Stories

Join Us at the Public Image Audit Workshop Webinar

Join us on Wednesday, December 10th at 6PM CST on Zoom for a hands-on training designed specifically for District Public Image Chairs! The Public Image Audit Workshop will walk you through the process of conducting an effective Rotary Public Image Audit—helping you evaluate how clubs are representing the Rotary brand online and identify opportunities for improvement.

During this session, you’ll learn:
✅ How to assess club websites and social media for brand compliance and engagement.
✅ What key metrics to track to measure visibility and impact.
✅ Tools and templates to make your audit process easier and more consistent.

Who Should Attend:
District Public Image Chairs, Assistant PI Chairs, and anyone supporting Club public image efforts

Must RSVP to receive Zoom Link - RVSP Here

November Membership Webinar

Click to Register

What is Interact

Happy Interact Week! This week, we celebrate the energy, passion, and service of Interact Clubs around the world! These incredible young leaders are making a real difference in their communities, from service projects to raising awareness for global causes.

Thank you to all the Interactors for showing us what leadership, compassion, and action look like in real life. Your impact today inspires a brighter tomorrow!

Rotary Causes: Overview

Rotary is dedicated to causes that build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world. Through our areas of focus, members unite to take action that leads to lasting change.

Let’s Celebrate the Power of The Rotary Foundation

November is Rotary Foundation Month — and we’re inviting all Districts across Zones 25B & 29 to join together in celebrating and promoting the heart of Rotary’s impact: The Rotary Foundation.

This year’s campaign centers on Proud Member and Foundation impact, and we’re asking each District to help inspire participation by encouraging your Clubs and members to get involved throughout November.

Here’s how your District can take part:

Join us Tuesday, 10/21 at 6 PM for the Rotary Membership Master Vault

We kindly ask that you register and share this opportunity with your members in your clubs. Please encourage them to register, as one-time registration provides access to ALL sessions for the Rotary year. Click to Register

Fighting Polio Online and in the Field

This video profiles Diana Maria Pirga, a Rotary member and a digital communication specialist for UNICEF. Diana works on the polio eradication program in Pakistan fighting misinformation, building community trust, and supporting immunization campaigns.

Call to Action: Together, We End Polio

Watch the video - Call to Action: Together, We End Polio

Congratulations to the DGE Class of 2025

2025 Zone Institute Prior Lake FAQ Sheet

Download the FAQ Sheet

Guest Speakers for Zone Institute 2025

Start preparing for World Polio Day 2025

On October 24, World Polio Day, Rotary will join partners, health workers, survivors, and advocates to reaffirm our promise to the world’s children: polio eradication is possible—and it’s a promise we will keep. As your club begins planning its World Polio Day activities, be sure to our WORLD POLIO DAY EVENT page to get a wide variety of polio-related resources. And don’t forget to register your District/club’s participation!

International Peace Summit

The International Peace Summit is a global stage where Rotary Districts 5930 and 4130 unite to showcase the meaningful projects that Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact Clubs are developing across our communities.

New Shoes, Big Smiles: District 5840 Helps Zapatos, Inc. Give Kids a Fresh Start

On Friday, August 8, the air was filled with excitement as children eagerly tried on brand-new shoes, their faces lighting up with joy. District Governor Craig Hardy and his Chief of Staff, Christine Tovar, were there to share in the moment—personally fitting shoes on little feet and handing out colorful backpacks filled with school supplies and treats.

Burnet County Flood Relief

The overwhelming support shown at the Burnet County Flood Relief Concert was nothing short of inspiring. More than 350 community members came together, raising over $89,450. These funds are going directly to individuals and families impacted by the devastating July 4th floods. Among those leading the way were members of the Rotary Clubs of Marble Falls, Burnet, and the Texas Hill Country Passport, whose dedication and service exemplify the spirit of “Rotarians in Action.”

RI Director Salvador Rizzo Invitation to Zone Institute

Don't miss out on our 2025 Zone Institute (Zones 25b-29). Early registration has been extended through Monday, the 15th, for $750.00 USD per person. Don't wait! Register TODAY! See you October 1st-4th. Click to register - https://zones25b-29.org/events/2025-zone-institute-training/

Registration is Open for Zone Institute!

Join us October 1–4 at Mystic Lake Center in Minnesota for the 2025 Rotary Zones 25B & 29 Zone Institute — a one-of-a-kind experience designed to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and creativity. Whether you're stepping into a new leadership role or continuing to grow your impact, this event will connect you with the tools, ideas, and people who can help you thrive. Register

Intersection to Care

The Rotary Club of Community Action Against Human Trafficking received a Global Grant to successfully reintegrate women incarcerated in the Shawnee County Jail into the community. During our community needs assessment we learned that female recidivism in the county jail was more than 90% because there were no reintegration programs in the jail.

Crutches 4 Africa District Grant Creates Visibility While Impacting Lives

Stillwater Sunrise Rotary is proud to lead Crutches 4 Africa—a powerful District Grant project uniting Rotary clubs across our region in a mission to restore mobility and dignity to thousands of people in Africa. Our goal? To collect and ship at least 3,000 mobility devices—crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and more—to individuals who are otherwise immobilized due to polio, age, or injury.

Texas Floods Response

Our hearts are with the families and friends impacted by the horrific floods in central Texas. We encourage district and club giving to the following to help with flood relief efforts:

Rotary District 5840 - South Central Texas

Credit Card - https://rotary5840.org/donate/district-5840-disaster-relief/

Check - Make checks payable to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation
Memo: Disaster Relief
Mail to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation, P.O. Box 13, Boerne, TX 78006

Rotary District 5870 Central Texas
Support flood victims by donating to the tax-deductible District 5870 Keyway Fund today at 5870Keyway.org.
Prefer to mail a check?

Payable to: District 5870 Keyway, Inc.
c/o Bruce Golden, Treasurer
6603 Vallecito Dr, Austin, TX 78759

Disaster Aid USA

Rotary District 5840 Needs Your Help: Disaster Relief for Kerrville, TX

Rotary District 5840 is asking Rotarians across our Zone to Unite for Good in support of the Kerrville community, which has been devastated by historic flooding. The Guadalupe River surged to over 30 feet—well above its major flood stage—resulting in the tragic loss of lives and severe damage to homes and infrastructure.

Kerrville, home to two of District 5840’s dedicated Rotary Clubs, is facing an overwhelming recovery effort. In response, District 5840 has activated its 501(c)(3) Foundation to begin collecting tax-deductible donations to assist with disaster relief and long-term recovery.

How You Can Help

Rotarians and friends of Rotary from across the Zone are invited to stand in solidarity by contributing in any of the following ways:

Credit Card Donations
Secure donations can be made online:
👉 https://rotary5840.org/donate/district-5840-disaster-relief/
By Check
Make checks payable to:
Rotary District 5840 Foundation
Memo: Disaster Relief
Mail to: Rotary District 5840 Foundation, P.O. Box 13, Boerne, TX 78006
Zelle Transfers
Send donations via Zelle to: D5840floodrelief2025@gmail.com
Memo: Disaster Relief
Please add your email address and/or contact information in the comment section if you want a tax receipt.

Congratulations RID Salvador Rizzo Tavares

Rock Island Rotary Dedicates Installation of 5 Peace Poles

The Rotary Club of Rock Island of District 6420 dedicated the installation of five Peace Poles in Rock Island with a ceremony June 17 at the Quad City Botanical Center, which is one of the Peace Pole sites.

Gardner Rotary Gives Hope

Each month, volunteers from the Gardner Rotary Club staff the Hope Market Food Pantry. For three hours, community members can "shop" Hope Market for food of their choosing. This gives them the freedom to choose what is best for their family.

Pocket Change Goes A Long Way!

Starting 1 July 2024, the District 5710 Governor, Tamara Jo Sevcik asked all clubs to participate in a Pocket Change for Polio Campaign in hopes that we could be a 100 percent giving district to the Polio Plus.

It Starts at a Young Age - Mental Health Awareness

With district discretionary funding (DDF) the Rotary Club of Leavenworth was able to impact ten schools in the local community by promoting mental health awareness. Elementary school-aged books were placed in each of the school libraries.

Rotarians Unite for Service at Bi-District Conference

Rotarians from across two Texas Rotary districts came together in San Marcos from May 2–4 for a joint celebration titled “A Celebration of Districts.” District 5870, which spans Central Texas from Austin to Hillsboro and Corsicana, joined forces with District 5840, which covers South Central Texas from Del Rio to Kyle and west to Junction. The event took place at the Embassy Suites Conference Center.

Rotary Light Serves for 30 Years!

Rotary Lights in La Crosse, WI celebrated their 30th anniversary of displaying lights through Riverside Park while collecting food donations for local food pantries. Over the 30 years, this joint-Rotary service project has collected over five million food items and lit up Riverside Park with an amazing display of more than three million lights.

Sibley Rotary Celebrates 100 Years

On June 2^nd, 2025, the Rotary Club of Sibley celebrated our 100 Year Anniversary. For this occasion, we held a small ceremony at our local park, the Sam Robinson Park in Sibley. We have had a Rotary shelter house there for many years so most of our major projects for our 100 Year were in the park.

Duluth Harbortown Rotary Kicks Off Service and Adventure with Hikers and Trail Work

Incoming Club President Brad Jenson launched the first-ever Harbortown Hikers event, inviting members, spouses, and potential new Rotarians to explore Duluth’s world-renowned hiking trails. The outing was more than just a scenic stroll—it was a chance to connect through Rotary fellowship in the great outdoors.

Wadena Rotary Club Fine Arts Banquet

Each year, the Wadena Rotary Club partners with the Wadena-Deer Creek Schools to host a Fine Arts Banquet. This event originated with a local newspaper columnist and Rotarian, who felt that the achievements of students who participated in the fine arts deserved recognition and should not be overlooked. The first banquet was held in the spring of 1982 and has continued every year since.

District 5810 Conference Delivers Lasting Impact in Cozumel and Roatan

Rotarians from across District 5810 spent months collecting and packing donations and raising funds. Then we came together not only to celebrate fellowship and leadership during our recent 7 night District Conference International Service Cruise, but also to make a powerful difference through service projects that will have a lasting impact in two island communities—Cozumel, Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.

Rotary Out Loud

District Governor Sharon Bloodworth kicked off her Rotary year with a bold message: Live Rotary out loud! No more hiding behind closed doors in country clubs and meeting rooms — it’s time to show the world who we are! And what better place to start than the heart of Minnesota’s summer: the State Fair.

Together - We Transform

Rotarians from the Rotary Club of West Bend Sunrise (District 6270) and the Rotary Club of Zenica came together to transform sports accessibility and community inclusion in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through the Bridge to Diversity Project, funded by Rotary, USAID, and multiple district partners, they renovated courts to host the country’s first-ever wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball tournaments—shining a light on athletes with disabilities and advocating for long-term inclusion. But this project did more than build facilities.

Rotary Rain to Life: Cozumel Rainwater Harvesting for Schools

Rotarians from 9 District 5870 clubs connected with the Rotary Club of Cozumel to bring clean, drinkable water to over 1,200 students and 80 staff at CBTIS 28, a public secondary school with no access to drinkable water.

Elementary School Damaged by Tornado has a New Staff Lounge Thanks to Local Rotary Clubs

When the Friendswood, Alvin, and Alvin Sunrise Rotary Clubs heard that an F2 tornado hit Walt Disney Elementary School in Alvin ISD, home to over 450 elementary students and staff, over the Christmas break, like everyone we were grateful that there was no loss of life and that there was a place to go for all of the students.

Meet Up in Calgary

Great news!!! We have confirmed our social event for Calgary. No RSVP required, however let your District Governor and District Promotion Chair know you are planning to attend.

WHAT: Social Event - Zones 25A, 25B, & 29
WHEN: Tuesday, June 24th 4:00 - 7:00 PM Come and go at your leisure
WHERE: CRAFT Beer Market, 345 10 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB
CRAFT Beer Market Calgary Downtown | Calgary Restaurant
ABOUT: Free event - No ticket required: The Zone is providing appetizers. All drinks and other food are on your own account
WHY: Fun and Fellowship with our friends

April Membership Webinar

Develop personal engagement techniques that keep your members committed and enthusiastic. This webinar will provide practical methods to connect deeply with each member and build lasting relationships. Click to Register.

San Marcos Rotary Dedicates Peace Pole During Bi-National Conference

The Rotary Club of San Marcos purchased a four-sided Peace Pole that will be located near San Marcos Springs later this spring. It was dedicated at the Springs on Saturday, March 22 as part of a Bi-National Rotary Conference in San Marcos.

Rotarians from Mexico and South-Central Texas co-sponsored the Conference to share information about service projects in the two countries. The conference included presentations as well as music performances by Salsa Del Rio and Mark Anthony Cruz from Texas State University, and Mariachi student performers from San Marcos High School.

Celebrate Rotary Women in Action – A Region 36 Zones 25b-29 Celebration!

This March, in honor of International Women's Day, we’re calling on ALL Districts in Region 36 Zones 25b-29 to join the Celebrate Rotary Women in Action campaign! Let’s shine a spotlight on the incredible women of Rotary and their impact all month long.

How to Get Involved:

Encourage Rotarian women in your District to put on their Rotary shirts and take an action photo that captures their passion, strength, and dedication to service. Use the Canva Women In Rotary Template personalized for your District!
Share these photos throughout March on your District's social media pages using the hashtag #WomenInRotary #RotaryWomenRock.
Tag other Districts in Region 36 Zones 25b29 to keep the momentum going! Remember to tag @rizone25b29 so we can share your photos!

Rotary Young Professionals Forum - June 13 & 14

Join us at the Rotary Young Professionals Forum on June 13 and 14, 2025, in Ensenada, BC, Mexico, for Zones 25A, 25B, and 29. This Forum aims to identify and prepare future leaders for our organization at the club, district, and regional levels, focusing on three fundamental pillars: People, Planet, and Purpose.

We are inviting young Rotarians and Rotaractors aged 40 and under from clubs and districts within Zones 25 and 29. The event will be conducted in both Spanish and English. We will feature international external speakers.

Save the Date - Zone 25B & 29 Institute 2025

Save the date for Zone 25B & 29 Institute on October 1-4, 2025 in Mystic Lake Center in Prior Lake, MN. Register early! Hotel (Mystic Lake): Special Room Rate of $169/night. Hotel Room Registration is available now. Rooms in the Promenade Tower are closest to the Convention Center.

In addition to booking online, you may also call the Mystic Lake Reservation Center 24/7 at 952-445-9000. Specify you are with the Rotary Zones 25B & 29 Institute Block to get the special rate. Room rate is only good until August 31, 2025.

Rapid City Declares Oct. 5 Peace Day

More than 50 people gathered in Memorial Park at the Berlin Wall Exhibit to unveil the Peace Pole, dedicated to peace in Rapid City. The Peace Pole is one of only four erected in the state and the effort was organized by the Rapid City Rushmore Rotary Club and Rapid City Rotary Club (District 5610).

Rotary District 5840 To Install Peace Pole On World Peace Day At Peace College

On Saturday, September 21st, at 8:00 AM, Rotary District 5840 will commemorate World Peace Day by installing a Peace Pole at the San Antonio Peace Center, located at Northwest Vista Campus, 3535 N. Ellison Dr. This event will bring together Rotary members, community leaders, and peace advocates in a shared commitment to promoting peace and unity.

Empowering Mobility: Rotary District 5810 and Club Rotario de Cozumel Join Forces

In a heartfelt collaboration spanning borders and oceans, Rotary District 5810 and the Club Rotario de Cozumel recently embarked on a mission to bring newfound mobility to the residents of Cozumel, Mexico. As part of the District 5810 Conference Cruise, this joint effort saw the distribution of 40 wheelchairs to individuals in need, transforming lives and embodying Rotary's commitment to service above self.

Inter-Country Committee Signed December 6th

Last Friday, December 6th, a meeting was held in Houston, Texas, USA, to sign the Inter-Country Committee between the USA and Mexico to strengthen friendship and make global grants. Many thanks to the representatives of the USA Districts of Texas, California, Arizona, Nebraska, and Illinois, especially PDRI Suzi Howe and the Governors of the host district 5890 DG Nancy and DGE Tom.

I am very pleased that the 7 Mexican districts represented by DG Elibe, Claudia, Eloina, and Jean Manel, DGE Gabriel, Martín, Alma, and Gerardo, and DGN Marina, David, and Oscar were present. To the Inter Countries Committee, thank you for your advice, Nathalie and Dana.

RI Director Salvador Rizzo Tavares' Holiday Message

Click to Play Message

2024 Pounding the Pavement Fundraiser

District leaders gathered on Saturday morning 6:30AM to hit the pavement to #EndPolio.

Rotary District Governors of 2025-2026

Watch out world, the Rotary District Governors of 2025-2026 are ready to take on their roles to unite people and take action to create lasting changes....

Book Donations Needed for CASA Service Project

Do you remember your favorite childhood book? For me, it was Stuart Little. I loved reading it every night, feeling like I was right there with Stuart on his tiny boat. But not all children have books of their own by their bedside. At our Zone Institute in San Antonio, we’re helping change that by donating books from an Amazon wishlist to CASA. Many of these children have faced abuse and neglect, often leaving their homes with nothing. A book can be a magical escape for them.

Introducing Our New Facebook Page

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new Facebook page! After a recent setback, we’ve come back stronger and more committed than ever to fostering a vibrant, engaging, and respectful online community. Our previous page was removed due to violations of Facebook's community standards. As many of you know this has been happening to many Rotary Clubs, Districts and Zones.

We invite you to like and follow our new page https://www.facebook.com/rizone25b29/. Stay tuned for more promotional content and videos coming after the new Rotary year begins that can use some interaction and sharing. Thank you for your support!

Join Us in Singapore at The Awesome Party

Rotary International Board Vice President, and Director Pat Merryweather-Arges invites you to attend The Awesome Party for Zones 25A, 25B, and 29 on Sunday, May 26, 1:30-4PM (between opening sessions) at the My Awesome Cafe, 202 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068639. Approximately 1 mile from the Convention Center in the historic area near the Thian Hock Keng Temple. The cost is FREE! Enjoy lunch and fellowship with our paired zone attendees. https://www.myawesomecafe.com/#awesome

World Polio Day 2023

Has your club registered its World Polio Day action yet? It’s not too late!

World Polio Day is 24 October, and even a small action can help your community understand how Rotary members around the world are working to make history and eradicate polio.

Don’t forget that districts with the highest percentage of registered clubs by 24 October will receive a special video message from President R. Gordon R. McInally!

Register now

Get to Know RI Director Salvador Rizzo Tavares

Introducing Salvador Rizzo Tavares, Rotary International Director 2024-2026. Salvador is the founder and CEO of the RIZZO Group, specializing in technological solutions for both private enterprises and governmental bodies.

A dedicated member of Rotary for 34 years with RC Monterrey Carlos Canseco, Salvador served as District Governor of D4130 during the 2009-2010 term. He has represented the President of Rotary International at District Conferences across Latin American countries on 13 occasions. Additionally, Salvador served as the Rotary Coordinator for Zone 21A from 2015 to 2018 and as a Training Leader at the RI International Assembly in 2020 and 2021.

Imagine Rotary - RI President Jones

Initiatives Overview

Rotary International President Jennifer Jones imagines a Rotary where members act to make their dreams become reality and make the most of their club experiences. During her year, Jones will focus on four presidential initiatives that Imagine Rotary: advancing our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); creating a welcoming club experience; empowering girls; and expanding our reach.

"We are much more effective working collaboratively!"

Use a new video about service resources to inspire members & District leaders. Video explains how clubs can make a bigger difference by working with Rotary Community Corps, District Resource Networks, Rotary Action Groups, and Rotary's partners. Show the video at your Club and District meetings, training seminars, or other events to inspire members and participants to use these resources and increase our impact.

New Brand Center

Take a good look at the Brand Center. It’s been rebuilt based on your feedback and is easier to use than ever. It features a more streamlined layout, a faster website platform, user-friendly navigation, and improved search.

People can also now use the Brand Center without signing into My Rotary. Creating brochures, ads, and other materials to tell stories about your club’s service and impact has never been simpler!

World Polio Day

Zone Institute Evaluations & Resources

Rotary Regionalization

Thank you for your participation in a powerful presentation. Watch for a link to the video to be posted soon.

Healthcare Worker Appreciation Week

Rotary International and Rotary Foundation

Show Your Appreciation to Healthcare Workers – August 21 – 27, 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, health care workers have dedicated their time, energy, and skills to ensure our safety. As they provided vaccinations, administered tests, tracked outbreaks, and cared for patients, they sometimes put their health at risk to do so.
With the pandemic far from over, we have an opportunity to show our appreciation for them. From 21-27 August, we're recognizing the work of health care professionals in communities around the globe, and we're asking you to join us. Need some ideas – click here.

If you are honoring your local healthcare workers, please make sure you are promoting it to the public as healthcare workers are still under great stress and fatigues. Also, consider entering your program into Rotary Showcase and highlighting your initiative so that other Rotary members can and possibly replicate what you are doing.

Get to Know RI Director Pat Merryweather-Arges

Pat Merryweather-Arges

Rotary International Board Vice President - 2023-24

Rotary International Director - 2022-2024

Water, Sanitation, Hygiene Rotary Action Group Board - 2019-2025; Chair 2024-25

Rotary District International Services Chair 2016-2023

District Representative to Council on Legislation and Resolution 2020-2023

Rotary Foundation COVID Task Force

Rotary Club of Naperville, Illinois USA

Pat Merryweather-Arges is a Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Naperville. She has a long list of service in her club, district, zone, and RI globally. She served as the Club President and received her Club’s Rotarian of the Year and Four Avenues of Service Awards. She has served the District as District Grants Chair and Diversity Chair and as District Governor of District 6450 (Northern Illinois) in 2012-2013. She has served as the Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator, Zone 28-29 2016 Chair and Chair of the Presidents International Peace Conference held in Chicago. The list goes on and on...

As a Rotarian Pat has traveled to about a dozen countries working on Rotary projects and has attended Rotary Day at the United Nations and a Rotary Middle East Peace Conference in Turkey. Her projects include solar ovens, water wells, and medical equipment and missions. Pat has received the Rotary Foundation Meritorious Service Award and the Rotary International Service Above Self Award.

Professionally, Pat is Executive Director of Project Patient Care where she works with patients, families, and caregivers to have their voice heard in health and healthcare through advocacy, public health policy, and collaboration with providers. She is a strong business development professional skilled in Nonprofit Organizations and has lead quality health improvement initiatives with the federal government and served in executive leadership roles in a hospital membership association.

Pat is married to George, a Rotarian, and they have four sons, three daughters-in-law, and 7 grandchildren!

Pat and George are Major Donors, Paul Harris Society and Polio Plus Society members, and Benefactors to the Rotary Foundation.

RMDTI

Rotary's Areas of Focus

RIPE Gordon at North Star Zone

View the April 2022 Newsletter now

Register for the Zone 2022 RI Convention Reception

This is the don't miss event of the convention! Register now for the RIC Zone Reception Texas style.

Rotary's Action Plan

2022 Rotary North Star Zone Institute REGISTRATION

Learn more...

New District Enhancements on "My Rotary"

Members will soon be able to review district information from a dedicated landing page on My Rotary. In a few weeks, you’ll easily see which clubs and members are part of your district. This enhancement is part of the ongoing upgrades being made to the site. Throughout 2021, you will see improvements to the My Rotary experience by:

Making district officer and assistant governor information more easily accessible
Improving the process for district officers to report, remove, and replace district officers
Simplifying the assistant governor appointment process
Introducing a dashboard for governors that presents key district information in a visually meaningful way
Updating the process for managing district conferences and obtaining feedback
Recognizing members who have sponsored a certain number of new members

These new features will be released throughout the year.

Are you getting the latest Zone updates on Facebook?

Virtual Region 36 Leadership Conference / Zone 29 DLS

Zone 29 Virtual District Leadership Summit (DLS)

and

Region 36 (Zones 25B & 29) Virtual DGE/DGN Training

Goal:

Develop shared and complementary approaches to achieving Rotary Goals for Zones and Districts in the 2021-2022 Rotary Year.

Objectives:

Share Rotary and Rotaract goals at Zone and District Levels
Understand the goals and proposed tactics to achieve goals
Develop Multi-District Regional approaches to work in collaboration with the District and Rotaract Leaders and Zone Membership, Public Image, and Foundation

Format:

All sessions will be virtual, scheduled over two weeks.

Expected Participants and Schedule:

2021-22 DG’s, DGE’s & DGN’s from Zones 25B & 29 are expected to attend the sessions for their respective titles per the schedule below.
Chairs from Zone 29 are expected to attend per the schedule below and chairs from Zone 25B are not expected but are welcome to attend.

Coordinators, Assistants, other Zone Leaders

July 10, 9-11am Sharing Goals & Suzi's Vision

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

Additional sessions per schedule depending on role

District Governor-Elects (DG 2022-23), District Governor-Nominees (DG 2023-24)

July 12, 7-8:45pm Foundation (includes RRFC, ARRFCs, EPN, E/MGA)

July 19, 7-8:45pm Membership (includes RC, ARCs)

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

July 26, 7-8:45pm Public Image (includes RPIC, ARPICs)

District Governors 2021-22

July 13, 7-8:30pm Goal Discussion

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

District Public Image Chairs 2021-22, RPIC, ARPICs

July 14, 4-6pm Goal Discussion

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

District Membership Chairs 2021-22, RC, ARCs

July 15, 6-8pm Goal Discussion

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

District Foundation Chairs 2021-22, RRFC, ARRFCs, EPN, E/MGA

July 16, 6-8pm Goal Discussion

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

Rotaract Leaders

July 10, 9-11am Sharing Goals & Suzi's Vision

July 14, 4-6pm Public Image

July 15, 6-8pm Membership

July 16, 6-8pm Foundation

July 24, 9-11am DLS Wrap up

Multi-District sessions will be led by Zone Coordinators and will take place Tuesday, July 20 - Thursday, July 22. DGs, DGEs, DGNs, District Chairs from Foundation, Membership & Public Image, and Rotaract Leaders will share and learn from each other on implementation of initiatives to achieve their District Goals. The Zone Coordinator in charge of your session will let you know your specific date and time.

The State of Rotary Membership

Understanding Rotary members’ needs — the key to engaged members

What do members want from their Rotary experience? And why do some members leave? Our research shows that members value local community service, friendship, and fellowship most. They cite time and cost, the club environment, and unmet expectations as reasons for leaving.

The key to engaging members is providing an experience that meets their needs and expectations. Learn more in the newly revised presentation The State of Rotary Membership, which contains membership data and trends for the first half of the 2020-21 Rotary year. In it, you’ll also find ways to address membership challenges so you can finish the year strong. The 12-slide PowerPoint presentation can easily be customized to meet your region’s needs. Consider showing it at your next meeting or event.

RMDTI - for Texas & Oklahoma

2021-2022 Regional Leadership Team Announced

Director Suzi Howe is proud to announce our 2021-22 Regional Leadership Team and congratulate them on their appointments. These fantastic individuals are key resources for clubs and districts in our regions and will work hard to elevate Rotary in the coming year. See the Rotary Membership, Public Image, and Foundation Coordinator Teams.

5950 DG Tom Gump Shares "New Beginnings" in Rotary Magazine Article

Starting a new club takes a mix of inspiration and good planning. Tom Gump, District 5950 DG, has been hands on with the chartering of four new clubs in his District and has served as a presenter and consultant to launch new Rotary clubs throughout the US and all over the world. Read a summary of the 6 steps for New Beginnings from the April 2021 edition of Rotary Magazine. "By breaking the process down into steps, you can start a new club that has the strong sense of purpose and solid basis that will allow it to thrive." Are you ready for a New Beginning?

2021 Virtual Convention

Protecting the Environment

Zone 25A Institute in Columbia

Zone 25A Rotary Institute – Cartagena, Colombia – September 23-25

by Gladys Maldonado, Institute Chair

This year’s Zone 25 Institute in Columbia will be an exciting event! The institute will offer information, education, socializing and fun! By being part of this great event, you will have the opportunity to meet our RI Director Suzi Howe, all Zone 25A District Governors and District Rotary Foundation, Public Image and Membership Chairs. This is an opportunity you will not find anywhere else. Join us as we share the joy of reuniting with each other after a very long wait. We’ll update and reinforce our knowledge of Rotary, plan the future together and, of course, make friends with common goals. Our Institute will be honored with the presence of RI President Shekhar Mehta, his wife, Rashi, and many Rotary leaders from around the world.

The location for this event is unique and amazing. Cartagena de Indias is one of the most important tourist destinations in Colombia and Latin America. It is a city with a special charm and magic, located on a very strategic coast of Colombia. It has a historic walled city in its center, declared as National Patrimony of Colombia in 1959 and World Heritage by UNESCO in 1984. Cartagena with its charm, its paradisiac beaches and its important ports of the world will host the Zone 25A Rotary Institute on the 23rd, 24th and 25th of September 2021.

If you are interested in receiving more information about the Zone 25A Institute you can complete the form at this link: 2021 RI Institute Cartagena. There will be English translation for key speakers. You can also follow us on Instagram at @InstitutoZona25A, on Facebook at @InstitutoRotarioZona25A2021 and of course our website ircartagena2021.com.

A Year Into the Pandemic... Offering Hybrid Rotary Meetings

One of the most significant impacts on Rotary membership growth, engagement and retention during 2021 will be the way every Rotary club shifts from primarily virtual club meetings to Hybrid Meetings (a combination of members meeting in-person and virtually). Just as clubs effectively pivoted to virtual meetings, the next opportunity is to prepare for the in-person/virtual hybrid experience. As the pandemic declines, and more are vaccinated, many members will want to gather again. The Hybrid Meeting model honors and serves both groups … those who wish to meet in person and members most comfortable attending virtually.

All resources associated with planning effective hybrid club meetings are located on our website's Hybrid Club Meetings page. That page is being updated frequently as our Region 36 Hybrid Club Meeting Planning Committee is identifying new and/or updated best practice resources. It is listed on our home page menu under Other Resources.

Serve to Change Others - International Assembly 2021

Get ready for exciting service in our Region! The 2021-22 District Governor-Elect class, and partners, gathered virtually in early February for some serious planning & some fun at the 2021 International Assembly. This training meeting prepared district governors-elect for their role as governor, introduced our organization’s priorities for the coming year, and provided opportunities to network with fellow governors-elect from around the world. The International Assembly also featured an informative program for governor-elect partners, designed to appeal to their diverse interests and experiences.

A key moment at every International Assembly is the president elect’s revelation of the Rotary theme for the coming year. You may watch the videos of Shekhar Mehta’s announcement and all other International Assembly speakers.

2021 Rotary Zone Houston Resources

Thank you to all who attended the event. What a tremendous time of inspiration to Launch Rotary.

Here is some information from the Houston Zone Institute.

RI Pres Knaack & RI Director Howe to speak at Charter Event

We are excited and honored to announce a new Cause-Based Rotary club in our Region - and you are invited to the charter event! Join RI President Holger Knaack & RI Director Suzi Howe for this special morning event on January 17, 2020, 10:00am CDT. REGISTER HERE to be part of the Zoom meeting. Great things are happening in our Zones. Grow Rotary!

RI Convention - Taipei 2021

The Rotary International Convention, scheduled for 12-16 June 2021, in Taipei, Taiwan, will now be a virtual event in response to the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

We are sorry that we will not see you in Taipei this year, but this decision, made by the Rotary Board of Directors, is necessary to protect the health of everyone involved. We will share more details about the 2021 Rotary International Virtual Convention soon.

More information about Taipei refunds.

Rotary Foundation Celebration

Remember... the Rotary month theme for November is Rotary Foundation!

On Tuesday, November 17 from 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. we will be celebrating our Rotary Foundation and celebrating the accomplishments of our Region in raising funds for programs and grants locally and internationally. What is great about this evening is that all of our Districts will be recognized for their accomplishments in 2019-2020!!!

Our Guest Speakers for the evening are Rotary International President-Nominee Jennifer Jones and Rotary International Director Suzi Howe! You will be inspired by these two leaders that are passionate about our Rotary Foundation!

Please remember to register soon.

World Project Fair

Open your eyes to global opportunity!

Rotary. Rotaract. # ThinkBig

Clubs can showcase their local or international projects to clubs that don’t have any or want to support other projects to help communities in need. Most important, we create friendships and develop further collaboration between all clubs from multiple Zones.

Learn more at worldprojectfair.org

Zone 25A Public Image Seminar

Our sister Zone offers August Public Image training. Zone 25A (Region 32) includes Central America, Venezuela, and Columbia. RI Director, Suzi Howe, serves Zones 25A, 25B, and 29.

Rotary International 2020 Photo Contest Winner

The First place winner in the Annual Rotary Photo Contest is from Zone 25a!
Congratulations Tono Valdés, Photographer
Rotary Club of Guatemala Sur, Guatemala

Photographer: Tono Valdés
Rotary Club of Guatemala Sur, Guatemala
Location: Fuego Volcano, near Escuintla, Guatemala

Winter: With every color in the spectrum represented, this nighttime volcano scene is like a deconstructed rainbow stretched by time and punctuated by the raw power of nature. It is the rare photo that you would be happy to have on your wall, to stop and stare at every time you pass by. I love the collision of the blue-hued star trails, all traveling through the composition in tidy, concentric circles, with the chaos and violence of the exploding volcano. The green hue of the fluorescent-lit cityscape below helps balance the frame.

Get to Know Suzi

Bill & Suzi Howe

R.I. Director 2020-22
Rotary Club of Space Center, Houston, TX

Susan “Suzi” C. Howe dedicated her career to education after graduating from the University of Kansas. She owned and operated South Shore Montessori, a private school, until her retirement in 2019. It was during the construction of that school that she learned about Rotary through her broker, architect, and others involved, all of whom were Rotarians. She joined Rotary in 1992, and within six months was serving on her club’s board.

Zone 25B RMDTI

RMDTI exists to provide a stellar training experience for upcoming District Leadership Team Members with a centrally located event serving 9 Rotary Districts of Texas & Oklahoma:

5730 | 5770 | 5790 | 5810 | 5840 | 5870 | 5890 | 5910 | 5930