As all of you were aware, November was a very special month for Rotarians all over the world. It is when The Rotary Foundation devotes the month to informing its members of the work done by TRF and of solicits Rotarians to dig into their pockets to continue the great work done by TRF. This is of course not the only time one may contribute to the Foundation, but it a month that districts hold special TRF Seminars and recognize those that have recently become Paul Harris Fellows, Multiple PHFs, Sustaining Members, Major Donors, Benefactors, or made contributions to TRF in many other ways. Did you know you can even donate United Frequent Flyer miles that might help transport someone for medical help?

The first Paul Harris Fellow was named in 1957 and since that time over a million people have contributed US$1,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation. And to think that the first donation was only $26.50 in 1918 by the Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri; their net proceeds from the 1918 convention. From little beginnings often come big rewards. Isn’t it great to be a Rotarian?

OK, now for a bit of ROTI business. We had several interesting discussions on the General list; some of which included, ROTI’s historical beginnings, some hefty charges on iPhones that were turned off, Rotary clubs composed of mostly one religious group, and even kosher meals at club meetings. One of the more enlightening discussions came from a possible new sub-group of ROTI for single members. That one drew to a halt after RI officially recognized a fellowship formed in California for that purpose.

Our discussion grew much more serious when we saw the forest fires that decimated much of southern California. Apprehension grew when we learned that our former ROTI Chair and his wife had their home totally destroyed. We were all relieved to know they were not injured, but our hearts went out to them for the loss of personal belongings and other memories. I promised to bring him another wooden plaque as ROTI Chair for 05-07.

Our discussion of religios customs turned more serious and many members expressed both insight and interest in the subject. ROTI is indeed a wonderful place to exchange ideas. It appeared that many learned a great deal from those level-headed discussions. The reinstatement of terminated members, GSE Team selection, rising petrol prices, and tolerance and understanding rounded out the month. I must add that tolerance and understanding had nothing to do with rising gas prices. Smile

I continue to admire both the quality and quantity of topics on the ROTI Serious list. By the time you read this, they will have had over 175 GREAT posts for the month of November. If you want to know more about this list, we welcome you to sign up and explore this wonderful group. It is a moderated list and only Rotary topics are allowed. For you serious computer folks, we offer the ROTI-Tech list where operating systems, web design, and other subjects reign supreme.

The next month is one of special importance to many, but we all hope and strive for peace on our earth, and that mankind finds ways to solve many of its problems. As we continue the second half of Rotary Shares let each of us in our own way share both Rotary and ROTI with others. I leave you with a short motto of mine: Help, and not Hinder.

Ron

Ron Nethercutt, ROTI Chair 07-09

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