Vol. 25 No.

September 2011

FVR to Rotarians: Embrace the Heart of Service

By Silver President Melandrew T. Velasco, RC Cubao West
Former President Fidel V. Ramos urged Rotarians of Rotary International District 3780 to embrace the heart of service by caring, sharing and daring for others even as he formally launched a commemorative book coinciding with the tribute to District Governors at the Pandanggo Hall of the historic Manila Hotel last 11 August 2011. The centrepiece of the District celebration was the recognition of all DGs who served during the last 25 years that Quezon City had been assigned its own district number in the Rotary International organization. Each one of the district governors present was given a special plaque of appreciation. This was supposed to have been part of The District Induction program last July 3, 2011 but due to lack of time it was moved to another date which coincided with the launching of the commemorative book. It is therefore providential that on its 25 th founding anniversary, District 3780 under the able leadership of Governor Jess Cifra, book author Melandrew T. Velasco, RC Roces President Eren Noche Tumali and the 95 Rotary Clubs in Quezon City have gone out of their way to document the many little known, but inspiring projects that different clubs have undertaken through the past few years, said FVR. The 260-page full color coffee table book is a commemorative book celebrating 25 years of District 3780 as a One City. One District in the RI world. The book was earlier formally presented to PRIP Bhichai Rattakul last 3 July 2011 by Governor Cifra during the latters installation as district governor. District Gov. Jess Cifra said the coffee table book titled EMBRACE: The Heart of Service serves as a most authoritative reference containing the history of Rotary International, Rotary Philippines and R.I. District 3780, its leaders and all its members and what they have stood for since becoming part of the centuryold service organization that is Rotary. Gov Cifra said it is also in line with this years Rotary theme, Reach Within to Embrace Humanity, adding that EMBRACE: The

Heart of Service tells the story of a long-standing challenge embraced by Rotarians all over the world: to serve others above self, and how this challenge is brought to life by the efforts carried out by RI District 3780. Among the most inspiring highlights of the book include a comprehensive look at the Districts Paul Harris Fellows, The Rotary Foundation, award-winning and world-renowned projects with Matching Grants from the Rotary International, and a special article contribution by President Ramos, also a full-fledged Rotarian. EMBRACE: The Heart of Service is co-published by the RI District 3780 with Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc led by SP Mel Velasco.

FVR seated this close to ladies LR: IPP Beth Constantino, PP Maricor Imperial and Spouse Helen Cifra In this photo shared with the GML by PP Ma. Corazon Imperial

Plaques of Recognition presented to past district governors by former President Fidel V. Ramos and Governor Jess Cifra.

Let Us Fortify Our Friendship

(Speech delivered by DG Jess Cifra during the District Conference of RI D-5000 in Sheraton Kauai Resort, Kauai, Hawaii, USA on September 10, 2011)

Past Rotary International Director John Blount and Spouse Patti, District Governor Laurie Yoshida, Spouse Vernon and Daughter Brittney, District Governor John Boccarti, Fellow Rotarians from RI District 5000 and other RI districts, Fellow Rotarians from my country, the Philippines, Ladies and gentlemen: Good evening. First of all, I wish to thank Hawaii Representative George Fontaine for the prestigious Certificate of Recognition awarded me by the State Legislature of Hawaii at his instance. It is truly a great, wonderful surprise which I will treasure and be proud of the rest of my life. George, thank you very much. Friendship, my friends, knows no boundaries. This is why Rotary has spread to almost every corner of the world. This is also why I have come to join our GSE team to feel the warmth of your friendship which has touched the members of the team and to thank you in person for the great hospitality with which you have received them. We in the Philippines often boast of our hospitality as legendary. But I guess you have been more blessed with such a wonderful trait as a people. I have thought deeply about this shared quality and discovered that we have many things in common. We share the same Pacific sun and air, the same seasons, and the same profound love for beauty and life. This explains why Filipinos were among the first migrants of Hawaii. Our forefathers who were hired to till your land many years ago came to love the beauty of your country and embrace the Hawaiian way of life. The many things that we share also explain why of the many cities around the world, Philippine cities comprise the biggest number of sister cities of Honolulu and Maui County. These sister city relations speak of the warm friendships our two countries hold dear. And this great friendship between Hawaii and the Philippines and the bonds that we have created through the GSE program of The Rotary Foundation are strong foundations on which we can build new and wider horizons of Rotary service and a stronger Rotary movement in the Pacific region. The Group Study Exchange has been a long cherished tradition in our Rotary world and it is one that we in RI District 3780 look forward to year after year. We learn more about your way of life as you do ours and through this exchange we strengthen our friendships and face the future with more courage and confidence that we together can build a world that is better and more beautiful. With the past and present strong and warm relations between our two countries and our shared vision of a better world through Rotary and its Foundation, we can build more blocks of success to realize our common dream. It is therefore with all these, coupled with a sense of pride for the things that we share and our great admiration for you and your country that my spouse Helen and I have come to your land to give meaning to our friendship and to thank you for the fruitful and rewarding visit of our GSE team. With this deep gratitude we wish to extend our invitation for you to come and join us in our 2011-2012 District Conference which will be held on April 19-21, 2012 at Tagaytay City. Your presence at our Discon will most certainly lend more luster and meaning to the event. And it would be our great pride and honor to host you in our district. Your visit would ensure for us the rare opportunity to reciprocate the admirable hospitality that you have so generously showered on us and our GSE team. As a good friend would always say, We will not accept no for an answer. For, according to Sydney Smith, an English writer, Life is to be fortified by many friendships. To love and to be loved is the greatest happiness of existence. To build a better world, come visit us and let us fortify our friendship. Once again, thank you all very much for everything! Mahalo lui loa! Ahui hou! (Thank you very much! Until we meet again!)
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D3780 DG Jess Cifra and D5000 DG Laurie Yoshida

District Secretarys Report

By DS Jesus Jesse Tanchanco
The past few weeks saw much of the time of the District Governor spent on the RI mandated club visits. With his entourage consisting primarily of the District Secretary, District Chief of Staff, Assistant Governor and Assistant Governors Representative, more than 40 Rotary clubs in the District shall have been visited as of this writing since the start of the Rotary year. Of course this does not include the numerous club inductions, charter anniversaries, project launchings, committee meetings and other activities. This early, we would like to commend the clubs and the Silver Presidents for consistently implementing the district policies, guidelines and protocols as called for by the District office. These include the timely payments of official district dues the Governors Fund and contributions to the Disaster relief and rescue Fund. We are also very much elated at the response of the clubs visited so far when it comes to contributions to the Rotary Foundation. It has so far exceeded our best expectations. We have also noticed that there is also a significant increase in the number of clubs who expressed their intentions to apply for a Matching Grant this year compared to the pre-suspension years. This has certainly made the TRF committee very busy at this time. Speaking of the TRF, we just held a very successful TRF seminar at the Quezon City Sports Club hosted by the Rotary clubs of Cubao West and Roces. Also very much worth mentioning is the determination of the clubs to improve on their membership development and retention with the end in view of having at least 100% of the clubs at charter strength at the minimum. At this point, we have also noted that many of the major district committees have finalized or at least close to finalizing their various programs for the district and the clubs. As the Districts response to the current Dengue outbreak, two MOAs were signed during the TRF seminar with various groups. First was with the QC Red Cross which encourages all the clubs to commit and help campaign for blood donations in order to re stock fast dwindling supplies. The second MOA was with the Philippine Federation of Professional Pest Management Operators Association the implementation of which already started in earnest last September 1, 2011 where several QC Barangays which were considered as Dengue Hotspots were treated with environment and human friendly pesticides. More than a dozen Rotary clubs participated by hosting the various teams of technicians. The month of August also saw the launching of the first ever District coffee table book called Embrace, The Heart of Service which contained inspiring stories of Rotarians and Rotary clubs as our District 3780 celebrates its 25th year. The guest of honor was no less than former Philippine president Fidel V. Ramos. During the same occasion, all the PDGs who served during the period were similarly recognized and honored. Towards the end of August and not to be outdone, the Rotaractors held a well attended District Rotaract Induction and turnover ceremonies witnessed by various district SNG luminaries, other district officers and DG Jess Cifra with spouse Helen. The event was hosted by RC Metro Diliman. Surely a fitting end to a most productive month which also provided the much needed momentum going into the month of September with the RI theme, New Generations Month which aptly addresses and brings into focus, the various issues and concerns of the youth sector. Finally, please allow me to end with the following quote from Mitch Albom: The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.

September is New Generations Month

During New Generations Month, Rotary celebrates its commitment to youth and young adults through Interact, Rotaract, RYLA, and Rotary Youth Exchange. Rotary clubs are encouraged to focus on youth issues and undertake projects that benefit young people around the world.

Silver Edition of the Governors Monthly Letter

EDITORIAL BOARD DG JOSE FRANCISCO Jess Q. CIFRA Publisher JESUS Jesse TANCHANCO (RC Loyola Heights) District Secretary EDUARDO Duke ZULUAGA (RC New Manila East) District Chair, Public Image RICARDO Ric SALVADOR (RC Holy Spirit) Editor GARY TING (RC Pag-asa) Assistant Editor-Business Manager WINSTON SIA (RC VisMin) Associate Editor-Webmaster Associate Editors for Sub-Districts PASTOR Mar REYES (RC SFDM) MA. ELENA Marilen LAGNITON (RC Cubao EDSA) JUN SACAYAN (RC Batasan Hills) BOBBIE LAGUITAO (RC Cubao Kamias) FAUSTO Osty MANLAPAZ (RC New Manila East) Printer Relations Manager BETSY BULANADI (RC Mega EDSA) Manager Circulation & Distribution The Silver Edition of the Governors Monthly Letter is available in both printed form and in web-linked digital format. Please send your articles for publication to the Editor-in-Chief, Ric Salvador by email at ric.salvador2011@yahoo.com. Ric may also be reached through 0919-361-6406 or 810-0040 at Asia Business Consultants Inc in Makati City.

District Events in Sep-October 2011

Sep 24 Sep 29-Oct 2 Oct 8 Oct 15 Oct 15 Oct 23 Oct 26 Oct 29 ELKS Day (8 AM12 PM) Asia Pacific Regional Rotaract ConfSubic Tree-planting at La Mesa Eco-park (6AM) Club Administration Training Seminar (CATS) TRF AlumniGlobal Lounge District Family DayAmoranto Stadium Vocational Awards Night Membership Fellowship Night October is Vocational Service Month
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The spouses have spoken

By Spouse Soc Yap RC SFDM
Last 5 May 2011, fifty two (52) Rotarian Spouses and four (4) guests trooped to Valle Verde Country Club along their husbands for this years District Assembly. The spouses, consisting of 10 Past District Governors spouses, twenty five (25) Silver Presidents Anns and 17 Rotarians/spouses, were treated to an exciting program which was conceptualized and implemented specifically to address their concerns as Rotarian partners. This is a documentation of the said affair, the result of which is herein presented for the design of future spouses activities and as a learning tool for examining the psyche of a Rotarian Spouse. If the survey results were to be believed, the games that were intended to elicit the thoughts and awareness of the spouses on their Rotarian husbands support needs, the talk by Dr. Jim Sanchez on Health and Wellness, together with the laughing yoga session made the affair: a) out of the box engaging b) superb c) a wonderful learning experience d) an excellent venue for spouses fellowship, etc. These quotes were just a few of the documented feedback from participants who attended the spouses program. Others were more encouraging in their rally to keep up with activities similar to this so as to fulfil our role and confirm the proven adage of the importance of women in the success of their men. Still the more meaningful findings during the program were the concerns of the wives about their Rotarian husbands role as club leaders. There were those who worried about practical matters, such as lack of funds and logistics; health of their husbands due to added stress; possible neglect of family due to demands on time to implement programs and attend meetings, etc. With these fears, however, came other expectations about the positive aspects of their Rotarian husbands involvements such as, the ability of their men to help others who are less fortunate and how the Rotarians find fulfilment in Rotary in that this has become a passion and a venue for sharing their husbands professional expertise. Finally, we end this write up with yet another quote from one of the participants. The Spouses Program has shown us how to make lemonade out of lemons. So there it is guys, the spouses have spoken.

More clubs welcome the new Rotary year with childrens parties
RC Diliman North - Fun-filled event with "Story-telling", "Book-Reading", and teaching of proper hygiene to the ROTAKIDS. Snacks, toothpaste and toothbrush were distributed. . RC Cubao Edsa Feeding program for day-care children of Barangay Alicia

RC New Manila East - McDo party for kindergarten pupils of Toro Hills Elementary School

RC North Edsa - Feeding program & party for children of St Maximillian Mary Kolbe parish, Novaiches RC Neopolitan Fairview - Party held at Cottolengco a caring house for children with physical and mental disabilities left by their parents at the doors of the said caring house

RC Cubao Sunrise Feeding program for street children

D 3780 Rotaract is reloaded!

By SNG District Chair PP Benjamin Alonzo
To address the dwindling numbers of Rotaract Clubs and Rotaractors in District 3780, lead host club Rotaract Club of Timog and co-host, Rotaract Club of Cloverleaf spearheaded Rotaract Reloaded: A Strategic Recruitment and Membership Development Seminar last June 11, 2011 at the Rotary Center. The strategic recruitment and membership development seminar was attended by 17 Rotaract Clubs, with a total of 120 participants, 70% of which are new members. RAC Timog Charter President Francoise Marie B. Alonzo discussed the basics of Rotaract. Past District Rotaract Representative Flo Espiritu of District 3790 enlightened the group on the opportunities and relevance of Rotaract. Lastly, PDRR Cathy Gonzales of District 3830 made an encouraging discussion with her topic Reviving Servant Leadership. Governor Jess Cifra delivered an inspirational message, emphasizing the importance of Rotaract as Rotarys partner in service. Gov. Jess also urged Rotaractors to take the next step and join a Rotary Club when they are already eligible. SNG Chair Benjamin Alonzo, on the other hand, acknowledged District Rotaract Representative Marby Montellano and her Rotaract District Committee for their commitment to revive and strengthen Rotaract Clubs in the district.

District Rotaract officers are inducted

By DRR Marby Montellano
Rotaract District 3780 literally weathered the storm last August 28, 2011 as Sir Williams Hotel in Timog Ave., QC was packed with 170 Rotaractors from 23 Rotaract clubs. Immediate Past District Rotaract Representative Virgil Patrick de los Santos delivered his Valedictory address and recognized the Rotaractors and Rotarians who helped him during his term. Service to New Generations Chairman Benjamin Tan Alonzo presented the new members and officers of Rotaract Clubs before they were inducted by DRR Marby Montellano and District Governor Jess Cifra. . Gov Gifra inducted DRR Marby Montellano and the District Officers. During her inaugural speech, DRR Marby Montellano emphasized the true meaning of service in Rotaract. According to her, the most opportune time to serve is when the chance for approval or applause is absent or even when our feelings go against our will. She emphasized that serving in Rotaract is not doing it for the applause of others but should be done truly for humanity and God. The highlight in the program was District Governor Jess Cifras inspirational speech where he stated that Rotaractors are like flowers in bloom. He also pointed out that Rotaractors are honed to become future Rotarians. The event was hosted by Rotaract Club of Diliman in cooperation with their sponsoring club, Rotary Club of Metro Diliman.

150 Rotaractors attend Distas

By Secretary Jessica Rose Capati, Rotaract Brick Road
Despite the hard rains, Rotaract District Assembly was successfully held last 9th of July 2011 at the Philippine School of Business Administration-QC. A record of 150 delegates from different Rotaract Clubs of D3780 and another from Essex County, New Jersey, USA gathered for the much awaited event which was hosted by the Rotaract Clubs from PSBA. The assembly was called to order by DRR Margaret Robyn "Marby" Montellano. President Ernesto "Nitoy" Velasco of the RC Loyola Heights (Rotary club sponsor of Distas), gave the welcome remarks, followed by DRR "Marby" Montellano who gave an overview for the assembly. Rotaractors were then grouped according to their positions. Each group had a Rotarian or Rotaractor to discuss its role and duties in the club. PP Abegaile S. Carreon of Rotaract Club of Timog, QC discussed action planning for projects. The Rotaractors enjoyed the activity as they met members of other clubs. PDRR Devie Ontolan (Rotaract Club of Cubao) led the afternoon Plenary. DG Jose Francisco "Jess" Cifra gave inspirational advice for the young Rotaractors.

Interact officers are inducted during Distas

By PP Bit Farolan, RC Bagong Silangan
Hurray! for the Interact Distas 2011 sponsored by RC Bagong Silangan and cohosted by 12 other clubs. It was held last August 6, 2011 at Quezon City Science High school and participated in by 89 Interactors from 17 high schools. DIR Mariel Rocaflor of Balara High school and her team were sworn in by DG Jess Cifra, while Interact Club Presidents and Directors were inducted by SNG Chair PP Benjie Alonzo. Also present were Interact Chair PP Bambi Verdote of RC Uptown Novaliches, DIC member PP Adel Corpuz of RC Camp Aguinaldo, and SP Sally Gonzalez of RC Bagong Silangan. Inspiring words from DG Jess Cifra set their hearts and mind to the culture of service above self. True to its theme, The New Gen Takes the Lead, the Interactors took the lead in planning the service projects they aim to accomplish within this Rotary Year, with enthusiasm and energy. The speakers: Lt Gov. Duke Zuluaga; PP Suzette Lee of RC Diliman Heights ; AGR Cristy Dagdag of RC QC Circle; PP Elsa Unson of RC New Manila Heights; PP Francis Paderna of RC Timog; CP Winston Sia of RC VIS-MIN.

Dengue: symptoms, prevention & control

By PP Rogelio B. Belleza, MD, FPCP - RC Holy Spirit
DEADLY DENGUE IS BACK! Dengue season is back. Defend your family from this deadly fever. Signs and Symptoms: Sudden high fever (up to 40 deg C) lasting for 2 to 7 days Pain in joints, muscles, and behind the eyes Rashes (tiny red spots) all over the body, which may subside after a couple of days and then reappear Weakness Nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting of coffee-colored matter Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or under the skin (bruising) Prevention and Control: Use mosquito nets when sleeping, and install screens on windows. Cover water containers (drums, pails, etc) to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Clean containers weekly to remove eggs sticking to the sides of the containers. Replace water in flower vases every week. Dispose of all unnecessary cans, jars, bottles, and other objects which can collect water. Remove dead leaves and debris from roof gutters so that rain water will not accumulate. If you think you or your loved one has dengue, seek treatment immediately.

The war vs dengue

Gov Jess with Silver Presidents and leaders of PFPMOA prior to deployment to their assigned hot-spots, Sept1 at QC assembly

DCOS/PP Joe Baradi ensures that the dengue-busters cover all breeding places in Bgy Pansol

Large contingent of 20 dengue-busters gets briefing from PS Ped Condeno and Barangay officials prior to deployment in Bgy Holy Spirit

PP Maricor Imperial reports that early in the outbreak of dengue, RC Diliman North with support from city & barangay officials held dengue awareness campaign for residents of Sitio Pingkian, Bgy Pasong Tamo Aug. 17

To ensure total extermination, SP Becky Cruz of RC West Triangle, SP Marlyn Manabat of RC Cubao Central and SP Monica Legaspi of RC Malaya take the sprayers in their own hands at the breeding places in Bgy Pasong Tamo. Photo taken by team member SP Zeny Remolona of RC Centennial QC.

Dengue mosquito (Aedes Aegypti) RC Camp Crame, the PNP and QC Red Cross hold bloodletting activity for the benefit of dengue victims Sept. 2 6

RI D3780 Silver Year Marks 1st Literacy Congress

Sa Pagbasa, May Pag-asa
By IPP Becca dela Cruz, RC Batasan Hills
School Quality Education discussed by PP Carmen Ramos of RC North EDSA, English Enhancement and Personality Development by PP Boyet Alfonso of RC New Manila Heights, Kids Quiz Bee by PE Pettizou Tayag of RC Sta Mesa Heights, and the Dream Literacy Project which is the Library on Wheels or the Mobile Library, by IPP Bong Cruz of RC New Manila East. PBA players can also be invited in all the literacy projects, in conjunction with their Read to Lead project thru Ms. Rhose Montreal. Informatics, thru its Chair and PP Daniel Ongchoco, shall grant D3780 five College Scholarships, and guidelines for this will soon be announced. The Congress was hosted by IPP Baby Allado of RC New Manila Heights and IPP Eric Santos of RC Commonwealth. In addition, the other members of the Literacy Committee who participated were PP Butch Madarang, IPP Christy Dagdag, both of RC QC Circle, PP Greg Buhain of RC Timog, PP Boy Perlas of RC Roxas, PP Babet Aparato of RC Paraiso, IPP Cora Sison of Prima Vida, IPP Bobby Sumulong of RC Ayala Heights, and IPP Tante Tapuro of RC North EDSA. The lead clubs for the Literacy Congress and the different Literacy Projects are RC Ayala Heights, RC Batasan Hills, RC Commonwealth, RC Holy Spirit, RC Kamuning West, RC New Manila Heights, RC New Manila East, RC Paraiso, RC Timog, RC North EDSA, and RC QC Circle. For more inquiries about the implementation of the abovementioned literacy projects, please email becca_delacruz@yahoo.com or the respective project proponent. The Literacy Congress held last September 3 at the Rotary Center was conceptualized by the Literacy Committee aimed at providing a menu of literacy projects, which can be easily and consistently implemented across all clubs. The Literacy Projects being looked at will cater to all levels, from the formative preschool years up to the college level or even out of school youth and non readers. Such projects are envisioned to have high and long term sustainable impact to the beneficiaries. The event was graced by no less than Congressman Jorge Banal, who emphasized the importance of Reading as Hope for the future. A bill at both the Congress and the Senate is in the making and President Noynoy himself supports the Araw ng Pagbasa, which will be held to commemorate the birthday of former Senator Ninoy Aquino. The other partners who graced the Congress were Asia Pacific College, represented by its Managing Director Teresita Medado and her Assistant Adelina Calub. APC is a partner for the Every Reader, A Leader (ERAL) project, which is aimed at improving the reading comprehension skills of students across all levels. The other projects presented include the adoption of the Pre

A timely celebration of the International Literacy Day on September 8

ED is bravely discussed at Intercity Meeting

By CP Gary Ting, RC Pag-asa
As had been expected, the subject of ED (Erectile Dysfunction) gave birth to an interestingly lively interaction during the Intercity Meeting last August 25 at Shangrila Fine Chinese Restaurant. RC Pag-asa QC hosted the event with Dr. Jeff Peter Jubilado, urologist consultant from Marikina Valley Medical Center, as Resource Speaker. Thanks to the support of the co-host clubs namely: Biak na Bato, Camp Aguinaldo, Mabuhay Rotonda, Malaya, Metro Diliman, Metro Sta. Mesa, Quezon City Circle, Roosevelt, St. Ignatius and University District, the event was an overwhelming success. In fact, SP Jess Lim reported that more than a hundred attendees gathered at the pleasant venue. SP Doc Aga Agatep of RC Metro Sta. Mesa acted as the moderator for the forum. However, being an urologist himself from St. Lukes Medical Center, he practically paired up with Dr. Jubilado in providing critical information as well as in enlightening everyone regarding questions and clarifications that the attendees asked. Equipped with incredible visual aids and illustrations, the presentation actually covered most of the dreaded symptoms and illnesses that afflict men of age. Having discussed the causes, conditions, remedies and treatments, the duo were swarmed by relevant questions. It was noteworthy though that during the earlier part of the lecture, Dr. Jubilado described most of the Filipino men age 50 and above as arrogant when it comes to admitting the truth of being able or not to perform. Eventually, the subject of an available and viable remedy for ED, popularly known as Viagra, elicited more questions from the floor. Obviously, a number of the older men turned out to be not that arrogant given their interest in the subject and the questions they asked. Notwithstanding reluctance in disclosing the true state of mens health, these concerns should be freely discussed as in the forum provided by the Intercity Meeting. Through all these pondering on the facts of life, the arrival of DG Jess Cifra, PDG Dan Espinosa and several District Officers who just came from another commitment even made the activity livelier. DG Jess was evidently quick to catch up with the topic since he was able to include in his short message some humor pertaining to the subject matter. Without doubt, once again he brought in the essential touch to complete the elements of a successful affair.

187 Rotarians attend District 3780 TRF Seminar

By Silver President Melandrew T. Velasco, RC Cubao West
Despite the inclement weather brought about by Typhoon Mina, close to 200 Rotarians from District 3780 graced The Rotary Foundation seminar with the theme, Art of Giving, co-hosted by the Rotary Club of Cubao West and Rotary Club of Roces at the Quezon City Sports Club last 27 August 2011. District Gov. Jess Cifra formally opened the TRF Seminar as he underscored the relevance of the mandated RI-activity particularly among Paul Harris Fellows and the goals of the district under his administration. Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD served as the inspirational speaker at the plenary session as he highlighted the essence of true giving that comes from the heart. The missionary priest captivated the Rotarians as he regaled the Rotarians with his wit, humor, and candor. Money can be earned. Let not money become our master. Instead, let money serve us and let us use money in helping others, Orbos said. The loss of your soul is your greatest failure. Other resource speakers included RI TRF Zone 7-A Coordinator for Philippines and Indonesia PDG Bobby Viray, PDG and District Rotary Foundation Coordinator Dan Espinosa, PDG Marcos Mac Hermoso, PP and Chairman for Annual Giving Daniel Ongchoco, PP Romarico Tongos and PP Sammy Pagdilao. Two memorandum of agreements were signed by District 3780, one with the Philippine Red Cross, Quezon City Chapter facilitated by RC Crame President Nick Bartolome, new Philippine National Police Chief, and the other with the Philippine Federation of Pest Management Operators Management Association, Inc. for the anti-dengue campaign in Quezon City.

District 3780 acts decisively to protect lives from deadly dengue

Last September 1, 2011 Rotary clubs in the district worked feverishly with professional dengue-busters from the Philippine Federation of Pest Management Operators Association, Inc. in the very timely spraying of antidengue chemicals in four out of 15 barangays identified as hot-spots. The four barangays covered last September 1 were Bgy. Holy Spirit, with RC Holy Spirit coordinating; Bgy. Pasong Tamo with RC West Triangle, RC Malaya, RC Centennial QC, RC Cubao Central and RC St. Ignatius coordinating; Bgy Pansol with RC Loyola Heights coordinating; and Bgy San Bartolome with RC San Bartolome and RC Cubao Sunrise coordinating. Even with this dengue mosquito-busting operation in the barangays, RC Camp Crame and the Philippine National Police, now led by SP Nick Bartolome as Chief PNP, embarked on a blood-letting project (Dugong Alay, Pangsagip Buhay) for the benefit of dengue victims last September 2nd. These two community service initiatives implement the Memorandum of Agreement between RI District 3780 and the federation for the antidengue campaign in Quezon City, and the Memorandum of Agreement with the Philippine Red Cross about the blood-letting activity, signed just a few days earlier on August 27, 2011 at the closing of the TRF Seminar. Early in the outbreak of dengue, some clubs have on their own implemented dengue awareness and area clean-up campaigns. For instance, RC Diliman North in partnership with city and barangay officials conducted an awareness campaign for adopted Sitio Pingkian in Bgy Pasong Tamo last August 17th.

Fifty clubs join hands to distribute 13,200 reference books to 100 public schools

Photo shows R-L Gov Jess Cifra, SM Foundation Manager Mr. Bob Navida, SP Ped Condeno of RC Holy Spirit, and school officials with their sponsor SP Nitoy Velasco of RC Loyola Heights

Governor Jess Cifra witnessed last September 2nd part of the turnover of books by fifty Rotary clubs to principals & officials of many of the 100 public high schools, elementary schools and preparatory schools that the clubs had identified as needy beneficiaries. The large-scale book-distribution activity involved the donation by the SM Foundation of 13,200 volumes of mostly hardbound reference books that had originated from a US-based partner library. Mr Bob Navida, Project Manager for Outreach Programs of SM Foundation, thanked Gov Jess, the event organizer RC Holy Spirit and the 49 other Rotary clubs for identifying the public schools that badly needed books for their libraries, and for enabling the immediate turnover of the books to school officials. Mr. Navida said that this Donate-A-Book project of SM Foundation represents an additional initiative to the foundations signature literacy project, the college scholarships program. Finally, Mr Navida announced that forthwith, the book donation and distribution project would be an annual undertaking of SM Foundation with Rotary clubs in District 3780. Before the books turnover started, SP Ped Condeno presented to Mr. Navida a certificate of appreciation citing SM Foundation for its continuing support for the clubs health & wellness projects, gift-giving for indigent children and other projects.

Gov Jess thanks the Districts well-prepared partners in denguebusting at the QC hall assembly area at 7 AM Sept 1. 8

RI Presidents September Message

My dear brothers and sisters in Rotary,
We have a color for the 2011-12 Rotary year, and that color is green. Why green? Because green is the color of spring, of new life, of bright leaves bursting forth from spreading branches. And there is no doubt that it is time to green Rotary to lift our deepening pallor of gray and replace it with brighter shades of green. Overall, in Rotary, only 11 percent of our members are under the age of 40, while 68 percent are over 50 and 39 percent are over 60. Its not too hard to see where this will lead us in 10, 20, and 30 years down the line, if we dont do something about it now. It is not enough to simply bring in new members. We need to bring in younger members, who will breathe new life and new vigor into our organization. How can we be more attractive to younger members, who are so different in so many ways from the young professionals of a generation or two ago? We have to come to them where they are and for most young people, where they are is on the Internet, on Facebook, on Twitter and email, and on their smartphones. A club that doesnt have a presence on the Internet simply doesnt exist as far as they are concerned. A clubs website is its public face and it has to be a good one. More than anything, I believe we need to bring back the idea of the family of Rotary. We need to look at all of Rotary as one family: Rotarians, their families, and also Rotaractors, Interactors, Youth Exchange students and alumni, Foundation alumni, and so on. And we need to consider retention as an idea that applies not just to Rotarians, but to the entire family of Rotary. Too often, we look outward to find new members, and we do not see our own young generation, waiting to be called upon. We must look to them to find the capable and enthusiastic new members who will be the club presidents, the district governors, and the RI senior leaders of tomorrow. We owe it to our Rotary family past, present, and future to make sure that our generation of Rotarians is not the last. We must, in a very real sense, reach within to embrace our Rotary family, so that we can better embrace all of humanity.

Young Rotarians advocate new approach to Rotary

From ROTARY LEADER Online Magazine, September 2011

Katie Ischkin, a 28-year-old Rotarian and change management consultant, explains why breaking tradition is sometimes a good thing
I am very proud to be a young female Rotarian and a former Rotaractor. The club I founded, the Rotary Club of South Metro Minneapolis Evenings, Minnesota, USA, has introduced a non-traditional structure to our district, but were only changing surface elements, not the essence of Rotary. As a change-management consultant, I understand when Rotary clubs are resistant to change. But all clubs have the power to make small adjustments that can attract younger members. Meeting times and locations, program structures, member involvement, and committee formats are just a few possibilities. Our club is an evening club, which was sorely needed in my city. At this point in my career, it isnt possible for me to attend Rotary meetings weekly during the day, or even before work. Also, our club doesnt include meals at meetings. While in some Rotary clubs, the meal can be the draw, many of our members just cant afford the extra expense. Weve also accepted that, with a younger membership, we have a higher rate of turnover, mainly because some members arent quite settled on the city or their career. We cant be afraid of inviting members who may leave. Technology plays an integral role. Our club has been testing Skype as a way for members to attend meetings and for speakers to present when they cant physically be at our meeting. Finally, our club meets four times a month, but not weekly. To hit our members areas of interest, we have regular program-type meetings every second week of the month; our third meeting is a happy hour/ networking event at various locations around the city; and our fourth meeting is a hands-on volunteering opportunity. Our members may not be able to donate their pocket change on a weekly basis, but they can and want to give back through their time and efforts. This new approach to Rotary, accomplished through such small changes, can help draw younger members, who will view Rotary as an attractive and worthwhile addition to their ever-growing list of commitments and interests.

Kalyan Banerjee President, Rotary International

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How one Rotary club attracted younger members by rethinking meeting times
Its important to bring younger members into Rotary. But how? When Rotarians in Walnut Creek, California found it difficult to attract young professionals to the areas morning and afternoon clubs, they set out to establish a club that would accommodate busy schedules. The Rotary Club of Diablo View (Walnut Creek), chartered in 2009, meets in a local brewery at 5:30 p.m. every Thursday. Its president, Jennifer Beeman, says the club enjoys time set aside for socializing before moving on to club business, and that the relaxed atmosphere appeals to younger members. Beeman was only 24 when she became a charter member of the club, and shes now one of the youngest female club presidents in Rotary. The Diablo View club has 26 members, 90 percent of them between the ages of 25 and 40. Because we have younger members, our attitude is different. People have told us how refreshing it is to have young faces behind Rotary, Beeman says. She adds that the clubs active roster of community projects gives members the opportunity for hands-on service. For instance, the club plans a monthly outdoor project, such as cleaning up nature trails. Younger Rotarians usually have more time than cash at their disposal, she says, so they tend to contribute by volunteering. The club recruits new members through social media like Twitter and Facebook, and it has a mentoring program to help with retention. The modifications weve made have helped our club appeal to younger professionals and retain them, Beeman says. Theyve created a highenergy club.

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