Posted by DG Bill Downes (Mountain Foothills) DGBill2016.17@rotary5450.org
Our Service Resource Committee has a chair for each of Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus. One of those is Peace and Conflict Resolution headed up by Carole Baumbush. District has initiatives under her direction that have been taken up by a number of clubs including our 4 Way Test Committee and Peaceful Schools Program that are very popular in elementary, middle and high schools in our area.
But what is the broader mission of Peace and Conflict Resolution as relates to Rotary worldwide? I found an excellent article from Rotary that gives a glimpse of what we do with this Area of Focus.
‘With bloody conflicts raging in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and parts of Central Africa, the message of nonviolence and reconciliation that nations worldwide will observe on 21 September demands more urgent and collective attention.
In 2001 the United Nations designated the September date as an annual International Day of World Peace "to be observed as a day of global ceasefire and nonviolence" according to a General Assembly resolution.
The day's devotion to peace connects closely with what Rotary members have been fostering since The Rotary Foundation's mission to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace, was proclaimed in 1917.
Rotary's goal of worldwide peace and tolerance has been an unwavering pursuit: conducting global forums, hosting international peace symposiums, advancing peace through its 60-year collaboration with the UN, as well as grassroots initiatives such as the Rotarian Action Group for Peace.
But Rotary's most significant effort to wage peace is the Rotary Peace Centersprogram, established in 2002. Each year, the program trains some of the world's most dedicated and brightest professionals, preparing them to promote national and international cooperation and to resolve conflict. They include graduates of a two-year master's degree program and a three-month professional certificate program at Rotary's partner universities.
Today, more than 900 peace fellows are applying their expertise in various fields. They're settling border conflicts in West Africa, developing aid programs at the World Bank, drafting legislation to protect exploited children in Brazil, providing security for U.S. diplomats, and many other career paths devoted to peace.’
From ethics and anti-bullying programs in our schools to conflicts in other areas of the world, this is how we Rotarians take a part in promoting peace and goodwill everywhere.
Posted by Debi Bush (Denver Cherry Creek) membership@rotary5450.org
The past membership report was not inspiring as our district lost 50 members, most of which we attribute to clubs having reconciled their membership rosters before having to pay district and RI dues. I encourage and beseech each club to report the most current membership numbers each and every month so we don’t get such a shock.
We all must move forward as we cannot change what has transpired prior to now. It is not enough to just wish that your club can grow whether it’s a Net 1 or more. Wishing doesn’t cut it. Your club needs a consistent effort with processes for managing prospective members and keeping existing members engaged. This is in the hands of your Membership Chair and committee and your President and President-Elect to keep membership front and center (MFC).
The January Monthly Membership Webinar put on by our Zone’s Membership leaders inspired me and all attendees as we heard, saw and felt how the Cross Timbers Rotary Club (www.crosstimbersrotary.com) has grown beyond one’s imagination but I doubt not beyond theirs. This club chartered in August 2015 with 62 members (only a handful were existing Rotarians) and just inducted their 100th member. I know that Texas likes to do things up right and this Cross Timbers Club has secured that reputation in my mind.
Posted by Brandye Miller (Mountain Foothills) irisheyesaresmilin@me.com
The United States Air Force Academy, Dean of Faculty, Brigadier General Andrew Amacost will kick off the speaking lineup on Friday explaining how the Academy teaches, models and rewards perseverance as it molds our future military leaders. The Air Force Academy begins with the best and brightest and makes them into phenomenal leaders.
We will also be treated to an improvisational program presented by super talented members of the Evergreen Players Theater Group. This will have you laughing so hard you will have to hold your side.
Friday will also treat us to the music of a great band who will be playing the songs of our lives. The group Subject2Change is dedicated to good music, good times and good memories. There will be plenty of those!
On Saturday, Carl Tinstman, a thirty year veteran of the United Nations working in the World Health Organization and leader in the polio eradication effort, will update us on the eradication progress. Carl is no bystander, as he has been on the ground in such places as Afghanistan and Pakistan. His updates are inspiring.
Also Saturday, Greg Podd, past RI Vice President 2015-2016, will be heading up the Leadership Training in the main auditorium. All who attend will absolutely benefit from Greg’s vast knowledge of where Rotary is today and where it is going in the future.
We are honored to have John Hewko, Secretary General of Rotary International and the Rotary Foundation, with us. As Secretary General, Hewko leads a diverse staff of 800 at Rotary International’s World Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois, USA, and seven international offices. No one is more qualified to give us the "inside scoop" concerning the direction of the organization.
Chad Hymas is our keynote speaker. The Wall Street Journal calls Chad Hymas “one of the 10 most inspirational people in the world!” Chad inspires, motivates, and moves audiences, creating an experience that touches hearts for a lifetime. He is one of the youngest ever to receive the Council Of Peers Award For Excellence (CPAE) and to be inducted into the prestigious National Speaker Hall Of Fame. In 2001, at the age of 27, Chad’s life changed in an instant when a 2,000-pound bale of hay shattered his neck leaving him a quadriplegic. But Chad’s dreams were not paralyzed that day – he became an example of what is possible. A truly inspiring individual!
Hurry! Click the following link to take advantage of the extended Early Bird price now through Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 10:00 pm MST.
The annual District 5450 RI President's Dinner welcomed RIP John Germ and his wife Judy to the Denver Marriott South in Lone Tree on January 7, 2017. The event was attended by 400+ Rotarians and their guests from District 5450, 5440 and 5470, and raised over $24,000 for the End Polio Now campaign.
President Germ spoke of the good Rotary does around the world, and about the gratefulness of those affected by the contributions of Rotary. Michel Zaffran, World Health Organization’s Director of Polio Eradication, gave an update on the fight against polio. Click here to view his PowerPoint presentation. A link to a video of his presentation will be available soon.
The District has already confirmed that RI President Elect Ian Riseley and his wife Juliet will be attending the 2018 RI President's Dinner on January 6, 2018. Save the date!
Posted by Gail Lehrmann (Parker) glehrmann@aol.com
The Rotary Foundation offers a number of opportunities to show its appreciation to Rotary Clubs for supporting its grants and programs. Final certification is processed by The Rotary Foundation after the close of a Rotary year. Banners will be shipped to incoming District Governor in the early fall. Clubs in District 5450 are encouraged to strive for these special recognitions that are awarded annually by the Rotary Foundation:
100% Foundation Giving Club - This banner is awarded to clubs that achieve an average of $100 in per capita giving and 100% participation in giving with every active dues paying member. Contribution may be made to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus Fund, approved global grans and the Endowment Fund.
100% Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) Sustaining Member Club - When every active dues paying member personally contributes $100 or more to the Annual Fund, a Club will receive a 100% EREY Sustaining Club banner.
Top Three Per Capita in Annual Fund Giving Club - Banners are given to the top three Annual Fund per capita giving clubs in the district.
100% Paul Harris Fellow Club - Every active dues paying member of the club must be a Paul Harris Fellow (i.e. each member has giving at subsequent $1,000 levels). Club points or individuals may assign their points to help members become Paul Harris Fellows or Multiple Paul Harris Fellows.
100% Paul Harris Fellow Club - This recognition is awarded to clubs in which every active dues paying member has contributed a minimum of $1,000 outright to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus Fund, or an approved global grant in the given Rotary year.
CONGRATULATIONS ON DISTRICT 5450 BANNER WINNERS – ROTARY YEAR 2015-16:
Per Capita in Annual Fund Giving Clubs: 1) Smoky Hill ($443.50), 2) Lakewood ($302.41), and 3) Broomfield ($298.62)
100% Foundation Giving Clubs: Boulder Flatirons, Carbon Valley, Mead, and Mountain Foothills of Evergreen
Posted by David Talbot (Mountain Foothills) c4a@crutches4africa.org
Someone asked me “why Pakistan?” and I replied “why not?”
As you may know polio is still crippling children in Pakistan where the average daily wage is a little more than $4 USD making the purchase of mobility devices only a dream.
But you can help change this. Mountain Foothills Rotary club together with their international project, Crutches 4 Africa are collecting CRUTCHES, WHEELCHAIRS, CANES and WALKERS that will be shipped to Pakistan and given free to people in need there. WE NEED YOUR HELP! Mobility devices can be dropped off at 700 Bonnie Brae Blvd on Saturday, March 4th from 10am to 5pm in the back parking lot that is on the east side of the New Denver Church and is accessible from Exposition just east of University. This is the intersection of Bonnie Brea, University and Exposition. Then come help us load a 40’ container with all that has been collected on Saturday March the 11th. 11am until the container is full.
HELP US HELP THOSE CRIPPLED BY POLIO! Your act of kindness can change a life!
For more information please call Rtn. David Talbot 303-877-2803
The 2nd Annual 2017 Women of Achievement Luncheon will recognize Rotary Women who work/or live in Douglas County and/or are members of Rotary Clubs in Douglas County. These Rotarians will be recognized for leadership and service in eight categories of achievement. A Light ‘n’ Heart Award will be given in each category. All nominees will be recognized. Nominations open February 1, 2017 and close March 20, 2017. To nominate and/or purchase $30 tickets go to www.womenachieve.net.
May 3, 2017 | 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Denver Marriott South - Lone Tree, CO
Keynote Speakers:
Mike Dunkel, President, CCV Rotary
Mary Kay Hasz, 2015-16 District 5450 Governor
Mike Waid, Mayor of Parker, Past President, CCV Rotary
Rotary Clubs Participating in Planning:
Rotary Club of Parker Cherry Creek Valley, Rotary Club of Parker, Highlands Ranch Rotary Club, Castle Rock Rotary Club, Denver Rotary Club 31, Castle Pines Rotary Club
Posted by Thaxter Williams (Longmont) thaxterwilliams@thaxterwilliams.com
Club, District and Rotary International awards are given each year at the District Conference. District and Rotary International awards will be presented during the Awards Ceremony. Individual Club awards will be recognized in the Conference brochure and House of Friendship. Nominations are due by March 1st of each year. You can view information about all of the awards by clicking HERE.
Posted by Carolyn Schrader (Denver Mile High) schrader407@gmail.com
Since the civil war in the 1990’s, Bosnia has become the poorest country in Europe. Large numbers of girls in rural Bosnia do not complete elementary school and Roma (ethnic “gypsy”) girls do not attend school at all. Bosnia has become a major source of human trafficking as girls seek alternatives to poverty and widespread domestic violence, since many of them lack the education needed to become employable.
In 2014, Rotary approved a Global Grant, sponsored by Felicia Muftic of the Denver Rotary Club, to promote basic education and literacy for rural girls in Herzegovina province, Bosnia. The grant funded parent/teacher workshops and an education campaign reaching 1000 people in 20 villages and communities. It provided a three year mentoring program for 80 families with girls at risk of dropping out of school, using university student volunteers. In addition, fifteen Roma girls received a year’s literacy training.
The grant succeeded in keeping girls in school, with the added benefit of reducing the number who were at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking.
Funding for grant came from nine Colorado Rotary clubs as well as Rotary clubs of Grand Cayman (British West Indies). The Mostar, Bosnia Club was the local Rotary lead club and a local Mostar NGO Novi Put to execute the grant. The grant was completed in 2016 and was so successful in its approach that another Global Grant, in a different location, has been submitted to Rotary, again with support from a number of clubs.
These grants show the value of replicating a successful project to increase its impact. It also demonstrates the power of Rotary to span many Clubs and Districts in order to serve humanity.
Posted by Mary Jean Ewing (Boulder Flatirons) maryjeanewing@earthlink.net
With 73% of our District clubs represented plus guests, $21,100 ($63,300 with the Bill & Melinda Gates match) was added to the End Polio Now coffers. "Cheers" to the 7 clubs that met our Committee challenge of $50+/member by year's end: Arvada, Broomfield, Denver LoDo, Granby, Lakewood, Parker Cherry Creek and Parker. "Here, here" to those who met the second Committee challenge of meeting RI President John Germ's request for $2650/club by year's end. Eight of our clubs met that challenge: Arvada, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Denver Stapleton, Parker, Parker Cherry Creek, and, Summit County.
Fundraising Ideas for End Polio Now
Speaker certificates of thanks - Offer speakers 'x' number of polio immunizations in their name. Make club donation to EndPolioNow at RI at year end (usually March for District Awards recognition.
World Polio Day event - WPD occurs in fourth week of October each year. There will be a live podcast. Good educational update. Will be recorded. Plan event a round this time.
World's Greatest Meal - year round. Can coincide with club event (Social, Assembly, Charter night) where food/drink and funds are raised specifically for polio. International exposure. Visit web site: wgmea.com.
Established in 2009, this ride has been raised over $10 million for EndPolioNow. The ride has many avenues for donations including stationary bikers in your club. Can be used by clubs or individuals. More details at http://ridetoendpolio.org.
Create a club fundraiser using themes like "Pints for Polio, Pizza for Polio, Pig Roast for Polio." Partner with local businesses, Interact/Rotaract, and seek local press support. Include educational information about End Polio efforts.
Change for Polio - Use 'Happy' Dollars' and submit to EndPolioNow.org at year- end.
Focus on Polio with 3-5 minute polio facts/video at weekly meetings for x# of weeks and then pass.
RI's promise is to rid the world of Polio! Your project should consider the educational/public awareness aspects of your efforts. Please contact me if you have questions or need/want support.
Earl Hasz and his wife, immediate past District 5450 Gov. Mary Kay Hasz with current Gov. Bill Downes (Mountain Foothills Rotary Club) and his wife Karin. Photo by Scottie Iverson
DG Bill and his wife Karin at the 2017 Western Stock Show
District Governor Bill Downes had a very busy January! If you have not had him as a guest to your club's meeting or event - email office@rotary5450.orgto request a date on his calendar.
Posted by PDG Dan Clark (Commerce City) danvclark@gmail.com
On behalf of the District 5450 World Peace Programs Subcommittee, we are very pleased to announce that our District may nominate individuals to compete in the world competition for either of two exciting initiatives by The Rotary Foundation and Rotary International:
1) Up to 60 applicants are selected annually to study at one of the six Rotary Centers for International Studies.
2) Up to 25 (generally 20) of these fellows are selected to study at the Rotary Center - Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand for one three month program beginning in either January or July.
Clubs should begin their search for applicants immediately. They need to conduct their interview and selection process January through April. Completed applications with your club’s endorsement must be received by May 31, 2017. The committee will interview and select our District's nominees by June 24, 2017.
Complete information and details can be found in the attached letter. If you have questions please contact PDG Dan Clark, 303-424-2967, danvclark@gmail.com.
Posted by Peter Ewing (Boulder) pmjewing@earthlink.net
District 5450 reaffirms its adherence to Rotary International’s zero-tolerance policy against abuse and harassment for all persons, and in particular, "at risk" individuals:
vulnerable person (an individual of any age who is impaired mentally, physically or developmentally)
protectedperson means any minor (less than 18 years of age), young adult (between 18 and 21 years of age) or vulnerable person participating in a District or Club sponsored program or event.
The District has changed the background check vendor to Verified Volunteers (based in Fort Collins.) Any Rotarian expected to have one-on-one interaction with protected or vulnerable person/s (volunteers may find themselves unavoidably in an unsupervised or unobserved condition) should visit the Abuse and Harassment Policy page and complete the steps to become compliant.
Posted by Gail Lehrmann (Parker) glehrmann@aol.com
If you are 70 ½ or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution of up to $100,000 annually from your Traditional or Roth IRA account to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
A donation transferred directly from your IRA to The Rotary Foundation is not considered federally taxable income for you, but it does count toward your required minimum distribution.
Rotarians should review this information with their tax advisor or legal professional for information regarding or issues concerning the tax implications prior to acting on this information. If you decide that a gift of this nature is right for you, the funds must be issued directly to The Rotary Foundation from a Traditional or Roth IRA.
For more information on how a Qualified Charitable Distribution from your IRA and other tax-advantaged ways to give can further your philanthropic and financial goals, please contact: Peter Doetschman, Sr. Planned Giving Officer at Planned.Giving@Rotary.orgor call him at (847) 866-3100. Or, have your IRA administrator use the sample letters found in IRA – QCD.pdfto complete your gift to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
Thank you for helping Rotary Do Good in the World through a gift from your Individual Retirement Account!
Each year the District has an independent review of the previous year's financial statements. The 2015-16 year end financial statements are on the District website - CLICK HEREto view the report. A vote to accept the documents will be held at the 2017 District Conference in Colorado Springs during the Annual Business Meeting.
The attached reportshows Membership, Annual Fund and Polio Plus goals entered by each club into Rotary Club Central, and the numbers and per capita achieved by each club (arranged by Area.) The District 5450 goal is to have an increase in Membership, and for Every Rotarian to give something Every Year (EREY).
Rotary's member benefits program gives Rotary and Rotaract club members access to discounts on a variety of products and services selected with their interests in mind.
Discounts & Special Offers
Rotary Global Rewards offers discounts on vehicle rentals, hotels, dining, and entertainment. Products and services from companies around the world are being added every week. Check back often to see what’s new in Rotary Global Rewards – the vendor list is updated monthly. https://www.rotary.org/myrotary/en/member-center/rotary-global-rewards
How to Redeem Offers
Anyone can view the offers and discounts on Rotary Global Rewards. But onlyRotary and Rotaract club members who are signed in to their My Rotary accounts can redeem them. You can access and redeem rewards from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
The annual District 5450 RI President's Dinner welcomed RIP John Germ and his wife Judy to the Denver Marriott South in Lone Tree on January 7, 2017. The event was attended by 400+ Rotarians and their guests from District 5450, 5440 and 5470, and 
.jpg)
