May 2024

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News & Updates

Springtime Blossoms: Growing together as Rotary Clubs

As the vibrant colors of spring emerge, so too do the initiatives and projects of our Rotary clubs across District 5420. We transition from the cold season to a time of renewed energy and action, ready to make a difference in our communities and beyond.

Our clubs are blossoming with activities and fundraisers, providing ample opportunities for families to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and serve alongside one another. Whether it's engaging in projects or organizing fundraisers, this season is about connecting and socializing while making a positive impact.

Throughout the winter, our Area Governors (AGs) have diligently worked to coordinate regional club meetups. These gatherings, whether social or project-oriented, offer a chance for Rotarians to exchange ideas, collaborate, and strengthen bonds beyond their individual clubs.

A final reminder goes out for those interested in supporting the End Polio Now campaign and acquiring the End Polio Now Chuck Taylor shoes or prints of the inspiring painting "Hope" by Katri Redd. Additionally, a limited stock of note cards featuring this artwork is available at upcoming district events or order through the QR code on the right.

We're also in the last stretch of the Power of One Campaign with just two months remaining. It's time for clubs to assess their progress and make a concerted effort to grow by one net member, increase per-capita giving to The Rotary Foundation by one dollar, and engage with the broader world of Rotary by attending district, zone, or international events.

Choosing to participate in the Power of One Campaign isn't just about meeting targets; it's about becoming a better, stronger, and more impactful club collectively.

On a personal note, I want to share some recent health challenges I've faced. After experiencing fatigue and shortness of breath, I sought medical attention and was diagnosed with severe anemia. Despite ongoing medical consultations and treatments, the root cause remains elusive. Unfortunately, this means I won't be able to attend the International Convention in Singapore, a decision made with a heavy heart.

Our Convention Chair, Timothy Higdon will represent me and make sure our Utah delegation has fun and are able to connect, while experiencing what I can only say is one of the coolest aspects of Rotary, the International Convention.

I'm incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support, prayers, and well wishes from those in the District and my club who are already aware of my health problems. Your kindness and solidarity remind me of the strength of our Rotary community and the Hope we Create in the World.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to serving our communities, both locally and globally. Together, we truly are the Power of One, making a difference one act of service at a time.

Yours in Service,

John Redd

Utah Rotary District Governor 2023-2024

dgjohnredd@utahrotary.org

Peter Cardon named District Governor Designee for 2026-2027.

Peter Cardon, member of the West Jordan Rotary Club, has been named District Governor Nominee Designee for the Rotary Year 2026–2027.

The Selection Committee has confirmed his nomination and we congratulate him. We look forward to his leadership and stewardship of the principles of Rotary.

Important announcement from the District Tree Planting Committee

Amy May of TreeUtah, Committee Chair Jerry Summerhays,

Past District Governor Jose Velasco

Complete our 2022-2023 District Tree Planting Project

We have planted $150,000 worth of trees throughout Utah!

Help us plant 30-50 trees Saturday June 1, 9 am - noon

at Pleasant Green Park, 8000 W 3100 S in Magna, Utah.

Needed: 100 Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, friends and families, especially those closer to the Salt Lake Valley.

To sign up to help on June 1 go to

https://treeutah.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/tree-utah-volunteer-waiver

Take someone to this district project to meet the requirement

of Governor John Redd’s Power of One Campaign,

Engage in Rotary Beyond the Club Level.

We thank the many clubs that have planted trees in their communities as made possible by DG Jose Velasco, his Tree Committee, TreeUtah,

and the Joe and Kathleen Sorenson Legacy Foundation.

Invitational golf tournament to benefit the Utah Food Bank

The Washington City Rotary Club invites you to participate in this year’s Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament Invitational on Monday, June 10 at Green Spring Golf Course in Washington City.

This four-person scramble - men, women and mixed teams event - is $500 per team and includes T-shirts, 18 holes, cart, breakfast, lunch and prizes. Proceeds benefit the Utah Food Bank and Washington City Club service projects.

Entries are first come first serve. Register early with the QR code to ensure your spot. If you can’t place, please consider donating.

For a brochure/application/questions, contact BeverlyBWhipple@gmail.com (435) 705-1857

Your Piece of Peace - a presentation for your club

Rotary International estimates that more than 70 million people around the globe are displaced because of conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights violations. By carrying out service projects and supporting peace fellowships and scholarships, Rotarians take action to address the underlying causes of conflict.

But what about personal interactions? What creates peace in our own lives?

District Peace Chair Kris Swanson has created a presentation called Your Piece of Peace - thoughts on creating peace of mind in your own life and in your own community. To schedule her visit to your club, email kris@kristinaswanson.com or call 970-309-3353.

Rotary Youth Exchange students tour Utah's beautiful landscape with St. George Sunrise

Our district's six Rotary Youth Exchange students escaped the cold weather and were hosted by the St. George Sunrise Rotary Club to a fun, sunny weekend.

They went hiking in Snow Canyon and Zion and had lunch where scenes from High School Musical 2 were filmed. The Sunrise club gave them tickets to the county fair, so they took in all the rides and the rodeo, too. The students from Spain and Mexico may have seen bullfights before but never thought anyone was crazy enough to try to ride one! They said the fair was ”very American.”

This was one of their last activities together before RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Academy). Many thanks to all you Rotarians who helped these students feel at home in Utah this year!

RYLA is coming up in June.

RYLA is coming up June 12-15 at our new location, Wasatch Academy in Mt. Pleasant, Utah. We have a group of fantastic students registered to attend, but we do still have a few spots available. If you have high school students who you would like to send, here is the link for the application: https://www.IsMyRotaryClub.org/App/?ID=151

We have a terrific line-up of presentations, including Zone and District leadership educating the youth on Rotary and the value of Service Above Self; workshops with ethics, communications, leadership and of course, fun team-building and problem-solving activities. We look forward to sharing the success and many pictures in our social media pages and the district newsletter.

Thank you to those who have signed up to volunteer your time and talents to these students! Together we can impact our youth.

You can always contact our RYLA team at 5420.ryla@gmail.com.

Sydney H. King

Rotary District 5420 RYLA Chair

801.232.8476

Apply for Rotary Youth Foundation grants.

By now all Rotarians of District 5420 likely know there is funding available through the Utah Rotary Youth Foundation to support youth programs and projects in every club. Your members should also know they can support Utah Rotary youth programs by purchasing a Utah Rotary-Humanitarian license plate – OR by making an individual donation to this 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

It’s easy to apply for a grant for service projects for your club’s youth groups … but if you need additional information about the “how,” reach out TODAY to URYfoundation@gmail.com. Funds are available NOW so there’s need to wait to apply!

Engage young professionals.

The key to Rotary International's future.

In today's rapidly evolving world, Rotary International recognizes the crucial importance of engaging young professionals in its mission of service and community development. Young business professionals bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless energy to Rotary's global network.

By actively recruiting this demographic, Rotary not only ensures its relevance and vitality but also cultivates a diverse and dynamic membership base that can tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century with vigor and creativity.

To effectively recruit young professionals who align with Rotary's values and criteria for membership, several steps can be taken.

First and foremost, Rotary clubs should leverage social media platforms and digital marketing strategies to reach out to young professionals where they are most active.
Hosting networking events, workshops, and informational sessions specifically tailored to this demographic can also foster connections and spark interest in Rotary's mission.
Emphasizing the opportunities for professional development, leadership growth, and meaningful community impact within Rotary can resonate with young professionals seeking to make a difference in the world.
Creating flexible and minimal cost membership (RI and District Dues) options that accommodate the busy schedules and career demands of young professionals can enhance their willingness to participate and engage with Rotary initiatives.

By implementing these strategies and actively engaging with the younger generation, Rotary International can continue to thrive and make a lasting impact on communities worldwide.

Brent Parkin

District 5420 Membership Committee

(801) 698-5444

Avoid nasty accidents - file your grant report by June 15.

You are driving along doing what you are supposed to be doing and BAAAM! Out of the clear blue you are hit! It's happened to me! TWICE! Once when a drunk motorcyclist T-boned me and once a few years back when I was preparing a District grant and was told our club would not be receiving any District grant money as the grant from the previous year was not reported until after the deadline.

I was not a happy Rotarian.

That policy is again being enforced! June 15th is the absolute deadline to report on your District Grant! If you want to get money next year check to make sure the reports have been sent or will be sent by June 15th.

Bruce Powell

Utah Rotary District Foundation Chair

How to file your grant report on time - 4 simple steps.

Click here to download the Grant Report Form (Click on the File menu and then click on download. Save it with: Name of Club.Grant Report.date.
Fill the form out on your own computer - it's a simple Word document. Just enter all the information and hit save (again).
Scan copies of your receipts into one pdf document (or take pictures jpg or png)
Email or mail your completed form and copies of receipts to your District Grants Chair.

Now you're done! Extra money will be distributed mid-May for clubs who have filed complete Final Reports and receipts, and whose projects were not fully funded by your original grant.

Kris Swanson

District 5420 Grants Chair

Attention Incoming Presidents and Boards

File new grant applications by July 1.

July 1, 2024 Is the absolute deadline for new District Grant Applications for the 24-25 Rotary year. Now is the time to plan!

Download the Updated District Grant Guidelines. Click here.
Download the new Grant Application here.
Contact your District Grants Chair for details and answers to questions..

Additional End-of-Year to-do list

New Board members should be known by now. Your club leadership should enter this information on the Rotary International website. It is critical that Rotary knows who these board members are.
If you have a new Foundation Chair, Secretary etc. they will not have access to the information they need unless they are entered on the Rotary International website. Club Presidents need to do this.
If you are a new incoming Foundation chair, please email your name and club to brucepancho85@gmail.com.

Avoid problems. The Rotary year is ending, but new and exciting times are coming yet again! Baaam!

Bruce Powell

Utah Rotary District Foundation Chair

Make an end-of-year gift to the Rotary International Foundation.

Throughout this Rotary year, we’ve featured articles about The Rotary Foundation (TRF) and different ways to give.

Now that we’re approaching the end of the Rotary year, it’s time to double down on our giving! Many clubs set annual goals for giving as does the district. This year the district Annual Fund goal (based on the sum of club giving goals) is $197,000. Currently, we’re at 103%. However, the district has averaged contributions of $300,000 plus the last 3-4 years, so there’s no reason to think we can’t continue.

Last month we talked about the importance of the Paul Harris Society (PHS) as PHS members make up nearly a quarter of all contributions to the Foundation annually. As of now, we have 198 Paul Haris Society members in the district with 81 of those having met their annual commitment of giving at least $1,000.

To all members and clubs that have already given this year, THANK YOU! If you’re still planning on additional giving, please be sure any additional contributions are made by June 15 in order to assure they’re credited to this year.

Finally, if you’ve not yet signed up for Rotary Direct, it’s an easy way to make recurring donations without having to think about it.

Scott Florence

Annual Fund Sub-Committee Chair

Rotary Direct keeps on giving.

One way you can help Rotary continue to do good in the world is by enrolling in Rotary Direct, the Rotary Foundation's recurring giving program.

Because contributions are automated, donors need not worry about sending checks or remembering to make an annual contribution on time. Paul Harris Award recipients can ensure they receive a new pin every year. Rotary Direct saves time and reduces administrative costs. Monthly, quarterly, and annual gift options are available. Click here to enroll on the Rotary Direct webpage.

Sharing Hope with the World

2024 Rotary International Convention

Singapore, May 25-29 2024

It's not too late to register for the 2024 Rotary International Convention in Singapore at convention.rotary.org. When you arrive, you’ll be treated to the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and the centerpiece of the Singapore Changi airport’s retail and entertainment hub.

Water cascades seven stories from a glass dome. When darkness falls, the waterfall becomes a light and sound show. Circling the vortex is a terraced forest garden, with more than 900 trees and 60,000 shrubs spread out between elevated walking trails and balcony-like seating nooks. Don't miss the wonders of Singapore and the learning opportunities of the Convention. Register now.

May Rotary Magazine

Is youth mental health a problem in your community?

The chief medical officer at Children’s Hospital Colorado had never seen anything like it. In 2021 suicide had become the leading cause of death for children aged 10-18.If your community’s children are facing mental health issues, read about how members of the Rotary Club of Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburban club, crisscrossed Colorado to talk about youth mental health at Rotary club meetings.

Click here for the article.

The Club Hub

Get ideas, support other clubs! Send your service projects & fundraisers to

Newsletter Editor Lola Beatlebrox for this monthly section of the newsletter.

At the St. George Rotary Club this Rotary year’s 2nd order of oranges was delivered in April, bringing this project’s fundraising total to $7000+, including $300 for a local Scout troop.

Thanks to Cedar City Rotary for their very generous donation toward 125 Guatemala stoves estimated to cost $25,000 and which St. George Rotary needed to raise. Rotarians and friends will be traveling to Guatemala the week of June 1-8.

Thanks also to Chairman Dan McArthur who has raised almost $9,000 from Dixie State University alumni for the restoration of an historic monument at 86 S. Main on St. George Town Square. Work on this important project begins in May.

The Ogden Rotary Club had a really exciting month full of artificial intelligence, dance and music, and service. To kick the month off, Randy Boyle from Weber State University delivered a presentation on Artificial Intelligence and what he expects AI's impact to be on the future of the job market and the economy. It's going to be big! Later in the month, the Club was treated to a performance by the Moving Company, a dance institution for kids and young adults. For our service this month, we prepared "Pantry Packs" - packets of food and supplies that underprivileged students can take home to supplement their food needs over the weekend or a break from school, a project we enjoy doing a few times each year.

In April, the Millcreek Rotary Club supported the annual community resource fair at the Bud Bailey Apartment complex.

It was a collaborative effort of Millcreek Promise and Utah Housing Connect, along with many other community organizations.

Our team of six served hamburgers with all the fixings and chips, which were supplied by the Millcreek Promise team.

The Park City Sunrise Rotary Club holds four road cleanup projects in the spring and fall to beautify roads in Park City. Ten Rotarians enjoyed perfect weather on April 13 even though the ski resorts were still open and the slopes covered with snow, looking like December. Deer Valley Drive is one of the most traveled thoroughfares in Park City. Rotarians armed with huge trash bags, cleanup rods, and yellow safety vests spent an entire morning gathering roadside trash, enjoying each camaraderie, and the spring weather.

Southern Utah University Rotaract just had their closing social for the school year. We celebrated the year by looking back at all the amazing things we accomplished, announcing our incoming board, and writing letters to our professors to thank them for all they do for us! We are looking forward to the upcoming school year and to welcoming everyone down to Cedar City for the District Conference in September!

For two weeks, the weather forecast looked like the Hurricane Valley Rotary Easter Car Show would turn into a car wash. Either way, the show was going on.

Despite the forecast, the rain on March 30 held off until the awards ceremony was over. Although 45 cars that had been registered didn’t take part, some 250 cars were still on display.

The annual car show is a great team-building experience that gets new members really involved. The event was a wonderful success for the club and will help fuel its community service efforts in 2024-25.

Richfield Rotary Club was involved in several projects in March. The Utah Beef Producers open a new plant in Richfield and presented to our club prior to their open house.

Our club continues to help filling sack lunches for the area back pack club to provide weekend meals to food deficient students.

We continue to raise funds for $500 scholarships for graduating rural high school students who enroll at Snow College.

Our annual Memorial Day Breakfast will help raise funds for community projects.

There was a big turnout of Bountiful Rotary Club members for our Pantry Pack project for the Bountiful Food Pantry. We got about 260 packs completed. A big thanks to all who helped! Because of our club’s large contributions, we expect our Interact Club will be able to create another 150-175 packs! Thank you, Sidney, for coordinating that project! And a big thanks to Paul Summers for delivering those packs to the Food Pantry that night. I We never cease to be amazed by our Clubs’ generosity!

On April 24th 2024, Stephan Atkinson, President of the Utah International Mountain Forum, a coalition of student clubs at Utah Valley University and a member of the Utah Valley University Rotaractor Club, told Orem-Lindon Rotarians that he had graduated with an Honors Degree in Political Science. Stephan thanked Rotarians for their strong, unwavering support and in particular by involving in service projects through student-engaged learning. This assisted his acceptance to an International Relations Master’s program at King's College, London, where he will connect local Rotaractors with his peers in Utah. Stephan shared a letter of congratulation from the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister's office and from US Senator Cynthia Lummis.

Measure twice, cut once.

On Saturday April 20th the Murray Rotary Club assembled 22 people to do a significant remodeling of the clothing distribution area of the Fill-the-Pot facility. Fill-the-Pot is a private organization in downtown Salt Lake City that feeds and clothes the homeless population.

Fifty lineal feet of service windows, storage areas, and partition walls were assembled to provide better distribution flow for the clients and more storage area for clothing and necessities that are distributed each Sunday morning.

The storage area was cleaned and a new layout implemented. Fill-the-Pot leadership described the needs and the 22 volunteers turned the ideas into a very functional reality.

In April, Tony Allen, vice president of the St. George Musical Theatre (SGMT), invited members of the Washington City Rotary Club to “be a part of our dream.” The historic Opera House in downtown St. George has been the theatre’s home but their sell-out crowds need more space. A capital campaign is underway to make “its dream of a home of its own a reality.” The Theatre in partnership with the City of St. George will develop two acres south of downtown. The capital campaign has raised $7.8 million of its $13 million goal – and support remains strong – to build the new theatre and renovate a local movie house into a performing arts campus to help keep the arts alive in Southern Utah.

In an inspiring partnership with Park City’s Swaner Preserve and Eco Center, the Park City Twilight Rotary Club raised funds through an event called Wine for Wildlife.

The evening elegantly combined appreciation for wine and music with commitment to environmental stewardship.

Ticket sales alone raised $28,000 which each organization will share to fulfill their missions of stewardship and community service.

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