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We Rotarians are, if anything, eternal optimists. Otherwise, why would we work so hard in the face of insurmountable obstacles and challenges to make the world a better place for all?Despite suffering through a pandemic that has severely impacted our world, our communities, our families and even our own clubs – Rotarians remain steadfast in their mission to “Serve to Change Lives.”
This optimism – this conviction that our work as Rotarians really DOES make a difference – is readily apparent as I begin traveling throughout the district and visit our clubs.
Our July 10 year-end celebration and installation was not only enjoyable, but invigorating! Not only did we salute the great efforts of those who persevered and kept Rotary involved in helping others through this pandemic, but the overwhelming focus was on the future -- and the opportunities this year to serve others.
Time and time again, I was approached during the weekend by Rotarians excited to tell me of upcoming projects and activities their clubs are planning as we emerge from a year of meeting virtually and self-imposed quarantine.
I’ve sensed that same enthusiasm as I’ve begun to visit our clubs. Since July 1, I’ve had the opportunity to attend a few club installations and have now begun my official DG visits. The atmosphere is like nothing I’ve ever sensed before – our clubs are clearly eager to get back to work and find ways to serve!
District 5495 Rotarians said farewell to outgoing District Governor Elizabeth Mahoney and installed Bret McKeand as the new DG during a special Installation Ceremony held July 10.
Larry Cervarich of the Rotary Club of Verrado (Buckeye) is the recipient of the Rotary Service Above Self Award, the most prestigious award presented to a Rotarian by Rotary International.
Outgoing District Governor Elizabeth celebrated the accomplishments of the past year during the District 5495 Installation Celebration held July 10 at the Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park.
Rotary Zones 26 & 27
Hi Everyone! I’m happy to announce that the Interact District Council has had a successful retreat! During July 16-18th, our Assistant Governors spent their time training with numerous presentations and scenarios to aid in the preparation of this year. Our presentations contained information on how to grow a club, set measurable goals, and various leadership principles. Saturday was dedicated to team bonding. Our governors were split into three color teams (yellow, blue, and green), to face off in volleyball, tug-a-war, and capture the flag. As our teams went head to head, rivalries started, but at the end of the day everyone came together to unite as one big team. Throughout the weekend, I was able to watch complete strangers build lasting connections and friendships with each other. Our Assistant Governors have been equipped with all of the skills needed to ensure a successful year of service. 
Susan introduced a video prepared especially for Rotary clubs about an international project called Stove Team. It was a Rotarian, Nancy Hughes, from Oregon who founded the non- profit organization in 2008 after seeing the Stove Team International works primarily in Latin America—Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras where most families use open fire cooking which is hazardous to their health and to the environment. It is reported that open fire cooking releases more black car- bon into the atmosphere than all the cars and trucks in the world combined. Over four billion people world-wide cook on an open fire— children and mothers are most affected with smoke causing a serious health crisis. It is like smoking 400 cigarettes every hour or two packs a day equivalent and is a leading cause of death of small children who also often suffer burns from the fire. In addition, to the hazards of open fire cooking, women and children work over twenty hours a week to collect enough wood to cook which results in generational poverty and lack of education. 
