From December 6th to 8th, 54 Rotary clubs across District 7570 united to sponsor 122 high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, inspiring and empowering them to become impactful leaders. These students delved into their personality styles, etiquette, Rotary Youth Exchange, and most importantly, leadership skills. Dr. Jain's keynote speech left them with 10 tangible skills for their leadership toolbox, setting the stage for their future success.

Beyond the enlightening sessions, students enjoyed line dancing, board games, campus excursions to the dining hall, and a spectacular dance night with DJ Earl Brown. The excitement continued with the Four Way Speech Contest, where eight students competed fiercely, culminating in Gabriel Tweedie from Warren County winning first place. Jaya Vashisth took home the prize for the RYLA T-shirt contest.

On December 8th, District Governor Amelia Stansell from District 7610 delivered a powerful presentation on Empowering Students with CAPE (Community Awareness & Prevention Education). A monumental moment occurred when District Governor Bret Hrbek, District Governor - Elect Andy Vanhook, and District Governor Nominee Charlotte Whitted signed the District 7570 pledge to support the vital mission to eradicate human trafficking.

Rotary's unwavering commitment to empowering youth was vividly demonstrated through the success of RYLA. Special thanks extends to all the clubs, chaperones, and volunteers whose dedication made this event a resounding success. Together, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

In the spirit of giving, the Buena Vista Rotary Club was honored to join forces with Buena Vista Public Schools, The Community Foundation, and Feed the Need to ensure everyone in our community could celebrate Thanksgiving with a hearty meal. This Thanksgiving Box Giveaway was for the whole school system with students, teachers, and staff all participating. There were no specific requirements - if a family requested one, they got one.
Volunteers from all of the organizations gathered at Parry McCluer Middle School on Friday, November 22, 2024 to distribute the essential fixings for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner to families in need. The box included gravy, stuffing, canned vegetables, potatoes, and even a 12-15 pound turkey funded by the Community Foundation in association with Feed the Need.
This is the second year that the Buena Vista Rotary Club has assisted with the program. They were able to do so as a result of the concession stand proceeds from the Fridays in The Park concert series. Last year, they also received a grant from Rotary District 7570 for a portion of the cost. Rotary clubs worldwide are known for their dedication to service projects and community support and this event was no exception.
For those involved, the event was about more than just distributing food—it was a reminder of the power of community and the importance of giving back. As the holiday season continues, the Buena Vista Rotary Club remains committed to supporting those in need and spreading goodwill throughout the area.

Each year around the holidays for 20 years, Danville Riverview Rotary Club collects items or donations in order to send care packages to servicemen and women, generally with a connection to our club that are serving outside the continental US. 
 
Over the years, we have shipped packages to all branches of the military in locations such as Afghanistan, all over the Middle East, S. Korea, Alaska just to name a few.  Over the years, we have had assistance from our Interact Clubs as well as outside organizations.

We strive to send more care packages than they can handle as it is common for them to share with folks in their unit who might not receive packages or just need a treat.  Club member Brett Jackson heads this yearly service project.

Giving has been extended through December! Make your end-of-year contribution to the Annual Fund Share with the Rotary Foundation and email your confirmation to Patty at [email protected] so your matching points can be attributed to your account. #Rotary7570

From Rotary International: We are aware that numerous Rotary club and district Facebook Pages and Instagram accounts have been closed by Meta without prior notice. This issue has escalated recently, and we are working closely with Meta (the company behind Facebook and Instagram) to find a solution.

While we have not yet identified the root cause or a guaranteed method for restoration, Meta did reinstate several Rotary-related pages last week at our request. With your help, we can identify additional pages that need reinstatement.

Please share this link (on.rotary.org/fbissue) with social media admins of Rotary clubs and districts in your region. Completing this form will allow us to add these pages to Meta’s “allow list” within their Brand Rights Protection tool as part of our efforts to resolve the issue. 

For pages already removed by Meta, please indicate this on the form. Page admins will then receive an email with specific instructions (from Meta’s guidance) and an official letter from Rotary International to support their restoration efforts. We will submit a consolidated list of pages requiring reinstatement in bulk to Meta for processing and review.

We are focused on finding a lasting solution to restore these pages and prevent future disruptions. Your support in sharing this message will help us gather the necessary information and expedite the process.

Here is the form link once more: on.rotary.org/fbissue

“We are so thrilled to present to Brad Hoover the distinguished honor of being a Kingsport Chamber Lifetime Member,” said Ted Fields, Kingsport Chamber chair and executive vice president and market executive with Powell Valley National Bank.  “Brad has served his community faithfully for so many years, giving of his time and talents in several key volunteer leadership positions with numerous organizations in this community, including having held the Board president’s position of our Kingsport Chamber.  More importantly, Brad Hoover is just a great guy, a friend and neighbor to anyone he meets.  He is always willing to give, donate and help any person or cause he encounters and does so with selfless humility and a caring heart.  Well done, Brad Hoover, on this most-deserving accolade.” 
 “I have had the honor and privilege of knowing Brad Hoover for the majority of my life and I can say without reservation that he is one of the best community servants, friends and leaders with whom I have ever been associated,” said Miles Burdine, Kingsport Chamber president and CEO.  “I truly admire, respect and look up to Brad Hoover for so many reasons.  Brad has led and helped this community and so many people by giving of his time, wisdom and good-natured spirit.  When I was deployed to Iraq with the United States Marine Corps in 2005 and 2006, Brad Hoover was there for me by helping to take care of my family here at home and serving as Kingsport Chamber Board chair during a very challenging year.  Those are just a few examples of the giving and kind nature of Brad Hoover.  Everyone who knows Brad Hoover loves him and I am so happy we can recognize him with our organization’s highest distinction.  It is so well deserved.”

The Kingsport Chamber Lifetime Member Award goes to an individual who has made an enormous contribution to the Kingsport Chamber and the community throughout his or her lifetime.  A native of Kingsport, Brad Hoover recently retired after a 40-year career as an executive and leader in the banking industry.
 
A 1978 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School, Hoover earned a Bachelor of Science degree in administrative management from Clemson University in 1982.  In addition, he is a graduate of the Tennessee School of Banking, Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking and Tennessee Commercial Lending School.
 
Hoover has donated his time and talents to numerous organizations and served in several key leadership positions in the community, including: Kingsport Chamber president (2006); volunteer and chair for several Kingsport Chamber programs – Fun Fest (1999 chair), Keep Kingsport Beautiful, Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau (now Visit Kingsport), Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Leadership Kingsport, S.H.O.U.T.!® Youth Leadership, and Government Relations; Downtown Kingsport Rotary (president in 1995 and 2014); Kingsport City Parks & Recreation coach and Advisory Committee; Kingsport Boys & Girls Club (coach, Board of Directors and Foundation Board); Kingsport Public Arts Council; Junior Achievement of the Tri-Cities; American Red Cross; and the Downtown Kingsport Association (1997 president), among others.

This December, Rotary District 7570 proudly highlights Edward Jones as a Platinum Sponsor, celebrating over a century of dedication to creating a brighter future for individuals, families, and communities through trusted financial guidance.  

For over 100 years, Edward Jones has been helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized relationships and a disciplined, client-centered approach. Serving more than 8 million clients, the firm’s mission extends beyond wealth management—it’s about partnering for positive impact to improve lives and communities.  Edward Jones’ success stems from its branch-office business model, with over 15,000 locations across North America. This model empowers financial advisors to provide personalized investment advice tailored to individual client goals. Supported by the resources of a Fortune 500 firm, advisors build lasting relationships, helping clients stay on track toward achieving their dreams.

The firm’s long-term investment philosophy emphasizes quality investments aligned with clients’ goals and risk tolerance. This clear and straightforward approach appeals to those who value reliable guidance in navigating life’s financial challenges.  Edward Jones doesn’t just invest in financial success; it invests in communities. Through its partnership with Rotary, Edward Jones amplifies the impact of service projects that transform lives locally and globally. Whether it’s supporting youth programs or championing health and wellness initiatives, Edward Jones’ sponsorship helps Rotary clubs create lasting change.

Under the leadership of Managing Partner Penny Pennington, Edward Jones continues to foster an inclusive culture that values innovation, community, and the power of human connection—qualities that align seamlessly with Rotary’s values.

On behalf of Rotary District 7570, we thank Edward Jones for their generous sponsorship and their commitment to making the world a better place. Their support fuels our shared vision of serving humanity with integrity, purpose, and hope.  For a list of the individual Edward Jones financial advisors participating in the sponsorship, visit here: https://www.rotary7570conference.com/edward-jones-advisors.
 

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

As we enter this season of joy, reflection, and service, I am reminded of the unique bond we share—a bond rooted in the belief that together, we can make a difference. December invites us to celebrate our successes, refocus our efforts, and renew our commitment to "Service Above Self."

This month, Rotary International emphasizes Disease Prevention and Treatment, one of our seven areas of focus. From supporting local health initiatives to delivering medical supplies globally, Rotarians are tackling critical health challenges with creativity and compassion.

I’ll never forget traveling to India in 2017 to deliver polio vaccinations. That moment transformed me from being just a member of Rotary to truly becoming a Rotarian. Knowing I helped prevent this dreaded virus from crippling another child wasn’t just a gift to them—it was a profound gift to myself.

This December, I encourage you to consider: What gift can your club give to your community? Whether partnering with a local organization, raising awareness, or launching a new project, the opportunities to make an impact are endless.

Moments of Gratitude

As I reflect on the year, I am deeply grateful for the passion and dedication you bring to Rotary. From service projects to fellowship events, you embody what it means to create connections and change lives. It’s truly humbling to serve as your district governor.

This holiday season, let’s also extend our fellowship and compassion to those who may feel isolated. Invite someone new to your club’s socials, fundraisers, service projects, or meetings. Give them the gift of Rotary—a community built on purpose and friendship.

And if you’re still searching for the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for Rotarian, consider a Rotary LOVE ornament. Proceeds support the Peace Center Endowment at the Rotary Foundation. Order yours here: Rotary LOVE Ornament.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to Rotary’s mission. I look forward to seeing the incredible impact you’ll make as we close out 2024 and head into the new year.

Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and the spirit of Rotary,

Bret Hrbek

The Rotary Club of Frederick County held our 10th Annual Firewood Blitz on Saturday, November 9th. ~ 30 Club Members and 7 friends/family of the club worked most of the day to split, stack, and even deliver loads of firewood to folks in our community that need it for heat and cooking!  Club Members Mike and Rosalie Perry open their home and property to us each year and it's so appreciated. Hard work and a hearty lunch makes for a successful event!
This project is our favorite day each year and in cooperation with CCAP (Congregational Community Action Project) of Winchester, the recipients are chosen to receive the wood.  On that November day alone, 25 deliveries were made in the community! The work continues throughout the Fall and Winter to ensure our neighbors can have the supply needed during the coldest months. 

This Thanksgiving, which has always been my favorite holiday, will mean a little bit more to me this year. Lori and I have just returned from a trip to Bolivia to deliver 260 wheelchairs through our Rotary District program. Over the past 10 years we have given out almost 4,000 wheelchairs in Latin America.
After returning from each wheelchair distribution, I have a greater appreciation for our country and the system of government we live under. We have been able to take care of our own through government social programs and the generosity of our fellow citizens. While it is not perfect, we have safety nets to help catch those who have fallen into need.
In Bolivia, the government has been ineffective in providing support for the basic needs of its people. Philanthropic organizations are few.
One Rotarian told me, “We are out of fuel and out of money,” as we passed lines of trucks waiting at service stations for diesel. Because of government regulating the price and heavily subsidizing the cost of diesel, truckers wait two to three days to get fuel...

Read the full story on The News Gazette: https://www.thenews-gazette.com/article/9014,this-thanksgiving-will-mean-a-little-bit-more

We have a new, insightful metric by which a club can gauge its progress toward its membership goal during the year.  For over 100 years, the only metric Rotary clubs had to see how they were progressing during the year was their net membership gain or loss. It turns out that's highly misleading.  Why is that? 
As we know, attrition is real, and a fact of life in membership organizations. Despite relentless efforts to reduce it, attrition will not go away entirely.  The problem with looking at net member gain year to date as a metric, particularly in mid-year, is that it completely forgets about attrition that hasn't happened yet,
A much better approach is built into the goal setting process in the Membership Success Center (MSC).  We take the club's average terminations over the past 3 years, and treat that as a forecast of terminations likely to happen this year. It isn't perfect, but it's a lot better than forgetting about them.
What we want to do is “pre-replace” those members likely to depart this year plus add enough new members to meet our membership growth goal. The progress dashboard in the MSC plots that on a month-to-month basis, and clearly reveals the club’s pace of new member attraction, compared to the total number needed by June of 2025. Here is a short video clip that explains that:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JUqc0nnvF0&t=392s 
Interested in your club’s progress?  Log in through DACdb:  RIZones33-34.org/MSC
Here are a couple of examples of clubs either ahead of or behind their new member pace for last year.  



Club began the year slowly, and never caught up with the pace needed to meet its goal.  After several months running at 6 behind pace, a June surge brought them within 4 of pace.  Predictably, they finished the year down by 1 member, rather than a 3-member gain. 


Club began the year with 2 new members in July, flat-lined for several months, then added 6 new members to pull not only ahead of pace, but to exceed their new members needed.  Predictably, finished 2 ahead of pace, with a net gain of +4 vs. a goal of +2. 

 

The 2024-2025 District Conference Award Applications are now open! Our District Conference Awards Committee, along with fellow Rotarians in District 7570, are eager to see the amazing accomplishments your clubs have achieved over the past year.

To submit, visit https://www.rotary7570.org/district-conference-awards/ and scroll down to the blue button labeled “SUBMIT A CLUB AWARD APPLICATION.” Select this button for each award category your club would like to enter (there are 10 categories total). Please remember, only one application per category is allowed per club.

Applications are due by Saturday, February 1st.

For any questions, feel free to reach out to Josie Russell.