June 9 Program: The Lost Boys of South Sudan

In September, 2013, a generous Rotary Foundation Grant sponsored by the Beaufort Ole Towne Rotary Club helped start a school in the world’s newest, and one of its poorest, nations…The Republic of South Sudan. On June 9th, Beaufort Rotarian and retired Air Force Colonel Rett Newton will join us to recount the amazing survival story of the Lost Boys of Sudan. He’ll then discuss South Sudanese drive for education, and highlight the efforts of one Lost Boy to build a school in his hometown of Rumbek. Rett will also provide insights on the complex environment and challenges in and around South Sudan since it’s Independence in 2011.   

No Meeting on Memorial Day

Please take time during this weekend to remember those who have sacrificed
to gain and preserve our freedoms...  

Rotarians Get the Latest Information on Important Programs

Newport Rotary's Executive Secretary Bevin Wall (left) with
D7730 District Governor Vanessa Ervin (center) in Raleigh.

Newport Rotarian Bevin Wall attended Zone Partnership Training in Raleigh May 16-17, 2014 to receive updates on The Rotary Foundation, Public Image and Membership issues relevant to Rotary clubs and districts. He is currently Club Executive Secretary, District 7730 Secretary, and District 7730 Membership Co-Chair.

Key issues discussed involved changes in the Rotary Foundation grant process, the new RI "branding tools" available for clubs, social media innovations and practices, and optional changes in membership rules including flex schedule and "e-members" of Rotary clubs.

The highlight of the event was an address by incoming Rotary International Director Robert Hall on Saturday regarding the importance of being "that member" who invites prospects to join their club, and the joy of being put in a position to help others. 

How Many Rotarians Does it Take to Replace a Lightbulb?

Well, there were at least 3 involved in this exercise!
Led by PP Maher Saikali, doing the high wire work!

Social Meeting will Highlight Members Vocational Moments

On May 19, 2014, Newport Rotary will hold an informal Membership & Social Meeting, highlighting members (and guests) "vocational moments". It is a great way to learn about the varied tapestry of experience and accomplishment that is represented at Newport Rotary each week.

We expect several guests to be in attendance. We also have a full slate of upcoming activities and projects to discuss. 

Service Project: Feed the Needy

Newport Rotary will be collecting food items for the Matthew 25 Food Pantry operated by the St. James United Methodist Church on Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at the Grand Opening of the WalMart Neighborhood Store in Newport. Newport Rotary has been a consistent sponsor of the local food pantry for many years, and through their efforts have helped many residents of our community needing help.

Newport Rotary has the exclusive charity slot for the Grand Opening Day thanks to Rotarian (and Store Manager) Tammy Cooper. A shift schedule will be discussed this week as we would like to have the table manned from 8am-5pm that day.

The service project will replace Newport Rotary's regular meeting on Monday, June 16, 2014.  

Video History of Rotary

The May 12, 2014 Newport Rotary Program will feature a recent "History of Rotary" exercise completed by WV Rotarians, facilitated by Newport Rotarians Bevin & Pam Wall. the end result is a video narrative of Rotary by decade as told by "ordinary Rotarians". Newport Rotary has a rich history, and is well versed in the history of our organization, however- it is likely that even our seasoned Rotarians can learn a thing or two! Guests are welcome.  

Newport Rotarians Clean Up

Holding up rakes are: Larry Howard, Pam Wall, Derryl Garner, Hal Clark
and Steve Blizzard, not pictured are Bevin Wall, and Winston Reese. 

Monday, May 5, 2014 was a Clean Up Project Day at Newport Rotary. In addition to landscaping the front of the Rotary Building, Newport Rotarians also maintained one of their gardening beds in front of Newport School. There remains work to be done, but we are a lot closer than we were!