May 2014 1

Visit our updated district website - www.7020.org

May 2014 2

TABLE OF CONTENTSWHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS ISSUE…

News of District interest first…Page No.

District Conference 3Message from RI President, Ron Burton (SARs) 5Message from RI President, Ron Burton (Paul Harris Homestead) 6World Affairs Seminar 7Club Charter Celebrations 8Economic and Community Development in District 7020 9Caribbean Partnership Celebration (CPC) 2014 10Areas of Focus Essay Competition winners 10Coming Events 11Gary C.K. Huang brief bio 12Service-Above-Self Award – PDG Diana White 12Rotary Branding 13

CLUB NEWS St. Thomas 14 Tortola 16 Endorsement of Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean, 7020 17 Sint Maarten 18 Kingston 19 Cayman Brac 20 Eleuthera 22 Port Antonio 22 Joint Project with Haiti 24 North St. Catherine 24 Portmore 25Rotaract Corner 27Interact Corner 28Coming in July – Light Up Rotary! (Gary Huang) 29Winning Essays printed here – from Areas of Focus Essay Competition

Rotaract – Andy Baptiste 29Interact – Paul Campbell 31Rotary (tied for first place – 1) – Dominica Pradere 33Rotary (tied for first place – 2) – Kitty Bucsko 36

References 40

May 2014 3

WE CELEBRATED!DISTRICT 7020 CONFERENCE IN CAYMAN ISLANDS

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory in the western Caribbean Sea. The territory comprises the three islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica. The Cayman Islands are considered to be

part of the geographic Western Caribbean Zone as well as the Greater Antilles. The territory is a major world offshore financial centre.

At left above - Cayman Islands National Museum, George Town, Grand Cayman. Right - The Heroes Square in the centre of George Town, which commemorates Cayman Islands' war dead. The Legislative Assembly building is at the left.

A few destinations on the next page

May 2014 4

SEVEN MILE BEACH - On the western shore of Grand Cayman lies Seven Mile Beach. Named by Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine as the Caribbean’s Best Beach, this coral and sand beach is a favorite among those visiting the Caymans. Seven Mile Beach is home to most of the resort hotels on the island but is public property which means guests can stroll along the shoreline.

STING RAY CITY – Stingray City is located in the shallow waters of the northwest corner of Grand Cayman's North Sound. If you want to experience Sting Rays in their natural habitat, this is the place to go. Known as one of the most popular attractions on the island, Sting Ray City welcomes both divers and snorkelers alike. Hungry for food, you will experience the Rays first hand as they will take bait right from your hands. Stingray City is a phenomenon like no other in the world.

RUM POINTE BEACH - If a quiet retreat off the beaten path is what you’re looking for, Grand Cayman’s Rum Pointe is the place for

you. Located on the North side of the island its natural beauty, white sandy beaches and clear waters are a popular hang-out for locals looking to unwind. For travelers it’s a relatively untouched oasis with plenty of hammocks and lounges to relax in and soak up the sun or chill in the shade. This beautiful public beach is a 40 minute car drive from George Town. Often time’s visitors opt for the boat ride over to catch a view of the beach from the water.

Below right – Haresh Ramchandani, our District Governor Nominee Designate and his wife, Vanessa.

At left - Elisia Lake, the District Rotaract Representative-elect, with DGE Dr. Paul Brown

May 2014 5

A MESSAGE FROM RI PRESIDENTRON BURTON

CHANGE IN ROTARY SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS (SAR)

Dear fellow Rotarian,

In the Rotary world, a small change often can yield amazing results. That’s why I am so enthusiastic about the RI Board’s recent decision to enhance the service the Secretariat provides to clubs. The decision improves our membership service and support to clubs because secretaries will register new members and terminations within 30 days and report their incoming club officers by 1 February of each year.

Improved club membership invoices. Beginning 1 January 2015, every club will receive a one-page document that clearly states the amount due. This easy-to-understand invoice will replace the complicated eight-part semi-annual report. You will no longer need to recalculate your bill or make adjustments to the invoice. Dues amounts on semi-annual invoices will be calculated based on the membership numbers filed by the club secretary — through Rotary.org, email, or mail — by 1 January and 1 July of each year. Since many clubs have requested this type of straightforward invoice system, I am very pleased to report that the change is underway.

Faster service for new Rotarians. The sooner a club secretary reports a new member, the sooner this Rotarian will receive a welcome kit from Rotary and be eligible for all the privileges of membership.

While these small adjustments to the duties of your secretary will produce substantial benefits for your club, change always presents some challenges. So please start talking about the new invoice with your fellow club officers now. You will find detailed information at Rotary.org/clubinvoice. You may email any questions or comments to your Finance or Club and District Supportrepresentative or to clubinvoice@rotary.org.

Everyone at the Secretariat will work diligently to make the transition from the old invoice to the new one as smooth as possible for your club. I know we can count on your support.

Ron D. Burton

May 2014 6

Video of Harris Home – http://www.paulharrishome.org

Paul and Jean Harris Home brochure -http://www.paulharrishome.org/uploads/2/3/7/3/23734072/phhome_brochenglish.pdf

Paul Harris Home Campaign Pledge Form -www.paulharrishome.org/uploads/2/3/7/3/23734072/paul_harris_home_campaign_pledge_form.pdf

May 2014 7

Please call the WAS Offices if you have questions or comments. We would enjoy hearing from you. Thanks for your interest in the future of our youth.

Tom Plantenberg, Executive Director, World Affairs Seminar10600 W. Mitchell Street, West Allis, WI 53214

Office: 414-453-4984 - Fax: 414-431-0588 - tplanten@worldaffairsseminar.org or www.worldaffairsseminar.org

***************

May 2014 8

Celebration/Activity Date

Attendance Report Due

Club Charter Celebrations

3rd of the month

East Nassau, Bahamas May 6, 1963

Nassau Sunrise, Bahamas May 8, 2001

St. Croix Mid-Isle, USVI May 13, 1988

E-Club of the Virgin Islands May 16, 2013

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos May 17, 1996

St. John, USVI May 21, 1999

Port de Paix, Haiti May 30, 1996

Montrouis, Haiti May 30, 2012

May 2014 9

May 2014 10

CARIBBEAN PARTNERSHIP CELEBRATION 2014

August 8 – 10, 2014 in Puerto Rico

As Chairman-elect for the Caribbean Partnership, I am delighted to announce to you that we have had preliminary agreement for D7000 to host the Caribbean Partnership celebration event in 2014 over the weekend of August 8 – 10, 2014.

Rotary District 7000 comprises Puerto Rico.

Although we are in the preliminary stages of planning, I am requesting of you early to please reserve a slot on your respective Conference agendas for the promotion of Caribbean Partnerships in general and also the planned event in Puerto Rico.

We hope to enlist the support of all Districts.

Best RegardsVance Lewis – PDG D7020Chairman-Elect Caribbean Partnerships

AREAS OF FOCUS ESSAY COMPETITION 2013-14

RESULTSWinning Essays printed at the end of the newsletter

Name Club Position

INTERACTORSPaul Campbell Wolmer’s Boy Interact Club, Jamaica 1Shawnea Slater Holy Childhood Interact Club, Jamaica 2Raphieal Newbold Queen’s College Interact Club, Bahamas 3

ROTARACTORSAndy Baptiste Rotaract Club of the University of the Virgin Islands 1

ROTARIANSKitty Bucsko Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean, 7020 1Dominica Pradere Rotary Club of Montego Bay, Jamaica 1Alexander Fedee Rotary Club of Anguilla, BWI 2

May 2014 11

World Environment DayJune 5, 2014

Rotaract District 7020 ConferenceJune 11-15, 2014 - Montego Bay, Jamaica

New RI President Gary HC Huang

July 1, 2014

New D7020 GovernorPaul Brown, Jamaica

July 1, 2014

Caribbean Partnership CelebrationAugust 8 - 10, 2014 - Puerto Rico

D7020 Conference 2015Montego Bay, Jamaica

May 2015

May 2014 12

ROTARY SERVICE-ABOVE-SELF AWARD

Criteria

The nominee must have demonstrated exemplary humanitarian service, in any form and at any level, with an emphasis on personal volunteer efforts and active involvement in helping others through Rotary.

Service rendered by the nominee through Rotary must have been on a continuing basis.

The award will not be given solely in recognition of one’s performance in an elected or appointed Rotary assignment.

Personal financial contributions to The Rotary Foundation or any individual project are not relevant considerations for this award.

The Rotary International Service Above Self Award is an internationally competitive award granted to a maximum of 150 Rotarians per year who are examples of Service Above Self.

Who won the Service-Above-Self award this year for District 7020? Our very own Diana White!

What an honour!

Congratulations! Very well deserved!

PDG Diana White and her husband, Roger, at the District Conference

May 2014 13

NEW - ROTARY BRANDING - A CONSISTENT IDENTIFY THROUGH ROTARY

We have a powerful story to tell, and it’s up to all of us to protect, promote, and deliver our message in all of our interactions. By speaking, writing, and designing in a unified voice and look, we ensure that our communications are unmistakably Rotary.

Applying a consistent and clear Rotary style in all of our communications is vital to strengthening our image and enhancing our reputation as a world-class organization. These downloadable resources and guidelines allow each club and district to work independently while maintaining a consistent identity throughout the organization.

These materials are just the beginning of what we plan to offer. Check back often over the coming months to see what new resources are available to help you tell Rotary’s story.

Use these supporting resources to help you apply Rotary’s logo and graphics guidelines.

Click the links below:

Rotary Brand FAQsVoice and Visual Identity GuidelinesMessaging GuidelinesIdentity at a GlanceIdeas Book: Our Identity in Action

Quick Start Guide for Club Websites

May 2014 14

ROTARY CLUB OF ST. THOMAS…submitted by Daphne Harley

Mr. Jason Robbins, Publisher of the VI Daily News spoke to The Rotary Club of St. Thomas at their lunch meeting about Media & technology’s' impact on the business and future of Newspaper.

First he noted that one of the attributes about our local paper is that our Community has a sense of ownership about it and is very interested in even the smallest changes that might be made to it. He indicated that the type of news that interests today’s readers has changed. People seem to be more interested in pundits and Pop News than hard news.

How people get their news has also changed. (smart phones, tablets, PCs etc.) The newspaper industry is a tough industry to make changes in, due to costs,(everything from production to distribution). Newspaper content attracts an audience. Advertisers continue to want access to that audience. That’s not going to change. The business of newspaper struggles to reinvent itself, - online services etc. Wherever newspaper has expertise, it can market and diversify into - areas such

as Direct sales, marketing, travel, data analysis, web posting, IT support. Print editions may die eventually, but not as long as there is money to be made

in it. Integration of media into daily lives will continue, as technology grows. Content and delivery are changing, but people will always want to get

information about their surroundings.

Questions from the floor included:

Is our Paper for sale & why? Ans: Yes, primarily because the Owners live in PA. They desire to be a regional company rather than a National one.

What is the Current circulation? Ans: 40-50K read paper daily plus approx 15K online.

Can advertisers pay to specify page or place where their Ad goes? Ans: Yes. Being done now.

Biggest circulation day of the week? Ans: Usually Wed. Slowest is Sat. However, there is seldom more than a 5-7% swing. His presentation was informative and well received!

District Update in St. Thomas.

The Rotary Club of St. Thomas got a brief update from the Assistant District Governor, Mike Touissant, who just returned from a meeting of theDistrict# 7020. He reported that although the District lost 2 Clubs, it gained 2 E-Clubs.

Leadership is extremely pleased with the newly locally established online E-Club which held the first-ever joint meeting with a regular Club, Rotary East. The online environment allowed Rotarians all over the world to participate.

Rotary International's organization has fully embraced the use of technology migrating from a paper format to doing and having everything online. Our District is doing that as well.

We are now using Google Calendar to see what all Clubs are doing and help to avoid scheduling overlaps. He gave the club the Login ID and password to see what all Clubs in VI are doing.

Heflyn Royer, Club President with the guest speaker, Jason Robbins

May 2014 15

The District has created a one-day seminar to keep Rotarians educated and informed about current issues in Rotary International.

With respect to Rotary Grants: In District 7020, 81 clubs qualified, 39 applied, but only 18 received grants.

Firing Up the Grill for The Boys and Girls Club

The Rotary Club of St. Thomas seems to invent reasons to hang out with the kids at the Boys and Girls Club in Oswald Harris Court. If they aren't donating needed equipment, then they are there delivering and installing each one.

In addition, each year they play Santa Claus, bringing in all sorts of toys and fun for all involved.

On Wednesday March 26, they were back again, this time firing up the BBQ grill, hosting a Barbecue and donating games at the Club. Over 60 kids were served hamburgers and hot dogs by Rotarians who attended. Kids enjoyed the food, and so did the Rotarians!It seems that Club Members are just kids at heart!!

UVI President, Dr David HallSpeaks to Rotary Club of St. Thomas

The Speaker at the weekly meeting was Dr David Hall, 5th President of UVI.

Reflecting publicly on his 5 Years as President for first time, he spoke on the Challenges, Lessons Learned and The Future.

1st Challenge: He felt there was a need for Leadership, Communication and Shared Governance. Much of his initial effort was focused in these areas. Coined phrase Striving for Greatness because he wanted to address the challenges.

Established advisory councils to identify problems and to jointly come up with solutions.

2nd Challenge: Bold vision is now captured in the Strategic Plan, Pathways to Greatness. Every employee, staff and student had opportunity to have input into the plan.

Upon arrival, was struck by lack of hospitality management program, and a year after the meetings with hotel managers, the program has come into existence with 40 students enrolled!

Added a MS in Psychology. Also added 8 minors from entrepreneurship, environmental science, and others.

May 2014 16

5 Million Gift to UVI was transformative. Now has a minor in entrepreneurship. Winners receive 10-30K to invest in their ideas and their future.

Striving to increase the types of centers they have, and a demonstration project that will produce alternative energy.Started an Institute for Leadership and Effectiveness and a Public Managers Program going through a yearlong intensive program to learn to be effective public managers.

3rd challenge: Make sure UVI is operating by Best Practices.Changed names from Divisions to Schools of..... as is the current industry practice. Now provides Honorary DegreesDoes a 360 degree review of all cabinet members evaluated against the 7 values he identified.

4th Challenge: Enhance student centeredness and academic performance. Established centers to help students be successful.Established Brothers with a cause - to help Male students have the support they need to succeed. This led to the establishment of the now Annual Man-Up Conference. Both help to increase male retention and enrollment & motivate them to step up to their role in society. A Center for students’ success and a summer bridge program were also established.

5th Challenge: Diversify financial resources. Doubled the annual giving from $1.5 mil to $3 mil.Increased alum giving from 6% to 51.7%! Lost $6 mil from local gov’t funding! Endowment has doubled due to leadership on UVI Foundation Board.

6th Challenge: Improve the quality of facilities. Built 100 bed $13mil Research & Tech Park on STX. Renovated social Science bldg. on STT. Renovated & upgraded Classrooms.

Impressed by the hard work of the staff and their dedication. Industry collaboration has been impressive.

Challenges remain: Unable to give employee raises. Student enrollment not where he'd like it to be.

Future Goals: Hoping to develop a PHD program within the next year or two. Hoping for 1st online degree program in the next year or so. Exploring possibility of a Medical School.

ROTARY CLUB OF TORTOLA…submitted by Susanna Henighan Potter

DRINKING WATER FOR BOULMIER, HAITI

The Rotary Club of Tortola and the Rotary Club of Les Cayes in Haiti have partnered to bring clean water to the community of Boulmier in Haiti. A well was dug and a private bathing area constructed as part of this water project. Six different communities were helped as a result of this project.

Residents travel a long distance to fetch water.

Past President Rosa of the RC of Les Cayes reports that the people in the community are very grateful and sent these beautiful pics to share with our club.

The funds for this project were donated to the Rotary Club of Tortola for water projects. We are very proud of this project and our participation to improve the lives of our neighbors in Haiti through Clean Water initiatives.

May 2014 17

This is another example of our great partnerships in District 7020.

Thank you again to VP Stephen Cooper of the Rotary Club of Tortola for his determination and care with another great project!

AN EXCELLENT ENDORSEMENT FOR ROTARY E-CLUB OF THE CARIBBEAN, 7020

May 2014 18

ROTARY CLUB OF SINT MAARTEN

CELEBRATES LITERACY MONTH

-All Primary Schools to Benefit

PHILIPSBURG, SINT MAARTEN –– The Rotary Club of St. Maarten, in recognition of Rotary Literacy Month, is distributing children’s books to all St. Maarten Primary Schools. Rotary International has observed Literacy Month each March since 1983 and each primary school will receive six copies of the Lizzy Lizard storybook by Ms. Robin Boasman, as well as copies of The Butterfly Storybook.

The Lizzy Lizard book was written while Boasman was attending Teacher’s College at the University of St. Maarten. Ms. Boasman wrote the book as part of her coursework and the book was published in mid-2013. Over 120 books will be distributed to both government subsidized, and non-subsidized St. Maarten Primary Schools. This distribution is made possible as a result of the combined efforts of CIBC First Caribbean Bank and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten.

In addition, 200 copies of The Butterfly Book, a compilation of 10 children's stories, will be distributed to all primary schools and the National Philipsburg Jubilee Library. The Butterfly Book stories were written by children in the Caribbean who participated in the Rotary Literacy Story Competition.

In the photo - At the back Jim Ferris PAG, Fred van der Peijl and Geeta Khatnani, Mrs. Phelipa - De Weever , Vice Principal Adi Richardson , Marc Groeneveld (Projects Chairmain). Also in the photo: Robin Boasman (author in green top) front right , President Rotary Club of St. Maarten Maria Buncamper-Molanus front left (blue top)

"We often take for granted that children will learn to read and further, that they have all the required material at school", said Rotary Club of St. Maarten President Maria Buncamper-Molanus. She continued, "With this great group of volunteers, called Rotarians, and a seriously involved corporate sponsor, our club has been able to join forces with CIBC First Caribbean to double the distribution efforts and provide additional reading material to our primary school children.

This effort is extra-special because the books are Caribbean productions. In the case of the Lizzy Lizard book, there are recognizable iconic locations, such as the University of Sint Maarten, the Court House and many more. Congratulations to author Robin Boasman, I hope this is just the beginning of many books to come. I would also like to personally thank Rotarians, Marc Groenveld, Jim Ferris, Fred van de Peijl and Geeta Khatnani for their participation in the presentation".

Mrs. Buncamper concluded, “Reading enables us to further our education and make a myriad of improvements, including economic opportunity. The Rotary Club of St. Maarten is proud to be part of the efforts of Rotary International, providing an opportunity for everyone to learn to read”.

May 2014 19

ROTARY CLUB OF KINGSTON…submitted by Allison Peart

For Literacy Month in March, RCOK teamed with Do Good Jamaica and Crayon's Count to read in 6 basic schools in inner city communities. Sixteen of our Rotarians read for an hour to children ranging in age from 3 to 5 from Giant Sesame Street books. For each school we visited, we read to three classes each morning and the children loved it. Please see the attached pictures from thevarious days.

May 2014 20

ROTARY CLUB OF CAYMAN BRAC…submitted by dhall

Rotary Club of Cayman Brac supports feeding programme in Philippines village. International Director Joe Salazar in White shirt and hat coordinated all activities. Thanks Joe!

May 2014 21

Brackers ride for fun and funds in the 32nd Annual Rotary Bike-A-Thon

The sharp sound of the whistle at 8.04AM on April 5th 2014, kicked off the 32nd Annual Rotary Bike-A-Thon at the Spot Bay Turnaround, Cayman Brac. The time keepers Rotarian Bob Luek and Susan Hundt and well-wishers at the finish line at West End Community Park welcome each rider with rounds of applause, “Congrats, Well done”

President Dhallchand Seeram in his opening remarks at the Spot Bay Turn Around asked riders to be safe; “Safety comes first, have fun, God Bless you”

This annual Bike-A- Thon is one of the main Rotary events to raise awareness of the need to exercise, have fun and raise funds for a good cause. Funds will be used for designated community projects such as Literacy, sports, health and sanitation

The Cayman Brac Police Service, EMS service from Faith Hospital, parents and guardians supported riders along the route. Fortunately there were no accidents.

May 2014 22

At a temperature of about 84o F and a North East tailwind of about 12MPH the 36 registered cyclist ages 8years to72 years pedaled their way along this level 12 miles resurfaced Brac front road. The first rider finished at 30minutes 42 seconds and the final rider made it in 65 minutes and 56 seconds. The most senior rider Vivian Williams riding alongside her husband Steve reached the finish line together at 40 minutes 47 seconds and the youngest riders Tajaun MacFaralane age 7 years 4 months made an amazing finish at 54 minutes 26 seconds.

When it was time for the awards ceremony, President Dhal congratulated all the riders for an excellent finish. He asked all present to continue to ride for better health, make a contribution towards a healthier community and continue to support Rotary and a healthy lifestyle. Ms. Yvonne Walton, manager of LIME Cayman Brac, was happy to present, Abbey Walton, the first place winner for collecting the most sponsor money, with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet; Second Place went to Jenae Scott. Creek and Spot Bay School kids contributed the most sponsor money and the school will receive an award for their efforts. Other winners were First Rider at the Tape: Evol Miller who completed this race in 30 minutes 42 seconds .First lady rider; Angela Johnson in 37 minutes 30 seconds, Most senior rider was Vivian Williams, Youngest rider was Tajuan Mafarlane. Largest number of riders in family went to family of Sanya and Rory Scott.

Riders enjoyed fresh fruits and snacks from Market Place, Kirkconnel Ltd, Popo Jebs and The Shoppe. Some benefitted from a massage at the finish line by Elaine Burke and Elaine Shalvey certified Sports therapists. Thanks to Rotarians, Mr. Eddlee Martin, local supermarkets, LIME, riders, parents and teachers and all those who contributed in making this event very enjoyable.

ROTARY CLUB OF ELEUTHERA, BAHAMAS

IT WAS AN AWESOME NIGHT OF FELLOWSHIP!

Grant writing Workshop!

30% of Eleuthera Rotarians received the training from PN Felix Stubbs (28th March)!

Attending the Rotary Club of Eleuthera meeting was a group of Rotaractors from Sonoma State University. They partnered on a number of community projects while here.

This enthusiastic group of young people were accompanied by their advisors from the Rotary Club of Rancho Cotati, the home club of our good friend Rotarian Mary Graves.

Guest speaker was Professor Dr. Robert Girling from SSU School of Business and Economics.

In the photo - IPP Jacqueline Gibson, International Chair Juanita Pinder, DGPN Felix Stubbs, CP Shaun Ingraham, President Robyn Curry, PN Colin Moss, PE Julian Carey, Secretary Sandra Ingraham, Community Serv. Chair Maisie Pinder, and

incoming Treasurer Susan Culmer

ROTARY CLUB OF PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICASubmitted by Joseph Thomas (Dr.)

(Coordinator of Rotary Club of Port Antonio Literacy Project)

The Twelfth Inter-school Mathematics Competition for participating Primary Schools of Region II was held at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) on March 25, 2014. Thirty (30) primary schools were invited; however, only nineteen (19)

May 2014 23

schools from different localities of the parish participated in the event which was conducted under the auspices of the Rotary Club of Port Antonio. The participants were mainly 6th graders who had already sat the GSAT Exams.

The competition consists of 80 multiple choice questions at the GSAT level which the students were expected to complete within a stipulated time of seventy five (75) minutes. Tahjaye Edwards of Norwich Primary School copped 1st place, he was followed by Rayne Molloy of Avocat Primary and Junior High and Fendian Pollock of Boundbrook Primary who took the 2nd

and 3rd places respectively.

The first, second and third prize winners were awarded with Rotary Club Certificates and a full set of Mathematics for Caribbean Schools text books and promotional pens from CASE. All other participants received Certificate of Participation along with promotional pencils and book markers from CASE. The teachers from the top three schools also received

promotional items from CASE.

Even though the test items were on par with that of the GSAT questions, the overall performance of the participants was moderate. At the end of the competition some participants browsed their scripts along with their teachers / coaches. This allowed the coaches to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the respective participant and to formulate a strategy for better performance in the future.

However, the examiner of the competition was of the view that the majority of students had difficulty with the algebra questions. This was emphasized in the coordinator’s concluding speech as a suggestion to teachers and principals to take the necessary steps to have more conceptual learning taking place in the classroom. We also observed that the students’ overall scores have increased when compared to previous years.

Four students from the Bachelors in Education programme (primary option) were invited to and subsequently extended their support to conduct this competition so they got an exposure to the technical aspect of conducting the competition. As a token of appreciation, the coordinator presented advance level reference books in Mathematics to all of them. Certificates of Appreciation will be presented to them at a later date. The Secretary was also recognized for her role in the planning process.

May 2014 24

Our usual major sponsor for this competition (Carlong Publishers) was unable to offer the usual support in terms of text books and or text book vouchers. This resulted in us not being able to offer text books to all participants. However, we were able to provide text books for the top three schools as previously indicated.

I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the CASE community for their continued support for the successful implementation of this outreach project.

ROTARY CLUB OF TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDAWATER PROJECT IN HAITI

Clean Water Project in Dumay, Haiti with Sunset Rotary Club of Tallahassee, Florida, USA

Rotarian Clubs of Haiti,

With the new Future Vision grants application, our club applied for and received a grant to provide clean water filtration systems to a small community in Dumay, Haiti. On August 10, 2013 three of our Tallahassee, Florida USA Sunset Rotarians depart for Dumay, Haiti for seven days. They are installing water filtration systems, educating the community on the importance of safe drinking water, and beginning a long-term partnership with the community of Dumay for our International Club Project.

We are looking for a Rotary Club in Haiti to partner with us in this endeavor to serve our global community. We want to develop Rotary relationships, fellowships and friendships with Haiti Rotary Clubs in hopes to spread goodwill and teach the community of Dumay, Haiti what Rotary is and what Rotarians do.

Dumay, Haiti is a small remote community southeast of Port-Au-Prince. Water from the community wells is unfiltered and untreated. Left with no other choice, the residents knowingly drink the unsafe, contaminated water. Many residents are chronically ill with gastrointestinal diseases which renders their food program ineffective because they cannot retain nutrients. As a result, children are often sick and cannot attend school and adults are regularly unable to work because of their illnesses.

Our goal is to implement a sustainable solution for the community so they can have the opportunity to drink clean water and live healthy lives. Please look at our brochure to see the Sawyer water filtration systems we are bringing to Dumay, Haiti.

We are not asking for donations, only the chance to meet another Rotary Club so we can Engage Rotary and Change Lives.

Please check out our Facebook page: TLHSunsetRotary and please contact us if you are interested to meet with us in August.

ROTARY CLUB OF NORTH ST. CATHERINE…submitted by Gaynor Downer

OPERATION HOPEROTARY CLUB OF NORTH ST. CATHERINE

YOUTH AT RISK PROJECT

The purpose of this project is to provide youths in North St. Catherine and its surrounding districts with the requisite life coping skills. This project was developed to promote youth skill training and overall development thereby enhancing long term benefits to the participants and their community. The areas of focus are Numeracy & Literacy, Social Graces& Ethics, Leadership, Healthcare, Counselling, Sports & Culture, Information Technology, Conflict Resolution, Speech Writing and Delivery, Work Experience and Community Service.

The program also offers training in life coping skills, enabling participants to adapt to various forms of learning environment leading to improved communication between youths and adults. The approach used in accomplishing the goals of the project includes lectures, rap sessions, group work, demonstrations and work experience.

May 2014 25

The program is geared towards high school dropouts, youths with behavioral challenges and identity crisis and those who need a loving caring environment. Persons are either referred from schools, institutions, community personnel or sign up on their own.The Rotary Club of North St. Catherine has been the main sponsor of the project for the past two years, providing much neededequipment, personnel and resource material which helps to fulfil the mandate of the program. Students participate in a wide range of projects organized by the Club and Community at large.

After successfully completing the program participants are awarded a certificate in a graduation exercise. To date we have trained over 85 youths for six months.

As part of the program’s matriculation and graduation protocol participants are required to do at least 15 hours of Community Service in Government institutions e.g. school, library and police station.

SUCCESS OF THE PROGRAM

1. Persons have gained employment 2. Persons have gone back to the formal education system3. Better behavioral attitude and outlook on life4. Starting of own business- Entrepreneurship 5. Giving back service to enhance Community Development6. Reduction in conflicts, crime and violence7. Better parenting skills8. Better oral and writing skills

The program continues to impact the community and because of the transformation and improvement of the participants it is important that the Club continues this project for years to come.

ROTARY CLUB OF PORTMORE…submitted by Stephanie Harris

The Butterfly Storybook Project

On March 10th, in celebration of Literacy Month, the Rotary Club of Portmore (RCP) attended the morning devotion at Kensington Primary School and presented Certificates of Participation to all sixteen students that wrote stories for the Butterfly Storybook Project. Of the 132 entries submitted from across the Caribbean, ten were selected for the book and RCP had two winning young authors,Ashanti Lindsay and Jordan Allwood whose entries were selected!

May 2014 26

RCP’s participation in the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean Butterfly Storybook writing project has indeed uncovered some very talented writers. We hope that the success of Ashanti and Jordon will serve as motivation for other students who did not participate in the competition to do so in the future.

RCP was delighted to be associated with a project of this nature which allows children to express themselves through writing and utilize their creativity and imagination. We can only hope that the topic “Families working together and helping each other” will resonate with them well beyond just the stories written and be implemented in their everyday life.

RCP’s Annual Health Fair

On March 29th, the Rotary Club of Portmore (RCP) partnered with the Portmore United Church and the Rotaract Clubs of Kingston, St. Andrew, Liguanea Plains & St. Thomas for our Annual Health Fair.

This was the Club’s most successful Health Fair to date; our records indicate that three hundred and eighty seven persons (387) from the Portmore Community and its environs benefited from the varying services offered on the day.

The growth of the Health Fair shows that RCP’s reach in the community is getting stronger and we intend to make each Health Fair better than the previous year. Medical services offered on the day included vision testing & prescription glasses for children, blood sugar and pressure test, HIV test, ECG test, dental cleaning, chiropractic consultation, doctor examination and consultation. All medical services were offered to patrons free of cost.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Novelette Grant also gave a very relevant presentation on community policing and domestic violence. She captivated the audience with her pointed and relatable approach and we are sure many persons left more aware and armed with critical information.

May 2014 27

THE ROTARACT CORNER

ROTARACT CONFERENCE 2014

Re : Rotaract Support for District Conference 2014

Rotaract District 7020 will be having their District Conference in just a couple months. This year the Conference returns to Montego Bay, Jamaica at the Hilton Rosehall Resort, June 11-15, 2014.

Rotaract is a programme of Rotary and as a result, we do have some obligations to our Rotaract family.

One of our main focuses is to mentor our Rotarians in training and also to ensure that the leadership of the club is adequately trained via this conference. We need your urgent support to have the sponsoring Rotary clubs assist with the cost of attendance for their Rotaract club officers at district-level leadership training meetings.

I am encouraging all Rotary clubs that sponsor Rotaract clubs to make a contribution; it can be full sponsorship or co-sponsorship, towards ensuring that the incoming leadership of the club are trained for their year, specifically the President and Secretary Elect..

ROTARACTORS OF MONEAGUE COLLEGE, JAMAICA

President Vivien (L) and two other Rotaractors read to eager students at St. Dominic Prep School on March 14 as a project during Literacy Month.

May 2014 28

THE INTERACT CORNER

FOUR-WAY TEST ESSAY COMPETITIONWith Rotary Club of Nassau

Congratulations to Interactor Angel Bevans on winning the 4-Way Test Essay Competition conducted by the Rotary Club of Nassau. Angel, who is an 11th grade student and charter member of the Interact Club of Kingsway Academy, won an Android Tablet for his essay entitled “Crossroads.” The participants were judged on originality; content, thought, development and flow; imagination and relevance to today’s world; incorporation of the 4-Way Test; language, spelling and presentation.

We expect Angel’s essay to printed in The Tribune newspaper.

Above left - LaPaige Gardiner, President Rotary Club of Nassau; Angel Bevans, Member Interact Club of Kingsway Academy; Kendia Barr, Advisor Interact Club of Kingsway Academy. Above right - : Interactor Angel Bevans presents his winning essay to

Rotarians during Rotary Club of Nassau’s meeting.

INTERACT CLUB AT BCB MIDDLE SCHOOL, ST. THOMAS

The Interact Club at BCB Middle School undertook their first Club project on Wednesday April 16, 2014. The students decided to improve the gateway to their school by planting an Acronym Garden spelling out the initials of their school with plants.

School Principal Mr. Farrow supported the idea, and Club Advisor Ms. Gumbs who attended the dedication, supervised their efforts. The Club is sponsored by the The Rotary Club of St. Thomas. Club members Ron Harrigan and John Gifft instructed and assisted the students in their efforts.

May 2014 29

COMING JULY 2014

Coming July 2014

This year, RI President-elect Gary Huang is asking all Rotarians to Light Up Rotary by participating in Rotary Days. The Rotary Days concept is a simple one: hold a fun, informal event in your community for the non-Rotary public

and use it introduce them to Rotary. It’s that easy. Rotary Days can help your club drive up interest in membership, strengthen your club’s relationships with local institutions and community members, and

improve Rotary’s image in your community. Imagine the collective impact we can have if all 34,000 Rotary clubs worldwide make a

concerted effort to introduce the public to the fun, rewarding experiences that we all enjoy as Rotary members.

.

AREAS OF FOCUS ESSAY COMPETITION

District 7020 Areas of Focus Essay Competition 2013-2014Co-ordinator Vernella Fuller

Aims

To raise awareness of the different Areas of Focus To develop knowledge and understanding of the issues around Areas of Focus in the District To enable participants to suggest creative ideas of how to tackle some of the issues relating to the Areas of Focus in our District To engage the Rotary family around a common theme

The essay must be between 1200 - 2000 words in length. The essays will be judged on the basis of:

Facts and substance that are used to hold together logical argument and present thoughtful provoking solutions. Organization of content, own perspectives and analysis of the topic. Style of writing, grammar and punctuation.

ROTARACT CATEGORY - FIRST PLACE ESSAYBasic Education and Literacy - Club Name: Rotaract Club of the University of the Virgin Islands

Andy Baptiste

In the famed words of the late Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” (1)Education is the seed that grows knowledge, allowing man to prosper and nations to flourish. Armed with knowledge, we allow

May 2014 30

ourselves to be shielded by a tool greater than any weapon that mankind has the ability to create. Knowledge is the gem that affords us a world of opportunities. It is the comet that catapults us into a galaxy of possibilities. Indeed, it can be said that education and the lifelong pursuit of knowledge are vital stepping-stones. Education can open the door to a plethora of opportunities that without which, may have otherwise been left uncharted. It is because of the aforementioned reasons that we should seize every opportunity that allows us to educate and therefore better ourselves. Unfortunately, for many of us both in the Caribbean and worldwide, these opportunities are not easily presented to us in many cases. Often times in life, a lack of having, gives birth to a hunger in wanting. If we work together as a community, wound together by a thread that is impossible to break, we can arrive at a solution to perhaps eachand every obstacle that may come our way. Among these obstacles, are the drive geared towards education and the fight against illiteracy.

Literacy and education share a symbiotic relationship of sorts. By definition, literacy is measured by a proficiency in reading and writing. In order for us to become literate, we must have the basic education which allows us to first learn the elementary principles of reading and writing. Conversely, to reach the pinnacle of education, we must convey a strong measure of literacy. For many of the individuals and nations which suffer setbacks surrounding basic education and literacy, the first hurdle may have been induced by an inadequacy of the former. Without first grasping the elementary principles of basic reading and writing, we will be at a loss when it comes to achieving a measure of adequate literacy in adulthood. Typically in the Caribbean, when we discuss the issues surrounding basic education and literacy, we tend to tunnel our focus towards the rates of illiteracy and the barriers to education as it pertains to theyouth of our communities. We tend to neglect the issues of a lack of adequate education and illiteracy as it pertains to adults. Until we address these issues, the countries that comprise district 7020 will be unable to get on the right path towards the eradication of illiteracy. Of the projects listed in Rotary International’s areas of focus leaflet, the one that I think would make perhaps the greatest impact in my community would be the development of adult literacy programs. (2)

As adults, we are the ones who will either make or break our communities. While it is true that the youth will shape the future, it can also be said that the adults will construct the present. As we move towards the future, our communities are ever advancing; making various leaps and bounds. We should see to it that among these leaps and bounds, there lies the drive for education. As adults, we are the ones who will play a major part in shaping the lives of the youth. Generally speaking, there tends to be a link between illiteracy and poverty. Often times, children can be considered innocent mirrors, reflecting what they see. If we as adults wish to avoid having our youth grow up to reflect the hardships of their upbringing, then we must take it upon ourselves to instill a passion for education in our youth. If the adults of the society seek to educate themselves and achieve the apex of a quality education while taking measures toovercome adult illiteracy, then the youth will reflect this. It is because of this that we need to advocate adult literacy programs in the countries of district 7020.

The issues that our society faces are often interconnected. Often times, they are bound together like the links of a chain. In this sense, these issues may be connected to one another, whether it be directly or indirectly. Of the chain of issues that exists in our society, the one that may prove to have the strongest link is that of adult illiteracy. This is because of all the problems that we face, if we as adults do not have the basic education and literacy to overcome our obstacles, then the other links will surely crumble in light of this. Illiteracy is the initiator of numerous hurdles in our society as it both stems from, and gives rise to many other obstacles such as poverty and unemployment. Basic education and literacy are a vital part of the construction of a socially and economically stableglobal environment. Illiteracy can without uncertainty bring about the downfall of even the most developed nations. Guided by this knowledge, we as a community must make an earnest attempt to make the drive towards adequate adult literacy rates.

Another project in Rotary International’s leaflet that may prove to be a great necessity to the countries of district 7020 is volunteering in schools and after school programs.(3) These programs can prove to be advantageous for all parties involved. On one end, students are afforded the opportunity to meet older students or perhaps adults who have been in their shoes. The student, can benefit from gaining insight from an individual who has previously been in their position, while the volunteer can benefit from the peace of mind and gratitude that comes from taking a positive stand and giving back to the society. Volunteers in schools and after school programs can play a fundamental role in the lives of students. Volunteers and mentors can provide the positive motivation that they need toachieve their absolute best. Volunteers can help to positively influence and thus shape the lives of students. They can forge important bonds with the students, arming them with the motivation that they need to succeed. Volunteers can aide students by exposing them to a world of careers and real world knowledge which may have positive influences on the students. Also, volunteers and mentors can assist students by providing a nexus between their school and their community. These benefits can all have a positive impact on thestudent’s performance in school and ideally, on their futures.

Yet another project in Rotary International’s leaflet that may be of great need is providing teacher training and needed classroom supplies.4 As it relates to education, outstanding educators tend to play a major role in the creation of outstanding pupils. In order to gauge the importance of an outstanding teacher, consider this: when it comes to our healthcare, we ideally seek to find the bestphysicians and the most reputable facilities; when it comes to building bridges, we leave the task to the most experienced engineers; and finally, when it comes protecting our communities, we want the most qualified officers armed with the task of protecting us as a

May 2014 31

whole. There is a common trend in the previous examples and that is the fact that we tend to want the best for both ourselves and for our communities. Why should we seek anything less as it pertains to education? In order to ensure that youth of today’s generation can have the brightest future possible, we must ensure that they are provided with the best education and all necessary classroom supplies.(4) Far too often, we witness the failures of our educational systems. This is a barrier that we must overcome. Far too often, the community tends to heavily place its blame on “the public school system.” We must take action to change this. We must collectively bring forth changes to our school systems. So much so in fact, that educational statistics between public and private school students will essentially be comparable. I believe that in order for this to transpire, we must renovate the system. This change must start with those who are charged with educating our youth. By properly training our educators and reinforcing our curriculums, we will give life to a future that comprises of knowledgeable and forward-thinking individuals.

Both education and literacy hold the door to our future. We, the citizens of the countries of district 7020, must see to it that all barriers that obstruct the path towards a quality education and the end of illiteracy are eradicated. Only then can we truly flourish and thrive as a society.

Bibliography

1. http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/leading-theinternational-agenda/education-for-sustainable development/education-forsustainable- development/

2,3,4 https://www.rotary.org/myrotary/en/areas-focusdevelopment/

INTERACT CATEGORY - FIRST PLACE ESSAYPeace and Conflict Resolution

Paul Campbell, Jamaica

“Of the things we think, say or do: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?”

Conflict seems to be pervasive in our world today, but conflict is hardly FAIR to all concerned. The Oxford Dictionary defines conflict to be a serious disagreement between oppositions. On the other hand, peace is defined as a state of tranquility, free from disturbances. The two are clearly antithetical. Peace has remained nothing but an unattainable ideal in our conflict plagued world. As a newly inducted member of the Interact Club, I was quick to discern that the four way test is the cornerstone of Rotary International and Rotarians globally. Conflict is not beneficial; it certainly does not build GOODWILL or aid BETTER FRIENDSHIPS. Only peace can achieve this.

Jamaica, despite its relatively small geographical size, is not exempt from strife. The country is plagued with conflict, especially among the youth. This partly, stems from the prevalence of poverty, which has bred a culture of violence among some inner-city youths. The constant promotion of violence to overcome conflict is overwhelming. A further example is that of South Sudan, which was formally recognized as a newly formed country in 2011. After fifty years of armed conflict, they were able to gain their independence. Now surely, with their ambitions of independence realised, peace would be forthcoming. The discordant place and now newly independent country would be harmonious. Sadly, this was not the case. Even with independence, half-a-century of fighting could not achieve long lasting peace. To this date, the newly established country is still at odds, with many conflicts that are not approaching resolution anytime soon. Jamaica and South Sudan are countries that experience and will continue to experience great tragedies. The main point is that these conflicts will affect both the country and its entire population, and the consequences are generally negative.

In 2013, civilians in Syria were poisoned unexpectedly with Sarin gas by rebel forces fighting against President Al-Assad. The poison was launched using catapults and rockets, in the area of Ghouta, near the city of Damascus. The armed conflict between theinternationally funded rebels and the Syrian government did not happen arbitrarily. It was the result of a series of events that acted as catalysts for each other and resulted in this ongoing battle between rebels and the government.

In 2011, civilians began a non-confrontational protest against the Syrian government. The protestors were initially peaceful but the problem escalated when the government, perceiving the possibility of an uprising, responded by calling-in the security forces. The non-violent protests quickly deteriorated as the security forces employed excessive force to dispel the crowds. In the ensuing altercation the protestors and the security forces engaged in a bloody battle, resulting in a widespread revolt. The country in its current state can be

May 2014 32

likened to a jigsaw puzzle. Although amalgamation remains the idealized target, the country is highly divided into sub-fractions with barely any amicability amongst people. Peace is often said to be just around the corner, but alas, this remains elusive. The many problems arising from the strife between the two main fractions have become more than a nuisance to the general population and on a larger scale, has left an indelible mark on the history of the country.

A person’s domicile is often viewed as an integral part of that individual’s identity. In a country like Syria, individuals are being forced to leave their home for reasons beyond their control. The ones that do remain often become ‘Internally Displaced Persons’. The UN estimates that an average of 6000 Syrians leave the war-torn country daily. They often abscond after seeing their family members killed and their communities bombed. Can you imagine being evicted from your home? Where would you go? And how would your daily needs be met?

This is just a minute sampling of the questions that Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons ask daily. The victims of such situations leave and go to neighbouring countries to live in refugee camps or with family members. Syrian victims in particular, flee to countries such as Jordan and Lebanon. In general, internally displaced persons or refugees, after absconding, will live in substandard conditions. It is almost unimaginable for persons who have lived in a reasonably sized house for most of their lives, to now reside in structures which have more in common with chicken coops or storage sheds, than with a house. Yet this is the condition in which most find themselves. Refugees, therefore, have arguably lost their sense of identity due to these circumstances.

The more protracted the conflict, the greater the level of displacement. According to the United Nations Refugee Agency, the continued conflict in Syria has resulted in an exponential growth in the number of refugees. In 2012, a year after the civil unrest, there were approximately 100,000 refugees. By April 2013, there were 800,000 refugees. This number then doubled to 1.6 million in the ensuing four months. At this rate, the United Nations predicted that there would be 3.5 million Syrian refugees by the end of 2013 and the early months of 2014. In addition to the creation of refugees and internally displacement persons, the armed conflict resulted in the merciless killing of children. The statistics show that the revolt against President Bashar Al-Assad led to the death of 140,000 civilians. Furthermore, of the total number of civilians killed, 7000 were children. This leaves one feeling overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation, as these children died, not having lived a full or meaningful life – the victims of armed conflict.

The problems associated with conflict, which have been highlighted above, are actively being confronted by several humanitarian organizations throughout the world. In particular, Rotary International has proposed methods to ameliorate the impact of armed conflict. These methods vary, depending on the areas of focus. In the case of refugees and internally displaced persons, for example, help can be provided by way of services involving volunteers. Victims can also be helped by way of monetary contributions that go towards the development of better shelters or camps in which they can reside. Additionally, monetary contributions can help displaced victims in terms of sustenance, clothing and even mattresses and other household essentials.

For affected children, services that are geared towards helping them cope with trauma and other psychological or emotional problems would be greatly beneficial. Not only should help be provided in terms of trauma but also in terms of allowing them to continue with their educational pursuits. Children who are victims of conflict, such as those in Syria, have not been inside a classroom-like setting for many years. Through the medium of education, they can be taught about peace and conflict resolution. This would in return, provide them with the means of understanding their situation and provide useful coping mechanisms.

I am heartened to know that an organization such as Rotary International has devised methods to combat modern day problems. The methods elucidated above will greatly benefit those affected by conflict, as they directly address their greatest needs. In the case of refugees and internally displaced persons, giving them relief in the form of monetary contributions or volunteering greatly assists them. In addition to this, offering help to children by reintegrating them back into the education system will expand the life choices available to them.

Alas, there is no place upon this earth which is free from the scourge of conflict, though some places are more heavily affected than others. It is pervasive, but with the continued help of organizations such as Rotary International, those affected may find some relief. Furthermore, I am reassured after reviewing the Rotary Showcase that efforts are being made to combat this problem on the various areas of focus. Countries such as Syria and Sudan that are conflict torn can be helped. The negative impact of the conflicts can be combatted with precise projects geared towards victims. Although a relatively small step, implementing these project, will aid in solving the larger problem at hand.

BIBLOGRAPHY - WEBSITES USED:

Genocide Watch – South Sudan

http://www.genocidewatch.org/southsudan.html

May 2014 33

MercyCorps (2013, October 17). What you need to know about the Syrian refugee crisis

http://www.mercycorps.org/articles/iraq-jordan-lebanon-syria/quick-facts-what-you-need-know-about-syrian-refugee-crisis

REUTERS (2014, February 15). Syria's death toll now exceeds 140,000: activist group

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/02/15/us-syria-crisis-toll-idUSBREA1E0HS20140215

StormCloudGathering (2013, September 3). The Syrian War What You're Not Being Told

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkamZg68jpk

The Two Way (2013, December 12).U.N. Report Confirms Chemical Weapons Were Used In Syria

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/12/12/250572623/u-n-report-confirms-chemical-weapons-were-used-in-syria

UNHCR (Unspecified Date written) Internally Displaced People. On the Run in their Own Land

http://www.unhcr.org/pages/49c3646c146.html

United Nations (Unspecified Date written) Global Issues: Refugees http://www.un.org/en/globalissues/refugees/

VICE (2014, January 13). Conflict in South Sudan: Dispatch Two http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a95hWElTqck

ROTARY CATEGORY - TIED FOR FIRST PLACE

Rotary’s Impact on the World’s Fight against Infectious DiseasesDominica Pradere, Jamaica

“Childhood vaccines are one of the great triumphs of modern medicine. Indeed, parents whose children are vaccinated no longer have to worry about their child's death or disability from whooping cough, polio, diphtheria, hepatitis, or a host of other infections.” Ezekiel J. Emanuel, M.D., Ph.D.

During my childhood in the 1950’s, it seemed inevitable that children would suffer from a variety of infectious diseases as part of growing up. As a result of these illnesses, children missed school for varying periods, and risked death or permanent disability. Indeed, two of my cousins died as a result of complications from measles, and one of my Primary schoolmates was wheelchair bound after contracting polio, the most feared disease of all at that time.

These diseases continued to ravage the lives of children worldwide; indeed, 2006 was the first year in which UNICEF reported that less than 10 million child deaths were attributed to preventable diseases. Most of these deaths were in poorer countries; by that time the development and use of vaccines against childhood diseases and improved living conditions ensured that few epidemics occurred in developed countries.

In 1979, a global commission certified that smallpox had been eradicated globally, and this certification was officially accepted by the 33rd World Health Assembly in 1980. This was evidence that worldwide eradication of a specific disease was possible.

Rotary International and the Philippine Government joined forces in a plan to immunize 6 million children against polio over a period of 5 years, beginning in 1979. As a result of this successful endeavour, and the knowledge that smallpox had been eradicated successfully, the Polio Plus programme was launched in 1985, with the goal of total eradication by 2005. In addition to targeting polio, this programme includes other interventions, such as immunizing against other diseases prevalent in children, the distribution of vitamin supplements, and bed nets which protect children against malaria.

The Americas (including the Caribbean region) were declared polio free in 1994, and Europe in 2002. This enabled Rotarians and health personnel in polio-free countries to work towards eradicating polio everywhere. Rotarians have raised awareness and funds, and, by participating in immunization efforts in polio ravaged countries, have given encouragement and support to Rotarians in those parts of the world and have raised awareness of the campaign in their own communities.

May 2014 34

The campaign to eradicate polio and other diseases has not been without challenges. These include resistance on the part of certain religious and cultural minorities who suspect that immunizations will sterilize or otherwise harm their children. Muslim communities in Nigeria, Pakistan and India in particular have been influenced by anti-immunization propaganda. Civil unrest can make it difficult for health workers and volunteers to reach children in some places, and the breakdown of infrastructure in times of war or natural disaster can lead to the outbreak of diseases in refugee camps and other places where insanitary conditions are a problem. In addition, remote rural communities may be very difficult to reach and so children are missed or do not receive all the doses necessary to create immunity. In areas which lack electricity, the need to store and transport vaccines below a certain temperature may present a serious challenge.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are not only suffering from civil unrest and terrorism, but health workers in those countries have been targeted by militant and religious groups who believe that immunization will harm their children or that immunization programmes are a cover for espionage or some other activity. Members of immunization teams have been killed while carrying out their work, yet the effort continues, with the help of security forces. Mobile immunization centres have been set up at transport hubs in Pakistan in order to reach families who have left their homes to escape violence.

Worldwide, families continue to endure the emotional and financial burdens due to the long term effects of preventable diseases, and many individuals who had the potential to contribute positively to their communities become burdens to their families and to society. In some instances, disabled children are abandoned by parents who cannot care for them. Health services, whose resources are already inadequate, can be overwhelmed by the needs of children suffering from serious but preventable diseases. The cost of corrective surgery and physiotherapy may be unaffordable or unavailable.

The long term effects of polio, especially, can cause persons to be socially marginalised and reduce their opportunities in the areas of education and employment. Access to public buildings and transport can be severely curtailed, and in poorer countries, many individuals are unable to afford mobility devices that would enable them to lead productive lives. Thus, they are reduced to begging on the streets or they have to depend on the support of family and friends.

Eradicating polio is expensive, but the cost of polio outbreaks is even greater, in human, social and financial terms. Investment in polio eradication has a far-reaching positive impact; in the words of Margaret Chan director-General of the World Health Organisation, “The vast polio surveillance network helps detect and respond to other disease outbreaks, including measles, neonatal tetanus, yellow fever, avian influenza, and meningitis.” As a result, polio eradication efforts have led to the reduction of cases of other diseases.

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) was created in 1988 and consists of a partnership between the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and Rotary International. At that time polio was endemic in 125 countries. GPEI established a network of laboratories which help detect and control outbreaks of polio and other diseases, such as measles and rubella, worldwide. Within 12 years, polio was endemic in only 20 countries. Since then, GPEI has developed a more effective polio vaccine and helped arrange cease-fires (Days of Tranquility) in countries suffering from civil war or other hostilities, to enable health workers to immunize children. In 2007, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation became involved in the polio eradication effort when an award of $100 million challenge grant was offered to the Rotary Foundation. By that time, only 4 polio-endemic countries existed: Pakistan, India, Afghanistan and Nigeria.

On January 13, 2014, India was officially declared polio free, as the last reported case had occurred 3 years previously, on January 13, 2010. This success is due to the determination and efforts of the Indian government, as well as international support and the involvement of Rotarians in India and worldwide. Rotarians in India played an important role in promoting immunization, and helped break down prejudice and suspicion towards immunization within certain communities by liaising with community and religious leaders. The experience gained in these efforts is now being utilised in Nigeria, where Indian medical officers and other volunteers assist in promoting the immunization campaign in predominantly Muslim communities.

Polio is still endemic in the northern region of Nigeria. Rotarians from the south volunteer to work in the north where local leaders are recruited to promote immunization. Here and in Pakistan, Rotarians assist with building awareness and increasing confidence in the vaccine.

Despite the failure of Rotary International to achieve the goal of polio eradication by 2005, the number of polio endemic countries has been reduced from 125 in 1988 to only 3 in 2014. However, vigilance is essential, even in polio-free countries. Many parents in developed countries, where immunization campaigns have eliminated childhood diseases, have in recent years, failed to have their children immunized, due in part to complacency and also to the belief that immunizations can damage their children. This belief is

May 2014 35

usually based on the now discredited research linking the MMR vaccine to autism. As a result, outbreaks of measles have occurred in countries such as Britain, where over 1,000 persons, mostly children and teenagers, were infected in South Wales in 2013. One died and many were hospitalised. Between 1990 and 1991, 7 children, members of a church which opposed immunization, died in a measles epidemic in Philadelphia, U.S.A. Unimmunized mothers have given birth to seriously disabled babies due to rubella infection in the USA as recently as 2012, although a vaccine has been available since 1969.

In the same way, polio immunization needs to continue even in parts of the world where it is no longer endemic; this has been evident in recent outbreaks in Syria, where the conflict has interrupted normal immunization programmes. Neighbouring countries, such as Israel and Lebanon, polio free for years, have stepped up their own immunization programmes in order to prevent the spread of polio into their own countries. Prior to the threat from Syria, the discovery of the polio virus (traced to a source in Pakistan) in sewers in Israel and Egypt in 2013, led to renewed efforts to immunise all children under the age of nine.

Without complete eradication, polio and other diseases can resurface anywhere, at any time, and any unimmunized child is at risk. Not only does Rotary International need to maintain its efforts in polio-endemic countries and other developing countries, but may eventually need to promote immunization programmes and educate parents about the risks of infectious diseases in Europe and North America.

“As long as polio exists anywhere, it is a threat everywhere. Now is not the time to quit.” Thomas R. Frieden, Chief Executive Officer of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Bibliography

Emanuel, Ezekiel J. M.D, Ph.D. “How We Can Save Over 4 Million Children.” The Huffington Post, July 10, 2010 Fine Maron, Dina. “Does Israel’s New Polio Outbreak Threaten Global Eradication Efforts?” The Scientific American, August 22, 2013

Septowitz, Kent. “Why Rubella’s scary comeback should convince vaccine deniers.” US News, March 30, 2013

Sotunde, Afolabi. “Door to a polio-free world” The Rotarian, July 2008

Stein, Anne. “Countdown to Eradication” The Rotarian, July 2002

Voelker, Rebecca. “Rotarian Volunteers track down the last remaining cases of polio.” The Rotarian, October 2004

“The Rise and Fall of Poliomyelitis: A Rotary Primer” The Rotarian, June 2010

“Polio’s End Game,” The Rotarian, October 2012

“Global Outlook: A Rotarian’s Guide to End Polio” The Rotarian, February 2014

“Swansea measles epidemic: Parents urged to vaccinate children.” BBC News, July 10, 2013

“Help Rotary Win the Fight Against Polio” (R.I. leaflet)

“A Rotarian’s Guide to the Plus in Polio Plus” Global Outlook: RI, 2011 (R.I. leaflet)

May 2014 36

ROTARY CATEGORY – TIED FOR FIRST PLACETOPIC - Disease Prevention and Treatment

A program to improve health and wellness in the CaribbeanKitty Bucsko, Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean, 7020

To Engage Rotary and Change Lives, I see a clear opportunity for District 7020 to influence disease prevention and treatment through education.

Background

More and more, we read about the health benefits of a diet rich in plants and very low in animal products. Yet, the average North American – and now Caribbean – diet seems to be focused more on creating disease rather than preventing disease.

Why spend billions and billions trying to cure diseases after they have taken their toll on the human body? Would it not be a far more expedient and worthwhile goal to spend the money up front where disease prevention is the focus?

Many diseases can be prevented by a little common sense and balance in one’s life.

According to Dr. Colin Campbell, author of The China Study, many common ailments are reversible through a change in diet. Jamie Oliver, a famous celebrity chef, is also a great proponent of eating a healthy diet:

Fresh fruits and vegetables Fewer fatty and processed foods Less dependence on the animal proteins

It seems that a diet that contains as little as 5 per cent animal protein has tremendous benefits. (Campbell) Yet, the average North American – and Caribbean – consumes a diet that is roughly 70 per cent of animal protein. (Fuhrman)

Consider the processed foods! How many enterprising entrepreneurs in the Caribbean show up at the school yard at noon hour with their wagons full of chips and sweets, knowing that the children are going to fill themselves up with these non-nutritious packaged foods? Do the children or their parents know that these foods have a negative effect on one’s health?

Excess sugars can cause overwhelming problems – and the first stop in the body is the teeth! Studies show a relationship between oral health, periodontal disease, and diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But that’s another story.

In 2005, my friend was diagnosed with terminal cancer. A rare form of cancer had struck her. She and her family prepared for the worst. However, she took charge of her body and her treatments. Yes, certainly, she was being looked after by a host of well-educatedand experienced oncologists, and she has had many surgeries over the past several years. But in 2005, she was given the prognosis that she would have only one or maybe one-and-a-half years to live. She sought a second opinion.

My friend has a medical background, so she studied individually about her form of cancer – and did get a new doctor and the second opinion. She discovered through her own research that animal products, particularly the animal estrogen, was one important factor fueling her cancer. Her decision was to remove from her diet all foods that originate from animals.

That was a serious decision – and one that meant a complete lifestyle change – but it was one that she hoped would mean the difference between life and death. She also underwent many surgeries to remove tumours from her body. The key, she feels, is that she did not allow the environment within her body to encourage the cancerous cells. There is some scientific evidence to support the theory that certain health risks can be removed and even reversed with a proper diet. (Campbell)

The analogy is like trying to sow grass seed to produce a lawn. You can spread the seeds over the ground, but if you don’t provide the environment to nurture the growth of the grass seed, you just won’t have a lawn. The seeds may stay on the ground, but they will not take hold and grow.

Today – February of 2014 - my friend is still very much alive, and she has very recently been declared cancer-free!

May 2014 37

Of course, my friend is one individual.

However, it is becoming more and more evident that eating natural foods – and steering clear of fast foods that contain sugars, fats, and all manner of chemicals to keep them looking fresh – is going to help our populations lead a healthier life than what is currently the situation. Evidence suggests that eating a plant-based diet (reducing the animal proteins in your diet to about 5 per cent, rather than the nearly 70 per cent or more that is currently the norm) can prevent diseases and can even reverse diseases within one’s own body – like heart disease and diabetes and other auto-immune maladies.

“American President Bill Clinton became a vocal supporter of The China Study. In 2010, after years of living with heart disease, he undertook the diet, eating legumes, vegetables, fruit and a protein shake every morning, effectively living as a vegan. Within a short period he said that he had dropped 24 pounds, returning him to his college weight.

“Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent, said in his documentary The Last Heart Attack in August 2011 that The China Study had changed the way people all over the world eat, including Gupta himself.” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_China_Study)

The Caribbean Commission on Health and Development has stated in its report of 2006 the following:

“The four leading causes of death in the Caribbean in 2000 were all NCDs (non-communicable diseases) – heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. These four conditions accounted for 47 per cent of deaths in 1980 and 51 per cent in 2000, the most recent year for which relatively complete mortality data is available. The major NCDs in the Caribbean share common underlying risk factors, namely unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, obesity, tobacco and alcohol use, and inadequate utilization of preventive healthservices.”

…and from the same report:

“Undernutrition is no longer a major problem, but obesity is…”

Proposal Solution for District 7020

Identify someone with great passion who can teach us in District 7020 how to get our students interested in growing foods and changing diets – a passionate individual who wants to do this because he or she is a true Rotarian and has the altruistic outlook tohelp others. Begin a pilot program on one island.

Two websites where one can find information about a programme currently running in The Bronx, New York, are listed on the next page – well worth the time to view:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcSL2yN39JM http://www.ted.com/talks/stephen_ritz_a_teacher_growing_green_in_the_south_bronx.html

From Ted.com, I copy the following about the videos above:

“A whirlwind of energy and ideas, Stephen Ritz is a teacher in New York's tough South Bronx, where he and his kids grow lush gardens for food, greenery -- and jobs. Just try to keep up with this New York treasure as he spins through the many, many ways there are to grow hope in a neighborhood many have written off, or in your own.

“Stephen Ritz is a South Bronx teacher/administrator who believes that students shouldn't have to leave their community to live, learn and earn in a better one. Moving generations of students into spheres of personal and academic successes they have never imagined while reclaiming and rebuilding the Bronx, Stephen’s extended student and community family have grown over 25,000 pounds of vegetables in the Bronx while generating extraordinary academic performance.

“His Bronx classroom features the first indoor edible wall in NYC DOE which routinely generates enough produce to feed 450 students healthy meals and trains the youngest nationally certified workforce in America. His students, traveling from Boston to Rockefeller Center to the Hamptons, earn living wage en route to graduation.”(http://www.ted.com/talks/stephen_ritz_a_teacher_growing_green_in_the_south_bronx.html)

The idea, of course, is the passionate creation of this single teacher in the Bronx. But what is he doing with his classes?

May 2014 38

He is teaching the students how to grow vegetables. He is teaching them the value of growing vegetables. And in New York City? He grows in places where one would think it impossible to grow anything. He is teaching the students the value and rewards of hard work.

If such a program is possible in a huge urban environment, then it would be possible without question in any Caribbean island!His course teaches the students how to grow and produce the vegetables. The students actually sell their produce for a profit. The combined health benefits and entrepreneurial knowhow makes this type of program a resounding success!

Similar programs in our district could incorporate the same idea of teaching the students how to grow fruits and vegetables and expand it to feed the elderly in the community.

Perhaps there are food banks in the community and shelters for those less fortunate.

Such a project would be beneficial for everyone! The Rotary goal of looking after one’s fellow man would be supported here very clearly.

How wonderful would be such a program in the Caribbean islands where diseases such as diabetes and heart disease are rampant!

Get the young kids to understand at a very early age the value of the land, the value of hard work, and the value of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Teach them how to grow and use the land. Teach them a healthy lifestyle, avoiding the fast foods that are full of unnatural ingredients. Teach them how to put their love of fresh foods into a business. Teach them a respect for their communities. Teach them a respect for those who have gone before them by assisting the elderly.

Such a program would have benefits beyond the obvious. A sharing between young and old would create a warm and welcome bond.

Implementation

With the expertise and enthusiasm within District 7020, create a special project committee with the goal of starting a pilot project on one island. Recruit the Rotary clubs in each island to assist – and once the program has taken root, it would be easy to maintain and expand in future years.

Create an effective partnership between Rotary Clubs and community organizations to promote a Rotary garden that would yield a bounty that would likely achieve much more than the initial tangible goals – these projects generally do have a way of taking on a lifeof their own.

Rotaractors, Interactors, and EarlyActors could take a special interest in this project, including and encouraging the Family of Rotary.

Community Help and Involvement. Recently Radio 95.5 in Anguilla included a short new program on promoting good health.Eating healthy pays in the long run. We are what we eat. Positive living.

The ideas were presented by these individuals:

Marilyn Hodge, Nicole Costanza of “Healthy Living” radioaxa@anguillanet.com

Their focus was on well-balanced meals:

Get the kids involved – 5 foods to buy at the supermarket and one of which might be a “fun” meal. Get the kids in the kitchen – mixing, pouring, serving, watching (in the morning).

May 2014 39

Get the kids’ opinions (let them tell you their preferences). Get their co-operation. Assign dinner-time tasks to everyone. Get ready to enjoy. Mealtime is precious family time.

Why Rotary?

Why not Rotary? This focus on improving the diets and health of the island peoples and educating the future generations to live a healthy lifestyle would fall so very nicely into Disease Prevention and Treatment – one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus.

Rotary has the manpower. Rotary has shown the determination to work towards a goal with great stamina and conviction.

Rotarians in the Caribbean Partnership (Zones 33 and 34) could also prove to be vital partners in the success of such a project, which could well become a Caribbean-wide project and could expand to so many other areas because it would showcase so very easily the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle.

Fees and Costs?

Any costs to implement such a program would surely be offset by the savings that would accrue from reducing the incidence of the diseases that result from an unhealthy lifestyle.

The benefits would overwhelmingly outweigh any costs. Other related ideas can include:

Heart Walks Losing Weight – which group loses the most weight – prizes Walking the longest distance Radio program – with the newspaper columnists and chefs and so on…

Conclusion

As a very forward-thinking district, District 7020 can set new standards for leading the Caribbean communities into a very healthy and happy New Year!

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Campbell, T. Colin; Schurman, Jacob Gould; Campbell, Thomas M, II. The China Study. January, 2005.

Fuhrman, Joel. “Health Justice.” Viewed January 6, 2014 <http://pacificunitarian.org/heal_the_world/mythicalprotein.html>

Fuhrman, Joel M.D. How to Live for Life. Viewed January 6, 2014 <http://www.drfuhrman.com/>

“Healthy Living.” radioaxa@anguillanet.com

Naidu, Dr. Rahul; Balkaran, Dr. Ramaa; and Harracksingh, Dr. Avind. “Oral Health Inequalities in the Caribbean.” UWI Today, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. November, 2011. Viewed January 9, 2014.http://sta.uwi.edu/uwitoday/archive/november_2011/article3.asp

Nutrition Source (The).” Harvard School of Public Health, 2014. 2006. Viewed January 4, 2014 http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/protein-full-story/

“Report of the Caribbean Commission on Health and Development.” Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and Caribbean Community Secretariat (CARICOM). Viewed January 4, 2014<www.who.int/macrohealth/action/PAHO_Report.pdf>

May 2014 40

*********

REFERENCES

Adams, Randal. Speaking of Rotary. E.J. Press, U.S.A. 2007.

Chapman, Mary. Growing Rotary. A Personal Collection of Ideas That Worked.

Dochterman, Cliff. The ABCs of Rotary. Evanston, Illinois: Rotary International. (363-EN)

Forward, David C. A Century of Service. The Story of Rotary International. (912-EN)

Rotary History Fellowship - http://www.rotaryhistoryfellowship.org

Rotary International. Honoring Our Past: The Words and Wisdom of Paul Harris. Evanston, Illinois: 1996. (925-EN)

Rotary International. Rotary Basics. Evanston, Illinois. (595-EN)

Rotary International News. Online.

Rotary Gallery of Past Presidents<https://www.rotary.org/en/aboutus/history/galleryofpastpresidents/pages/timelineofpresidents.aspx>

Submissions from District 7020 Clubs

Please send Club News and photos (with appropriate IDs) toKitty at ladykitt@gmail.com

For inclusion in the District Newsletter