April, 2006 My Fellow Rotarians - Rotary's Global History Fellowship

District 6440 Histories 2005
At press time, our District Conference lies ahead, an exciting Rotary adventure. Each year more and
more Rotarians attend, more is learned about Rotary. More Rotarians meet and exchange ideas and more
things are done for mankind. This year will be no exception and its success is assured by the Rotary
International President's appointment of past Director and Vice President Dave Smith, and his 'Rotary
Ann' Jodie, as his personal representatives to the Conference.
The Rotarians of the Home District, R.I. District 644, exemplify one man's opinion, maybe, but Paul
Harris' concept of Rotary's objective.
"To help each other in every way that a kindly heart and friendly spirit could suggest-".
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1978-79 Jack B. Blane, District Governor – “Reach Out”
A
review of the Rotary Year could not be initiated without mentioning the support and guidance
provided by my predecessors at all levels of the district. PDG's, District Chairmen, Governor's
Representatives, club officers and members at large, assisted in every possible way over a year ahead of
time. Without their guidance and encouragement, it would not have been possible to continue the
momentum that was inherited.
In February, the Presidents-Elect met at evening firesides to plan their year ahead. Their early
organization of clubs made possible an expanded District directory that included information on all club
officers, Directors and key Chairmen. As a result, inter club communications was stimulated and Rotary
knowledge shared.
Almost 300, gathered for the District Assembly, in mid-June, hosted by Wheeling and Schaumburg
Clubs, at Palatine High School. Twelve separate discussion groups explored all Avenues of Service,
with the day ending in a Great Spirit of fellowship and learning. We were proud to host an "All-Illinois
Dinner", at the Tokyo International Convention, that included such notables as R.I. President, W. Jack
Davis, and his wife, the George Means' and the Harry Stewart's. Over 90 people shared a traditional
Japanese meal ... a super beginning to one of Rotary's finest events.
With very few exceptions, the official club visits went as scheduled, from mid-July to mid-December.
Club Assemblies were usually held the night before the regular meeting, giving unlimited time to cover
all subjects and really get to know the people without the pressure of a deadline. The club address was
always an unpredictable situation, but it was clear that "The Home District" is composed of an endless
variety of "good" people sharing fellowship ... to serve other people.
As we approached Rotary's 75th Anniversary, separate club Chairmen was selected to determine
projects that will reflect this significant event, and will continue next year. A key element is the
development of Rotary's International Health, Hunger and Humanity Program that will be funded for
major service activities throughout the world. Even at this early stage, Evanston, Lombard, Park Ridge
and Skokie have received Banner Awards, while a Plaque Award was presented to Barrington.
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