Stories

Providing Meals During Historic Snowfall

The City of Del Rio, Texas had 11.2 inches of snowfall on February 18, 2021. This was a historic record of snow for this date and many persons in the community were out of power and water, due to the freezing temperatures.

Rotary Club of Blanco County Announces the Joe Garcia 's Memorial Golf Tournament

The Rotary Club of Blanco Count is happy to announce that its annual major fund raising event, the golf tournament, has now been rescheduled to Monday, June 7, 2021.

Upcoming Peace Corps Week Event - Stories of JFK and the Peace Corps Legacy

Did you know that February is Peace and Conflict Resolution Month with Rotary and that the first week of March is considered "Peace Corps Week"? Connections between the two organizations do not end there. As you may know, Rotary and Peace Corps have an official relationship where Rotarians can sponsors Peace Corps projects and much more. On March 1, the Peace Corps celebrates 60 years since President John F. Kennedy established the agency in 1961. The anniversary of the Peace Corps commemorates international peace and friendship, volunteerism and service. Discover the benefits of Peace Corps service from a panelist who share their stories of how John F. Kennedy impacted their lives.

Winter Storm Relief Program

It's been an unimaginable week for all of Texas residents due to the winter storm. Here in District 5840, many are still without food, power, and safe drinking water. Some have even experienced structural damage to their homes (collapsed ceilings, busted water pipes, etc.). We are currently gathering information to support those Rotarians in need. If you need support, complete this form.

Update on Alamo Heights Night

Alamo Heights Night 2021 originally scheduled for April 16, 2021 has been cancelled. Our next event will be Alamo Heights Night 2022 on April 1, 2022.

District Annual Raffle

Big Change from previous years!

District Annual Fund Raffle was for a cruise. Winner of th drawing got a cruise and seller of the ticket got a cruise. Cruises were already losing popularity and Covid 19 was the death blow for us. In the Fall, we surveyed membership for possible prizes and the prepaid bank card for $1000 was selected from 4 possible prize packages. There will be 7 drawings and we have 7 prepaid $1000 Frost Bank Cards for the prize. The third ticked drawn the prize will go to the seller of the ticket to give incentive to sell tickets. Tickets have been sent to Club Presidents.

District Virtual Town Hall - Feb. 11th

Join us for next District Virtual Town Hall event on Thursday, Feb. 11 at 6:30PM with special guest, Dr. Sylvia Whitlock. She is the 1st woman Club President in Rotary International - who changed Rotary leadership through social change. All are welcome! Click to register.

DG Xavier Toson's February Message

Dear Rotarians,

This month we celebrate Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution. Did you know that today, over 70 million people are displaced as a result of conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights violations? Half of them are children. Some may hear this news and count it as another statistic for someone else to solve. Rotarians, on the other hand, spring into action!

Super Hero Raffle Winners

On Saturday, January 30th during the District Town Hall meeting we held our first raffle for the Rotary Super Hero Challenge. All Clubs that completed MIssions 1-3 were entered into the drawing. The winners are: San Antonio South, Blanco County and San Antonio North Central. Each club won $500!

Cross Mountain Cross Makeover

Posted by Jimmy Culp

On Thursday, January 28th, members of the Fredericksburg Nimitz Rotary club repainted the cross atop Cross Mountain to assist the City as it prepares to kick off a year-long series of events to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the founding of the City of Fredericksburg, TX beginning on May 8, 2021.

Rotary 2021-2022 Theme Revealed

President-elect Shekhar Mehta encourages members to be changemakers and announces his theme for the 2021-2022 Rotary year, Serve to Change Lives. Learn more: http://on.rotary.org/3j6bVuc

Alamo Heights Supports The Community

Posted by Richard Berchin

As part of our ongoing support for the local community, donations were presented in January to the Alamo Heights School Foundation ($5000); Alamo Heights Little League ($3000); and St Phillips College ($10,000 for vocational scholarships).

Canyon Lake Rotary Has Been Busy Forming Alliances!

Starting in November of last year the Canyon Lake Rotary Club decided to do something about the dwindling amount of night sky visible in their community.

From Rotary Exchange Student to Surgeon

Posted by Edwin Blanton

Nearly ten years ago, during the 2011-2012 school year, the Mission Trail Rotary Club sponsored a Rotary Youth Exchange student Serah – who traveled all the way from Papua New Guinea (PNG), in the western Pacific.

Donation for Buckner Shoes

Posted by Joyce Waterfill

While at the PETS conference I noticed a brochure at one of the booths about giving shoes to children in Kenya. I put the brochure in my folder and forgot about it until one day I was sorting through all the papers from the conference, I noticed the brochure and began to read all about RI Buckner.shoes.

PolioPlus Fundraising Ideas in the Virtual Mode

Posted by Charlie Wasser

As Rotarians, we can all be proud of the effort we have put in since 1979 with what is now known as PolioPlus. The infrastructure that has been developed for eradication of polio is being adapted to the current efforts to control covid and end the pandemic. The infrastructure has been used to control the Ebola outbreak in Africa a few years ago and the SARS epidemic.

RotaCare Free Clinics

Posted by Charlie Wasser

With the support of several Rotary clubs a free health clinic organization has operated in California since 1989, and in Washington, New York, and El Paso. I wish to chat with anyone that might be interested in possibly being part of the startup process to create similar units in San Antonio and surrounding communities.

Wimberley Donates Weekly Meal Budget

Food Insecurity is the state of being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Hays County has a food insecurity rate of 14.3% with 24,710 food insecure people.... 8,609 of which are children.

When the pandemic hit and in person meetings were no longer recommended by the CDC, the Rotary Club of Wimberley voted to donate their weekly meal budget to the Wimberley Crisis Bread Basket. There are more than 2050 Wimberley residents living below the poverty level. We are proud to support our neighbors in their time of need, and we encourage those who can, to consider donating their time and/or resources to this worthy cause as well.

Fredericksburg Morning Completes Final Addition to Play Area

The Rotary Club of Fredericksburg has just completed its final addition to the Old Fair Park Play Area. The newest addition features a fairly conventional “climb/slide” play unit, but also in that same area, includes a zero clearance “Orbit” Merry Go Round that is Inclusive for all.

District 5840 Breast Cancer Project in Columbia

Pictured is a Cocuta, Columbia surgeon with newly provided equipment for detecting and treating early stage breast cancer. Your contributions to this 2020 Rotary Foundation global grant added $5,000 to the $118,216 total project and will save countless lives--many of whom are Venezuela refugees in this border city.

Pearl Satellite Service Project

Members of the Satellite Club of San Antonio at the Pearl and the Young Catholic Professionals Association joined forces to clear brush and pick up trash at the construction site of a future community to shelter the homeless.

Books Fair and Reading with Santa

We will remember 2020 for its changes to our weekly routines. For a while we stopped meetings thinking that the pandemic would soon be over, then we move to online meeting, and then back to in person with an online choice.

Edu-Care Package

As people of Action, our Club in Beeville, Texas is committed to serve above self and every year we strive to increase our impact in our community.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Provides Hunting Opportunity for Veterans

In an ongoing effort to give back to those who selflessly gave to us through their military service, The Rotary Club of Kerrville (Morning Rotary) provided deer hunts for veterans this past month, thanks to the philanthropy of Morning Rotarian Randy McClay.

Ingram Tom Moore High School Interact Club’s Coins for Christmas

The Ingram Tom Moore High School Interact Club sponsored by the Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) conducted a Coins for Christmas fundraising drive during the holidays.

Rotary Club of New Braunfels Provides Hurricane Relief to Lake Charles, LA residents

On Aug. 27, 2020, Hurricane Laura made landfall in Cameron Parish, south of Lake Charles, as a Category 4 storm with 150-mile-per-hour winds. More than two dozen people died in its aftermath.

Trash Pick Up

Rotary club of Kerrville "Getting Busy" keeping our stretch of the road trash free. Seven Rotarians showed up to help make it happen this last weekend.

Rotary Clubs of New Braunfels and Zacoalco Provide Wheelchairs to Residents of Zacoalco, Mexico

The Rotary Club of New Braunfels recently partnered with the Rotary Club of Zacoalco, Mexico, and the Wheelchair Foundation to assemble and distribute 270 wheelchairs, each adorned with patches of the three partners.

Oak Hills Rotary Club Going Strong on Zoom!

Every week our members continue to volunteer and to attend zoom club meetings. Sure we miss visiting with our friends face to face, however we have adapted with the tools available to us.

Tapitas for Cash

Posted by Greg Buschmann

Greg & Carmen Buschmann of the Fair Oaks Ranch Rotary Club delivered 225 lbs. of bottle caps to a private charity in Juarez, MX, that assists children whose parents are unable to pay for cancer treatment.

DG Xavier Toson's January Message

Fellow Rotarians,

From my family to yours, Happy New Year! We can all say that 2020 brought many challenges, blessings in disguise, and a new perspective on life in one way or another. I've always believed that the end of one thing was the beginning of another. However, It is our perspective that shapes the direction of our future.

District Town Hall - RI President, Holger Knaack

Join us on Saturday, January 30th at 12PM as we welcome our Rotary International President for an enlightening and encouraging town hall event! This is a District-wide event and all members are highly encouraged to attend. Must register to receive Zoom link. Click to register.

Ballinger Donates Gift Certificates to Teachers

The Ballinger Rotary Club just donated 129 $10.00 gift certificates to our Elementary, Jr. High and High School teachers, aides, counselors and nurse in appreciation for all they have done this year.

Test Your Rotary Super Powers to Earn CASH PRIZES!

Posted by Pam Blankenzee

The purpose of this challenge is to provide your club with the tools and resources it needs to thrive. Every club that completes Missions 1-3 by January 29th will be placed in a drawing. We will select up to three (3) clubs for this first round to win $500 each!! The drawing will take place on January 30, 2020, live during a special presentation with RI President, Holger Knaack.

Promoting Your Club As People Of Action

Posted by Pam Blankenzee

You have the power to increase people's understanding of Rotary by showing your members as people of action! Rotary developed the People of Action Campaign to provide Clubs with tools for telling and showing the public we make a positive difference in your community.

PolioPlus

Posted by Charlie Wasser

The PolioPlus themed Christmas card program Since every $10 means another 16 children will be protected for life against the polio virus, the total donations will be protecting 11,456 children. THANK YOU ALL!!!!!! has ended for 2020. Rotarians in District 5840 and outside the district donated enough money to pay the $10 a card for 716 cards. That is $7,160 for the fight against polio.

Fulfilling the Promise to End Polio

Posted by Jerry Hardy

RI sends certificates of appreciation, like the pictured one for Canyon Lake RC, for annual financial support for the End Polio initiative. Our district goal this year is for every club to earn a 2020-2021 certificate and so far 24 clubs have contributed. Congratulations to them and thank you!

San Antonio South's Christmas Distribution

Every child looks forward to a visit from Santa. And even though this year’s logistics were a bit different, the Rotary Club of San Antonio South didn’t want to leave two deserving families out.

Foundation Article

Posted by Jerry Hardy

Grants reporting: Our Rotary Foundation earns high marks for accountability! For us that means filing those final reports online on the district website for grants that helped clubs provide school supplies, Thanksgiving food and Christmas joy. If your project is complete, then file the report while it is fresh in your memory. Return to the same My Club Grant site where you applied and complete the reports tab (including uploading documents/receipts).

17th Annual Alamo Heights Holiday Decoration Contest

The Alamo Heights Rotary Club completed its 17th Annual Sparkle of the Season award contest to recognize the best decorated residences in Alamo Heights. Judging was conducted by club members from 16-19 December. This year’s 2020 winners were:

Blue Santa

Kerrville Rotary was able to help with two blue Santa events this year to help feed over 75 families. We teamed up with the Kerrville police department and citizens on patrol who donate clothing and toys.

Del Rio Rotary Club Provides Holiday Cheer!

Every year, the Del Rio Rotary Club provides Thanksgiving fixings for the residents of Rotary Village, which is affordable low-income housing for seniors. The groceries include sweet bread, which is a favorite of the residents. The club also provides each resident with a $25 Walmart gift card for Christmas.

Dominion Rotary Spreads Holiday Cheer

Dominion Rotary club delivered more toys and 55 boxed lunches from the Leon Springs Schlotzgies this past week to The Children’s Methodist hospital. It takes a community that’s dedicated to serve!

Donation to Ballinger Humane Society

The Ballinger Rotary donated $500 to the Humane Society of Ballinger. This donation was used by the Humane Society to send adopted dogs to Canada and Pennsylvania. To do this each dog has to have a special paper to send across State lines.

Second Mini Library

Members of the Rotary Club of Alamo Ranch supports literacy and installed it’s second mini library in a community garden in Woodard Park.

Kerrville Morning Spreads Christmas Cheer

The Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning (Morning Rotary) ends this pandemic-influenced year by sharing the Christmas spirit with several organizations including the Kerrville State Hospital, Christian Women’s Job Corps, and the Doyle School Community Center.

Fredericksburg Annual Toys For Tots Drive

The Fredericksburg Rotary Club is in the final stages of our annual Toys for Tots (T4T) service to Gillespie county. Our Club Service Committee Chairman Bob Lee along with member Dana Green and and Honorary Member Linda Lee work on T4T all year.

2020 Annual Christmas Party Rotary Club NW-Style

While practicing Social distancing and Safety Pandemic guidelines, the Officers, Members, Family, and visitors celebrated the club’s 2020 Annual Christmas party at Outback Steakhouse.

Rotary NW ringing the Bell for Salvation Army

Officers and Members of Rotary NW volunteered to ring the bell and show support for the Annual Salvation Army Holiday event.

Rotary NW Breakfast Surprise for Teachers & Staff of Dellview Elementary

Club President Sabrina Avila and Club Treasurer Keith Schmitz delivered a surprise Breakfast to the amazing Teachers and Staff of Dellview Elementary - Northeast ISD for all of their hard work and dedication to our students during this pandemic.

Santa's Sleigh to Centinela

On Thursday, December 10th, members (Curtis Allerkamp and Jimmy Culp) of the Fredericksburg Nimitz Rotary in conjunction with the Mision de Candelilla of Fredericksburg along with a sister club from Piedras Negras delivered 50 personalized Christmas packages to the children of Centinela, just outside of Piedras Negras, Mexico. It was a beautiful day in both weather in both weather and spirit!

2nd Danforth Rotary Loves Readers Contest

Rotary Club of Wimberley is happy to announce the winner and runner up of the 2nd Danforth Rotary Loves Readers contest of the school year.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Rings Bell for Salvation Army

This past week, the Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning (Morning Rotary) served the Salvation Army in their Red Kettle Campaign. Fifteen Morning Rotarians took turns ringing the bell for a total of nine hours.

Virtual Town Hall - Dec 17th

Come join us on Thursday, December 17th at 6:30PM for our next Virtual Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Jim Partin, Chief Medical Officer at Hill Country Memorial and Dr. Linda Ellsworth, District 5840 Medical Director. Open to all Rotarians! Must register to receive Zoom link.

Rotary Cares For Seniors

This holiday season we're asking all Rotarians to write at least one card or letter to a senior. It's an easy project you can do from home and could make a huge difference in the life of an isolated senior. Let them know that Rotary Cares. This project is sponsored by the Rotary Club of San Antonio.

Super Hero Challenge Mission I - Strengthening Rotary's Brand

Calling all Rotarians! The first mission for the Rotary Super Hero Challenge is to "Strenthen the Rotary Brand". The test is to create your Club's Rotary Masterbrand logo. See this article for the Importance of the Rotary Visual Identity. For this task, Step 1: Log-in to My Rotary and navigate to the Brand Center. If you already have a Club Rotary Masterbrand, fantastic (skip to the final step)!

The Importance of Rotary's Visual Identity

Some brands are recognized around the world just by their logos. When people see the logo, they instantly know what it means and what to expect from the product. Building that kind of visual recognition requires effort, including years of using a logo widely and consistently. Companies work at this because earning that global recognition benefits their business.

DG Xavier Toson's December Message

Season’s Greetings: December Is Disease Prevention and Treatment Month

Did you know that over 800 million people (almost 12 percent of the world’s population) spent at least 10 percent of their household budgets to pay for health care? Also, more than 100 million people are pushed into poverty each year because of medical costs. As Rotarians, we aim to improve and expand access to low-cost and free health care, especially in underdeveloped areas.

PolioPlus Christmas Cards Are Ready to Ship

As you may have heard or read, there are a couple of major District 5840 PolioPlus fundraising initiatives. The one described here is the sales and purchase of PolioPlus themed Christmas cards for a donation $10.00.

The Mini LIbrary Project is Moving Along - Join Us

By now you probably heard of the district wide initiative to build 100 mini libraries around the district. Here are the steps and activities needed to build and install a mini library. See the photo above showing what installation was like for Alamo Ranch at Gardopia.

Fair Oaks Ranch Veterans’ Day Program Features Local Community Leaders

Texas Veterans Commission Chairperson Laura Koerner served as the guest speaker at the annual Fair Oaks Ranch Rotary Club Veterans’ Day Salute on November 11th. at the Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club.

Annual Fund Raffle 2021

For the survey, we had 251 responses: 2 blank , 1 for the cruise , Package One 16 votes, Package Two 47 votes, Package Three 76 votes, Package Four 109 votes

Mini Library Installation

The Rotary Club of Alamo Ranch partnered with Gardopia Gardens in the mission of promoting and supporting literary. On November 21, 2020, the Rotary Club of Alamo Ranch installed their very first Free Mini Library.

Mission School Supply Drop Complete

The Eagle Pass Rotary Club purchased school supplies for two elementary schools: Ray H. Darr and Pete Gallegos Elementaries.

Morning Rotary Helps Provide Meals for Veterans Locally and State-Wide

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning recently partnered with local philanthropist and evangelist Danny Bezet of the Texas Hill Country Chapter of the Christian Bowhunters of America (CBA), and Mike Cagle, of Honor Veterans Now, Meals for Vets, to support veterans in the Texas Hill Country and across the state.

Dominion Rotary Toy Drive

Photo from the San Antonio at the Dominion's toy drive for the Children's Methodist Hospital in San Antonio. Pictured (L-R) are D5840 Sect. Jo Ann Browne, Club Community Projects Chair Christina Gutierrez and Event Co-Organizer Darcee Grivel, D5840 Early Act Chair.

Veteran's Appreciation Breakfast

On November 6, Kerrville Rotary hosted 49 veterans and their guests to a wonderful breakfast and fellowship at our Veterans Breakfast event held at the Hill Country Veterans Center.

Halloween Golf Tournament

Hondo/D'Hanis Rotary Club hosted a Halloween Golf Tournament at our local golf course.

Rotary Club and Education Foundation Assist Blanco Elementary School

The Rotary Club of Blanco County (RCBC) in partnership with the Blanco Education Foundation (BEF) recently presented the Blanco Elementary School Safety Patrol Coordinator, Mrs. Mary Jane Hill,

Rotary Loves Readers Winner Announced

We are happy to announce the winner and runner up of the first Danforth Rotary Loves Readers contest of the school year. This challenge asked students to write letters to the editor of the newspaper about the importance of our community library.

Kerrville Morning Rotartian Women's Job Corps, Kerr County Supports Chris

The Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning recently provided lunch for the interns, staff and volunteers at the Christian Women’s Job Corps, Kerr County (CWJC). Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Rotarians were unable to join the interns for the meal.

Rotary Club Gives Away Free Books

The Rotary Club of Wimberley handed out free books on Halloween in front of A Fit Plan.

District Virtual Town Hall - Nov. 19th

Join us for our next District Virtual Town Hall meeting on Nov.19th at 6:30PM. Our special guest is Jennifer Welch, Brand Coach. She will talk about Brands: What are they and why do they matter. Must register to receive Zoom link.

DG Xavier Toson's November Message

Dear Rotarians,

Welcome to November! This month, we emphasize the importance and need to support and celebrate The Rotary Foundation (TRF)! Did you know that every dollar contributed to the TRF funds humanitarian and educational programs and operations? Throughout our district, clubs apply each year for grants that help them carry out worthy projects around the globe.

Groundbreaking Ceremony at Old Fair Park

Members of Fredericksburg Morning Rotary, the City of Fredericksburg, Kraftsman Commercial Playgrounds and Waterparks, and the community gathered at the groundbreaking for a new playground at Old Fair Park.

Rotary Super Hero Challenge

We are challenging all Clubs to Test Your Rotary Super Powers .. and EARN prizes!! Each MISSION equips your club with "super powers" to MAXIMIZE your CLUB's potential .... faster & easier! See here for details on the Challenge and how to test your Super Powers

District Virtual Town Hall - Rotary Foundation

Join us on Thursday, November 5th at 6:30PM for our Virtual District Town Hall. Our guest speakers are PDG Jerry Hardy, Foundation Chair and Major Gifts Chair Amy Bawcom. Must register to receive Zoom link.

Highway Clean-Up in San Angelo

San Angelo Rotarians showed up early to clean up trash along the highway. 11 Rotarians collected 14 bags of trash in one hour on October 10th!

San Angelo Rotarians Raise over $2,000 for PolioPlus

Rotarians in San Angelo raised over $2,000 for PolioPlus at a backyard mixer fundraiser at the beautiful home of Keith Mortimore.

District-wide PolioPlus Christmas Card Fundraiser

Thanksgiving Day Service Project

We invite you to join fellow D5840 Rotarians in a Thanksgiving Day Service Project. We are partnering with Meals on Wheels Texas to deliver warm greetings and Thanksgiving meals to the elderly and disabled population in our communities.

Polio Free World Day at Winston

The Winston Interact Club celebrated Polio Free World Day on Friday, October 23, 2020. The Club set up a Polio Information Display the week leading up to Polio Free World Day and collected $200 for the polio drive.

Lone Star RLI - Part II - Final Session 10-6-2020

D5840 members involved with recently concluded Lone Star Rotary Leadership Part II session included:

CoART, Rotary Partner to Provide Funds for Vape Detectors at BHS

The Blanco Coalition of Awareness, Prevention, and Treatment of Substance Abuse (CoAPT), in partnership with the Blanco County Rotary Club, recently presented Blanco High School Principal Patrick Hinson a check for $9,000 for the purpose of purchasing vape detectors for the high school.

Corazon Ministries Service Project

San Antonio Rotary Club members gathered this last Saturday to sort jeans and package hygiene to hand out to the homeless served by Corazon Ministries.

San Antonio's CASA Service Project

San Antonio Rotary Club donated and packaged over 300 bags of candy for our friends at Child Advocates San Antonio (CASA). CASA Volunteers and Staff will hand these out on Halloween to the children they help.

Randolph Metrocom Sponsors Tri-County Chamber Mixer

The Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club sponsored the Tri-County Chamber mixer, which was held on Thursday, October 22nd at The Hilton Garden Inn in Live Oak.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Once again this year, the San Antonio Northeast Rotary Club participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Inducts Three New Members

The Rotary Club of Kerrville – Morning (Morning Rotary) recently welcomed three new members to the club.

Rotary Banners In Canyon Lake

Every year the Canyon Lake Rotary Club searches for places in the community to display our large banners.

Alamo Heights Night 2021

Alamo Heights Night 2021, an official Fiesta event, is scheduled on the first Friday night of San Antonio Fiesta 2021 on April 16. It is not to early for any of our Rotary Districts' Clubs to sign up for a booth at the event. Details are on our event website, www.alamoheightsnight.org .With the cancellation of Fiesta 2020, the annual Alamo Heights Night in 2020 was also cancelled.

Monica Gutierrez Selected DG 2023-24

District Governor Xavier Toson and the District 5840 Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the selection of Monica Gutierrez of the Rotary Club of San Antonio North Central as the District Governor for the Rotary year beginning July 1, 2023.

Service to the Community at Rotary Park

The Rotary Club of Del Rio has partnered with the Del Rio Parks and Recreation Department to make numerous improvements to Rotary Park. This included projects such as installing a very popular splash pad to offer water fun for kids of all ages, purchasing playground equipment for children of all abilities, installing two park benches, renovating the restroom facilities, planting shrubs & trees, and installing water fountains.

Veteran's Breakfast

Kerrville Rotary will once again host a Veterans' Breakfast event on Nov. 6 at the Hill Country Veterans Center to honor our local active military and military veterans in advance of Veterans' Day.

You are invited to join us from 8-9:30 a.m. Masks and social distancing will be required.

Fredericksburg Morning Making A Difference

Fredericksburg Morning Rotary has donated $5000 to Mision De Candelilla for the purpose of purchasing a slightly used Ultrasound machine to aid in their medical clinics in Mexico. Rotary District 5840 also donated $5000 to bring the total to $10,000 to complete the purchase.

Video Recording of District Town Hall with SA Mayor, Ron Nirenberg

Click the photo to play video

Fair Oaks Ranch Presents Checks to City’s BISD Elementary Schools

Posted by Greg Buschmann

The Fair Oaks Ranch Club presented Van Raub Elementary School a $1500 donation on September 9th.

DG Xavier Toson's October Message

Posted by Xavier Toson

Greetings Rotarians,

Welcome to October! This month we celebrate Economic and Community Development. At this time, our local communities are faced with substantial economic loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses are closing left and right as entrepreneurs fight to keep their doors open.

The Rotary Logo is the Face of the Organization

Posted by Liane Garrett

San Antonio South Works to Get the Vote Out

Posted by Sandy Cordell

The Rotary Club of San Antonio South hosted a voter registration along with the South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, Bexar County Precinct 4 and Rebecca Viagran, City Council District 3 at Pica Pica Plaza on S.E. Military Drive.

Donor Spotlight

Ralph Bowen and Jimmy Culp of the Fredericksburg Nimitz Rotary Club present a check to Donna at the Fredericksburg Food Pantry.

Town Hall Meeting with Mayor Ron Nirenberg - Oct 8

Join us for our next District 5840 Town Hall event on October 8th at 6:45 p.m. Our very special guest speaker, San Antonio Mayor, Ron Nirenberg. Topic: How to Lead in a Time of Crisis and How We Can Support. Click to register

Virtual Paul Harris Ceremony

Posted by Xavier Toson

The Rotary Club of Alamo Ranch held a virtual Paul Harris Fellowship Ceremony on September 22, 2020, in honor of inducting four new Fellows. Whitni Toson, Richard Diaz, Dale Goods, and Rosene Goods were recognized and inducted by guest speaker Jerry Hardy, PDG.

Take Action for World Polio Day - Oct. 24

Posted by Charlie Wasser

As of September 23, 2020, there are 102 new cases in 2020 of wild poliovirus Type 1. Type 2 and Type 3 have been declared eradicated from the planet. There is a yearly standing request for all Rotary clubs to have some type of public event on October 24, World Polio Day, to educate the public and celebrate the progress toward worldwide eradication. With Covid-19 pandemic still in full force, this is a hard request to honor.

Madison Interact at Julia Semmes Public Library

The Madison HS Interact Club held a cleanup at Julia Semmes Public Library on Sunday, September 27. Approximately 20 Interact members collected 20 large bags of trash.

Rotary Foundation Training for Club Leaders Coming Oct 29th

We are hosting a 90-minute online training session on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 6:30pm about two aspects of managing Rotary Foundation programs in your club: fundraising and management reports. It will be a Power Point presentation led by Assistant Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator Rich Kaye with assistance from our district-level team.

Eagle Pass Rotary Club Recognizes Health Heroes

On August 31st, the Eagle Pass Rotary Club proudly celebrated their health heroes at Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center (FDRMC) with a gift of 200 Krispy Kreme donuts that were purchased from a fundraiser for a neighbor club in Piedras Negras.

Winston School Interact Celebrates 25^th Anniversary

Posted by Xavier Toson

The Winston School Rotary Interact Club was chartered on September 22, 1995 under the direction of Dr. Charles J. Karulak, Headmaster of the school.

Paul Harris Fellow Recognition

Posted by Ray Buck

Randy McClay, Rotary Foundation Chair for the Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) and Waverly Jones, Treasurer, made a joint presentation to club members on the purpose and function of the Rotary Foundation.

Kerrville Morning Supports Ingram Tom Moore Clothes Locker

Posted by Ray Buck

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) provided almost $800 in new clothes to the Ingram Tom Moore High School clothes locker.

Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club Donates $2000 in Scholarship Money

Posted by Liane Garrett

Randolph Metrocom presented at their September 14th zoom Luncheon to the President of Northeast Lakeview College - Dr. Veronica Garcia. Last year they presented a check, in-person for $1000 however, this year they were able to present them with a check (virtually) for $2000 because of an approved district grant.

Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club donated $2000 for Hand Washing Stations is Peru

Posted by Liane Garrett

Randolph Metrocom presented a check to members of the Rotary Club of Piura Oeste for Hand washing stations in their community.

San Antonio Northeast Volunteers at Texas Diaper Drive

Posted by Dan Clark

San Antonio Northeast Rotarians Preston McKinney, Becky Robles, Mike Canales, Debbie Degollado and Dan Clark volunteered at the Texas Diaper Bank on Saturday, September 19, 2020.

Canyon Lake Donation

Posted by Craig Massouh

The Canyon Lake Rotary Club recently donated $10,000 to the Community Resource and Recreation Center in Sattler.

Alamo Heights Centennial Project

Posted by Rick Berchin

It has taken just over 17 years to get the dedication plaque put in place for The Alamo Heights Rotary Club Centennial Project, but it is finally done. Our Centennial Project was a joint venture with the City of Alamo Heights, Alamo Heights Little League and Pony League, and the Alamo Heights Independent School District to rebuild the many ballfields and area in the vicinity of the Alamo Heights swimming pool known as the Park at Alamo Heights that had been destroyed during a flood in the late 1990s.

Jourdanton Rotary Supports Local Economy

This Spring the Jourdanton Rotary supported local and chain businesses during these unprecedented times to boost our economy.

Rotary Club - Helping Local Students Succeed

Posted by Chris Ryan

In September, Rotarians Cynthia de Luna, who is the Youth Service Chair on the Del Rio Rotary Club Board of Directors, and Rey Sanchez, who is the Coordinator for the Crayola Club Project, distributed much needed school supplies to eight elementary schools in Del Rio. Rotarian Cheryl Johnson and TJ Moore Lumber Yard were also instrumental in the delivery of the school supplies.

2020 Labor Day Walk

Posted by Donna Peterson

On Monday, Kerrville Rotary had 28 Rotarian's volunteer for our Labor Day Walk-A-Fun at Louise Hays Park. We logged more than 125 volunteer hours, handed out 275 bottles of water, told the Rotary Club of Kerrville story along the River Trail and had three possible new member candidates inquire about our club!

Virtual Town Hall - PRIP Rich King

Click here to view the recording

Services for PDG Wayne Massey

It is with much sadness, that we share the passing of PDG Wayne Massey a member for the Fredericksburg Rotary Club. What an amazing man who served his country so well (he was in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam!).

There will be a brief graveside service at Ft. Sam Houston on Friday, September 25th. On Saturday, September 26 there will be a celebration of Wayne's life and service at the McCurdy Ranch, 6:30 pm, 4088 N. State Hwy 16. Masks and social distancing will be expected, of course, and there is additional information on the Fredericksburg Funeral Home website. To RSVP - contact PDG John Hutcherson

2019-2020 Rotary Citation Recipients

Congratulations to the following 2019-2020 Rotary Citation recipients: Alamo Heights, Eagle Pass, Fair Oaks Ranch, Fredericksburg, Kerville, New Braunfels, New Braunfels Downtown, San Antonio, San Antonio Airport, San Antonio North Central, San Antonio Northeast, San Antonio Northwest, San Antonio West and San Saba.

District 5840 Rotary Youth Exchange

Click here to learn more information about our long-term exchange and our short-term summer exchange programs.

You can find a list of frequently asked questions and the application forms.

But hurry! Applications for the '21-'22 school year are due October 15th, 2020.
Letter to Exchange Students

DG Xavier Toson's September Message

Welcome to September! This month we celebrate basic education and literacy. Did you know that worldwide, 67 million children have no access to education, and more than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate?

Town Hall Event with Rick King - September 17th

Join us for our next District 5840 Town Hall event on September 17th at 6:30 p.m. Our very special guest speaker, Past Rotary International President, Rick King! Be sure to invite a friend or prospective Rotarian to this event. Register here.

District-Wide Impact Project

Posted by Xavier Toson

We are calling all clubs to join in and participate! I'm excited to announce a district-wide impact service project benefiting education and literacy!

Fair Oaks Rotary Hosting Annual Golf Tournament

The Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch is hosting its 8^th Annual Charity Golf Classic on Monday, October 5^th, at the Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club.

Rotary Foundation News

GOALS: Congratulations to the 33 of 56 clubs with goals in Rotary Club Central! We should pick up another 12 within sixty days and will be in constant contact with the others the rest of the year.

Canyon Rotary 2020 Scholarship Winners

Every year the Canyon Lake Rotary Club (The Club) gives out education scholarships to bright intelligent and energetic youth in the area; and this is year is no exception.

Del Rio Rotary Provides Lunch for Medical Employees

On Friday, August 21, 2020, the Del Rio Rotary Club provided lunch for the employees working on the COVID units at Val Verde Regional Medical Center in Del Rio, Texas.

Randolph Metrocom Delivers Essential Worker Plaques

The Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club has been delivering ESSENTIAL WORKER plaques to 9 of their surrounding cities including Cibolo, Converse, Garden Ridge, Live Oak, Marion, Schertz, Selma, Universal City & Windcrest.

Kerrville Morning Rotary and Neu-Mart Team Up to Support Ingram Athletes

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) with a generous donation from Mike and Debbie Neutze, provided 600 pairs of socks for boys and girls athletics at Ingram Tom Moore High School.

Rotarians at Work at the Hill Country Family Services

The Boerne Sunrise Rotary Club cleaned up the landscape at the Hill Country Family Services facility in Boerne.

Rotarians present ‘Youth Citizenship Awards’

Recognizing exemplary characteristics of 16 local elementary students, the Rotary Club of Kerrville hosted the annual “Youth Citizenship Awards” event at its regular meeting Aug. 5,

Blanco Rotary Provides Needed Supplies During Virus

The Rotary Club of Blanco County is helping supply needed materials as soap, washing supplies, tooth paste, many hygiene needs to community families.

San Marcos Rotary Greets San Marcos Academy Students on First Day of School

San Marcos Academy students were welcomed back by San Marcos Rotary Club and San Marcos's Lions Club on August 10.

Rotary Boosting Morale

Ms. Gloria Wilson does an amazing job as a Rotarian. Not only is she the Assistant Governor for District 5840, she is an active member of the Del Rio Rotary Club. Rotarian Eddie Amezcua is the Director of the Community Service Lane.

Africa Region Certified Polio-Free

It's with great pleasure to announce to you that the African region has just been certified wild poliovirus-free.

Rotary Club of Boerne Gifts Face Shields

A local school district got some much-needed help from the Rotary Club of Boerne this past Friday.

Kerrville Morning Rotarians help “Keep OUR River Clean!”

Recently, The Rotary Club of Kerrville – Morning (Morning Rotary) members and families were busy at the Upper Guadalupe River Authority’s 17th Annual River Clean Up - Reimagined. The River Clean Up is one of 12 service projects and activities sponsored by the club.

New Braunfels Wheelchair Project

The Wheelchair Project resulted from an anonymous donor who wanted the donation specifically for wheelchairs. Donor sent half of the container price to the Wheelchair Foundation and Rotary Club of New Braunfels matched the balance.

August 27 - District Town Hall with John T. Capps

Join us on August 27th at 6:30 p.m. for our next virtual district town hall event! Our special guest speaker will international humanitarian and keynote speaker John T. Capps! John is an inspiring speaker and trainer who engages audiences with humor and excitement. He's also a third-generation Rotarian, has attended over 36 International Conventions, and alumni of The Rotary Foundation. If you are looking for a spark of excitement, engagement, and a good laugh, register today! Register here

Jennifer Jones Selected RI President 2022-23

Jennifer E. Jones, a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, has been nominated to become Rotary International’s president for 2022-23, a selection that will make her the first woman to hold that office in the organization’s 115-year history.

Fredericksburg Morning July Food Drive

The Fredericksburg Morning Rotary Club is trying to keep members involved during the Covid 19 pandemic. A challenge was issued to each member to donate food to one of our local "tiny" food pantries.

Vietnam Veteran's Remodel Project

Larry Richard is a disabled Vietnam Veteran who currently uses a walker and possibly will need to use a wheelchair in the future. However, his house was not handicap accessible so Fredericksburg VFW Post 7105 worked with Towers for Troops and Purple Heart Home,

District Virtual Town Hall Event Series

We're excited to announce the first-ever Virtual District Town hall event starting Thursday, August 13, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. The virtual town hall events will bring in special guest speakers from all around the world with varying topics to inspire, inform, and support the work we are doing as Rotarians!

Kerrville Successful Golf Tourney

Kerrville Rotary Club held a successful First Responders Golf Tournament Fundraiser on June 15. They had over 82 players which is more than they have ever had before.

A Thousand Books Making A Bridge To Literacy

Posted by Mark Wittig

There is great joy when a child is born and again when they can learn about the world through books. In a few short years that child is on a tract to get a good education but if for whatever reason that child is not reading at 3^rd grade level by the 3^rd grade he or she is on a very slippery sloop that leads to a very difficult life.

Knowledge Is Power

Posted by Kristen Salazar

Over two years ago I joined the Alamo Heights Rotary Club, not fully knowing what I was getting into. As time went on my curiosity for Rotary turned into fondness, then excitement, and today I have a complete love for Rotary! My feelings have strengthened not only from the relationships I’ve made with other Rotarians but also from the information I’ve learned in the Rotary Learning Center.

DG Xavier Toson's August Message

I hope this message finds you all well and in good spirits. I want to applaud you all for finding new ways to serve the communities in which you live and those abroad, fellowship, and fundraise as we navigate uncharted waters. Your willingness to take on the role of selfless service even amid such challenges as COVID-19 is why we are more than mere volunteers; we are Rotarians! Our theme for August is "Membership & New Club Development," and I would like to take a moment to highlight just what that means and why we should focus greatly on it.

The Rotary Network ... A New Tool

This initiative helps Rotarians connect their business with Rotarians, find assistance for challenges both professional and personal, and access career advice and leads. It's Rotarians helping Rotarians! Check it out now. www.therotarynetwork.org

Eagle Pass Rotary Donates to the South Texas Food Bank

On July 21st, Rotarians Mary Frances Gray and Rachel Draeger, assisted with the Maverick County Food Distribution at Quemado Park.

Back to School Backpack Giveaway

Rotary Club of San Antonio South participated in the San Antonio District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran Back to School Backpack Giveaway along with the San Antonio Food Bank on Saturday, July 25.

San Antonio South Delivers Meals to Healthcare Workers

The Rotary Club of San Antonio South has been very busy during this time of shut down.

San Antonio Northeast Rotary Volunteers at Texas Diaper Bank

Members of the San Antonio Northeast Rotary Club volunteered at the Texas Diaper Bank on Saturday, July 25th. Club members repackaged diapers into 25 count packages for clients that receive assistance from the Texas Diaper Bank and their 54 partner agencies.

What is the Plus in PolioPlus

Posted by Charlie Wasser

The following article will explain the original derivation of what the “Plus” in PolioPlus is. A lot of the following material has been copied in segments or paraphrased from material on Rotary websites related to PolioPlus - Rotary News Online; polioeradication.org, endpolio.org - and culled down to make the article a quick read.

Rotarian Creates Volunteer Contact Tracing Project

With a recent rise in local COVID-19 cases, Fredericksburg Rotary Club members are trying to fill the need of contact tracing in town. Morning Rotary Club member Marc Bennett was contacted by Hill Country Memorial Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jim Partin, who is also part of the Morning Rotary Club.

Rotary Donation Drive

Recently, the Rotary Club of Alamo Ranch organized two donation drives to benefit the Bexar County Battered Women and Children's Shelter. The club accepted new/gently used clothing, homeware items, and cleaning supplies, which will be used by survivors of domestic violence as they get a new start and transition into a safe and healthy living situation.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Honors Original Charter Member

The Rotary Club of Kerrville – Morning honored long-time Rotarian and Morning Rotary charter member, Bob Green, with a tribute for being one of the original founding members of Morning Rotary.

Blanco County Presents Paul Harris Awards

The Rotary Club of Blanco County is proud to present the Paul Harris Award to many of its members. Joe Garcia was able to present the award personally to Hal Switzer.

E-Rotarians Give Back

The Rotary E-Club President Eddie Knightington accompanied Mayor Mary M. Dennis made a generous donation of gift cards on May 26 to Live Oak First Responders for all their efforts during the pandemic. The club provided the firefighters with 20 gift cards from Williams Confectionery.

Discovering The Power of Rotary During a Pandemic

I have been a member of my club for two years, but it was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic that I learned what it truly means to be a Rotarian. When my state of Texas went into quarantine, our club president, Brandon Logan, set up a ‘virtual happy hour’ on Thursday evenings.

Grant Training on July 9th

Clubs wanting to apply for a Rotary Foundation district grant will appreciate the requirement for a club member being trained in grants management can be met via an online 90-minute session

Jane Burton Recognized For Merritorious Service

Jane Burton, Fair Oaks Ranch Rotarian, recognized with the Rotary Foundation Citation for Merritorious Service.

Foundation News

Posted by Jerry Hardy

GLOBAL GRANTS IN MEXICO, GUATEMALA AND TANZANIA: We are truly opening opportunities with a flurry or global grant applications. Boerne Sunrise is working with Rotarians in Aguascalientes, Mexico on providing a cornea-splitting piece of equipment.

DG Xavier Toson's July Message

District Governor Xavier Toson's Video Chat for July - Wishing us a Happy Rotary New Year and inspirational message to start the year Click to play video.

Polio Outbreaks and the Endgame Strategy

As District 5840’s PolioPlus Chair for 2020-2021, I will be writing a blog on the status of PolioPlus and events related to it. The blog will be on Wordpress and will be readily available to the public there, on Facebook, and on Twitter. The blog will be placed on the District 5840 website in the enhanced PolioPlus section.

Eagle Pass Inducts Five New Members

On June 24th, Rachel Draeger, President of the Eagle Pass Rotary Club, inducted five new members to her club.

Fredericksburg Food Pantry Donation

Presentation made by the Fredericksburg Nimitz Rotary Club on June 26, 2020 to the Fredericksburg Food Pantry for $1500.

Fredericksburg Rotary Clubs Support Hill Country Community

The Fredericksburg Nimitz Rotary Club, The Rotary Club of Fredericksburg, and the Fredericksburg Morning Rotary Club jointly received a Covid-19 grant of $4,000 from District 5840.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Awards $2,000 Scholarship

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) recently awarded a well-deserved $2,000 scholarship to Tivy High School senior, Morgan McGinnis.

Rotary Foundation Contribution Club Awards

Eleven district clubs have earned an EREY banner as the books are closing on 2019-2020! EREY stands for Every Rotarian Every Year and is based on every member contributing at least $25 to Rotary’s Annual Fund and the club per capita average contribution being $100 or more.

Joint Rotary meeting via Zoom

San Antonio Northeast Rotary Club held a joint meeting with the Rotary Club of West Liberty, Iowa.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Installs New Officers

Bob Green, Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Kerrville – Morning (Morning Rotary) presided over the 2020-2021 Morning Rotary new officer installation.

Kerrville Morning Rotary Fetes Rotarian of the Year

On June 18th, The Rotary Club of Kerrville – Morning (Morning Rotary) Treasurer, Drew Whitehead, standing in for Jon Tilley, President, named Ray Buck as the 2019-2020 Rotarian of the Year.

Food Box Distribution for Atascosa County Pick Up

Pleasanton Rotary Club organized a needs assessment in Atascosa County for which 5-7 possible food pantries in Atascosa County and committed to distribute 475 boxes to the identified groups.

Rotarians Provide Food Assistance to Local Residents

Twenty needy local families of the Hondo area were presented with $100 food baskets from HEB as a result of a $2000 grant awarded to the Rotary Club of Hondo/D’Hanis by the District Foundation.

Rotary Club Helps Barnabas

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of pain and fear in the community, but local groups still look out for the community and the Wimberley Valley and help with those that individual and families that are directly affected.

Canyon Lake Rotary Club Provides Community Support to Those in Need

The Canyon Lake Rotary Foundation made a significant donation recently to jumpstart the financial assistance program at a local charity. The Community Resource & Recreation Center of Canyon Lake (CRRC) has served the community for 37 years by providing emergency food and financial assistance.

Boerne Sunrise & Fair Oaks Ranch Provide Crisis Assistance to Hill Country Family Services

The Rotary Clubs of Boerne Sunrise and Fair Oaks Ranch applied for and were awarded grants through the District 5840 COVID 19 Disaster Relief Fund for the combined amount of $3000.

District Governor Installation

We look forward to welcoming our incoming District Governor, Xavier Toson (2020-2021), and congratulating our outgoing District Governor, John Hutcherson (2019-2020) on a job well done. Our special guest and presiding officer for the event will be Rotary International Director (2020-2022) Suzi Howe! We've made it super easy to log on and view the installation.

You have the option to view on our District 5840 Facebook page by clicking the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/RotaryDistrict5840/live_videos or

You have the option to view on our District 5840 YouTube channel by clicking the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ7MF_OeqGT-BQomCGHA6_w

Council on Legislation

Today under the leadership of PDG Carol Holmes our legislative committee counted the votes for the District 5840 Council on Legislation representative for the years 2020 - 2023. Kathy Hubbard the immediate Past District Governor was elected and PDG Sherri Muniz is the Alternate.

Kathy is a member of the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch and Sherri is a member of the Rotary Club of San Antonio. We appreciate their willingness to serve in this very important job for Rotary International.

Katoma Community Enjoying Rain H.Water Project

Thank you message from the Katoma community: "we are now enjoying rain h. water project! Thank you so much for your grant which is highly appreciated. It has changed the life of our community."

DG John Hutcherson's June Message

“Wave of Violence and Anguish Sweeps Dozens of US Cities” This is the headline on May 31, 2020 describing racial demonstrations happening again in the United States of America. These are the same United States of America where we are guaranteed Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, Freedom of Assembly and Due Process of Law.

Emergency Food Distribution Service Project

On May 20th, four of members of the Eagle Pass Rotary assisted with the emergency food distribution event for Maverick County.

Fair Oaks Ranch Awards Scholarships

The Fair Oaks Ranch Club annually provides Career and Technical Education Scholarships to high school seniors from the Boerne Independent School District. This year it awarded three $2,000 scholarships and the winners were all from Boerne Champion High School.

Blanco County Awards Scholarships

The Rotary Club of Blanco County recently announced the award of $1000 scholarships to four deserving high school seniors,

Covid-19 Community Support Campaign

The Rotary Club of Fredericksburg (noon) put together a COVID-19 Community Support Campaign to get donations to help local organizations like the Needs Council, Food Bank and Good Samaritan Center. Our first round we raised over $3k for the Needs Council!

Feeding COVID-19 Workers in Fredericksburg

The Texas Military Department (TMD) were in Fredericksburg, TX to conduct COVID-19 screenings for symptomatic patients on Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

San Antonio Guest Speaker RI President Mark Maloney

San Antonio Rotary May 27 meeting with Rotary International President Mark Maloney. Click here to listen to presentation.

San Antonio North Central Rotary Continues to Feed on Weekends

Hunger is made worse during the Covid19 lock-down and North Central Rotary Club continues to help.

San Antonio Northwest Rotary Change Program

SA Northwest Rotary will be giving out their Awards for the Change Program @ Dellview Elementary via ZOOM this year. Twenty (20) children qualified for the Awards and will receive a beautiful certificate and a 10” Tablet for all of their hard work.

San Antonio North Central Awards Scholarships

San Antonio North Central Rotary Club's Scholarship Chair - Christine Gonzales Tovar presented yard signs to the 2020 Scholarship winners from Winston School San Antonio

Hondo-D’hanis Rotarians Provide Aid to Medina County Impacted by Covid-19

Although the Rotary Club of Hondo-D’Hanis, like so many other organizations during the coronavirus outbreak, could not meet “in person,” its members continued their hard work to make a difference in the lives of many in the community.

Join San Antonio Rotary on May 27th - RI President Mark Maloney

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87173316692

Meeting ID: 871 7331 6692

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Canyon Lake Education Scholarships

Every year the Canyon Lake Rotary Club (The Club) gives out education scholarships to bright, intelligent and energetic youth in the area; and this is year is no exception.

Blanco County Continues Serving

The Rotary Club of Blanco County has reached out during this school year by providing hygiene kits for families in the Johnson City and Blanco Independent School Systems.

Page Turner Awards

The Rotary Club of Wimberley is proud to announce the winners of this year's Page Turner Awards which recognizes those students who have read the most books during the school year. The recipients are:

April 4th District Conference - DG John Hutcherson

District Governor John Hutcherson's Speech at the April 4th District Conference with Toastmasters. Click photo to listen to video.

Terry Beard Toastmasters-Rotary Synergy Speech

Terry Beard Toastmasters and Rotary Synergy Speech from April 4th District Conference

Kathy Moore's Toastmasters-Rotary Synergy Speech

Kathy Moore's Toastmasters-Rotary Synergy Speech from April 4th District Conference

2020 Cruise Raffle Drawing

Rotarian McKenzie Moellering from the Rotary Club of Fredericksburg Morning was the buyer and seller of the winning ticket of the District Cruise Raffle. The fundraiser contributed $48,930.00 to the humanitarian programs of Rotary. Thank you to all that sold tickets!

Register for Club Leader Training - May 16

CLT is where club officers and emerging leaders can learn more about what Rotary has to offer. If you are an incoming Club President, Club Secretary, or chair of Membership, RI Foundation, if you are interested in Grants Management or Strategic Planning for your club, Club Leadership Training is for you. Register Here

4 Ways to Engage Members Online

Are you looking for ideas to engage members while we’re physically distancing ourselves from each other? Has your club started meeting online? Here are some of our favorite resources to help:

Blanco Rotary Educates on Prevention of Human Trafficking

Tracy Barr, Rotary Club of Blanco project chair Preventing Human Trafficking provided an informational presentation to the Blanco Woman's club. We all must be involved in order to protect our community of young persons.

Morning Rotary Donates to Doyle Community Center

This past week, The Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning (Morning Rotary) presented a $1,200 check to the Doyle Community Center to assist with meals during the COVID-19 crisis.

Adapting to Service in the Time of COVID

Like most clubs, the Rotary Club of San Antonio is adjusting to what it means to be a Rotarian during this pandemic. Zoom Webinars have replaced in-person weekly meetings and virtual socials have replaced the happy hour.

Randolph Metrocom Supports Local Assistance Programs

Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club founded a 501c3 (GRAPIE) ran by a board thats includes all club members. They gave $2500 each to two local assistance programs - Greater Randolph Area Services Program (G.R.A.S.P) and Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program (RACAP) located in their community.

San Antonio Northeast Response to Covid-19

The San Antonio Northeast Rotary Club held its first Zoom meeting on Tuesday, March 31, 2020. The main topic of discussion was what we could do as a club to help out our community during these trying times. The club members voted unanimously to donate $2,000 from the club’s checking account to the Texas Diaper Bank, so that diapers, wipes and feminine hygiene products could be purchased directly from the manufacturer.

Del Rio Provides Meals to Front Line Workers

Showing our appreciation to the staff, the Del Rio Rotary Club provided meals to the staff of Val Verde Regional Medical Center and three of their clinics. The 200 hamburger meals were prepared by Skillet's Restaurant and included a inspirational quote. A big thanks to everyone who made this possible.

Fair Oaks Ranch Supports Hill Country Family Services

Posted by Greg Buschmann

The Fair Oaks Ranch Club provided a $1500 grant to the Hill Country Family Services of Boerne to help the organization provide support during the COVID-19 emergency.

Polio and Covid-19

Posted by Jerry Hardy

My church history book notes that all church services were cancelled in the week of May 10, 1946 on account of a polio epidemic. Church services were resumed May 19 for adults and lifted August 1, 1946 for those under 21. That summer San Antonio had 85 cases and 11 deaths and epidemics followed until the Salk vaccine was available in 1955.

Clubs Leading the Way with Foundation Giving

Posted by Jerry Hardy

Boerne Sunrise, Fredericksburg Morning and Fredericksburg Nimitz are our first three clubs with 100% of their members marking Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY). Those gifts represent contributions to the Annual Fund, which means funding for humanitarian programs. EREY clubs receive a banner at year-end.

Rotary Responds Covid-19 Telethon

Join this live event on Saturday, May 2, 2020 at 10AM to hear stories of hope, inspiration and gratitude from Rotarians, Rotaractors and friends of #Rotary from across the globe as they share what they are doing to help their communities. The telethon will also showcase how our polio eradication infrastructure is helping to combat COVID-19. The goal is to raise more than $1 million dollars! To watch, visit facebook.com/rotary. Here is how you can participate:

District Conference Postponed

The District Conference scheduled for May 2, 2020 in Fredericksburg has been postponed until the Fall of 2020. The raffle will be held via Zoom on May 2, 2020.

Wimberley Rotarians Project Supports Ethiopian Children

What began as the adoption of an infant from Ethiopia by a Rotary Club of Wimberley co-president in 2008 and support of the club has become an international project supporting the education and welfare of hundreds of children.

Project - Volunteer Surge

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed our healthcare system to its limits. We can take action now through a citizen volunteer opportunity called Volunteer Surge! Rotary Clubs across the country are partnering with Volunteer Surge to recruit one million volunteers to participate in a new program that provides training online, for free, to become a Telehealth Worker or a Community Health Worker. Rotarian founded nonprofit The Global Impact Group is leading this effort. Click here to join the effort called Volunteer Surge!

Boerne Sunrise Rotary Donates to Hill Country Family Services

The Boerne Sunrise Rotary is holding its regular Tuesday morning meetings at 7:00 am via Zoom. Staci Almager, CEO of Hill Country Family Services, was the speaker at the Tuesday, April 14 meeting. She said, “With the sudden and unexpected loss of employment many families are struggling. We are seeing many new faces as these families turn to HCFS for help with food.” HCFS receives food donations from local merchants, but in the current circumstances must also purchase food and other supplies. Online financial donations can be made at www.hcfstx.org . The Boerne Sunrise Rotary Board has approved a donation of $1,000 to Hill Country Family Services.

Connect With The Online Rotary World

Join Rotary International as they host "Connect with the (Online) Rotary World" on Apr 28, 2020 3:00 PM CDT. Please register for webinar at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2531364245184878861

Rotarians and Rotaractors everywhere are proving that being physically isolated doesn’t mean being disconnected. People are embracing new ways to connect using technology — smartphones, webcams, and the internet. Find out more in our upcoming webinar, which will feature members who are leading their clubs and districts in the move to virtual connection.

Rotary Crusie Raffle Information

As printed on the raffle tickets, there will be a drawing on May 2nd to determine the winner. The original plan was for completed tickets stubs being brought to the District Conference in Fredericksburg on that date has changed due to the Covid-19 based restricitions on group gathering. Instead, stubs will be mailed from the clubs to the District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair by April 20th and made available for the drawing overseen by the District Governor. Mailing address:

Tips For A Zoom Meeting

· Set an agenda

· Don’t sit with a window behind you. A little effort of lighting goes a long way

· Sit close to the screen. Your face should fill the screen.

· When you’re not talking, hit mute

· Utilize the chat feature

Use Virtual Meetings To Stay Engaged With Members

Consider the creative use of technology to host “virtual meeting” experiences for your members until you can resume in-person meetings and events.

There are many free and paid options for hosting virtual meetings. See below for some free options:

District Zoom account— Clubs may use the District Zoom account to hold their virtual meetings. Each meeting allows for up to 100 participants and no time cap. To access/schedule your Club Meeting using the District Zoom account, contact DG John Hutcherson at 5840dg1920@gmail.com.

RI Convention Cancelled

Rotary International just announced that the Rotary International Convention, scheduled for 6-10 June 2020, in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, has been canceled in response to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. Read more at riconvention.org

Rotary’s Role in Battling Coronavirus

The COVID-19 coronavirus is affecting every aspect of our lives in real time, and this puts Rotarians in an unfamiliar place. As People of Action, we are most comfortable when we are fully engaged in the world – moving freely, meeting openly, and offering helping hands. These are very difficult times for people who, like us, are at our best when we are learning, growing, and serving—together.

We are also leaders in our communities, and these times call for leadership. In many ways, this also is our time. We have proven abilities to reach out and collaborate to offer immediate help to people in need at a rapid pace. These are precisely the skills needed all over the world today. The global effort against COVID-19 depends on actions taken in every country. Rotary has the unique ability to help improve those efforts in every community and every country.

Register for District Conference Warm-Up - April 4th

Rotary and Toastmasters working together will enable us to change and impact the world more powerfully!

Come join us for our District Conference Warm-Up on Saturday, April 4th at 11:30am for an online Zoom meeting. Lark Doley, the immediate past President of Toastmasters International, will be the keynote speaker for Rotarians and Toastmasters. Please register to receive link.

Rotary during the COVID-19 outbreak

Posted by Mark Maloney

Dear fellow Rotarians,
The health and safety of our members are our top priorities. We are closely monitoring the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) and continuously assessing its potential impact on our operations, meetings, trainings, and other events.

Due to the rapidly changing nature of this situation, I encourage you to use your discretion when it comes to club and district meetings and events, and Rotary programs and activities.

New Marketplatz at Wurstfest

Wurstfest is a 10-day salute to sausage that is a 59-year tradition in New Braunfels. Each year hundreds of thousands of festival attendees enjoy all the foods, fun, and beer that Wurstfest has to offer.

Save the Date - Hill Country Craft Beer Festival

The spring fundraiser for the Rotary Club of New Braunfels is the Hill Country Craft Beer Festival, April 18 from 1pm to 6pm, with VIP entrance beginning at 12noon, at Rockin’ R on the banks of the Guadalupe River in Gruene. Tickets will go on sale March 1,

Rotary Ribbon Cutting of Basketball Pavillion

Fredericksburg Morning Rotary just completed another major project for our community, a basketball pavilion with multiple courts.A group of young adults came to asking for help building these courts.

Calling All Veterans!

We are looking at starting a San Antonio Military Rotary Club. First, I would like for you to consider being a member of this special San Antonio Military Rotary Club. Second, In order to do this, I need you to put on your thinking caps and reach out to your military friends/contact list. Our goal is to have 20 members by 15 March, 2020 who are committed to service-above-self.

Katoma Water Project Completed

The Rotary Club of Fredericksburg is proud to announce the completion of the Katoma Water Project in Africa! It was a very happy and monumental day for the villagers. Jim Harris and the International Services Projects Committee are looking at more ways to participate with District 5840 & Rotary International to bring more clean water to more people that are without it.

Blanco County's Brain Fitness Program

The program has grown to two times a month going to nursing homes, senior Nursing care and other group centers. The Rotarin team is lead by our amazing project guide, Anne-Maria Morgan. This group of ladies at Johnson City, Texas have been meeting for several months enjoying all the brain fitness activities.

Fair Oaks Ranch Hosts Schlotzsky’s CEO
and Yellow Rose Staging Owner

Cary Albert, CEO of the Dallas-based Albert Restaurant Group and owner of numerous Scholtzsky’s in the San Antonio, Austin and DFW regions, delivered an entertaining speech to the Fair Oaks Ranch Club on February 5^th regarding his experience in the restaurant industry.

Canyon Lake's Romantic Rendezvous

Canyon Lake's sold-out 12^th annual Valentine’s Day event was a tremendous success – again! The 300 plus attendees boot-scooted their way to country western music, dined on succulent beef, purchased silent and live actions items, all for the benefit of the youth fellowships the club supports. Join us next year!

Rotary Club of Wimberley’s Teacher of the Month

Congratulations to Mrs. Sarah Myers! Mrs. Myers, who teaches Focus Special Education at Wimberley High School, was recognized as the Rotary Club of Wimberley’s Teacher of the Month.

San Marcos Celebrates Successful Fundraiser

San Marcos Rotary Club raised $7,000 from their Annual Wine Tasting and Casino Night on February 8, 2020. We had a wonderful turn out that exceeded expectations. We are so excited to get things ready for next year when we celebrate our 100th year anniversary! We invite everyone to like us on FaceBook to keep updated on all our news and events!

Rotary Exchange Students Attend Rodeo

The six Rotary Exchange Youth Exchange Students enjoyed an afternoon at the San Antonio Rodeo on Sunday February 16. The students, from Brazil, Argentina, France, Belgium, Spain, and Italy.

Blood Drive Battle

Jourdanton Rotary hosted a Blood Drive in December challenging the Pleasanton Rotary to a “Blood Drive Battle.” Jourdanton gave 31 units to Pleasanton’s 42 units. Not bad for our first drive. We are looking forward to our next battle.

2nd Annual Bikes 4 Kids 4 a Cause

Jourdanton Rotary sponsored a Bike Raffle in December. We had the participation of 20+ local businesses, raffled off over 20 bikes, raised over $1,700 which was donated to the newly formed Jourdanton Education Foundation and gave $500 to a lucky winner as a prize.

Long Time Rotarian Awarded Honorary Membership

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Morning Rotary) President, Jon Tilley, has awarded an Honorary Membership to Rotarian John Aceti.

Join Us For Rotary Day SA 2020

Inviting all San Antonio area Rotarians to the 3rd annual Rotary Day SA on Saturday, March 21, 2020! Join your fellow Rotarians as we come together to make a huge impact in the community. Interact, Rotaract and children 10 and older are welcomed! We will be working at both Elmendorf Lake Park and Martinez Park - doing gardening, litter removal, painting and playground mulching. We are seeking 250 volunteers for Rotary Day SA 2020. Contact director@rotarysa.org to sign-up.

Rotarians Host BBQ for Senior Center

The 11th Annual Western BBQ Night and Dance was held on Thursday, January 30th at the GRASP (Greater Randolph Area Senior Project) Senior Center. San Antonio Northeast Rotarians teamed up with our fellow Rotarians in the Randolph Metrocom Rotary Club for this annual service project to host an evening of fun for the seniors in the community that frequent the GRASP Senior Center.

February Rotary Leadership Seminar

Rotary District 5840 held a Rotary Leadership Institute seminar on Saturday, February 8^th in Boerne, TX. Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a multi-district, grassroots leadership development program of member districts organized into regional divisions in various parts of the world.

Newest Members of Arch Klumph Society-Trustees Circle

Today, we are excited to announce that Doug and Sue Whinnery are now members of the Arch Klumph Society Trustees Circle! Thank you Doug and Sue for your generosity in support of the Rotary Foundation. And, thank you for your very long term strong support for District 5840.

Toys For Children in Mexico

Misión de Candelilla, Rotary Club of Fredericksburg-Nimitz, Rotary Club of New Braunfels and Club Rotario Piedras Negras recently shared the miracle of Christmas in Mexico. At 5:20 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, in the parking lot of Bridge Church, Santa (Curtis Allerkamp) was there preparing to take a team of his elves to Mexico.

Wheelchair Donation Del Rio Rotary

Melinda Martinez, RN for the cardiac unit at VVRMC, noticed that Sandra Puente was in need of a replacement for her worn wheelchair. Since Ms. Puente did not qualify for any assistance, Ms. Martinez approached Rotarian Fred Bowers, Fred advised her to reach out to Rotary President, Angela Prather.

CC Winn Interact Club Presents Check to DG John Hutcherson

District Governor, John Hutcherson, had a great visit with the Eagle Pass Rotary Club earlier this month. He assisted with the induction of three new members and also received a check from the CC Winn Interact Club for their "Pennies for Polio" campaign in the fall.

Eagle Pass Rotary Club Assembles Toiletry Bags for International Project

On January 22nd, the Eagle Pass Rotary Club had a "Sip n' Serve" evening meeting where they assembled toiletry bags and had a cocktail hour. The toiletry bags were assembled for the residents of Casa Bethesda, a home for adults with special needs in Piedras Negras, Mexico.

Canyon Lake Supports CASA of Central Texas

Last month the Canyon Lake Rotary Club gave a $2,000 donation to CASA (Child Appointed Special Advocates) of Central Texas.

Make Plans to Attend the 12th Annual Romantic Rendezvous

Canyon Lake Rotary Club is hosting it's 12th Annual Romantic Rendezvous at the Convention Center in New Braunfels on February 15^th.Last year, 330 formally-dressed attendees netted the Club over $55,000 for their youth scholarships! There will be live and silent auctions with trips to South Africa, Park City, Utah, deer hunts, custom-made quilts, dinner and dancing to the music of Cactus Country, one of San Antonio’s favorite bands. This event has sold out five years in a row! Tickets are $75 per person. For reservations: 830-542-8270.

Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch & Casa del Aguila

Posted by Greg Buschmann

Glynna Reser and members of the Ralph Fair, Jr. Family delivered an outstanding presentation regarding Casa del Aguila Orphanage & School to The Fair Oaks Ranch Club during its weekly luncheon on January 8th. Mr. Fair was instrumental in establishing Casa del Aguila in 1995 to serve the needs of abandoned and abused children of indigenous families living in a mountainous region in Peru.

Rotary Club of Blanco County Supports Service Above Self

Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Rotary’s main objective is service—in the community, in the workplace and around the globe. The 1.2 million Rotarians who make up more than 35,000 clubs in 350 countries in the world share a dedication to the ideal of SERVICE ABOVE SELF.

The Rotary Club of Blanco County is one of those 35,000 clubs. In the short time we have been in existence in Blanco County, our projects follow the guidelines of Rotary International to:

District Foundation Dinner Celebrates 1.03 Million

“Rotarians are people of action” exclaimed District Governor John Hutcherson to an attentive audience of major donors at what was billed as a Million Dollar Dinner on January 17^th. Slightly shy of a million that night, six days later the total topped the goal.

"All-In for the Hungry" Texas Hold`em Poker Tournament

Each year, the Downtown Rotary Club of New Braunfels conducts four separate fundraisers including our All In for the Hungry Poker Tournament. These events enable our club to distribute a combined $250,000 annually to deserving area non-profits and to Rotary International. We dedicate all funds from our Poker Tournament to food banks serving our community.

What is special about the poker event is the money raised when given to the food banks has a multiplier effect. According to the food banks, each dollar donated can be turned into $8 dollars’ worth of food given to those in need. Last year, we donated approximately $25,000. We need your participation to exceed that number this year!

Rotary 2020-21 Theme Revealed

“Rotary is not just a club that you join, it is an invitation to endless opportunities. We believe that our acts of service, big and small, create opportunities for people who need our help. Everything we do opens another opportunity for someone, somewhere,” said President-Elect Holger Knaack.Therefore, the theme for year 2020-21 is -- Rotary Opens Opportunities.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott Luncheon

Texas Governor Greg Abbott addressed the Rotary Club of San Antonio on Wednesday, January 8th.

Message from DG John Hutcherson

As your Rotary District 5840 Governor this weekend was AWESOME!

Friday, we celebrated significant gifts to the Rotary International Foundation with our Million Dollar Dinner at the San Antonio Country Club. Our special guest speaker was Ann Lee Hussey from Maine. Ann Lee is a polio survivor and and polio warrior and told her Rotary Story of service around the world to fight polio. Hearing the commitments of Rotarians like Ann Lee inspires all of us to continue our service and our gifts.

Kerrville Morning Awards New Paul Harris Fellows

The Rotary Club of Kerrville-Morning (Kerrville Morning Rotary) President, Jon Tilley, recently awarded a Paul Harris Fellow to Kerrville Morning Rotarian, Katya Sczepanik.

Eagle Pass and Interact Clubs Promote Literacy

Rotarians and Interact Club students will arrived at Ray H. Darr Elementary at noon on Friday, December 13^th to read to first, second and third graders with Santa hats, books and candy in tow.

Christmas Dinner for Families in Need

Another success annual Holiday Eve of Giving Dinner. This year our Rotary Club Of San Antonio South sponsored 2 families...The Rodriguez Family from East Central ISD & the Garza Family from Somerset ISD.

Seguin Rotary Christmas Party

Rotary Club of Seguin Christmas Party was held at the Aumont, in the very room where our clubs first meeting took place in March 1933.

Warrior And Family Support Center

For the past five years, the Alamo Heights Rotary Club (AHRC) has been providing support to the Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC) at Joint Base San Antonio, Ft Sam Houston. Wounded/injured military personnel are being rehabilitated, treated and cared for at the San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) and the Center for the Intrepid. Children and family members come to visit and assist in recovery and often arrive with nothing to take care of themselves.

Fredericksburg-Nimitz Volunteers at Walk to End Alzheimer’s

November 9, 2019 was the Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Lady Bird Johnson Park in Fredericksburg. They made a presentation to the club a couple of weeks before,

Fair Oaks Rotary Holiday Party

The Fair Oaks Ranch Club held a festive Holiday Party December 11^th at the Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club. Over 40 Rotarians and their guests enjoyed a wonderful meal and a fun-filled evening that was highlighted by a white elephant gift exchange hosted by Rotarian Tom McKeown. Penny Sawyer and Jane Burton served as event coordinators and went beyond Service Above Self to orchestrate a memorable night of joy and friendship.

A Busy Rotary Foundation January

Posted by Jerry Hardy

Our outbound global education grant scholar, Chinelo Nwokem from Texas State, will be in Houston one weekend this month for training with other Texas scholars. Chinelo is sponsored by the Rotary Club of San Marcos and will be pursuing a graduate degree in Global Health and Development at the University College of London. Her undergraduate major is microbiology and her goal is to be a global travelling physician. Hers is a $30,000 grant funded by district Rotarians as part of their contributions to The Rotary Foundation.

Katoma, Tanzania - Water Catchment Project

The water catchment project initiated by the Rotary Club of Fredericksburg and funded by the Nimitz Rotary Club, Fredericksburg Morning Club, Rotary Club of New Braunfels and Rotary Club of Canyon Lake as well as a District 5840 Grant and individual Rotarian contributions is well under way.

Valero Energy Foundation Supports 2020 RYLA

The Valero Energy Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant in support of the upcoming 2020 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) conference. The funds will enable additional high school juniors from underprivileged communities throughout the district who otherwise would not have been able to attend the upcoming January 17-20 conference.

34th Annual Alamo Heights Night® (AHN)

The Alamo Heights Rotary Club will present its 34th Annual Alamo Heights Night® (AHN) on April 17th, 2020, on the University of the Incarnate Word campus.The event is an official San Antonio Fiesta® Commission event.

Rotary Club of Blanco County Helps Celebrate Johnson City Light Nights

Members of the Rotary Club of Blanco county offered support to Johns on City. Connie Cox, Sid Cox, Jan Gass and Jerry Gaas help direct pedestrian traffic across main Street.

Ballinger Rotary Club Toy Drive Donation

Ballinger Rotary Club presents a check to Sheriff Carl Squyres for the Runnels County Sheriff's Office Annual Toy Drive.

Fair Oaks Rotary Salutes Veterans & Families

The Fair Oaks Ranch Rotary Club held a special salute to Veterans at its weekly luncheon on Wednesday, November 13th, at the Fair Oaks Ranch Country Club.

Kerrville Rotary Club hosts free Veterans Appreciation Breakfast

On November 8^th, 2019 the Kerrville Rotary Club hosted its fourth Veterans Appreciation Breakfast. The breakfast of consisted of free breakfast, the local color guard presenting the colors, local Rotarians sharing breakfast with our Veterans and Thank You notes from local elementary schools for the Veterans. “The notes will make you cry,” said event organizer, Donna Peterson.

Kerrville Morning Packs Shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child

This past week, the Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning (Morning Rotary) was joined by Past District 5840 Governor Jan Livingston who helped the club members pack shoe boxes with Christmas gifts for boys and girls.

Blanco Rotarians Assist with Elementary School’s Homework Center

Blanco Elementary School’s Principal, Jowie Walker, has initiated a Homework Center this school year to assist students in grades 2 - 5 with their daily homework.

You're Invited to the San Antonio Holiday Event

All Rotarians are invited to join the San Antonio Club for their Holiday Event, on Thursday December 5th, 2019 for the opening of the Rotary Ice Rink from 6PM-9Pm at the St. Anthony Hotel - Rooftop Bar. Cost is $25 per person. Admission to the ice rink and skate rental included with reservation. Contact assistant@rotarysa.org to RSVP or call 210-222-8242 X11.

Successful Morgan's Wonderland "More Delightful Than Frightful" Halloween Eve

As one of the Chair's for District 5840's Halloween Event I would like to thank each and everyone of you that participated in "Morgan's Wonderland More Delightful than Frightful 2019" Event. We had over 100 adult volunteers and so many Interactor's I lost count.

Fredericksburg Morning's Dictionary Project

The Fredericksburg Elementary School fifth graders again each received their own personal dictionary/thesaurus from the Fredericksburg Morning Rotary Club. They are used in the classroom all year and during the STAAR test, and then belong to the students. If you look carefully, Amber LeMaster's class is holding letters to spell out, "Thank you, Morning Rotary!"

Hays County Rotary Social

The Hays County Rotary Clubs of Kyle, San Marcos and Wimberley gathered together for a social on November 7th at the Hays City Store in Driftwood, Texas. More than 50 were in attendance. The clubs sponsored non-alcoholic drinks, chips, queso, salsa, and guacamole.

Blue Santa Program Kerrville Satellite Rotary Club

The holidays are just around the corner and once again the Kerrville Satellite Rotary Club will be partnering with Kerrville Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association to provide the food for the families who have been approved to receive toys and clothes from the Blue Santa program.

Royal Carribean Cruise Raffle 2020

It’s that time of year again to start thinking about the sale of raffle tickets for our district’s annual Rotary Foundation fundraiser. Club President must send a request for tickets from Foundation Chair, Jerry Hardy.

Rotary Loves Readers in Wimberley

The Rotary Club of Wimberley is happy to announce the winner and runner up of the first Rotary Loves Readers contest of the school year. This challenge asked Danforth Junior High students to write journal entries based on a recently read novel.

Wimberley's Halloween Trick Or Read

For the 9th year, the Wimberley Rotarians set up tables on the Wimberley Square and at Deercreek Nursing Center on Halloween to hand out over 1200 new books and magazines to eager kids.

District Interact Conference

The District Interact Conference was a huge success! 109 Interact members from 10 schools participated in fun activities, shared ideas, and gave an account of projects/activities completed, and their goals for the remainder of the school year.

Dwayne Hopkins Selected DG 2022-23

Dwayne Hopkins is the District Governor for the Rotary year beginning July 1,2022. He is a member of the San Antonio West Rotary Club and has been a Rotarian since 2008. He has been active in District activities and served 5 years as Assistant Governor.

We welcome Dwayne to our Governor Chain as the District Governor Nominee Designate. One of his first jobs in this capacity is Ranger at Lone Star PETS. Read his biography.

Kerrville Morning Supports Christian Women's Job Corps

This past week, the Rotary Club of Kerrville - Morning (Morning Rotary) provided lunch for the interns, staff and volunteers at the Christian Women’s Job Corps, Kerr County (CWJC) and joined them for a special time of connecting over the meal.

Rotary Acuna Project

Rotarians Chris Kailipaka (top left), Genevieve Flores (far left photo, middle) and (photos directly above, from left) Diane Cosgrove, Johnette Dixon and Trinket Milward all of The Rotary Club of Hondo-D’Hanis, traveled to Del Rio and Acuña, Mexico, joining Boerne Sunrise Rotary Club, Fredericksburg Morning Rotary and Rotary Club of Del Rio

San Saba's Purple Pinkie Project

The Rotary Club of San Saba held their first "Purple Pinkie" Project at their High School football game this past Friday evening. We had a couple of things going in our favor as the game was against our arch rivals, the Goldthwaite Eagles, and our team colors are purple and gold. We did well for a first time event but there was more that went on than just raising a little money and awareness.

Rotarian Fred Bowers Speaks at Amistad Dam Celebration

On September 12, 2019 the International Boundary and Water Commission celebrated the 50^th anniversary of Amistad Dam, in Del Rio, Texas. Speakers from the United States and Mexico presented remarks about the dam and spoke about the importance of the relationship between our two countries. Rotarian Fred Bowers was one of four guest speakers from the United States at this special anniversary event. Fred worked for the general contractor Perini during the construction of Amistad Dam from 1965 to 1969.

Speakers Wanted!

Are you seeking dynamic speakers for your Rotary meetings &/or special events? Are YOU a dynamic speaker with an engaging message? Please contact PBlankensee@Rotary5840.org -- to get your (& others') names, contact information & topic(s) onto our Rotary 5840 Speakers' Bureau list.

Jourdanton Rotary Participates in National Night Out

The Jourdanton Rotary Club participated in our local National Night Out on October 1st, 2019. We had a Festive Fall Bean Bag Toss and gave away assorted colored pencils with ours club’s name engraved on them. We had lots of fun and even let the kids play after our members tried their hand at tossing a few. We are looking forward to participating again next year.

Foundation Training

Five members, from the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch, recently participated in the Foundation Training that was given in Kerrville. Pictured below are FOR members, Jackson Moss, Jane Burton, Tom McKeown, Mary Thompson and Bill Fusco with District Governor John Hutcherson and Foundation Chair Jerry Hardy.

The Rotary Ice Rink — The Coolest Place in Town!

The Rotary Club of San Antonio presents the 2019 Holiday Outdoor Ice Rink located in Travis Park adjacent to the annual Christmas tree. The Rink will open the night of the Christmas tree lighting (Thanksgiving weekend) and continue daily through January 2020.

District 5840 Rotary Foundation Recognition Award

At the annual Zone Institute in Kansas this week the generous contributions of District 5840 in 2018-2019 earned recognition for the third highest per capita giving to the Rotary Foundation’s Annual Fund. The certificate was presented by Rotary International President Elect Holger Knaack and Foundation Trustee Jennifer Jones.

Joint Labor Day Project

San Antonio Rotary Club and Alamo Heights Rotary Club worked together for the Snack Pak program. The blue bags are filled with 7064 jars of peanut better collected from local high schools. The clubs job was to sort and place all those jars in the green bins.

San Antonio Northeast Holds Diaper Drive

The San Antonio Northeast Rotary Club held a Diaper Drive as part of National Diaper Need Awareness Week. This drive helped provide 500 diapers for families in need. For more information on how you can host a diaper drive, please e-mail: procurement@texasdiaperbank.org

Kyle Rotary Directs Focus On Homeless Students

The Rotary Club of Kyle aims efforts toward helping homeless students in Hays County over the next year. Hidden homelessness is hard to define; however, it is a reality to 200+ students within Hays County. Students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, who share housing with others due to economic hardships or similar reasons may be identified as homeless.

“Although we may not meet the students or their family directly, we are working with Hays CISD representatives to fulfill specific needs” stated Jason Nebgen, President of the Rotary Club of Kyle. “This is an effort that all of our members believe we can make an impact by working together with the entire community.”

Kerrville Morning Donates Dictionaries

Eighteen years ago, Kerrville Rotary – Morning (Morning Rotary) initiated a program to annually distribute dictionaries to Ingram ISD students. For the last several years, Harper ISD was included in the distribution as well. The dictionaries are provided to the students at no cost for their personal use in order to assist them in their studies and to help prepare them for future careers.

D5840 Passport Charter Club is Official!

On September 13th, we celebrated the official induction of the Rotary District 5840 Passport Club. The Passport Club is a new approach in a new time for Rotary clubs. WELCOME!!

September Rotary Leadership Institute

This past Saturday we had 35 attendees for our RLI. There were 21 in Part I, 8 in Part II and 6 in Part III. We had 2 attendees from out of our district. Facilitators included 3 Past District Governors and the current District Governor.

In Memoriam - David Flack

It is with much sadness we share the loss of David Flack, from the San Antonio Rotary Club . David was a true Rotarian and dedicated his life to service. He was at every meeting (perfect attendance) since 2002 and was always willing to help in a pinch. He was the first to sign up for a service project or a social. He had a kind word for everyone and expressed his appreciation to others for their service. He will be missed.

David's memorial service will be Friday, September 20 at 2pm in the Sanctuary at Trinity Baptist Church, 319 E. Mulberry Ave., with a reception following in the Fanning Foyer. Our condolences to his wife Diane and entire family.

Blanco Middle School Receives Grant for Computers

The Rotary Club of Blanco County, in partnership with the Blanco Education Foundation, recently awarded the Blanco Middle School (BMS) $8000 for purchase of a bank of 25 new laptop computers and a mobile cart.

Rotarians deliver school supplies across the border

Rotary represntatives from Boerne Sunrise Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Hondo-D'Hanis, Fredericksburg Morning Rotary and Rotary Club of Del Rio, Texas joined with the 2 Rotary clubs in Ciudad Acuña to pack and deliver school supplies to 4 elementary and kindergarten schools in C. Acuña . It was a great day of service!

Hurricane Dorian Relief

This week the Bahamas took a direct hit from category 5 Hurricane Dorian, with winds that reached 180 miles per hour. This storm has battered these islands and the rebuilding process will take years.

Grand Bahama island has 5 Rotary clubs and is part of Rotary District 6990. Rotary District 6990 has secured a 181-foot ship and begun the efforts to fill four (4) 20-foot containers with needed supplies to aid in the Hurricane Dorian Relief Efforts. The local Rotary Clubs will be collecting items and packing them for the first shipment by this weekend. Click here to see how you can help.

SAVE A LIFE KITS just may SAVE YOUR LIFE

The Rotary Club of Blanco County in partnership with the Blanco County Emergency Medicals Service (EMS) are providing “Save a Life Kits” for citizens in our community . The population of Blanco County is over 11,000 people and the effort is being made by the Rotary for each family home to have a kit.

Bon Voyage to RYE Outbound Student

Did you know that Seguin Rotary Club has hosted OVER 76 inbound and outbound exchange students all over the world!? Last week, they said goodbye to the club’s outbound Rotary Youth Exchange Student Reid Skinner, as he sets off to the Canary Islands, Spain. Reid’s parents Melissa and Mike have hosted many exchange students here so this is not there first experience with our program! Pictured here is Kathy Meurin who is involved with our youth in Rotary District 5840 - South Central Texas and inbound student Melodie from France. A previous exchange student Bibiana Klasz who was in town visiting and Reid our outbound student!

Rotarians At Work At Food Bank

The Rotary Club of San Antonio ended the month of August with their service project for the Haven for Hope. On Saturday, They made 3,120 sandwiches, served 488 people at lunch and even cracked 800 eggs in preparation for Sunday breakfast. It was a great day of service.

Back To School With Rotary

The Rotary Club of Greater San Marcos gathered last Friday at the community classroom at CTMC to organize school supplies, prepare 340 individual packets of supplies, and pack them in banana boxes for delivery to 2 isolated villages across the border in Mexico (in partnership with Mision De Candelilla) , as well as to the Hays Caldwell Women's Center and the Crisis Bread Basket.

Rotary Club of Kyle's - WHY ROTARY

OUR WHY... the Rotary Club of Kyle is happy to report that our focus over the next 12 months will be on helping our homeless students. Stay tuned for for details. Until then, we are sharing our WHY.. here's a message from this years President, Jason Nebgen.

Rotary Club of San Antonio Presents "Rotarian Malaria Partners" Project

Posted on Jul 31, 2019

President Brandon Logan would like to invite you and your club to attend this special luncheon on August 21. Mr. Ezra Teshome will be speaking about Rotary International progress on polio and the upcoming new initiative on eradicating malaria.

September 14, 2019 Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI)

Posted on Jul 18, 2019

Registration is now open for the September 14th Rotary Leadership Institute. For more information and to register, click h

ere.

Matching Foundation Contribution Points Offer For This Summer

Posted on Jul 15, 2019

Want double recognition points for contributions to the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation? Our D5840 Past District Governors are offering their personal recognition points as a match for District Rotarian contributions until 30 September 2019. Click here for details.

Greetings from District Governor, John Hutcherson

ROTARY CONNECTS THE WORLD is our theme for this Rotary year. Service in our communities and across the globe is our focus in District 5840. Through service we build positive relationships around the world and in our communities.

A Great Way to Recognize a Birthday

Posted on Jul 10, 2019

A note from Rotary District 5840 Foundation Chair Jerry Hardy...

My sister in Atlanta found out Rotary sends these neat tribute cards when you donate in somebody's name; so she surprised me with one. It is all online, the greeting cards are first-quality and it is a great gift for somebody who (a) already has plenty of stuff and (b) likes Rotary. Click here to find out more information.

RI Distinguished Service Award

The Trus

tees of the Rotary Foundation bestow this honor in recognition of outstanding efforts to promote the Foundation’s many programs dedicated to international understanding. Only 50 are awarded worldwide each year. We are proud to announce our own PDG Sherri Muniz is a 2019 recipient.

Sherri's dedication to Rotary is apparent in everything she does. Her leadership in the club, district and beyond is inspiring. Sherri's work with international service projects has made a huge difference in the lives of others. Congratulations, Sherri!

New Passport Club has Orientation Meeting

Miguel Segura (President Select of new Passport Club) and Jackson Moss (District 5840 Assistant Governor 2019-2020-Passport Club) welcome guests to the first orientation/recruiting “After Work Happy Hour” hosted by the newly forming club. Membership is open to any currently inactive Rotarian in District 5840.

Boerne Clubs Join Forces in Mexico

Posted on May 19, 2019

The Sun met the Moon in the hot waters south of the border. Don Jones and Rusty Meador of Boerne Sunrise Rotary joined Robert Cisneros, Jennica Colvin, Cathy Cisneros Viera, and Ron Cisneros of Boerne Moontime Rotary at the Aguascalientes Rotary Club in Mexico. The Rotarians were there to look at the Banco de Ojos project that has been ongoing for the last twenty years.

Dominion Rotary Club Featured in Local Magazine

Posted on Apr 17, 2019

The Rotary Club of San Antonio at the Dominion was recently featured in a local magazine. To read the article, click here.

Zone Newsletter

Posted by Terri Politi on Apr 03, 2019

Check out this month's Zone Newsletter here.

Wimberley Rotary Club Presents Student Awards

The Rotary Club of Wimberley is happy to announce the winner and runner up of the third Danforth Rotary Loves Readers contest of the school year. This challenge asked students to write an original Greek myth that explains how something in nature came to be. The runner up with her myth about Jacob’s Well and Mount Baldy was 6th grader, Maia Martin. Maia received $50. The winner of a crisp $100 bill was 6th grader, Gus Dussler, with his entry The Myth of Honeybees.

Text to 9-1-1 service now available in Atascosa, Bandera, Frio, Gillespie, Karnes, Kendall and Wilson counties

Posted on Mar 25, 2019

Residents in certain counties can now use text messages to reach help in case of emergencies

In the case of an emergency, most people’s primal instinct is to pick up their phones and dial 9-1-1. Although that should still be your first option, certain situations may require your silence in order to maintain your safety.

Fun Activities Announced for District Conference

Posted on Mar 06, 2019

Let the Fiesta Fun Continue with These Excursions!

Here is a list of activities that you and your spouse may choose to participate in during the Rotary 5840 District Conference weekend in San Antonio! Some are free while others have a cost associated with them. The DC Committee has worked hard to negotiate special pricing for all the “extracurricular” events! Please note that MOST require you sign up in advance. Please adhere to this requirement as the hosts of the event MUST have a head count! Click here for a full list of activities.

President Elect Info for PETS

Posted on Feb 25, 2019

LoneStar PETS 2019 is only a couple of days away. Thank you for registering. I look forward to serving with you as we seek to make Rotary even stronger. We have a full program in place to produce the best trained future presidents possible.

If you haven't already done so, I invite you to download the mobile app that you will use throughout the event. To download the app follow these instructions -

TMI Podcast Highlights RYLA Students

Posted on Feb 05, 2019

Dominion Rotary Club of San Antonio recently sponsored two students for the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) Conference. Stephanie Gish, Past President of the Dominion Club hosted a podcast for TMI and featured the two students. To listen to the podcast, click here.

33rd Annual Alamo Heights Night at UIW

Posted on Jan 17, 2019

The 33rd Annual Alamo Heights Night will be on Friday April 12, 2019, at the University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway. Come join us as a vendor, to volunteer, or as an attendee. See www.alamoheightsnight.org for details or contact Rick Berchin at 210-824-2462 or info@creativechocolates.com.

Rotary International President-Elect Announces Theme

Posted on Jan 17, 2019

Rotary International President Elect, Mark Daniel Maloney, recently announced the theme for his Presidential year, 2019-2020, "Rotary Connects the World." To find out more details, click here.

DISTRICT 5840 PASSPORT CLUB

Posted by Terri Politi on Jan 17, 2019

Reconnect with Rotary through the new District 5840 Rotary Passport Club!
This is a unique type of Rotary Club with flexible attendance where members participate in meetings and events of multiple clubs of their choice helping in service projects, fundraisers, and most of the things traditional club Rotarians do. The new Club's membership focus is on former Rotarians and Rotarians who are considering leaving a club due to schedule commitments.

LEARN MORE HERE

Early Registration Deadline Nears for PETS 2019

Posted on Jan 06, 2019

Sign Up Now for P.E.T.S. 2019 Before Early Bird Registration Ends on February 10th

Please take a few moments and visit the Lone Star P.E.T.S. website at www.lonestarpets.org to learn more about your upcoming President Elect Training Seminar (P.E.T.S.). To register, click here.

The dates for this year are February 28 - March 3, 2019.

The Wimberley View Highlights Human Trafficking Symposium

Posted on Dec 15, 2018

A recent District 5840 symposium on Human Trafficking, presented in San Marcos, was highlighted in The Wimberley View newspaper on November 29th. With permission from the paper, we are including Part 1 of a two part article, "Under Our Noses", written by Lance Winter, the Publisher.

Brady Club Warms Up McCulloch County

Brady Rotary Club had their third successful annual “Warm up with Rotary” project. The club works with Keith’s Ace Hardware to purchase heaters at cost and raise money throughout the community to purchase them. This year they hit their goal of 75 heaters.

To Save Lives...Help With Global Grant!

Posted on Nov 29, 2018

Dear Rotary Friend,

WE NEED YOUR HELP…we still need USD 6,900 DDF (or cash)…

The Rotary E-Club 9920 Francophone will participate as International Primary Partner in another Global grant (GG) project during this Rotary year, focussing on CKD, for a Hospital in Rachaburi province in Thailand, with the Rotary Club of Bangkok Pattanakarn as Host Club…4 Dialysis machines including training for a GG total budget of USD 55,000.

Wimberley Club Announces November Teacher of the Month

Posted on Nov 21, 2018

Congratulations to Mrs. Lesley Skrovan at Scudder Primary! Mrs. Skrovan, who teaches Kindergarden, was recognized as the Rotary Club of Wimberley’s November Teacher of the Month. Mrs. Skrovan was selected for this honor for the following reasons:

New District Governor Designate Announced

District Governor Kathy Hubbard is pleased to announce the selection of Kristy Vandenberg as the District Governor Designate. Past President Kristy will serve as District Governor in 2021-22. She is a valued member of the Rotary Club of Kerrville.

Tackling Solid Waste Management

PDG Judy Hutcherson wanted to make our District members aware of this project, regarding solid waste management. Christtel Cáceres Torres, Secretary 2018 - 2019, Club Rotario Tegucigalpa Sur - Honduras, District 4250, reported that along with fellow Rotarian Carlo Palmese, they created a presentation that they are sharing with clubs.

Rotary Service and Engagement

Rotary recently entered into a service partnership with Habitat for Humanity International to help enhance our service activities. Committed to the belief that every person deserves a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity International began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in Georgia, USA.

Rotary Club of Del Rio Makes Donation in Honor of Local Resident

The Rotary Club of Del Rio gave a donation to the Verde Regional Medical Center's Hope Cancer Resource Room, i memori

Rotary Sponsors Human Trafficking Seminar

Posted on Oct 31, 2018

November 6, 2018

Annual Human Trafficking Seminar - Hear Texas Assistant Attorney General Kirsta Leeburg Melton discuss this Rotary International focus.

Rotarians Beware

Dear Rotarian,

We have recently become aware that multiple accounts impersonating RI President Barry Rassin and General Secretary John Hewko have been created on such channels as email, social media (Twitter and LinkedIn), and WhatsApp. Please note that these are not authentic Rotary communications; they are phishing and spoofing attempts to obtain money and other

World Polio Day - October 24, 2018

Rotary Weekly - A Roundup of Rotary News

Check out the latest issue of Rotary Weekly to see the latest info from Rotary International. Click here for more info.

Great Western Cattle Trail "Drovers Reunion"

Posted on Oct 02, 2018

The International Rotary project to memorialize the Great Western Cattle Trail began in 2006. It was featured as the Cover Article of the “Rotarian Magazine” in the December, 2017 issue. Now, on October 8, 2018, Monday, Columbus Day, one of those posts will be rededicated

OCTOBER IS POLIO PLUS MONTH

Rotary Club of San Antonio, at the Dominion, Featured in Local Magazine

Posted on Sep 25, 2018

The Rotary Club of San Antonio, at the Dominion, was recently featured in the August 2018 Dominion Magazine. A nice article on "Service Above Self", showcased information on Rotary as well as the Dominion Club. David Wiechmann, current President of the club, penned the informative piece that describes Rotary and even

Membership Award Given to District 5840

Posted on Sep 25, 2018

At the Zone meeting in Boise, District 5840 won an award for having the most new members for Zone 21b for 2017-2018. Past District Governor Carol Holmes said, after receiving the award, "Thanks to all our presidents and clubs for making this happen and a special thank you to our

Project Crayola a Big Success

The Rotary Clubs of Del Rio, Boerne Sunrise, Hondo D'Hanis, and the Rotary Club of Cd Acuna, Mexico joined forces to distribute school supplies to several schools in Cd Acuna, on September 7, 2018.

Morgan's Wonderland More Delightful than Frightful

Posted on Sep 17, 2018

Oct 31

To All District 5840 Members & Friends:

It is that time again. Are we ready to help our currently projected attendance of 3500 handicapped children at Morgan's Wonderland on Halloween evening October 31, 2018? Hopefully the answer is - YES WE ARE!!

September is Literacy Month

DGE John Hutcherson Introduced at Zone Institute

This past week, DG Kathy Hubbard and her husband Ron, joined a number of district and zone leaders as they gathered in Boise, Idaho for the Zone Institute.

Rotary Youth Exchange

Posted on Sep 10, 2018

Have you ever dreamed of...

Traveling internationally?
Living in another country?
Being fluent in another language?
Having a network of friends from around the world?

You must be 15 to 18.5 years of age upon departure...

Click here to learn more!

For more information on Rotary Youth Exchange, see our webpage here.

Registration Now Open - District Conference 2019

Register today, to join us for the 2019 District 5840 Conference, May 3-4, in San Antonio, Texas. The weekend will be filled with lots of fun activities, to include Wine Country Tours, local shopping, a golf outing, great speakers and breakout sessions. Something for everyone! EACH PERSON ATTENDING MUST REGISTER SEPARATELY. To register, click here. For a schedule of meeting activities, click here. For a list of excursions, click here.

District Interact Conference

Nov 10

Attend the District 5840 Interact Clubs for the annual conference, Nov. 10, 2018 at The Winston School of San Antonio. Cost for Rotarians is just $10.00.

Last Chance Discount for 2019 RI Convention Ends March 31

The 2019 Rotary International Convention in Hamburg, Germany is 1-5 June 2019. Deadline to get the last discount is March 31. Register here! Arrive early to meet Rotaractors from around the world at the Rotaract Preconvention, 31 May-1 June.

Global Scholar Grants for Graduate Students

Interested in a Global Scholar Grant, or know someone who would be eligible? Application deadline is November 16, 2018. For more information see the

Two Brothers, Two Clubs, One Mission!

Operation Toothbrush, was a project planned and implemented by Rotarians from the Sunrise Club in Titusville, Florida and from the Fair Oaks Ranch Club in San Antonio, Texas.

Member Focus: Barbara Baldwin

Posted on Jul 20, 2018

Barbara Baldwin, a member of the San Antonio Dominion Rotary Club, is passionate about "Safety Whys", a program she developed for training babysitters. So much so, she had a table at the 2017 Atlanta International Convention.

2019 Rotary International Convention is in Hamburg, Germany

Posted on Jul 06, 2018

Make plans now to attend the 2019 Rotary International Convention, to be held in Hamburg, Germany, June 1-5. For more information visit the website by clicking here or the Facebook page here.

Greetings from District 5840 Governor, Kathy Hubbard

Posted on Jul 05, 2018

Welcome to Rotary District 5840, covering 44 counties in beautiful South Central Texas. We now have 2521 Rotarians in 57 clubs and 3 satellite clubs. We began as District 584 in 1912 with The San Antonio Rotary Club organized by Herbert J. Hayes.

Human Trafficking Video

Posted on Jul 05, 2018

District Governor Kathy Hubbard is trying to increase awareness about Human Trafficking. To learn more about this growing issue, take a moment to view this video, from the Texas Attorney General. Click here to view the video.

District Governor and Officer Installation

Posted on Jul 05, 2018

District Governor Kathy Hubbard, and her District Officers, were installed into office, June 22, at the Cana Ballroom, St. Peter's Church, in Boerne. Over one hundred Rotarians and guests were in attendance.

2018-2019 Rotary International Theme

Posted on Jul 03, 2018

Click here to see President Rassin explain his thoughts behind this theme

Advertise Fundraisers on District Website

Posted on Jul 02, 2018

Does your club have a fundraiser this year? If so, why not advertise it on the District Website?

District Goals 2018-2019

Posted on Jun 23, 2018

Improve synergy between Clubs and District
Enhance communication by leveraging ClubRunner, Rotary Club Central, & intermittent text/email communications [Business G Suite]

60 Years of Rotary Service

Posted on Jun 21, 2018

Congratulations to Bill Fitch for his 60 years of Rotary service.

Procedure to Obtain Certificate of Insurance

Posted on Jun 13, 2018

The U. S. Rotary Club and District Liability Insurance Program provides general liability (GL) and officers’/employment practices (D&O/EPL) insurance coverage automatically to active U. S. Rotary Clubs, Districts, club and district foundations, Interact clubs, RYLA, PETS, Rotary Youth Exchange, and other organizations on file with Rotary Risk Management.

Rotary Technology Newsletter

Posted on May 07, 2018

Club Leaders: Want to learn more about Rotary's digital world?

Subscribe to the District 5840 Technology Newsletter - click here

SAVE THE DATE: June 22, 2018 - District 5840 Governor and Officers Installation

Posted on May 05, 2018

June 22, 2018 - 2018-2019
District 5840 District Governor and Officers Installation
Register Online!

Celebrate with us: outgoing District Governor, Carol Holmes, and install our incoming District Governor, Kathy Hubbard, the District Governor Elect, John Hutcherson, and the District Governor Nominee, Xavier Toson.

Scholarship for Water and Sanitation Professionals

Posted on Mar 10, 2018

Dear district governors, district Rotary Foundation committee chairs, district scholarships subcommittee chairs, and district grants subcommittee chairs:

World Peace and Understanding Day

Posted on Feb 21, 2018

Greetings from Rotary Club of Madras Midtown, RI Dist 3232, Chennai, India.

On the occasion of 23rd February being World Peace and Understanding Day, it gives us immense pleasure in introducing our Rotary World Peace Project, A global project to effect World Peace.

Rotary Foundation Doing Good in the World

Posted on Feb 14, 2018

The Rotary Foundation continues to be a organization that is doing great things around the world. To see some of the projects and programs, check out these videos:

DGE Kathryn Hubbard Attends International Assembly in San Diego

Posted on Feb 09, 2018

DGE Kathy Hubbard and her husband, Ron, had the opportunity to meet 2018-19 RI President Barry Rassin, and his wife Esther, at the 2018 Rotary International Assembly.

2018 DISTRICT CONFERENCE AT BEAUTIFUL HORSESHOE BAY

Posted on Jan 28, 2018

CELEBR8 SUCCESS 2018

HORSESHOE BAY RESORT!

HERE WE COME!

DISTRICT CONFERENCE

DISTRICT 5840

MAY 4-6, 2018

To receive the Room Block rate you must make your reservation by April 3!

TAKE A LOOK AT THE DISTRICT CONFERENCE

BROCHURE BELOW AND SIGN UP NOW!

Dress code: Business casual except Saturday night: Business/Cocktail/Black Tie optional

Youth may now sign up for the Friday dinner and Saturday lunch. Register with the Youth Option.

FOR MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER => click here

Rotary Club of Greater San Marcos Early Act Program

Posted on Jan 28, 2018

Submitted by Carrie Campbell

Last Friday, I attended an Early Act ceremony at Travis Elementary in San Marcos at the invitation of Lisa Brown, the Early Act coordinator for Greater San Marcos Rotary.

International Fellowship of Rotarian Educators

Posted on Jan 11, 2018

The International Fellowship of Rotarian Educators is one of RI's newer fellowships. The website address is www.rotarianeducators.org.

As you can see from the website, one does NOT have to be an educator or work in the field of education to

Happy New Year to All from DG Carol and Doug Holmes!

Posted on Jan 01, 2018

District 5840 Rotarians in Chicago

Posted on Dec 12, 2017

Many Rotarians from District 5840, recently attended events in Chicago, Illinois, including a visit to Rotary International Headquarters. To see pictures, click here. Pictured above are DG Carol Holmes and her husband Doug, at RI Headquarters.

Rotary Photo Contest Underway

Posted on Dec 03, 2017

Are you a great photographer or just happened to take a great shot of one of your club's fundraisers or events? Why not submit it to the 2018 Rotarian Photo Contest? Your picture could show up in a future Rotarian Magazine. Find out more here.

DGN Hutcherson Rides to End Polio

Posted on Nov 27, 2017

Rotary raises money to eradicate polio in many ways. One way is the "Ride to End Polio" sponsored by Rotary District 5500 and held in Tucson Arizona in November, each year, as part of El Tour de Tucson.

Rotary in India Trip

Posted on Nov 19, 2017

PDG Sherri Muniz will be taking a group to India in March, 2018. If you would like more information on this trip, please click here for more information. The offer has been extended to December 15, 2017.

Important FYI: Upgrades to Rotary International Servers

Dear Rotarian,

We will be making significant upgrades to our servers on 18 and 19 November. Due to the size of this project, some functions on Rotary.org and My Rotary that require a sign-in will not be available. These include:

Successful Year at Morgan’s Wonderland

Posted on Nov 03, 2017

To All District 5840 Members & Friends:

As the Community Service Chair for District 5840, I would like to thank each and everyone of you that participated in "Morgan's Wonderland More Delightful than Frightful 2017" Event. Thank you for your candy donations, monetary donations and most of all for coming out and giving of yourselves.

San Antonio Downtown Club Builds Blanket Fort

Posted on Oct 24, 2017

The SA Downtown Rotary Club members volunteered to sew blankets for the Autism Treatment Center’s “Autism Uncovered” project. They hope to bring awareness to autism by building a Blanket Fort that is going for a Guinness World Record . The event will be held November 19 at Toyota Field.

Rotary Action Group for Peace

Posted on Oct 23, 2017

The Rotarian Action Group for Peace is an action-driven group of Rotarians, Rotarians’ spouses and Rotaractors working together for the purpose of advancing peace and preventing wars throughout the world. Learn more about the Rotary Action Group for Peace here.

NEEDED: Chair for 2018-2019 D5840 At-Large Peace Scholar Process

Posted on Oct 07, 2017

District 5840 would like to sponsor an At-Large Peace Scholar, in 2018-19, and are searching for someone to chair the process.

Rotary's Rose Bowl Parade Float Holiday Party

Posted on Oct 03, 2017

For more Rose Bowl Parade info, click here.

NEW: GULF COAST DONOR ADVISED FUND

Posted on Oct 03, 2017

Gulf Coast Donor Advised Fund
Newly Established by the Rotary Foundation

Help victims rebuild their communities!

Learn how you can help => click here.

LETTER FROM ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT IAN RISELEY

Posted on Sep 29, 2017

Dear Governor Holmes,
Mexico is now on a long road to recovery after two powerful earthquakes earlier this month, followed by aftershocks that occurred over last weekend.

Morgan's Wonderland-More Delightful than Frightful

Rotarians around the District will be volunteering their time and talent to help at the 5th Annual Morgan's Wonderland Halloween event.

Fredericksburg Rotary Exchange Student

Posted on Sep 23, 2017

Jana Brockmann, Fredericksburg Rotary Club's Exchange Student for 2017-2018, enjoyed her first "muscle car" ride as part of the fun at...

Attention Club Newsletter Writers

Posted on Sep 17, 2017

If you are in charge of your Rotary Club's newsletter, there is now an easy to use club newsletter creator that works seamlessly with your club's membership list.

Hays County Meet & Greet Huge Success

Posted on Sep 13, 2017

Winston Interact Has Heart

Posted on Sep 12, 2017

Find Speakers For Your Club Meetings

Posted on Sep 06, 2017

The "Speakers’ Bureau" is designed to give Rotary Clubs a broad selection of dynamic, inspiring speakers, who are willing to speak at your club function for no charge.

IRS Filing Requirements

Posted on Sep 03, 2017

2017-18 Club Officers:

Greetings from Rotary. Your Club and District Support (CDS) team is contacting you today to remind you of the IRS annual filing requirement for all Rotary clubs in the U.S. and U.S. territories.

DISTRICT 5840 DISASTER RELIEF PLAN

Posted on Aug 29, 2017

The mission of District 5840 Disaster Relief is to encourage disaster preparedness on the part of individual Rotarians.....

See District Disaster Plan Page => here

INFORMATION ON DISASTER RELIEF

Posted on Aug 28, 2017

To: All District 5840 Rotarians

From: Carol Holmes, District Governor

Subject: Information on Disaster Relief

I have been in constant contact with Jim Overman, our Disaster Chairperson, and it looks like, at this point, our District is in pretty good shape.

District Goals 2017-2018

Posted on Aug 12, 2017

See what we are trying to accomplish...... The 2017-2018 District Goals have been published and are available for viewing.

See how you can fit in.... => click here

New and Improved Rotary Club Central

The new and improved Rotary Club Central is finally here! Sign in now to experience the upgraded platform. And don’t forget — you can access Rotary Club Central with a desktop or mobile device. If you need help navigating the new platform, go to the Rotary Learning Center and search for Rotary Club Central to access any of the several guides.

ROTARY CLUB OF PAKURANGA TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND

The Rotary Club of Pakuranga invites you to join The Ultimate 17-Day Rotary Tour of New Zealand, April 6-22, 2018.

District Governor Club Visit Schedule 2017-18

District Governor, Carol Holmes, will be visiting clubs all around the District during the 2017-2018 Rotary year. Here is her schedule as of 1/1/18.

January 2018
San Antonio Airport	1/10/18	Wednesday, 12:00 p.m.
San Antonio	1/17/18	Wednesday, 11:45 a.m.
Hondo/D'Hanis	1/18/18	Thursday, 11:45 a.m.

HELP VISITING ROTARIANS FIND YOUR CLUB

If your Rotary Club has changed their meeting time, date, location or any other pertinent information, please contact the District Website Manager, Terri Politi, as soon as possible, to make the changes on the District website. In addition, it is important that you visit the Rotary International website at Rotary.org to update your meeting information. Thank you!