District Governor's Newsletter District 9212 a RI Future Vision District

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District 9212 a RI Future Vision District April 2014 Magazine Month Inside this issue: Use Your Rotary Magazines to Spread Your Message Message of Condolence from PDG Geeta Manek on the Passing of

Overview: Bringing Hope and Clean Water to Eastern Kenya Highlight on an Upcoming Event 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race Upcoming Events May 16-18, 2014 89 th D9212 Conference and Assembly,

1 1 2 3 4 5 6 Message from the DG Use Your Rotary Magazines to Spread Your Message y dear Rotarians in M Service, Happy Magazine Month!! I am often asked what we can do to get our message out.

1 District 9212 a RI Future Vision District April 2014 Magazine Month Inside this issue: Use Your Rotary Magazines to Spread Your Message Message of Condolence from PDG Geeta Manek on the Passing of Rtn. Mary Howard International Commodore Sergio Charters 3 African Fleets D9212 Proj. Overview: The Sunshine Rally 50 Things Every Rotarian Should Know About Rotary Part 8 D9212 Proj. Overview: Bringing Hope and Clean Water to Eastern Kenya Highlight on an Upcoming Event 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race Upcoming Events May 16-18, th D9212 Conference and Assembly, Naivasha, Kenya June 1-4, 2014 Rotary Int. Convention Sydney, Australia Registration for the District Conference at Enashipai Resort in Naivasha, Kenya is Open! Message from the DG Use Your Rotary Magazines to Spread Your Message y dear Rotarians in M Service, Happy Magazine Month!! I am often asked what we can do to get our message out. What is the best way of reaching our Rotary Community and engaging our membership? With so many things going on in Rotary how do you do it! Often we have requests from Clubs seeking support for one of their programs, projects or activities. It could be they are looking for other Clubs and Districts to join in a new Water and Sanitation project overseas or perhaps wanting to announce of a major fundraiser for Polio Plus. It could be even as simple as providing a means of broadcasting recognition for one of their members who have performed outstanding service to the community. I constantly hear from clubs that have something wonderful to say but they cannot get their message out. Well I have the answer: Use your club s Rotary Magazine, the District Newsletter and Rotary International s The Rotarian to help promote and deliver your message to the Rotary community. Not every article submitted will have the same success however with the right format, content and style, with a genuine interest to all Rotarians, you will be surprised what success can be achieved. So use the Rotary Magazines to your advantage and keep those articles coming in. Harry Mugo District Governor Rotary District Issue /14 Message of Condolence from PDG Geeta Manek on the Passing of Rtn. Mary Howard ellow Rotarians of District 9212 and the world F over, What sad news we received last week of the passing of one of our own and a very dear friend, Rtn Mary Howard. Many of us in the district had the fortunate pleasure of interacting with Rtn. Howard at both the club and personal level, through the global grant projects she so passionately championed and brought to our district from our international partners. Her Rotary work, especially her mentorship in the area of writing grants and carrying out The Rotary Foundation work was always provided with such great dedication and selflessness to D9200 (now D9211 and D9212) clubs. It is comparable to none and something that we shall all dearly miss and always appreciate. Because of her, our clubs in both districts will no doubt be well equipped to apply for future grants and thus helping to continue achieving RI s goals in the district. What a charming beautiful and dedicated lady, a friend, a sister and a daughter. We were very lucky to have had a great opportunity to be a part of her very youthful and well lived life. I extend my personal and sincere condolences to her close friends and family. My heart goes out to all of you who spent their last moments with her and I am very are thankful to the Rotary International family who ensured she was not alone during her final moments. The Late Mary Howard Gone too soon, robbed of her life at just 30 years, we will do well to remember our dear friend as she rests with the angels. We shall forever dearly miss this beautiful flower, Rtn. Mary Howard, plucked from our lives long before her time.

Page 2 International Commodore Sergio Charters 3 African Fleets Rotary Club of Watamu Rotarian Bill Kosar n February 1 of this year, Sergio O Santi, International Commodore of the International

fresh-caught lobster lunch at Rock & Sea Restaurant (also owned by Mariner Guido) which boasts not only the finest views of the Indian Ocean (it is perched high atop a rocky cliff) but some of the

Marafiki, which is on an island in Mida Creek, three fleets in East Africa: Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda and to name William Kosar as East African Regional Commodore.

2 Page 2 International Commodore Sergio Charters 3 African Fleets Rotary Club of Watamu Rotarian Bill Kosar n February 1 of this year, Sergio O Santi, International Commodore of the International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians, accompanied by his First Mate Laura, travelled to Watamu, Kenya to charter Sergio and First Mate Laura to a private dinner at Amandina Restaurant at the Medina Palms Resort. Bright and early on Saturday morning, the day began with a number of water-based activities starting with a dolphin safari out of Garoda Resort owned by Mariner Guido Bertoni who is also by a fresh-caught lobster lunch at Rock & Sea Restaurant (also owned by Mariner Guido) which boasts not only the finest views of the Indian Ocean (it is perched high atop a rocky cliff) but some of the best seafood as well. Saturday afternoon concluded with a visit to Marafiki Primary School run by Mariner Guido s First Mate Valentina. Marafiki, which is on an island in Mida Creek, three fleets in East Africa: Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda and to name William Kosar as East African Regional Commodore. This represents IYFR s first foray into Africa since the dissolution of the South African Fleet many years ago. The IYFR is the oldest of the Rotary Fellowships founded in the Charter President of the Rotary Club of Watamu. The Dolphin Safari was led by Mariner Steve Trott and his First Mate Jane, 2 noted dolphin experts on the recently received the support of the North West Italy Fleet s Portofino to Monaca Regatta and was the impetus for the Lifejackets-for-Life project which saw almost 400 discarded but unused lifejackets donated by the Italian Fleets to East African fishermen and schoolchildren. (5 View from Rock & Sea the UK in Today there are over 90 fleets worldwide with over 3000 members who are known as Rotary Mariners. Watamu is a small fishing and resort village located on the North Coast just over 2 hours north of Mombasa and less than 15 km south of Malindi, Kenya and home to one of D9212 s newest clubs. It has 1 of the top ten beaches in the world with miles and miles of white sand with nary a soul be seen. Bonefish House Restaurant at Barracuda Inn Resort in Watamu, which is the home of both the IYFR Kenyan Fleet and the Headquarters of the East African Regional Fleet, served as the base of operations for the busy weekend of celebrations. On Friday evening, the Bridge of the Kenyan Fleet along with delegates from the Rwandan and Ugandan Fleets feted IC African Indian Ocean Coast. Over 100 separate dolphins have been identified and NAMED (!) off the warm waters of Watamu. On seeing dolphins for the first time, one of the Ugandan Mariners had commented that she had never seen anything so beautiful in her life! The morning followed with a snorkel trip to Watamu s Coral Gardens within the Watamu Marine Park which was followed schoolchildren at Marafiki drowned in 2012 when the dugout canoe which they travel on to get to the school capsized. There were no lifejackets on board.) On Saturday evening, we celebrated the Charter of the 3 Fleets with a fresh Italian seafood buffet (most of the tourists to Watamu are Italian and most of the Kenyan residents in Watamu are fluent not only in (Continued on page 6)

Page 3 Project Overview The Sunshine Rally The Rotary Clubs of Nairobi, Machakos and Thika W aking up to a Misty Morning the date being Saturday 29th March 2014 the venue is the Jamhuri Show

Freshly mowed grass greets the atmosphere and the men and women in Red aged 18 30 who simply refer to themselves as Rotaractors ready waiting for the expected 3000 kids drawn from different

They help pick the kids from their various schools in different locations; they help get the kids off the buses and settle them down in their respective sitting areas; they help pack the snacks

It is a joy to see the excitement on the faces of the children, who, according to rally drivers never stop doing what they do best that is rally the driving from spinning the wheels, leaving

entertained the students not forgetting the MC who kept the fire blazing with a series of dancing and entertainment all day long.

venue once again. But along The Sunshine Rally is one of the Rotary Yearly Signature events.

3 Page 3 Project Overview The Sunshine Rally The Rotary Clubs of Nairobi, Machakos and Thika W aking up to a Misty Morning the date being Saturday 29th March 2014 the venue is the Jamhuri Show Grounds off their teachers, hardly sleep the night before. The rally is a big event on their calendar year. Ngong Road Nairobi. Freshly mowed grass greets the atmosphere and the men and women in Red aged who simply refer to themselves as Rotaractors ready waiting for the expected 3000 kids drawn from different special schools around Nairobi and its environs to as far as Machakos and Thika. They are volunteers drawn from different Rotary clubs who came to assist and make sure everything is in order. They help pick the kids from their various schools in different locations; they help get the kids off the buses and settle them down in their respective sitting areas; they help pack the snacks and food for the children as well as distribute them and ensure no single kid goes without their pack; they dance with the kids, play football and just chat about. It is a joy to see the excitement on the faces of the children, who, according to rally drivers never stop doing what they do best that is rally the driving from spinning the wheels, leaving behind a trail of dust on a wet green grass, followed by the dirt bikes put on a spectacular display speeding of in various directions which excited the whole crowd, clowns, comedians and DJs entertained the students not forgetting the MC who kept the fire blazing with a series of dancing and entertainment all day long. At the end of the day, the young men and women help the kids get back into the buses as they give them their take away packs and wave them off until next year when they assemble at the same venue once again. But along The Sunshine Rally is one of the Rotary Yearly Signature events. Rotary clubs in Nairobi, Thika, and Machakos collaborate to put together a special rally for children with physical and mental disabilities. This year, 2500 children took part in the event. After lunch, Ian Duncan and his team of the year different Rotary clubs and Rotaractors visit the individual schools and continue various projects with them. It is just not a one day affair! A day well spent Fellow-shipping through Service. Wagithy Wanyeki Rotary Club of Nairobi East

4 Page 4 50 Things Every Rotarian Should Know About Rotary Part 8 by Steve Garret, District Governor, District 5300, INTERACT Interact, the Rotary youth program, was launched by the RI Board of Directors in The first Interact club was established by the Rotary Club of Melbourne, Florida. Interact clubs provide opportunities for boys and girls of secondary school age to work together in a world fellowship of service and international understanding. The term, Interact, is derived from "inter" for international, and "act" for action. Every Interact club must be sponsored and supervised by a Rotary club and must plan annual projects of service to its school, community and in the world. Today there are over 7,200 Interact clubs with more than 155,000 members in 88 countries. "Interactors" develop skills in leadership and attain practical experience in conducting service projects, thereby learning the satisfaction that comes from serving others. A major goal of Interact is to provide opportunities for young people to create greater understanding and goodwill with youth throughout the world ROTARACT After the success of Interact clubs for high school- age youth in the early 1960s, the RI board created Rotaract in The new organization was designed to promote responsible citizenship and leadership potential in clubs of young men and women, aged 18 to 30. The first Rotaract club was chartered by the Charlotte North Rotary Club in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1994 there were more than 149,000 members in more than 6,500 Rotaract clubs in 107 countries. Rotaract clubs emphasize the importance of individual responsibility as the basis of personal success and community involvement. Each club sponsors an annual project to promote high ethical standards in one's business and professional life. Rotaract also provides opportunities leading to greater international understanding and goodwill. Rotaractors enjoy many social activities as well as programs to improve their community A Rotaract club can exist only when continuously sponsored, guided and counseled by a Rotary club. The programs of Rotaract are built around the motto "Fellowship Through Service." 38 - ROTARY FLOAT IN ROSE PARADE The Rotary International float in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade is undoubtedly the largest public relations project of the Rotary clubs of the United States and Canada. Since 1924 a Rotary float has been entered 18 times including every year since The famous Pasadena, California, parade is seen by an estimated 125 million people via worldwide television. Funds for the construction of the Rotary parade entry are voluntarily given by Rotarians and clubs in the U.S. and Canada. The cost of designing, constructing and flower covering a Rose Parade float begins at about $120,000. A multi-district Rotary committee in Southern California coordinates planning of the Rotary float and provides hundreds of volunteer hours of service. The Rotary float must portray the annual parade theme, usually depicting one of the worldwide service programs of Rotary International. Each New Year's Day, Rotarians take pride in seeing their attractive float and realize they have shared in its construction by contributing a dollar or two to this beautiful public relations project THE ROTARY FOUNDATION'S BEGINNING Some magnificent projects grow from very small seeds. The Rotary Foundation had that sort of modest beginning. In 1917 RI President Arch Klumph told the delegates to the Atlanta Convention that "it seems eminently proper that we should accept endowments for the purpose of doing good in the world." The response was polite and favorable, but the fund was slow to materialize. A year later the "Rotary Endowment Fund," as it was first labeled, received its first contribution of $26.50 from the Rotary Club of Kansas City, which was the balance of the Kansas City Convention account following the 1918 annual meeting. Additional small amounts were annually contributed, but after six years it is reported that the endowment fund had only reached $700. A decade later, The Rotary Foundation was formally established at the 1928 Minneapolis Convention. In the next four years the Foundation fund grew to $50,000. In 1937 a $2 million goal was announced for The Rotary Foundation, but these plans were cut short and abandoned with the outbreak of World War II. In 1947, upon the death of Paul Harris, a new era opened for the Rotary Foundation as memorial gifts poured in to honor the founder of Rotary. From that time, The Rotary Foundation has been achieving its noble objective of furthering "understanding and friendly relations between peoples of different nations." By 1954 the Foundation received for the first time a half million dollars in contributions in a single year, and in 1965 a million dollars was received. It is staggering to imagine that from those humble beginnings, The Rotary Foundation is now receiving more than $85 million each year for educational and humanitarian work around the world AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS The Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarships Program is the world's largest privately funded international scholarships program. In 1947, 18 "Rotary Fellows" from 11 countries were selected to serve as ambassadors of goodwill while studying in another country for one academic year. Since that time, approximately $242 million has been expended on some 25,000 scholarships for people from more than 125 countries, studying in 105 countries around the world. The purpose of the Scholarships Program is to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries. Scholars are expected to be outstanding ambassadors of goodwill to the people of the host country through both informal and formal appearances before Rotary and non-rotary groups. Beginning with the program year, The Rotary Foundation offers two new types of scholarships in addition to the Academic-Year Ambassadorial Scholarship offered since The Multi-Year Ambassadorial Scholarship is awarded for two or three years of specific degree-oriented study abroad. The Cultural Ambassadorial Scholarship provides three or six months of funding for intensive language study and cultural immersion in a language other than their native language. Rotarians know that Rotary Foundation scholarships are very worthwhile investments in the future and one important step in seeking greater understanding and goodwill in the world.

Page 5 Project Overview Bringing Hope and Clean Water to Eastern Kenya Rotary Club of Thika aturday February 22nd representative S

Thika Rotary Club President gave their thoughts about the impact of the water project on the community.

The community now sees the church as a group that wants to help them. They see the project as a group of people The project will: 1. save time in walking for water 2.

will improve the attitude of the people because they will be less concerned about drought 5.

5 Page 5 Project Overview Bringing Hope and Clean Water to Eastern Kenya Rotary Club of Thika aturday February 22nd representative S of U.S. Rotary, Thika (Kenya) Rotary, Caring for Kenya, Healing Hands International, and the Tulia, Kenya community met to view and review the water project. Thika Rotary Club President gave their thoughts about the impact of the water project on the community. Church leader and Caring for Kenya Coordinator Erastus Kavuti said, The project has touched the people economically and emotionally. It has created teamwork. The community now sees the church as a group that wants to help them. They see the project as a group of people The project will: 1. save time in walking for water 2. improve the health of the people because they will be getting clean water 3. increase food production because more water will be available 4. will improve the attitude of the people because they will be less concerned about drought 5. Increase the supply of water thereby lowering the cost of water Samuel Mwangi spoke to the community members who were present. The group included 30 people who are interested in developing a Rotary Community Corps (RCC). The RCC could propose additional service projects to the parent club, Thika Rotary, and serve as a project managing group. Erastus Kavuti spoke on behalf of the community and Carl Burkybile spoke on behalf of Healing Hands, Caring for Kenya, and U.S. Rotary Clubs. The group visited the 6 new kiosks and water tank stands. The electric wiring certificates have been issued and the contractor will begin the work of bringing electricity to the three well sites. The goal is to have electricity to at least borehole number one within two weeks. Rotary International comes for an on-site visit March 21st. Thika Rotary agreed to develop and pay for a plaque at each kiosk that would include the Rotary Wheel along with the Healing Hands and Caring for Kenya emblems. Thika Rotary is also planning a billboard for the community that will recognize the donors. Titus (local contractor who has been involved in the project) provided lunch for the group. During lunch several people who want to join together to help each other. Titus said, The people have a sense of ownership in the project because they have been personally involved. Workers are saying, Someday this will be my water and someday this water with help us to establish a new secondary school. Assistant Project Leaders Justus Vundi said, The project has developed a sharing attitude with people working together. He said, Both men and women have been involved in digging the trenches to lay the water line piping. Children 14 years old and older have also helped dig. Project leader Justus Mutua said, The community views the project as a miracle from God. He said, The hope of water the thought of water has lifted the spirits of the community during this time of extreme drought. When the project is completed 15,000 people will have clean water. Community members shared their thoughts about the benefits of the project has and will have on the people. 6. convince the people that things can be accomplished when people work together 7. show God s love and created opportunities to share the good news of Jesus 8. create a community unity and an attitude of sharing and caring for each other 9. change the attitude toward the church seeing the church as a group of caring people Assistant Project Leader Justus Vundi (26 years old) said that during the project older people developed a respect for him and his leadership as they worked together. He said, This project will impact people who aren t even born yet. The success of this project and long term benefits of the project will bring other projects and community improvements. The project is bringing an attitude of hope for the future that life can be better for our children!

Page 6 Highlight on an Upcoming Event 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race, Kilifi Boatyard Saturday 19th April 2014 Information for Teams: Race start: 2pm Entry

6 Page 6 Highlight on an Upcoming Event 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race 2nd Annual Kilifi Charity Raft Race, Kilifi Boatyard Saturday 19th April 2014 Information for Teams: Race start: 2pm Entry price: 1000 Ksh per team The teams: Team size can be 1-6 people All team members must race on the raft (at the same time) All team members MUST wear a buoyancy aid whilst racing (please bring one if you have your own; otherwise we will try to provide where needed) The rafts: Rafts and paddles can be built in advance but must be brought to the Boatyard by 12noon on 19th April to be entered into the race. If you wish to build your raft on site on the day, please use the beach next to the Boatyard bar. No purpose built craft (ie boat hulls, kayaks, canoes, windsurf boards, SUPs, paddles, oars or similar) to be used in the making of No Landlubbers! the raft. A 'raft' for the race is a floating platform made of materials that were manufactured for purposes other than boating / boarding. Decorating the raft will win you extra points (as will decorating your team). Race Rules: Race start is 2pm with a briefing on the course provided. The course will be announced on the day. There may be challenges during the race. These will be announced at the briefing. Piracy and skullduggery are encouraged, but downright thuggery is frowned upon. It is considered an offence to spill your drink whilst racing. Please keep containers upright at all times. Prizes: There will be prizes for the winners of the race and for the 'best dressed' raft and team. Prizes will be awarded in the bar at the Boatyard, following the race itself. International Commodore Sergio Charters 3 African Fleets... continued (Continued from page 2) English but also Italian) washed down by many bottles of Prosecco at Bonefish House Restaurant while being taught the IYFR Cheer by IC Sergio. Very early Sunday morning, 6 of our intrepid Mariners led by IC Sergio embarked on a deep sea fishing expedition. Watamu is known throughout the world as THE place for deep sea fishing particularly for Marlin and Sailfish. Regrettably, the fishing Mariners returned without a single fish. The fish we caught was too big to bring into the boat was the explanation given. The weekend concluded with a sunset dhow cruise on Mida Creek with about 20 Mariners and their guests. The Mariners were once again treated to a fresh seafood and lobster buffet while marvelling at the millions of stars 1st Mate Jane contemplates a massive lobster overhead. For several of our guests, this was the first time they had seen the Southern Cross (Watamu is about 3 south of the Equator). The Rotary Mariners recently distributed 400 lifejackets donated by the Italian Mariners to fishermen in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. The Fleet has monthly fellowships, many of them on the Ocean, up and down the Coast and Rotarians, Rotaractors and their families from all over Kenya are invited to join. You do not need to own a boat; merely have a love of the sea. For further information contact rmeastafrica@gmail.com District Governor s Newsletter Editorial Committee Chair Rt. Angela Mbogua RC of Karen Country Officers Ethiopia Rt. Teguest Yilma RC Entoto Kenya Rt. Josiah Mwangi RC Madaraka Kenya Rt. Martin Mwibanda RC Muthaiga Kenya Rt. Rayhab Gachango RC Muthaiga South Sudan Other Committee Members District Governor TBA DG Harry Mugo District Public Relations Chair Rt Lilian Okado RC Muthaiga District Secretary Rt. Peter Mbui RC Nairobi East If you would like to contribute an article or ask any questions, please contact the editorial committee at: DGNewsletter9212@gmail.com Visit the District 9212 website at: and the District 9212 Facebook page at: District-9212/

The MISSION of Rotary International is to support its member clubs in fulfilling the Object of Rotary by:

The MISSION of Rotary International is to support its member clubs in fulfilling the Object of Rotary by: What is Rotary? ROTARY is an international organization of business and professional persons united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help