District 6840 Stories
May Newsletter
May is coming in like a LION as April left us with incredible fun and friendships!
 
Thank you to all who participated in and contributed to the success of the 2022-23 District Conference last month. The weather was amazing for the golf tournament and Food Fest. I was excited to see new faces at this event and hope each of you found new friends and new ideas for making our Rotary Clubs more vibrant and successful.
 May be an image of 4 people May be an image of 8 people 
 
 
I had the honor of presenting the Rotary International Service Above Self award to Sharron Newton. This award is given to fewer than 150 Rotarians each year to recognize their commitment to helping others by volunteering their time and talents. Sharron is a member of the Slidell Northshore Club and serves as District Deputy Governor for Service.
 
 
 
Rob Young, a member of the Hattiesburg Sunrise Club, was the recipient of another prestigious award from The Rotary Foundation, The Citation for Meritorious Service, for his outstanding service and commitment to The Rotary Foundation.
 
 
 
I was excited to present Mike Sigler, District Chair of RYLA and member of the Metairie Sunrise Club, my Governor’s Award for his many years of commitment to RYLA.
 
 
One more major award: With much gratitude, I presented Emily Leitzinger, Deputy Governor of Club Administration and member of the Mid City New Orleans Club, the District’s Rotarian of the Year award!
 
 
Special thanks to Mark Killingsworth, Ryan Kelly, and the other members of our District Conference Committee for the long hours they dedicated to making the Conference a success. And, if I can get the recipe for the pork dish the McComb Club served at Food Fest, I promise to share.
 
 
A few reminders:
2. Deadline for applications for District grants for 2023-24 is May 31, 2023.
3. Last call for those wanting to attend RI Convention in Melbourne, Australia.
4. Please make your donations to The Rotary Foundation by the end of May 2023.
5. Please check with your club officers about completing and updating the club’s goals in Rotary Club Central so your club may qualify for the Rotary Citation for 2022-23. The deadline is June 30, 2023.
 
As your club looks forward to a new Rotary year with new board members and new ideas, please remember to thank your officers and members for their valuable leadership, friendship, and Service Above Self.
 
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In Memory:
 
Past District Governor, Dr. James “Jerry” Fortino of District 6840, Louisiana, on April 18, 2023.

Born and educated in Michigan, Jerry relocated to the New Orleans area after completing medical school. He and his spouse, Carolyn, opened Children's Clinic in Gretna, LA where he practiced pediatrics for over fifty years.

A long-time Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Algiers, he served as Governor of District 6840 from 2006-2007. After Hurricane Katrina, Jerry launched the restoration of the New Orleans City Park's main entrance and grounds, and he reached out to clubs and districts worldwide to help with this rebuild of a historic part of New Orleans. He was a recipient of Rotary International’s Service Above Self award and The Rotary Foundation’s Citation for Meritorious Service.

PDG Jerry's obituary may be viewed here.  
Dr. James Michael "Jerry" Fortino M.D. obituary
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Check out what is happening in our Clubs!
 
 
What a great success the Rotary Walk 2023 was!
A huge thank you to all our sponsors and walkers.
At the final count, 34 walkers completed a combined 70 miles and $6,500.00 was raised for the upcoming session of St. Peter's by-the-Sea Casting our Nets program.
 
 
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The Rotary Club of Slidell was privileged to host alumni from Friends Forever International at a luncheon at Pinewood Country Club on Friday, April 14, 2023. 
 
 
 
Friendship Exchange happened with a group of Rotarians from France (April 1 -6, 2023) followed by an assembly of past alumni of Friends Forever (April 4-16, 2023) This year, we are thrilled to welcome seven exceptional alumni of Friends Forever from Palestine, Israel, Cyprus, Uganda, and Northern Ireland. These remarkable leaders were carefully selected for their dedication to community action, professional networking, and using their leadership skills to create lasting positive impacts. FFI is honored to have them as our ambassadors. Our District is honored we have been chosen to host. 
 
 
WOW! What a month!! So excited for all to come in June and beyond.  Thank you for helping to Imagine Rotary with me!
 
In Service,
DG Regina
April Newsletter
EXCITEMENT IS IN THE AIR!
 
Welcome to the fourth quarter of the 2022-23 Rotary Year.  Now is the time to celebrate how we have Imagined Rotary and begin to transition to the 2023-34 Year. The Rotary Calendar is in full swing.
 
Our District Conference is a few short weeks away. The agenda is exciting, and I encourage all of you to join us in Hattiesburg April 21-22, 2023.
 
The 2023 Rotary District Conference, is to be held at the Thad Cochran Center at The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg on April 21-22, 2023.  

This event will include several fun pre-conference activities (see below) and 1.5 days of great sessions on tips and strategies for growing and sustaining our Rotary Clubs.  In addition, we will have several notable speakers to highlight Rotary projects and initiatives.  Plus, we will host our annual Food Fest and House of Friendship.  If you are a leader in your club or want to learn more about Rotary and our various opportunities, this is the conference for you.
 
Pre-Conference Opportunities
Golf Tournament - Shadow Ridge Golf Course, Hattiesburg
Tour of Camp Shelby
Visit the Lucky Rabbit
Cooking Demonstration
 
Conference Agenda
Click here to view the full conference agenda

Registration

Click here to learn more and register for the conference 
Click here to learn more about conference sponsorship opportunities
Click here for golf tournament information, registration, and sponsorship

Additional Opportunities

Participate in cooking at the Food Fest
Participate in the House of Friendship
 
Sign up for House of Friendship to reserve your club’s table (brochures, flyers, fundraisers, service projects, and social events)
 
A word from DGE Vicky: FUN-FUN-and-FUN
 
Calling all the good time Charlies!  Or, as I refer to them, club presidents-elect and president-nominees.   There will be a gathering of this devil may care group on Friday, April 21, 2023, at the District 6840 Conference, 3:00-4:00 pm.  Let’s get together and talk about all the fun rousing we can accomplish during the 2023-24 Rotary year.  Don’t be square, see you there!  And, anyone else that might want to listen in……………….
Vicky Gutierrez, Governor 2023-24
Sam Walley, Governor 2024-25
 
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Imagine Rotary Book Drives
 
Your response to my request for children’s books has been magnificent.  
 
 
Learn more at the District Conference! Bring your photos and success stories with you along with any additional books.
 
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The Rotary Foundation Giving
 
It’s not too late for clubs and individuals to make donations to the Rotary Foundation for this Rotary year. Donations made before June 30, 2023, will be used by RI to calculate the funds we will have available for District Grants in 2025-26. I urge you to make your donations as soon as possible. Thank you for including The Rotary Foundation in your charitable giving for the year.
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2023-24 District Grants deadlines
 
District Grants Management Seminar 
 
At least ONE member of your club MUST be certified EACH YEAR to apply for and complete the District Grants program.
 
2023-24 District Grants Application Deadline
May 31, 2023
(Your Club must be approved, and MOU signed and returned to the District Grants committee before a grant application may be submitted)
 
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District Response to recent disasters in Mississippi
 
Please contact Deputy Governor of Service Sharron Newton and DGND Keith Clayton for information on how to donate and to learn about plans to travel to the disaster areas to help.
 
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RYLA applications are available
 
This year marks 25 years of District 6840 sponsoring this important teen leadership program.
 
 
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Upcoming Club events:
 
Rotary Club of Bay Saint Louis – Rotary Goes to the Races – Rotary Goes to the Races | Facebook
 
Rotary Goes to the Races is a Kentucky derby-themed luncheon and fashion show. Bring your "A" game as you can compete in Best Hat, Best Ensemble, and Best Decorated Table categories. Your ticket includes lunch and a fashion show with our featured models representing each of the 3 local nonprofits our Rotary Club will be performing service projects within the coming months.

Proceeds from this event will help us fund projects with the @Bay Waveland Habitat for Humanity, the Bay St. Louis Little Theater, and Magdalene House. We'll tell you a little bit about what other services your local Rotary has done this year to support local and international needs.
 
Following the fashion show and lunch all event attendees will have access to the specialty boutique shopping gallery. Pick up one of the pieces worn during the show or even something else the boutique brings along for you to purchase!
 
All tickets assure you a seat at a table. You can purchase a table for 8 (at any of the sponsorship tiers) or you can individually purchase a ticket(s). Pricing for individual tickets is $100 for the VIP priority seating, unlimited beer, wine, or specialty drinks along with lunch. $75 individual tickets include 2 drink tickets, a designated table location, and lunch. $50 tickets include a seat at lunch and drinks are available for purchase.
 
Are you purchasing a table for the event? You need to enter our table decorating contest! We'll allow those who are decorating their tables to set up your space the night before the event (Thursday, April 20th from 6-9 pm at the community center)
 
Questions? No problem, you can always message us on here or reach out to our event chair, Meg Noonan at meg.noonan@comcepts.net.
 
   
 
 
Rotary Club of Pass Christian – Paddle in the Bay with a 5K - Rotary Club of Pass Christian | Facebook
 
The Rotary Club of Pass Christian will hold Paddle the Bay with a 5k as its 2023 fundraiser from 8 AM to 2 PM on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the Henderson Point Park in Harrison County at the base of the Bay Bridge in Pass Christian. This will be the Club’s only fundraiser and helps support the club’s many good works in our local community. Please join us for this year’s event, which will feature food, music, and a silent auction. We will start the day with a 5k. Participants can also paddle around Mallini Bayou or across the Bay at any time. We will have spotter boats along the bay route between Highway 90 and the railroad bridges. Each participant will get sponsors to participate in the event. Your support is appreciated through monetary sponsorship; silent auction donations; food/beverage donations; or gift cards (used to purchase supplies). In keeping our overhead low, we will have more funds to support projects which benefit our community.
 
   
 
For more information, registration, and sponsorships:
Paul Ellis (228) 343-1559
Carolyn Ishee Marshall Smith (228) 493-3305
 
Rotary Clubs of Edgewater - District Grant for the Gulf Coast Centers for Non-Violence -  Rotary Club of Edgewater #6840 | Facebook 
 
With the support from a district grant the Rotary Club of Edgewater was able to double its impact of providing supplies for the Gulf Coast Centers for Non-Violence. GCCNV provides help to persons of all types of domestic along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Our club purchased bed and bath linens for the residents of the center that they were able to take when they left the center. The items purchased were Twin bed sheet sets, twin bed blankets, pillows, and bath towel sets.
 
District grants are made possible each year through the generous support of our Rotary Foundation.  Thank you for your support of our Rotary Foundation.      
 
    
 
 
See you in Hattiesburg!
DG Regina Wedig
 
We are exploring new formats for the District Newsletter. Please send us your comments and suggestions on how we may better serve you and keep you informed.
 
 
 
 
 
March Newsletter
Greetings my friends!
 
Spring is always a busy time for all of us, both with our Rotary clubs and families. However, I ask you to take a few minutes to remember two long-time Rotarians who recently died, Karen Livengood and Ted Molesworth. Both Karen and Ted were very active with their RC of Long Beach and will be missed by all who knew them. They will be remembered along with other Rotarians who have died during this year at the Memorial Service scheduled for Saturday morning, April 22, 2023, at the District Conference. All are welcome to attend and pay your respects.
 
Great things are happening in our District in the coming weeks. PDG Karen Babin has been busy with scheduling two major events: Friendship Exchange with a group of Rotarians from France (April 1 -6, 2023) followed by an assembly of past alumni of Friends Forever (April 4-16, 2023) This year, we are thrilled to welcome seven exceptional alumni of Friends Forever from Palestine, Israel, Cyprus, Uganda, and Northern Ireland. These remarkable leaders were carefully selected for their dedication to community action, professional networking, and using their leadership skills to create lasting positive impacts. FFI is honored to have them as our ambassadors. Our District is honored we have been chosen to host. Please contact Karen at (ksbabin@gmail.com, 518-588-9096 for more information and to learn how you may get involved!)
 
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Of course, Club Presidents Elect will meet with their counterparts from 4 other Districts at OMR PETS March 17-18, 2023, in Natchez, Mississippi. Good luck to each of you and thank you for stepping up to serve your Club in this vital role.
 
 
Now that Mardi Gras is over, Spring festivals are competing for your participation. These festivals and Spring holidays serve as fundraisers for many Clubs, and I encourage you to check the District Calendar for a list of upcoming events.
 
Clubs are hosting events throughout the District:
 
March 10, 2023, at Ruby Slipper Café in New Orleans: Join the RC of Mid-City to raise funds and pack supplies to support New Orleans Family Justice Center.
 
 
The RC of Ponchatoula will be busy at the Strawberry Festival, April 13-15, 2023. The RC of Hammond hosts its Shamrock Run on March 25, 2023, at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival grounds in Hammond. The Dairy Fest in Tylertown may not be until June 3, 2023, but I know you want to be there to cheer on the International Turtle Races sponsored by the RC of Tylertown!
 
The RC of Moss Point recently planted more than 50 trees in their community. More than 90 community volunteers helped. New friends and potential new Rotarians working together.
 
 
While the rest of the area attended parades, Rotary Club of Slidell members Kenny Breaux and Mark Ricard donated a total of 64 hours with the Epworth Project, leading two teams of volunteers from Massachusetts over Mardi Gras week. 
 
 
 
 
2023 MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF PARTNERS IN EDUCATION AWARDS
 
The Rotary Club of Gulfport—Orange Grove and the Harrison County School District are the winner of the Mississippi Association of Partners in Education Multi-Level School Governor Award!
 
 
Trang Pham Bui, Public Information Officer for the Harrison County School District and an Honorary Member of our club submitted our application earlier this year with the assistance of member Steve Howard.
 
The award acknowledges the significant partnership that we as a nonprofit organization and the school district have together that significantly moves the parameters of education for children in the elementary schools and high schools in Harrison County in an upward direction.  Through our Little Free Libraries, Buddy Backpack Program, Dictionaries for Third Graders Project, Comfort Closets, Interact Clubs, Scholarship Program, RYLA, and Christmas for Kids Program.
 
CONGRATULATIONS TO CLUB PRESIDENT WILSON EATON, THE CLUB’S LEADERSHIP TEAM, AND TO THE MEMBERS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF GULFPORT-ORANE GROVE ON THIS SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT AND HONOR!!!!
 
What is your club planning for the final months of this year? Please post your event on the District Calendar with contact information for those who may want to volunteer.
 
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Upcoming Deadlines:
 
March 31, 2023: Remember to close out your District Grants by March 31, 2023. Help is available on the District Website to answer your questions. District and Global Grants | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca)
 
District Conference Update:
 
Please remember to register for your choice of social events scheduled on the morning of the first day of our District Conference, Friday, April 21, 2023. You can play golf, watch a cooking demonstration (and eat!!), take a tour of Camp Shelby or explore the shops at the Lucky Rabbit.
 
The Conference begins at 2 pm although the House of Friendship and registration will open earlier in the day. This is your chance to meet with PDG Maureen Fritz-Roberts who will bring greetings and exciting information from RI President Jennifer Jones. Also joining us will be Darwin Sampedro, our RI representative who will be on hand to help you sign up for your own Rotary Club Central account and troubleshoot your questions with your current account. Please bring your login credentials!
 
The first day of the Conference ends with more fun. Bring your best dishes to share with others at Food Fest, Friday night, April 21, 2023. The Hattiesburg area clubs look forward to experiencing the fun and excitement!
 
District Conference, April 21-22, 2023, in Hattiesburg will include a Golf Tournament on Friday morning, Optional Family events (cooking demonstration at USM or a tour of Camp Shelby) on Friday morning. The opening sessions start on Friday afternoon followed by Food Fest on USM’s campus later that evening. Saturday will begin with a memorial service to celebrate the lives of those Rotarians who died during the past year. Sessions will include membership, public image, club administration, fundraising, grants, and the Rotary Foundation. We will close the day with the Governor’s banquet to celebrate your achievements within your clubs and the District.
 
Check for updates and REGISTER here: MyEventRunner - Event Public Fill (crsadmin.com)
 
June 30, 2023: Don’t forget to update your goals in Rotary Club Central to help qualify for the President Citation. Categories include Members and Engagement, The Rotary Foundation, Service, Young Leaders, and Public Image. Every club addresses each category in some way during the year, so why not thank your members by taking action to achieve the Rotary International President Citation? Let’s get every club involved. Ask your Assistant Governor for help (or contact me).  My Rotary (click here to log into Club Central)  rotary-club-central-reference-guide.pdf (windows.net) (more information)
 
RYLA Updates:
 
 
Link for RYLA dates and applications   https://ryla6840.mystrikingly.com/
 
Application Deadline: The application can be accessed from the application tab above. Applications are due to the Rotary Club by April 30, 2023.
Interviews: Rotary Clubs will contact students within two weeks and schedule interviews.
Selection Made: Rotary Club representatives will contact students about their scholarship selection and inform the RYLA committee by May 17, 2023.
Confirmation Mailed: Confirmation packets will be mailed to those students selected to participate in RYLA by June 15, 2023.
 
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WHAT’S MY CLUB FINAL CLUES:
 
This is the final month for What’s My Club. The deadline to participate is March 31, 2023. The winner will be announced at the District Conference.
 
What’s My Club???? Here are the clues for February:
  • Name two clubs that support Backpack Buddies
  • Name two clubs that support Lunches for Learning
  • Name the club that has its meetings in a brewery and hosts an annual Spoker Poker: Bicycle Poker Run
January clues:
  • Name the Assistant Governor and the clubs in that person’s territory for the Lake, Orleans, and Pontchartrain Territories.
December clues:
  • Name the home club of the Assistant Governor of the following Territories:
  • Bayou, Bay Pass, East Coast, Beach, and Heartland.
Make your guesses HERE:  https://forms.gle/N6JDc5KBCSYQQfjv6
 
Have you been playing? I hope the links are now working but let me know if you have any questions.
 
November Clues:
  • 1. Name the Assistant Governor for the Tangipahoa Territory and the five clubs in that territory.
  • 2. Name the Assistant Governor for the Hub Territory and the five clubs in that territory.
Previous clues:
  • Name two clubs that received their charter on the same date.
  • Name the newest Rotary Club in our district. (Not Rotaract Clubs)
  • Name the most recent Past District Governor and his home club (2021-22)
  • Name the club that hosts the Alligator Festival.
  • Name the primary host club for the 2022-23 District Conference
  • Name the first 4 clubs chartered in our District with the dates of each charter
  • Name the home club of the current District Governor
  • Name the primary host club for the 2022-23 District Conference
Please submit your guesses here: Newsletter Scavenger Hunt Guess! - Google Forms
 
WINNER: Three Day, Two Night Las Vegas, or Lake Tahoe accommodations.  Taxes and Fees have been paid, but the winner is responsible for the travel.  You have two years to book your travel and can choose from several different resorts, including the Luxor in Las Vegas, or Lake Tahoe South in Lake Tahoe.
 
 
 
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ROTARY INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVES:
 
Every month is Membership Month for Rotary! March is Membership Month for Rotary International. Thanks for taking care of your members and encouraging others to join us. Having the plan to retain and attract members is crucial to the health of your club. Invite friends, co-workers, speakers, and community leaders to come to a meeting, social event, fundraiser or service project. They are our potential future Rotarians. Congratulations to the RC of Slidell which recently installed 4 new members! Let me know of your Club’s success.
 
The Rotary Foundation asks us to FINISH THE YEAR STRONG! If you or your Club plan to make donations for its members this Rotary year, please consider doing so this month.  Thank you to the many Rotarians who already donate to the Rotary Foundation, and I invite those who are considering donations to do so. A club qualifies for Rotary recognition for donations starting at $100.00 per year per member. My goal is for every Rotarian in District 6840 to contribute to The Rotary Foundation this year. Ask PDG Greg Lier to speak about TRF at an upcoming meeting if you want more information.
 
 
 
THANK YOU FOR IMAGINING ROTARY WITH ME
Regina
ShelterBox update 
 
 
Greetings District Governor Regina,
 
I want to provide you with an update on the ShelterBox response to the earthquakes in Turkey/Syria and invite you to our webinar “Ukraine War at 1 year- A report back and a look ahead.”
 
The outpouring of Rotary support has been heartwarming, and it remains crucial for carrying out our response work. While we are not opening a specific fund, we will honor donations which ask to be restricted to our Turkey/Syria response. However, should the amount raised exceed the amount that we can use there in a timely manner, the difference will be allocated to our general fund. This is no different than disclaimers used by other charitable organizations including The Rotary Foundation.
 
ShelterBox USA is a registered 501c3 charity operated and funded independent of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. At ShelterBox we believe in transparency, our IRS forms, annual reports and independent audit reports are available for viewing and downloading at https://www.shelterboxusa.org/financials/ ShelterBox USA is proud to maintain a 4 star rating at charity navigator https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/200471604
Donate by mail: ShelterBox USA   P.O. Box 5055   Santa Barbara, Ca   93150
 
Turkey/Syria update
Two weeks in and ShelterBox aid has arrived in Turkey and Syria, including essential items such as tents, blankets, mattresses, and winter coats for children, with more on the way. The items will help people survive through this ongoing nightmare, protecting them from the winter weather, preventing the spread of disease, and providing some privacy, as they get back on their feet. ·
 
A well-coordinated response is vital in such a complex and huge crisis. Our emergency response teams are in Gaziantep – a large city in southern Turkey which was affected by the earthquakes. They have visited affected areas, where rescue efforts continue to search for people under the rubble of collapsed buildings. Being based in the city is helping our teams work out what aid people need and how to get it to them. Additional ShelterBox response team members have just arrived in Gaziantep to bolster our response efforts. Having an extra team on the ground means we can be more agile, work more closely with partners and move to different locations as needed as we explore ways to scale up our response. We also have a response team member in Istanbul coordinating with Rotary. ·
 
Our response teams are being supported around the clock by ShelterBox operations HQ in England. This is a hugely complex humanitarian response spanning two countries. Getting aid into Turkey and Syria is complicated but we are used to working in challenging environments. Our response teams have been developing partnerships, meeting with Rotary, and scaling up our work with existing partners from our Syria response. Planning has centered around the logistical challenges of the response and working out how each organization can add value over the coming days, weeks, and months.
 
Staff members at local NGOs, or their family and friends, have been badly affected by the earthquakes and so those organizations are regrouping to respond as effectively as possible.
 
In Syria, the border crossing we have used for years to move aid into northern Syria was disrupted by the earthquakes, but it has reopened. Two additional border crossings have also been open that were previously shut, to help with the international aid effort and getting much-needed supplies to people. Providing cash assistance could be an important element in this response too – giving people who have been left with nothing the flexibility to get what they need. At ShelterBox, the way we work means that our response will focus on where the biggest emergency shelter gaps are and what essential items are needed over the coming days, weeks, and months.
 
“Ukraine War at 1 year- A report back and a look ahead.”
February 28, 2023    9AM PT – Noon ET
Register here Registration (gotowebinar.com)
Open for all in District 6840 to attend.
On 24 Feb 2022, Russia launched a major military operation in Ukraine, representing a significant escalation of the conflict, which has been ongoing in the east of the country since 2014. By the end of 2022, close to 8 million Ukrainians have been recorded as refugees across Europe, and almost 6 million have been displaced within Ukraine. To date, we've provided more than 37,000 affected people displaced within Ukraine and refugees in Moldova with life-saving aid. As the bitter winter months continue, we're distributing essential items to around 30,000 more people to help them survive. ShelterBox has been responding since March 2022 with basic items like thermal blankets, clothing, stoves and firewood, and emergency repair kits to help people fix damaged roofs, seal windows and doors, keep the heat in, and make homes watertight.
Join ShelterBox USA President Kerri Murray, a member of Montecito Rotary Club D5240, as she hosts this exclusive update on our projects supporting families affected by the war in Ukraine. We will also provide updates on Turkey and Syria.
 
Thank you,
Bill

ShelterBox USA
Bill Tobin
Rotary Relations Manager

d: 1 (805) 203-8668
m: (916) 616-6973
w: www.shelterboxusa.org
 
 
Member, Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills Ca. D5180
January District Governor Regina's message!
HAPPY NEW YEAR, fellow Rotarians!
 
 
We have six more months in this Rotary year to continue to do amazing things as we Imagine Rotary. The New Year brings new opportunities to collaborate with other clubs in the District and nearby Districts.
 
I urge you to attend Mid Year Checkup on Saturday, January 14, 2023, in Bay St Louis to share ideas and hear about the projects completed and to be started. The link for registration is on the District Website. As a reminder, your District dues pay for this event so come join us. Please bring the list of your service projects, social events, and fundraisers to add to the District Directory we are establishing. And, share contacts for your best speakers with other clubs! Mid-Year Checkup promises to be fun, fast, and imaginative!  Expect a call or email from your Assistant Governor about preparing for your two minutes of fame! By the way, for the Clubs in the Orleans Territory, meet your new Assistant Governor: Dean Pelias!  Dean is a member of the Carrollton Club and is their current President. Thank you, Dean, for joining our team, and thank you Brian Mora for serving as AG for Orleans last year.
 
If you want to celebrate and learn about the Rotary Foundation and the Paul Harris Society, please join us on Friday evening, January 13, 2023, at the Great Southern Club in Gulfport. John Smarge, a Past Rotary International Director and a member of Haiti National Clean Water, Sanitation & Hygiene Strategy (HANWASH) joins us to talk about the importance of the Rotary Foundation and his passion for bringing clean water to those in need. Fr. Jeff Bayhi, currently pastor of St. John the Baptist Church in Zachary will talk about Human Trafficking and Metanoia Manor, which is a safe haven for victims of human trafficking.  The link for registration for this dinner is on the District website.
 
  • Please take the time to register for Mid Year Checkup, set for Saturday, January 14, 2023, in Bay St. Louis. The registration link is on the website here: MidYear Checkup 2023 | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca).  Remember to bring the description and contact information of your service, fundraising, and social projects for the District Directory.
     
  • The Paul Harris Society Gala is Friday evening, Jan. 13, 2023. The registration link is on the website here: MyEventRunner - Event Public Fill (crsadmin.com)
 
PDG Elizabeth Van Sant will take time out from her European travels to once again offer Rotary Leadership Institute in person. Details are available here. RLI In Person 2022-2023 | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca) RLI is a great way to introduce Rotary to your new members and expand the knowledge of any member.
 
Greg Lier’s zoom series on Rotary Foundation continues on January 17, 2023, at 6 pm. Join us!
How to Close Your District Grants (Click HERE to register). If you want to highlight your club’s district grant during this session and get Greg’s help in closing it, please let us know.
 
By the way, if you are interested in the projects that received District Grants for 2022-23, click here to read more.  District 6840 Grants | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca)
 
I hope you have elected officers for the 2023-24 Rotary Year. Training for club presidents and other officers is underway and PETS will be back in Natchez in March. DGE Vicky Gutierrez is anticipating a fabulous year for her team. Old Man River PETS | (olemanriverpets.org)  More information to come, but check here for updates: PETS - workshop. | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca)
 
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Are you participating in What’s My Club? The final clues will be released this month, in February and March. The winner will be announced at the District Conference in Hattiesburg, on April 21-22, 2023. Details on the prize are:
 
WINNER: Three Day, Two Night Las Vegas, or Lake Tahoe accommodations.  Taxes and Fees have been paid, but the winner is responsible for the travel.  You have two years to book your travel and can choose from several different resorts, including the Luxor in Las Vegas, or Lake Tahoe South in Lake Tahoe.
 
 
 
January clues:
Name the Assistant Governor and the clubs in that person’s territory for the Lake, Orleans, and Pontchartrain Territories.
 
December clues:
 
Name the home club of the Assistant Governor of the following Territories:
Bayou, Bay Pass, East Coast, Beach, and Heartland.
 
Make your guesses HERE:  https://forms.gle/N6JDc5KBCSYQQfjv6
 
Have you been playing? I hope the links are now working but let me know if you have any questions.
 
November Clues:
  • 1. Name the Assistant Governor for the Tangipahoa Territory and the five clubs in that territory.
  • 2. Name the Assistant Governor for the Hub Territory and the five clubs in that territory.
Previous clues:
  • Name two clubs that received their charter on the same date.
  • Name the newest Rotary Club in our district. (not Rotaract Clubs)
  • Name the most recent Past District Governor and his home club (2021-22)
  • Name the club that hosts the Alligator Festival.
  • Name the primary host club for the 2022-23 District Conference
  • Name the first 4 clubs chartered in our District with the dates of each charter
  • Name the home club of the current District Governor
  • Name the primary host club for the 2022-23 District Conference
Please submit your guesses here: Newsletter Scavenger Hunt Guess! - Google Forms
 
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Have you registered to attend District Conference? Planning your treats for Food Fest? Registration for the Conference, golf tournament, optional events, and hotels is open and available on the District website. Thanks to the Conference Committee for their hard work and dedication.
  • District Conference, April 21-22, 2023, in Hattiesburg will include a Golf Tournament on Friday morning, Optional Family events (cooking demonstration at USM or tour of Camp Shelby) on Friday morning. The opening sessions start on Friday afternoon followed by Food Fest on USM’s campus later that evening. Saturday will begin with a memorial service to celebrate the lives of those Rotarians who died during the past year. Sessions will include membership, public image, club administration, fundraising, grants, and the Rotary Foundation. We will close the day with the Governor’s banquet to celebrate your achievements within your clubs and the District.
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Your response to my request for book drives has been overwhelming. I genuinely appreciate your help. And, please let me know how you Imagine your club will disburse books to children in your community.
 
Speaking of the District Conference, we ask each club to seek sponsors to help with the expenses of the conference and to support our Literacy efforts. More information is on the website, including sponsorship options. Chair Mark Killingsworth of the Rotary Club of Hattiesburg is available for comments and questions. Thank you!
 
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Thank you to the Clubs who continue to send me information and photos of their wonderful events. Several are highlighted in this Message. Happening in the Clubs:
 
THE ROTARY CLUB OF BAY ST. LOUIS
 
If you’re looking for something to do on February 9th, come on over and put your taste buds to work for the Rotary Club of Bay St. Louis’s annual Chili/Mac-N-Cheese Cook-Off! Held at the Bay St. Louis Community Hall from 5-8 p.m., this fundraiser will support service projects both locally and internationally. We’ll also be selling beer, wine, and soft drinks to make sure that 5-Alarm chili doesn’t burn your windpipes.
 
You can enter a team if you’re feeling like a master chef, or you can simply choose to sponsor the event. Either way, we appreciate it. Entry and sponsorships begin at $100 and go up to $1,000 if you’re feeling super generous. Don’t worry, there’s plenty in it for you too!
 
There will also be awards for Best Chili (1st, 2nd, and 3rd), The Big Cheese, 5-Alarm Hot & Spicy, Best Booth, Best Lagniappe, and People’s Choice. All decisions will be made by a team of secret judges except People’s Choice, which will be voted on by how much cash they can get in their jar.
 
For more information, you can contact Ashley Mayley at (228) 671-9861 or ashleymayley@coastepa.com.
 
We look forward to seeing you there!
 
 
THE ROTARY CLUB OF GULFPORT-ORANGE GROVE
 
Salvation Army Bell Ringing Bell Ringing 2022 happened this past Saturday at Belk’s in Crossroads Shopping Center. A huge “THANK YOU” to all of our volunteer Rotarians and their spouses who gave their time yesterday to this traditional service project. A special shout out to the Harrison Central High School Interactors and their advisor Sharon Johnson. And finally, special recognition to Colin Rummell a Rock-A-Chaw from St. Stanislaus and son of Rotarian Brad Rummel who was on duty for over 7 hours to earn his community service hours. Thank you to one and all!
 
 
THE ROTARY CLUB OF SLIDELL NORTH SHORE 
 
On Saturday, December 17, 2022, Wreaths Across America was at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of every veteran aloud. Wreaths Across America
 
  
 
The Rotary magazine is a wealth of information and creative ideas. Just in case you haven’t read recent issues, here is an idea that caught my attention. Turning Wine Bottles Back into Sand | District 6840 (clubrunner.ca)
 
 
Some of the girls from Grace Girls Home, the orphanage in Sri Lanka RYLA supports, performed a program for their local Rotary club. Learn more here: Grace Girls (gracegirlshome.org)
 
Thanks to Mike Sigler for the photos! 
 
  
 
Although I have repeated information about many upcoming events in this newsletter, thank you for taking the time to consider attending these events. I encourage you to be active in the District. Some so many amazing people quietly put Service Above Self and strive to make our communities a better place to live, grow and Imagine.
 
News from Clubs around District 6840
 
Thank you to the clubs who are sending me information on events at your club or communities. I think we are getting better at posting the events timely. Noelle Reznik of the Mid-City Club has agreed to help gather and organize those great stories about your club’s fundraising, service, and social events. Please watch for her requests for information. So, continue to send in your stories and flyers, including contact information.  You can also submit your story here to the Google Form here. 
 
Let’s continue to Imagine Rotary in 2023!
 
May this New Year bring you happiness, health, and friendship.
 
DG Regina Wedig
 
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WELCOME TO ROTARY DISTRICT 6840
District 6840 Rotarians are People of Action - Improving lives and communities locally and globally. Projects big and small, right here at home and across the world, built through principles of sustainability and community connection. Serving Southeast Louisiana and Southern Mississippi
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unites the diverse cultures of Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi.
The District embodies the multicultural flavors of many, all blended in our varied cuisine, festivals and Southern Hospitality.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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