience will help clubs become more proactive, engaged, and involved and to get others likewise so that all our clubs are similarly engaged. He said District officials are always on call to provide any assistance needed.

The Club Officer breakout sessions were geared toward new as well as experienced officers providing specifics that each officer should know and take responsibility for. For example, Presidents were provided with tips on how to run meetings and set goals, Secretaries were given tips on maintaining club records and adding/removing members. Treasurers were given information on filing tax returns and providing quarterly financial reports to the Board and the members. They were also briefed on the necessity of periodic audits.

The well-attended session on Public Image was presented by Zone 32 Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator and District 7230 Public Image Chair PDG Mahbub and featured three Clubs that have used Public Image resources for their Projects. PE Serkan of the 100-year-old Scarsdale Club highlighted one of the projects in Africa and emphasized the need to preserve the historical archives of Club projects so that future club officers and members could know more about what their club has achieved. Highlighting their first project, the 10-month-old Smart Rotaract Club President Dr. Rummanu Yeasin presented their recent CPR Training and Blood Drive project. She focused on what they did and the lessons learned. Finally, the Larchmont Club presented its program for underprivileged children.

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D7230 Does it Again - Forms New Satellite Club

D7230 has once again lived up to its reputation of being the leader in membership growth. In October, our newest Club, the Rotary Satellite Club of Heritage Health was chartered with 8 new members. Its focus is on health initiatives. This is the 3rd active Satellite Club in our District. Together with the new full Club, and the 8 new members in the Hope Rotary Club, we have added 37 new members to our District rolls since 1 July.

Rotary has had satellite clubs since 2013. At first, satellite clubs were for people who wanted to join Rotary but didn’t have a large enough group to start a club. Unlike regular Rotary clubs, which require 20 members to start, a satellite club can form with just eight members. Satellite clubs also give community members and Rotarians the chance to make a positive difference in a club environment that often differs from their local Rotary club.

Like all Rotary clubs, satellite clubs hold regular meetings, have bylaws and a board, and get involved in community service projects. A local Rotary club sponsors the Satellite club and provides advice and support. Satellite club members are Rotarians. Officially, they are members of the sponsor club.

If any Rotarian in the District is interested in knowing more about Satellite Clubs or to help form a new one, please join our District Conference on 4 November at Sarah Lawrence College. Registration is required and FREE. Or contact the Rotary Zone 32 Innovative Club Advocate (ICA) in our District AG Bina Ahmad.

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District’s 50^th Rotary Club is Chartered

To kick off August as Rotary New Club Development month, D7230 celebrates the approval of the charter of its 50^th Rotary Club and the first cause-based Rotary Club in the District. The new Club is named the Rotary Club of Blooming Rose, NY and was chartered on 19 July 2023 with 21 members, most of whom are physicians and mental health professionals.

The club is the 8^th new Club in the District since early 2019. It’s focus is “Empowering Women and Children in Abusive Domestic Relationships”, and “Raising Awareness of Communication Issues Between Immigrant Parents and their American-Born Children”.

Rotary International President R. Gordon R. McInally in a letter to the Charter members of the new Club said, "Chartering a new club is exciting and challenging. The key to success is building a strong, engaged membership dedicated to the idea of service, ranging from local community-based projects to major global initiatives. Together, we will accomplish great things as we serve local and international communities as we Create Hope in the World".

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15 Clubs achieve 2022-23 Presidential Citation

Wonderful News! 15 of the Disrict's 49 Rotary Clubs achieved the Rotary Presidential Citation for 2022-23. This is the most significant award a Rotary club can achieve, for 2022-23. During a year that was challenging for many Rotarians around the world, these clubs demonstrated a commitment to achieve their goals, which ultimately helps strengthen Rotary and shape our future.

The RI Awards Team has sent a congratulatory message to 2022-23 District Governor Marty Schulman and to each of the 2022-23 Club Presidents that received the Citation. Among the 15 Clubs receiving the award, 10 are from Area 5, 2 are from Area 2 (Bermuda), and 1 each from Areas 2, 7, and 9.

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District Fundraiser sends nearly $15,000 to Rotary Foundation's Turkey/Syria Response Fund.

The humanitarian need in Turkey and Syria is immense and growing – it's the most devastating earthquake to hit the region in 100 years. Thousands of buildings have been destroyed in both countries leaving people homeless, with nowhere to sleep, in the middle of a bitter winter.

RI President Jennifer Jones activated our disaster response efforts, communicating with affected districts. All donations made, until 31 March, to the Turkey/Syria Disaster Response Fund will be used to aid earthquake relief projects, through local Rotary Clubs in the affected areas

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Garrett Capobianco Selected as District Governor 2025-26

District Governor Marty Schulman has announced that Past President Garrett Capobianco of the Scarsdale Rotary Club has been selected by the District Nominating Committee to be the District Governor for our District for the Rotary Year 2025-26. Upon his selection, Garrett assumed the position of District Governor Nominee Designee. On 1 July 2023, he became the District Governor Nominee. The following year he will be the District Governor Elect and taking over as Governor on 1 July 2025.

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Emergency Fundraiser for Fire Victims

At 2 am Thursday, 5 January, 16 units in Hillcrest Park Condominiums in Peekskill, New York were completely destroyed in a massive fire. 25 residents have lost everything and the community of Peekskill is rallying around them to collect donations.

The Peekskill Rotary Club is collecting monetary donations on their behalf. To donate please click the link below.

https://bit.ly/prf-donate

District Clubs' Contributions Help Ukraine Refugees

These three images are but a few of the hundreds of Ukranian people, internally displaced by the Russian terror attacks, whom we have helped to save by our donation of $25,000 (combined to $150,000 through our multi-District efforts). These funds were used for the purchase of bed blankets, linens, pillows, furniture and supplies for the disabled. see earlier story:

DG Visits 4 Bermuda Clubs, inspects Mangrove renewal project and oversees revamping of local Rotaract Club

DG Marty visited the four Clubs in Bermuda this week - Hamilton, Pembroke, Sandys and St. Georges. He also participated in an Interact event and a couple of projects with the Interact Clubs there. While there, DG Marty ensured the revamping of the Rotaract Club in Bermuda.

DGN Syed and AG for Rotaract Abit joined him on the eventful trip. They inspected the Mangrove plants that were set down during the On To Bermuda Service Project in end-August and were pleased to see that the plants have taken hold nicely.

DG Marty introduced Zayne Sinclair a young Bermudian Entrepreneur and Rotaract Member who made presentations to all 4 Clubs on his business Sinclair’s Seed Growing and how he is helping the community to be more sustainable.

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5 Local Rotary Districts Together Send $125,000 in Disaster Relief to Ukraine

Rotarians from five local Districts in our area have joined together to send a Rotary International Disaster Relief Fund grant of $125,000 to Ukraine. This Grant will be administered in partnership with Rotarians in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, to provide humanitarian assistance to a medical shelter by supplying beds, mattresses, blankets, linens, pillows, and other necessary items.

The application process included a District in Northeastern Pennsylvania, all three Districts of New Jersey, and one in southern New York State - our District 7230.

Past District Governor Mary Ellen Bentler from Rotary District 7410 in Pennsylvania and NJ Past District Governor Ray Freaney spearheaded the effort along with the support of the districts and their leadership.

If you wish to know more or contribute to these efforts, please contact District 7230 Rotary Foundation Committee Chair PDG Mary Shackleton

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District Forms Sustainability Partnership in Bermuda

MoU Signed with Our World Too Focused on Protecting the Environment

District Governor Martin Schulman signed an MOU, aligning Rotary District 7230 with a unique effort to enroll humanity in environmental sustainability. The document signing took place as part of the Rotary-sponsored "Life Below Water" cruise event over the Labor Day weekend and included mangrove restoration and beach clean-up projects on the island involving hundreds of Rotarians from around the world.

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District Forms Sustainability Partnership in Bermuda

MoU Signed with Our World Too Focused on Protecting the Environment

OW2 Bermuda, an affiliate of Our World Too, is set to launch a pilot initiative early in 2023 to validate the assumptions of a multi-pronged digital platform that engages individuals and organizations in a broad array of individual actions that benefit the environment, providing education, motivation and rewards for actions taken on behalf of sustainable living. The OW2 platform is also designed to become an "aggregator" of information for opportunities to help the environment, connecting individuals with existing eco-organizations focused on sustainability, including mangrove restoration, preservation of clean drinking water, reduction in plastic waste, and many more. Eventually, Our World Too plans to broaden its scope beyond Bermuda, creating engagements with organizations and motivating individual actions in countries all over the world.

"The mission of OW2 overlaps with our District's commitment to community-service causes related to the environment," said DG Schulman. "There are many great synergies to explore with this partnership, including cooperative engagements with the Rotary Clubs in Bermuda, as well as a meaningful alignment with ESRAG (Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group)."

Rotary District 7230 and Our World Too hosted a cocktail reception on Saturday, September 3, the day the Norwegian Joy cruise ship arrived from New York. Former Bermuda Premier Ewart "Doc" Brown made welcome remarks and was joined on the dais by Barry Rassin, former Rotary International President, who made remarks reflecting the importance of environmental sustainability to the future of Rotary service.

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D7230 Membership Growth Featured in Zone Panel

D7230 has seen a net growth of 80 members since 1 July - a phenomenal 7.19% growth that dwarfs the growth of all other 21 Districts in Zone 32. The overall membership growth in our Zone was 1.71% as of 31 March.

Zone Membership Chair Herb Klotz organized a panel discussion on New Clubs fueling membership growth. Our District was represented by the Heritage E-Club that has grown from 20 members when it was chartered in December 2018 to 33 members today. Heritage Membership Chair Rahat Hossain was joined in a panel discussion that included leaders from two other new clubs started in the past 3-4 years from our zone.

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District Board Approves Crisis Management Plan

The District Board has approved a Crisis Management Plan for the District which will go into effect in the event of a crisis which requires special measures to be undertaken to handle such an eventuality.This document was developed to serve as an important procedural resource to assist District 7230 volunteers and participants in responding effectively when a crisis occurs in order to minimize risk and help ensure the safety of all, to the greatest extent possible.

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District Board approves Statements on Ethics and DEI

The District Board has formally adopted 2 important statements - the first on Ethics and the second on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

The statement on Ethics is the first step in the newly established process in the District, which has seen the setting up of the independent Ethics and Dispute Resolution Committee that reports directly to the District Board and is chaired by PDG Helen Reisler.

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District Tops Zone in membership Growth

Chalk up a big achievement for D7230! Our District has recorded a net gain of 61 members between 1 July 2021 and 31 January 2022. We now stand at 1160 members, up from 1099 at the beginning of this Rotary year a growth rate of 5.55%. This puts our District as the leader of the pack in membership growth in both Zones 28 and 32. The 21 Districts in Zone 32 have a total of 32,766 members in 1134 Clubs. Overall, our Zone saw a membership growth of only 0.83%

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Sunshine e-Club is our newest Club

The District's newest Club - the Rotary e-Club of Sunshine, New York officially came into existence through the approval of its charter by Rotary International on 22nd November 2021. It is the district's 49th Club and has 20 members most of whom are professionals in their respective fields or run their own businesses.

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Staten Island Club's 100th Anniversary

District Board Approves Dues Rebates

The District Board has decided to encourage the formation of new clubs and to encourage the inclusion of young members. This policy remains at the discretion of the Board each year. The policy had previously been enacted in the District's Manual of Administrative Procedures (MAP) following approval by the Clubs in the District on 18 April 2021.

Under the new policy, all new Clubs will be exempt from District Dues for a period of two years from their Charter date. The District Invoice will reflect the full dues with a 100% offset described as New Club Reduction.

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Why Join Rotary? From Beliefs to Process

MEMBERSHIP WORKSHOP October 16,2021: In Their Own Words: Membership Stories Workshop & Discussion

This upcoming membership workshop is a sharing and caring event. We will engage you and your fellow club members in thoughtful and friendly dialogue to work on common matters of membership faced by many clubs throughout our District.

Please register and bring as many of your fellow club leaders to the table on Saturday October 16!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER:

http://Tinyurl.com/d7230-memberstories

Best regards,

Marty

Martin H Schulman DGE

District 7230 Membership Chair

POWERING UP THE
“EMPOWERING GIRLS”
INITIATIVE IN DISTRICT 7230

POWERING UP THE “EMPOWERING GIRLS” INITIATIVE IN DISTRICT 7230

IPDG Mary Shackleton, Zone 32 Empowering Girls Initiative Ambassador

Are you ready to power up Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta’s EMPOWERING GIRLS INITIATIVE in District 7230? As you may have heard, this initiative focuses on the empowerment of girls through club and district events and service activities, as well as through RI-sponsored events such as the Rotary International Convention, Rotary Day at the United Nations, presidential conferences, and Rotary Days of Service. You can find more about all of President Shekhar's initiatives by pointing your browser to: https://my.rotary.org/en/news-media/office-president/presidential-initiatives.

More than anything else, President Shekhar is asking us to share our story on Rotary Showcase. President Shekhar is already telling his story. On a recent trip to seven African countries, he watched 200 girls make reusable sanitary napkins at a project he visited. “Period Poverty” is an issue facing females worldwide, even here in the developed world. PDG Bill Donnelly reports that his club (Rotary Club of Red Bank, New Jersey, USA | District 7505) provides essential supplies to local organizations with support from a District DDF Grant. Feminine hygiene products are among the most popular items.

Updates - January 2021

Posted by Mary Shackleton

J. LOREN RUSSELL SELECTED DG 2023-24

The District 7230 Nominating Committee convened on January 9, 2021, to interview senior Rotarians put forward by their respective Rotary Clubs and select our District Governor for the Rotary Year 2023-24.

MILLION MASK CHALLENGE - TAKE 2

What a day to jump for joy! District 7230 was part of the Million Mask Challenge Tour Take 2. We received approximately 300,000 masks on Thursday, January 14th, through the generosity of the Rossi Family Foundation and Rotarians throughout the Northeast. The masks distributed at stops in White Plains, Harlem, and Staten Island will be shared with at least fifty organizations in the New York portion of our District. This is in addition to the well over $500,000 in cash and in-kind donations that the District 7230 Rotary family has poured into our communities in response to COVID-19. Check out the local TV-news coverage on our YouTube Channel!

IMPORTANT CLUB TO-DO'S

Select your 2020-21 club leadership and enter those officers in http://www.rotary7230.org.
Want more money available for Rotary Foundation grants in 2022-23? Encourage every member of your club to donate at least $25 to the Annual Fund. Commit to being an Every Rotarian EveryYear club today!
It's not too late to establish your club's 2020-21 goals in Rotary Club Central's Goal Center. Setting goals in the Goal Center will help your club measure its impact and is the only way that your club can be recognized with a Rotary Citation for all the good work that you do. The brief video tutorial linked below will show you how.

RI CHARTERS 45TH D7230 ROTARY CLUB

Welcome Charter President Syed Alirahi and the 22 other charter members of the RC of Fairview - Mount Vernon! President Syed, his wife, Charter Secretary Shazia, and members of his family (now Rotarians, too) are well-known "People of Action" in District 7230.

Updates - November 2020

WORLD POLIO DAY UPDATE

Thanks to your generosity, we have raised $13,000 and counting for the PolioPlus Fund.

UPCOMING DISTRICT EVENTS/DEADLINES

SAVE THE DATE FOR 10-11 APRIL 2021! Our virtual District Conference will celebrate 75 Years of Rotary and the United Nations.

OTHER DISTRICT UPDATES

PRINTED DIRECTORIES: As promised, the printed directories are available! Thank you and kudos to AG Sandy Wolstein, Marguerite Chadwick-Juner, Kathleen Fanese, and AG John Ehrlich. A special shout out goes to those who generously submitted advertisements.
NEW DISTRICT YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Check out the new Rotary International District 7230 YouTube Channel @ https://tinyurl.com/D7230YouTubeChannel. Congratulations to the District Public Image Team, especially Chair Nadine Homann and Director of Social Media Jason Gonzalez.
NEW MEMBER INCENTIVE GRANTS APPROVED: The D7230 Board of Directors approved $250 "New Member Incentive Grants" for the following individuals: Shumon Alam (Rotary Satellite E-Club of Heritage NY Evening), Kevin Brown/John DeAmicis/Dr. Charley Ferrer (Mid-Island Staten Island), Rivdan Foxhall (Peekskill), Nate Gallaudet (Eastchester), James Nolan (Yonkers-East Yonkers). Welcome to Rotary all! We have budgeted for seven additional $250 grants. To be fair to all concerned, we will not award more than one grant to the same club unless we have have funds remaining on 31 May 2021.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LATEST DISTINGUISHED "CLUB" SERVICE AWARD HONOREES! We recognized Dr. Mohamed Elsaadany (North Shore, Staten Island) in October. In November, we honor Cathy Bassett (Hamilton, Bermuda). Thank you for your continued Service Above Self, Mohammed and Cathy!

New District Team Installed

The new District leadership team will take over on 1 July. The Installation of the new team took place at a virtual ceremony on 27 June. Incoming District Governor Mary Shackleton and the new District leadership team was installed by RI Director-Elect Valarie Wafer. Outgoing DG Mahbub Ahmad thanked the entire District team for this year for their support and dedication in turning around the District. Incoming DG Mary Shackleton, thanked and celebrated the achievements of those who led the District in 2019-20 and pledged to use her opportunity to serve as Governor to open doors for the D7230 Rotary Family. Here is a link to a slideshow of her presentation.

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From Your Governor #12 (June 2020)

I have been awed at the resilience of our Rotarians – in turning around in the face of adversity. Faced with the prospect of not being able to meet in-person, most Clubs quickly pivoted to online meetings. The District facilitated this process by making available the District’s Zoom account for Clubs to use. In true Rotary spirit, we did not go into hiding from the virus, but came out to stand beside our communities. We were able to get a $25,000 Emergency Grant from The Rotary Foundation - we topped it off with additional funds from the District, making available $56,500 for 24 Club COVID-19 projects. But the Clubs went way beyond that and implemented 47 projects totaling $190,000 – all in the span of less than 3 months – You are truly “People of Action”,

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From Your Governor #11 (May 2020)

Posted on May 05, 2020

While events and activities have been postponed, our Service Above Self has not. The Spirit of Rotary is alive and well. This pandemic has provided Rotary, with the opportunity to pivot, to becoming a more relevant organization. Now is the time to be calm, resilient and resolute. To paraphrase my fellow Classmate Governor - in this darkness of COVID-19, Rotarians will trim their wicks, so their lights do not go dim, but rather become bright beacons of light on a hilltop.

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COVID-19 Emergency Grants -Updated

Update: Clubs have approved an amendment to the District budget to reallocate a portion of the remaining unspent funds in the District towards emergency relief. As a result, all 24 Emergency Grant Requests will now be funded in full.

The Rotary Foundation has allocated $3 million for Emergency COVID Relief for all Districts. In response to that, our District requested and received a grant of $25,000 - the maximum for any District - for Emergency COVID-19 relief efforts in the District.

In order to distribute the grants, the Districts asked Club to submit grant request projects in any of 4 areas: (1) Food Supplies for Food delivery services catering to seniors and disabled, (2) Food supplies for Food pantries. (3) Food supplies for child-care services for children of emergency workers and health care workers and (4) supplies for children learning remotely who do not have access to computers or internet. To be able to distribute the funds more widely, the grant range was set at between $1,000 and $2,500.

There was an overwhelming response to the call - with 24 Clubs requesting grants totaling over $56,500. In addition to the $25,000 from the Rotary Foundation, the District was able to add another $5,000 from the response to the emergency appeal, making the total available funds to nearly $30,000, nearly $26,500 short of the total requirements. The Grants Review Committee decided not to deny any grant request. As such, each project was apportioned 53.9% of their request which exhausted all available funds. The District Treasurer has begun sending out the checks directly to the recipient organizations.

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From Your Governor #10 (April 2020)

Posted on Apr 02, 2020

What a difference in all our lives in just a few weeks! In my last newsletter, we were looking forward to the full District and Club program, for the remainder of the Rotary year.

Since then, the lives of almost everyone on our planet has been changed forever. We have lost so many of us and the prospect of losing so many more is very real. As Rotarians, we will stand side-by-side with those who are helping out assisting those in need, supporting our front-line defenders. We must rise to the challenges and do whatever we can. The needs are enormous and every little bit counts.

Today, I am launching a District-wide appeal for donations. Time is of the essence. I urge you and your Clubs (through your Club Foundations) to donate generously through this appeal. Donations will be channeled to the AFYA Foundation, which has lined up suppliers and shipments for PPEs to be channeled to places of the greatest need and to other organizations providing support to the elderly and vulnerable groups. The top of the curve is still a few weeks ahead. Urgent supplies of PPEs are needed now to deal with the surge and beyond.

The AFYA Foundation will consolidate the funds we provide and that they receive from others to provide this much-needed basic protection to those are risking their own lives daily so others may have a fighting chance. I know you will do whatever you can towards this effort. Here’s how to donate: https://rotary7230.org/page/covid-19-donation

As a District, we have applied for a Rotary COVID-19 Emergency Response Grant. We should be hearing back in a few days.

As you know we have canceled the District Conference. If you wish, you can receive a refund of your registration fees, if you have already paid. If so, do nothing and your registration fees will be refunded in the next few weeks.

But I am requesting that you please give us permission to donate your paid registration fees, in your name, to the District 7230 COVID-19 Emergency Appeal. See more details on this Appeal.

For us to do that, we must have your consent. Please send an email to 7230rotary@gmail.com telling us that you agree to designate your registration fees for the District 7230 COVID-19 Emergency Appeal. Be sure to include your name and your Club Name.

All Clubs in our District have canceled regular in-person meetings, holding them online, or by phone. Now is a time to rethink the future vision of our Clubs. Online meetings seem to have caught on, and may very well become much more of the norm than it is today. If your Club has not yet met online, I urge your give it a try. Now is not the time to sit it out. If you use Zoom, we have provided extensive training on our District Website.

Our clubs have been responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with services to vulnerable groups. See their activities in Club Corner.

This is a time for Rotary, us Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Interactors to remain engaged, and in touch with our communities. Granted, social distancing may result in that engagement taking a different route, but our motto of Service above Self remains ever so relevant in these trying times. Common sense precautions will allow us to stay safe while providing the Service we are known for.

Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. in Rotary and the District at: rotary7230.org/page/covid-19

Please accept my best wishes for the health and safety of your family and of all the members of the Rotary, Rotaract and Interact family in your areas.

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D7230 & COVID-19
(message from the Governor)

Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Interactors:

The health and safety of our members are our top priorities. We, in the District, are closely monitoring the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic, and continuously assessing its potential impact on our members, operations, meetings, trainings, and other events. Our primary goals are three-fold. To ensure:

-- the continued safety of our members and their families

-- we contribute to all containment efforts, and,

-- we ourselves do not contribute towards spreading the disease.

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From Your Governor #9 (March 2020)

District Conference 2020:

Next month is our District Conference Part 2. We have a dynamite lineup for the day, featuring a highly recognized speaker, highlighting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the RI President's Representative, focusing on the new Rotary theme and priorities at the Paul Harris Lunch, where we will recognize all new Paul Harris Fellows, and Major Donors to the Rotary Foundation, and of course, I will present the State of the District. There are special Club presentations of projects, and you are invited to highlight your special projects. Contact Cecily Smith, to get your presentation booked. Here is a link to the Conference Program

If you couldn’t catch the Early Bird registration, because the Early Bird flew away at midnight of 29^th February, don’t despair, the regular registration is here. And if you are reading this, and send an email to 7230rotary@gmail.com, you will receive a special code for a 10% discount. Only a very limited number of these codes are available.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA):
I hope you have already sent in your registration forms for your RYLA students. We expect to have a great RYLA event, surpassing last year’s highly successful event. Great presenters, intensive interactive learning activities and a boatload of fun. If you haven’t already sent in the forms for your kids, send them in anyway, and if there are spaces available, we’ll try to accommodate as many as we can.

Innovative Clubs:

The North American Directors of Rotary, recently convened a one-day summit, to more effectively coordinate and promote a network of proven leaders in new club development. A select group of experts from each zone in North America, met to share best practices, discuss opportunities and resource needs, and set goals for a heightened and accelerated focus on establishing new club models, throughout North America. These “Innovative Club Advocates” will work closely with the Rotary coordinators and district leadership teams, to establish new and different Rotary clubs, and will report to their respective RI Director.

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Number of Rotaract Clubs Doubled

DG Mahbub has announced that the number of Rotaract Clubs in the District has doubled in the last 4 months from 4 to 8. The newest Club - the Rotaract Club of Chappaqua was charted by Rotary International on 5 March. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Chappaqua, the new Club has 9 members. Just one week ago, Bermuda received the Charter for its first new Rotaract Club the Rotaract Club of Bermuda sponsored by the Rotary Club of Sandys.

Earlier on 31 December the Rotaract Club of Peekskill officially received its charter, while the 5th Rotaract Club of the District - the first new Rotaract Club established this Rotary year - the Rotaract Club of Staten Island was chartered on November 4 2019, jointly sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of North Shore and South Shore.

Rotaract activities in the District have been boosted by the formation of these 4 new Clubs and the election of the District Rotaract Representative (DRR). Emelia Guzman of the Rotaract Club at the UN is the DRR for the current Rotary Year, while Faith Forde of the Rotaract Club of Manhattan will the DRR for 2020-21. Congratulations to both Emelia and Faith.

District Rotaract Chair Jahnbaz Almas has worked closely with the sponsor Clubs in helping set up the new Clubs. The new DRRs will be the District Rotaract Committee Co-Chairs during their respective terms.

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NEW YORK ROTARY & ROTARACT CLUB AT UN FEED FAMILIES

Friendship Exchange Postponed

The coronavirus outbreak has created a complex situation around the world. With the World Health Organization declaring a global health emergency, many airlines cancelling flights and governments imposing travel resrictions, we felt we needed to conduct a careful review of prevailing and possible future conditions. Therefore, after thorough discussion, considering the gravity of the situation and the serious health risks involved, we have mutually agreed with our sister District 3482 in Taiwan to indefinitely postpone the proposed outbound Friendship Exchange, scheduled for 8-15 March 2020,

The developing situation will be kept under review, and further information will be made available as the conditions warrant.

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From Your Governor #8 (February 2020)

February is the month of our 115th Birthday. Consider for a moment all the fantastic projects that have been completed around the world because of Rotary, starting with the very first project of a public comfort station (public toilet) in downtown Chicago in 1907. In Rotary year 2018/19, The Rotary Foundation (TRF) raised $395 million dollars surpassing the goal of $380 million. Wouldn’t Paul Harris be proud to know how far this organization has grown and how much good we have accomplished!

There is more than one way to give to TRF. The easiest by far is to sign up with Rotary Direct. You can set up your payments annually, monthly, bi-monthly, whatever works for you. Besides our annual giving to the Foundation, there are also ways to set up giving beyond your lifetime by putting TRF in your will or setting up a life insurance policy with The Rotary Foundation as the beneficiary. Please contact our DRFC Lora Hugelmeyer for more information about how you can be part of the great work our Foundation supports..

February is Peace & Conflict Prevention / Resolution Month. Millions of people all over the world are currently displaced by armed conflict or persecution. In fact, 90% of casualties in armed conflicts are civilians, half of which are children. Through service projects and Rotary programs, the Rotary family is committed to pursuing projects that address the structural causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.

At every stage of our lives and careers, Rotary has something for all of us - a way to let us do more, give more, and be more. Rotary is big enough for us all.

As we start our Aloha year together, I am excited about the opportunities we will have to become more close-knit as a Rotary community. The possibilities for success, change and innovation are endless.

Satellites: Chartering New Clubs Rotary has undergone a major shift in the last 5 to 10 years. As long-time members transition from their clubs, there’s a strong sense of urgency to attract new, younger members. Sometimes that means changing how a club has historically operated, such as switching from daytime to evening meetings. And sometimes, it means chartering a new club.

New clubs can offer our district the opportunity to take on new and different volunteer endeavors. For example, a daytime contingent might focus on a certain set of community issues Rotary, the District or the Club has identified, whereas an evening group might target another. All it takes is passion, diligence, and at least 8 willing members to setup your own Satellite Club with the sponsorship of your Rotary Club.

As I reported last month, our District now has its first official Satellite Club adding 12 new members. Another Satellite Club application is pending approval. In Rotary and in life, we are better together. Questions about chartering a new club? Email me.

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District Conference 2020

Our District Conference Part 2 scheduled for Saturday 18 April 2020 has been postponed. A new date will be announced shortly. If you have registered, your registration will be carried over to the new date.

Visit our Conference Page for details about the conference, the venue and to register

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From Your Governor #7 (January 2020)

Click on photo to enlarge

Now that half of this Rotary year is over, and my official visits around the District are essentially complete, I want to acknowledge how much I appreciate the opportunity of meeting and getting to know so many dynamic Rotarians in our District. With this interaction, I now understand and better appreciate the diversity among our Clubs. I also appreciate the help and support of our Vice-Governor Greg Arcaro, DGE Mary Shackleton, DGN George McKinnis and Assistant Governors. My visits have also strengthened my view that the Family of Rotary is active, vibrant and well in our district.

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Past Treasurer Larry DeNoia passes away

Posted on Dec 10, 2019

The District is saddened at the passing away on Monday, 9 December, of our past Treasurer and Assistant Governor, Larry DeNoia. A Past President of the Peekskill Club, Larry joined Rotary in 1988.

Larry was the perfect example of what it meant to be a Rotarian. He lived by our motto, Service Above Self. He will be greatly missed and we mourn his death. On behalf of the District, we convey our deepest condolences to Larry's family and to everyone who knew Larry. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.

The wake is on Thursday 12 December and the funeral and burial will be on Friday 13 December.

The Peekskill Rotary Club is establishing a Scholarship Fund in memory of Larry DeNoia. Contributions may be sent to:

Peekskill Rotary Foundation, Inc.
P. O. Box 344

Peekskill, NY 10566

Payee: Peekskill Rotary Club Foundation, Inc.
Memo: Memory of Lawrence J. DeNoia (Grant Fund)

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Save the Date

Posted on Nov 16, 2019

Click on image to enlarge

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Rotary Day at the UN

Posted on Nov 10, 2019

Saturday, 9 November 2019 at 7:30 am kicked off the Rotary Day at the UN 2019. This year the celebration was in conjunction with the preparations for the 75th anniversary of the signing of the UN charter. In a message, Rotary President Mark Maloney said Rotary helped influence the formation of the UN. " Rotary educated members about plans to create the UN through numerous articles in The Rotarian and through a booklet titled From Here On! When the time came to write the UN charter, Rotary was one of 42 organizations the United States invited to serve as consultants to its delegation at the San Francisco Conference.

Through a series of flash talks and plenary speeches, this event offered the energetic 470 attendees from 23 countries an inspiring day of Connecting for Good and to learn about and support projects in refugee settlements and beyond. Guests heard first-hand experiences of resettled refugees, humanitarian actors and individuals creating community-based solutions that empower refugees, leverage their talents and connect them to opportunities. Here you can view the presentations.

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From Your Governor #5 (November 2019)

Posted on Nov 06, 2019

We had a wonderful District Conference Part 1 with capacity attendance. The social media components and the panel discussion on Diversity were the highlights of the day. As I have emphasized during my visits to our Clubs, we must make extra efforts to restore our public image. We aren't visible enough and the world doesn't know what we are doing. Thank you for attending. Those of you who missed it be sure to join in for the District Conference Part 2 on 18 April 2020..

Our District has gone through sad moments last month as we unexpectedly lost our Co-Chair of the District PolioPlus Committee and President of the Yonkers-East Yonkers Club Shahid Latif. Shahid was a relentless champion in the fight to eradicate Polio. When we reach our goal, polio will become only the second human disease eradicated on the planet, and Rotary will receive international acclaim. But what matters most is the children who will never again have to face this terrible, disabling virus. Rotary must continue to connect the world in the effort toward polio eradication. It is up to us. Let us finish the job.

November is Rotary Foundation month. We need to renew our commitment to our communities by supporting the best organization - our Rotary Foundation – It is through the Foundation that our Clubs can leverage their resources for the greatest impact, in our communities and across the globe. Your support is what keeps our Foundation great.

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Yonkers Project gets Cover Story on "The Rotarian"

Posted on Oct 28, 2019

The Yonkers-East Yonkers Club's Global Grant project of building a Basketball court and organizing the Anti-bullying program for underprivileged kids secured the cover story and a 6-page center story of the November issue of the Rotarian Magazine. The story is also featured in the RSS Feed from MyRotary.

This is only the second time a project from a Club in our District is featured as a cover story in the magazine, which is sent out to all Rotarians either in print form or in digital form. Read the entire story and see the pictures

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From Your Governor #4 (October 2019)

Posted on Oct 01, 2019

A quarter of this Rotary year has gone by. We are slowly but surely, beginning to turn our District, on to a positive course. We now have an active multi-year leadership group, looking at elements of our district, which will require sustained efforts, over a number of years. Substantial improvements will begin to be felt, in Membership efforts, Club Management, Club performance, Club Technology, and of course, Public Image. All of this, will have a positive impact on Club morale, as we energize ourselves into dynamic action.

With this as our goal, we’ve arranged a dynamite District Conference Part I for you. As you must have seen from the emails, and website and Facebook postings, Saturday 26 October will be all about you, your Clubs, and what you have asked for, by way of District help and support. We will address Membership issues, Club Management, Public Image, and Technology. Click here for Conference Program If there are any particular elements you’d like addressed, please send them on, and we’ll try to weave them in. (send to 7230rotary@gmail.com ) The sessions will be interactive, and we’ll have a general Q & A, at the end of the day. Register Now to join.

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From Your District Governor #3

Posted on Sep 01, 2019

September is Basic Education and Literacy Month. Many of our Clubs are undertaking Education and Literacy projects via the District matching Grants program. There is also a Global Grant proposal on Basic Education, which is nearing finalization with the participation of 3 sister Districts.

Looking back, August was Membership and New Club Development Month. While our District has had only 1 new club in the last decade, that Club also added 7 new members this Rotary year. The way forward is New Clubs. There are initiatives underway to form new Satellite Clubs, which will also be a boost to our membership. But importantly, we must redouble our efforts to keep the members we already have. All members need to be engaged in Club activities. And for that we need to make an intentional effort to ensure that we are providing our members with a worthwhile experience! It is important that our fellowships are informative, and fun, but also meaningful and responsive to the needs and interests of our members.

This month, the week-long Zone Conference will bring Rotarians from Zones 24 and 32 together at Niagara Falls, Canada. Our Zone 32 will be welcoming Districts from Michigan and New York.

Fast Forward: October will bring a flurry of activities. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 26 October for District Conference Part 1. Details to follow very shortly. Also, be sure to set aside October 24 – World Polio Day. Clubs will be organizing Polio awareness events. Going the last mile in the eradication of Polio is the most important last step in finishing off what we Rotarians started way back in 1979. Our Annual On To Bermuda is October 30 to November 3. Get your Bermuda gear ready for fun, and learning as well.

Bina and I are continuing with our DG Official visits to clubs. We completed thirteen so far, each one was quite unique, all were special, engaging and memorable. We are clearly comprised of diverse groups, who share the core values of Rotary. Hope to complete all 44 Club visits by November.

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4 Points of Emphasis

Posted on Jul 01, 2019

Unveiling the new Rotary theme for 2019-20 - "Rotary Connects the World". Rotary International President Mark Maloney has emphasized 4 points of emphasis during the year.

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District Assembly - April 29, 2017

Registration begins at 8:15 am EDT (9:15 am ADT)

Program begins promptly at 9 am EDT. (10:00 am ADT)

Location:

Bermuda: Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, East Broadway, Hamilton

New York (by video conference): Stone Manor 101, 101 Saw Mill River Rd., Hawthorne, NY

Registration $45.00 per person. We are recommending the attendance of the President Elect, Foundation and Membership Chair from each club.

It will include a light continental breakfast and lunch.

Check payable to: Rotary District 7230

Send to: Peter DeNicola

PO Box 4637,

Stamford CT 06907

Speakers:

David C. Forward - Our Rotary Foundation, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.

Chuck Watson - How Do You Increase Your Membership? What's your plan?

Click here to Register

District Governor's Installation Dinner - May 20, 2017

Cost: $85 Per person.

Event Times:

6:00 PM EDT - Cocktails & passed hors d'oeuvres. Two glasses of wine or beer included. Cash bar available

7:00 PM EDT - Dinner

Checks payable to: Rotary District 7230

Sent to: Peter DeNicola

PO Box 4637

Stamford, CT 06907

Come join the celebration of Barbara Edwards' installation as our 2017-18 District Governor at the majestic Siwanoy Country Club, located in Bronxville, New York.

Luxuriate in these historic surroundings as installation festivities begin with a cocktail hour, including passed hors d'oeuvres, on Siwanoy's gorgeous terrace overlooking the 18th green, followed by a sumptuous three course dinner in the club's formal dinning room.

The District team is looking forward to seeing you there!

Click Here to Register

RF Funding Model Takes Effect July 1

On 1 July, The Rotary Foundation’s funding model goes into effect. check within to see what these changes are and how they'll affect you and your Club.

End Polio Now

International Project Invite - Down Under

Australian school teacher Cathy Booth extends an invitation to your Rotary Club to join her in building a self-sustainable children’s village in Kenya. Your club’s support will help children and communities to break the cycle of poverty. Together we can achieve the extraordinary.

Bernard Nordkamp Donation - Results!

Susanne Gellert of Wall Street Rotary paid a visit to the Bernard Nordkamp Center, Namibia to follow up on a donation made to them through the generosity of Fellow Rotarians and her own initiative.
Read the thank-you letter from Rotarian Marybeth Gallagher of BNC and see a number of Susanne's photos from her visit.

District Info

Club News

Archived Stories - District 7230 Clubs

District News

Archived Stories - District 7230

North Shore Rotary Club has been Busy

Have a look at the April's happenings:
Frank Wilkinson reports on the events which include setting up a fundraising campaign in support of the Autistic Community of Staten Island (Apr 19), hosting it's first baby shower, and inducting three new members.

Conference 2015 Video

See what awaits you at the District Conference in April

click the image to see the video

RCNY Police Recognition Day

Honors to the NYPD and a Special Hero
On March 12 the Rotary Club of New York celebrated Police Recognition Day for the 46th year. We honored Police Officer Rosa Rodriguez, this year's hero, with a plaque and were given an overview on the NYPD and the latest task forces and technologies by Assistant Police Chief Terrence Monahan. RCNY also presented a Grant check to the NYPD Foundation to Asst. Chief Monahan.

Online Grant Application Tool

Rotary.org has advised us that the Online Grant Application Tool is getting a new look and enhanced functionality. These changes will be available beginning Mar 9. This will be of interest to District Rotary Foundation Committee Chairs, District Grants Subcommittee Chairs, and primary contacts for grants in progress.
View the Online Grant Application Tool

Dolls as Pediatric Tools

Educational Toys Allay Fears
Sunday March 1st saw an unusual get-together. Fredlee Ann Kaplan of Gift of Life International along with members of The UN Rotaract Club and of Rotary Club of New York met to create medical play dolls for hospitalized children in GOLI's Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Program in El Salvador.

Robert Benson - In Memoriam

We regret to report the passing of Bob Benson. Bob and Doris Benson were very much involved with making a 'difference in the world.' Together they spearheaded the Comaco project in Africa for the Bronxville Rotary Club. As a tribute to Bob, and of course to Doris you can view a video of their work.
Video - courtesy Andrew Stein Videography - 914-671-3760

RI Pilot Club Program

Become an innovative and flexible Rotary Club - fun, dynamic, diverse, resilient, tolerant, interested in trying new things, proactive, member driven, results oriented, resourceful, inspirational, and relationship rich. Find out about RI's Pilot Clubs Program.

Tax Status Information for Clubs

Make sure you've got correct information about your Club's Federal Tax Status and the steps you need to take to establish and maintain it.

Details and forms needed are outlined in Rotary and the IRS.

The original status determination is detailed in US Treasury Determination Letter.

Syrian Children Refugee Project

Rotary Districts Join Forces
Rotary District 7230 - New York Rotary Club, in partnership with District 1130 - London and District 2430 - Ankara have joined in a campaign to aid Syrian Refugee Children.

View their dynamic presentation inside.

Staten Island Honors Bernard Del Rey

Each year, Staten Island business leaders are recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Staten Island community, through the Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Awards --　co-sponsored by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Staten Island Advance.

Grymes Hill resident Bernard Del Rey, founder and partner of Del Rey & Company, CPAs, LLP, in New Dorp, is one of eight business leaders being honored this year.

7 Things to Know about Membership Dues

How much does it cost to be a member of your club? You can probably answer that question. What do your membership dues cover? That may not be as clear. Many Rotarians know that a portion of their dues funds club & district expenses, as well as RI operations worldwide. Few know exactly how that all breaks down. Dues are very important, as they're the single biggest source of revenue providing the services you enjoy as a Rotarian. RI answers some frequently asked questions about where your money goes. Click the Image to read about it.

New Generations Report

Jahnbaz Almas, Rotary Club of Wall Street, attended the New Generations meeting at Boxborough, MA in Dec. Jahnbaz is a dedicated Rotarian with an eye on Youth Service. See his report attached. Thanks Jahnbaz for the "Service above Self."

view a video from EarlyAct

download Jahnbaz's Event Report

Rotary Partners Aid Young Girl

Twelve year-old Lei Francene Nuguid Vitug of the Philippines, born with a facial cleft, approached the Rotary Club of Mabalacut for help. Together with help from RC Cortlandt Manor, Lei will be having corrective surgeries this coming March. RC Mabalacut is happy that Lei’s surgery is moving forward and thanks go out to sister Club RC Cortlandt Manor for help with this Rotaplast project.

Briarcliff Manor RC Donates to Heartsong

On Jan 23, Briarcliff Manor Rotary hosted speaker Marion Anderson, Exec. Dir. of Heartsong. Heartsong uses music and the other arts to help children with Autism & Down's Syndrome and the elderly with debilitating ailments. The presentation was so inspirational that Briarcliff Manor Rotary presented a donation check on the spot.

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