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Johnson City Rotary Club | A Memorable Visit by Auctioneer Bart Long and His Majestic Clydesdales
On March 18, 2025, the Johnson City Noon Rotary Club experienced a visit that combined tradition, community spirit, and a touch of grandeur. Bart Long, a distinguished auctioneer known for his engaging style and deep community involvement spoke to the club. But what made this day truly special was Bart's decision to bring along two of his magnificent Clydesdale horses, adding a unique flair to the meeting.
Bart began by sharing stories from his rich career in auctioneering, emphasizing the importance of community bonds and the stories that connect us all. He spoke of his passion for these gentle giants, the Clydesdales, and how they symbolize strength, reliability, and grace—qualities that resonate deeply with our Rotary values.
Stepping outside after the meeting, members were greeted by the sight of these impressive horses, their sheer size and elegance leaving many in awe. It was a rare treat to witness such beauty up close, and the joy was evident on everyone's faces as they interacted with the animals, capturing photographs and sharing stories.
This visit not only provided a delightful experience but also reinforced the essence of community—coming together, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bart Long for enriching our meeting and reminding us of the simple joys that life offers.
In the picture: Bart Long, Rotarians Ben Siler, Gary McAllister, Raleigh Green
District 7570 Conference Award Winners
Congratulations to our District Club Winners for the District Conference Awards 2025!
2025 Winners
Club Bulletin
Winner: Rotary Club of Warren County
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Front Royal
Club Partnership Service
Winner: Harrisonburg-Massanutten Rotary Club
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Blacksburg
Club Service
Winner: Rotary Club of Tri-Cities
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Broadway-Timberville
Club Social Media
Winner: Rotary Club of Front Royal
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Scott County
2nd Place: Giles County Rotary Club
Club Website
Winner: Rotary Club of Forest, VA
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Lynchburg
Community Service
Winner: Rotary Club of Tri-Cities
2nd Place: Frederick County Rotary Club
International Service
Winner: Staunton Rotary Club
2nd Place: Danville-Riverview Rotary Club
Public Image
Winner: Rotary Club of Winchester, VA
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Front Royal
Youth Activities
Winner: Rotary Club of Warren County
2nd Place: Rotary Club of Front Royal
Vocational Service
Winner: Rotary Club of Blacksburg
Douglas A. Newton Excellence in Communication Winner: Ben Oldham from the Rotary Club of Salem, VA
Rotary Friendship Exchange | Let's go to Brazil!
Let’s Go to Brazil!
We are thrilled to relaunch the Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) program with a brand-new adventure—and you’re invited! District 7570 is headed to Brazil’s District 4640 (the beautiful western region of Paraná), and we’d love for YOU to be part of this unforgettable journey.
When’s This Happening?
- Outbound to Brazil – March 2026
- Inbound from Brazil – September 2026
What’s It All About?
You’ll be welcomed into the homes of warm, generous Rotarians in Brazil—sharing meals, stories, laughter, and life. It’s the most magical part of any RFE! You’ll return home with lifelong friends and unforgettable memories… and then, you’ll get the joy of hosting them here in District 7570 when they visit us in the fall of 2026!
Who Can Join?
All District 7570 Rotarians, spouses, and family members are welcome to apply. The outbound team is capped at 12 awesome adventurers—so don’t wait! If selected, you’ll also commit to helping host and support the inbound team in September 2026.
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Destinations within District 4640 are being finalized now, but one thing’s for sure: Iguazu Falls is on our radar! This jaw-dropping natural wonder—taller than Niagara and twice as wide—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see.
How Will It Work?
Expect at least 10 days of guided fun and cultural immersion, with a flexible, go-with-the-flow mindset required. You can even add on personal travel in South America before or after the official exchange.
What’s the Cost?
- Round-trip airfare to Brazil: Currently running about $1,100 from most airports in our district to São Paulo
- In-country travel: Affordable (domestic flights/trains)
- Total estimate: Around $2,000 per person, depending on your choices and spending style
Who’s Leading the Way?
- Burt & Donna Duren – D7570 RFE Committee Chair and seasoned RFE travelers
- Odilete Herget & Dalzira Silveira – Our amazing contacts and leaders from Brazil’s District 4640
- Download the Outbound Application Form
- Send it to Burt Duren at [email protected]
- Spots are first-come, first-served—so don’t wait!
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime—Rotary-style!
Submit Your Rotary History
Help us preserve the written story of District 7570 club history. D7570 is fortunate to have a storage room at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in Blacksburg to house our records and memorabilia. In addition, the district will save any electronic resources provided by clubs for future reference.
This is a good time for the outgoing club presidents to complete a Club History form to record highlights from the previous Rotary year. It’s also a good resource for past presidents to complete for their year as president. Please take a moment to review this form and complete one for as many Rotary years as possible. Forms may be emailed to DG Paula Alston ([email protected]), who will save them in the history archives room. Form link: Click here