DG Message: WELCOME 22-23 Governor Lance

Hello fellow Rotarians. It is hard to believe that we are beginning the new Rotary year. I am incredibly grateful to be of service to you as we begin this exciting journey.

The theme for this year is Imagine Rotary. Certainly, this theme is timely as we are coming out of the pandemic and have a once in a lifetime opportunity to begin anew.

As we move forward into our new Rotary year, we must do so with renewed focus to the care and comfort of our members. Many of our members have fallen out of touch during the pandemic and will need to be reintroduce to Rotary. If we are going to be able to grow our membership, we first must retain the members that we currently have. We need to adapt and retool how we approach the engagement of our members. My hometown of Bloomington Indiana used to have a large traditional manufacturing base with companies such as RCA, GE, Otis Elevator and Westinghouse. Those factories are now all gone. Bloomington has had to adapt to this new normal and engage its employee base in new and innovative ways. Bloomington has been successful in this transition and has now become incredibly involved in the life sciences sector with companies like Cook, Inc., Catalent, Baxter and Boston Scientific. Bloomington has transitioned from manufacturing the first color television set to being part of the assembly chain in the manufacturing of the COVID-19 vaccines.

As Rotarians, we now have the opportunity to dream big and imagine new and exciting ways in which to engage our membership. We need to be focused on looking for ways in which to find the right part to engage all our members. We need to ask what members are looking for in Rotary and how we can help our members achieve their goals. We need to look for new and innovative ways to engage members and prospective members who may not fit into a traditional club format. We need to be acceptive of change and be open to experimenting with new club models and membership types.

As stated by RI President Jennifer Jones, “You don’t imagine yesterday, you image tomorrow.” Together let us all imagine how to enhance the Rotary experience for all our members.

Scenes from DG Kirk's June Visits

DG Kirk visits Rotary Club of Washington

from President AJ Miles: One of my goals as President of the Rotary Club of Washington this past year was to make Rotary more recognizable throughout our community. We put up signs by the highway and sponsored a few things, but I thought of this park to beautify this part of Washington because the road was just redone. With the support from Mayor Rhoads, we were able to use this location and it serves as the perfect spot. Our long term goal is to add to this to bring more awareness as to what Rotary does and is about. Washington has been so supportive of Rotary for a very longtime and we want to continue to that tradition and give back to this community that supports this club so much.

left to right. Jim Norton, Bob Barron, Shelly Shake, Kirk Bouchie, Don Spillman (in front of Kirk), Joe Wellman, Brenda Sobecki, Sherry Treadway (in front of Becky), Haley Liming, Frank Guratzsch, Chrissy Hooten, AJ Miles (my daughter Eliza in front of me.)

left to right: Bob Barron, Jim Norton, and Frank Guratzsch.

DG Kirk attends Brown County's Annual Meeting

2021-22 Brown County board & officers being recognized

Left: David Parry, who received the Vocational Scholarship and will be pursuing further education in the field of diesel mechanics. Right: Student of the Year, Aden Rice, who received a scholarship and will be attending IU-Purdue in the fall.


Gavel passed from President Mike Laros to PE Jim Tichenor

Youngest Rotarian, Ruby June, sponsored by parents Maddox and Alex Miller.

Thank you, Governor Kirk, for a GREAT Rotary Year!!

Changeover Ceremony 2022:
Incoming DG Lance lists goals for 2022-23

By Jim Bright, Rotary Club of Bloomington

More than 60 Rotarians and guests gathered on June 18 at the University Club on the IU-Bloomington campus for the installation of Lance Eberle as our 2022-23 District Governor. Lance, a 20-year member of Bloomington Rotary, succeeds Kirk Bouchie of Vincennes.

Joined by his wife Stephanie, sons Chase and John, and parents Frank and Judy, Lance thanked and recognized Kirk, PDG Jessika Hane (Bloomington Sunrise), DGE Shanon O’Toole (Vincennes); and DGN Mandy Lohrum (Greensburg) for their teamwork and support. He also thanked Executive Assistant Bettye Dunham, assistant governors-elect, the club presidents-elect and other members of the district leadership team.

“Rotary’s 2022-23 theme, Imagine Rotary, is very timely as we are coming out of the pandemic and beginning anew,” Lance said. “Now is the time that we need to imagine the possibilities and make the changes we need to transform the world.

“The pandemic has put a new focus on individual and community health and taking care of our neighbors,” Lance added. “As Rotarians, we know this as reflected in our continued efforts to eradicate the world of polio. Rotary’s polio eradication efforts date back to September 1979, when Rotarians took part in the administration of the drops of the oral polio vaccine to children in the Philippines. We have remained committed to our pledge and now we are truly this close when only five cases in 2022.

“Those who have run marathons know that the last mile is the hardest. We must continue to raise awareness of our polio efforts as we strive to get across the finish line to a polio-free world. This is why I am asking all our clubs to organize events around World Polio Day in October, to raise awareness and funds to achieve our goal.

“Think about the legacy that this will leave. Not only because of the success of the elimination of a dreaded disease, but the infrastructure, partnerships and collaborations that have been formed to address the world’s future health issues. Of which we can already see today in the rollout of the COVID vaccines.”

Other highlights of Lance’s remarks:

COMMUNITY SERVICE & DISTRICT GRANTS – “As we assist in the care of our world, let’s not forget about the great work we do within our communities. During the 2021-22 Rotary year, through our District Grant program, our clubs made a major difference in their communities.

SUPPORT ROTARY FOUNDATION – “To continue and increase our humanitarian service, we need to continue our support of the Rotary Foundation. I will reach out and ask all Rotarians to beat their best. In the last 10 years, the highest level of giving in District 6580 was $128 per member. I ask that we increase our contributions to an average of $130 per member. For less than a cup of coffee per week, we can achieve this goal and the tremendous impact it will have on our communities. (Foundation Chair) Jessika Hane and her team will work with us to meet this goal.

ENGAGE MEMBERS – “It may come as a surprise, but Rotary does not have an attraction problem. If you look at the data, District 6580 lost 1,100 members in the 5 years beginning July 2016 which represents a large portion of our current membership.

“Rotary has an engagement problem. Engaging members is crucial to retaining members. As Rotarians, we are going to need to adapt and retool when it comes to membership. Think of what we have seen take place in Bloomington, Indiana. Growing up here, we had a strong manufacturing base with companies like GE, Otis Elevator, Westinghouse and RCA. Those companies are no longer with us. Now Bloomington is becoming the hub for the life sciences, with companies like Cook, Catalent, and Boston Scientific to name a few. As reflected by the numbers, the traditional way of doing things is not working. Finding the right part to engage each member should be our core function and the key to growing our membership.

As we move forward into the next Rotary year, we need to imagine how we can redefine our club experience to better engage our members and grow our membership by a net two members per club. (Membership Chair) Bryan Hane and his team are available to assist with the clubs to help develop better ways to service its members.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION – “In that light, I want to ask everyone: Have you ever been in a situation that made you feel uncomfortable or out of place? That you walked into a room and did not look like the others? Have you been part of an organization and did not feel valued? Have you ever viewed your club through the eyes of a non-Rotarian or asked what their thoughts of Rotary are?

“Rotary’s vision statement states: ‘Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and ourselves.’ In order to accomplish this, we need Rotary to be a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization. As a District, we need to be committed to creating supportive environments that foster open communication and share learning.

“I do recognize that this is not an easy task as the Rotary experience does differ from club to club and the dynamics of our structures, histories and politics are relevant. Many of the conversations can be difficult. However, we must recognize that being a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization will enhance the experience that members have in Rotary, allow us to carry out more meaningful and effective service efforts and create open, welcoming environments that appeal to people who have a servant’s heart.
“So, we start to see how this all ties back to what Jennifer Jones speaks about in the care and comfort of our members. We want all our members to feel welcome, engaged, valued for the contributions and to feel that they are making meaningful contributions. In return, we will get a more engaged member, grow our membership and do more good in our communities.

“As stated by Maya Angelou: ‘I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ Is that not what Diversity Equity and Inclusion is?

“I would like to recognize Sue Wright for the work that she has done on this effort. With her leadership we have put together to assist Clubs in this effort and increase awareness of diversity, equity and inclusion.”

ROTARIANS REACT – 2021-22 Madison Rotary President Dana Riddle, joined by her successor, Jeff Studds, called the changeover “a lovely event.” “Rotary events really energize my soul,” she added.

2021-22 DG Kirk accepts results, issues pardons

In his changeover remarks, DG Kirk Bouchie had a little fun at the podium.
“I fully accept the results of the recent DG election,” Kirk said, “and I will be issuing pardons soon, including IU Catering for the district conference lunch.” The audience loved it.
Kirk also thanked club presidents and presidents-elect, Vice Governor Laura Carie, PDGs, committee chairs and their members, assistant governors, Administrative Assistant Bettye Dunham, and Rotary International and Zone leaders, including RI Director Elizabeth
Usovicz.

Govern Line: l to 4: DGDN Mandy Lohrum, DGN Shanon O'Toole , i PDG Jessika Hane,
DG Kir Bouchie, DGE Lance Eberle

Assistant Governors make Rotary STRONGER:
Who IS your club's AG?

by Bettye Dunham, District Administrative Assistant

Assistant governors are the connection between your club and the district. The relationships they build with club leaders make Rotary stronger.

What they do
• Visit clubs regularly: Meet with each club at least once a quarter either in person, by phone, or by web conference. Listening to them to discuss their concerns and needs, and provide information, resources, and advice that will allow them to be more successful.
• Promote the best practices recommended in Be a Vibrant Club: Your Club Leadership Plan. Help club leaders implement those practices.
• Keep the governor up to date on each club’s progress and identify areas that may need attention
• Help club leaders prepare for the governor’s official visit
• Monitor the progress of clubs toward their goals: Make sure your are on track with their goals and achievements in areas such as membership, service initiatives, and giving to The Rotary Foundation.

WHO IS THE ASSISTANT GOVERNOR FOR YOUR CLUB?????

AREA 1: Brazil, Terre Haute, Terre Haute South, Sullivan
Kim Ingalsbe continues as Assistant Governor for this area! THANK YOU, Kim, for all your dedication and commitment as AG.

kingalsbe@spinosoreg.com

AREA 2: Center Grove, Franklin, Greenwood, Martinsville
Mike Crumbo is the new Assistant Governor for Area 2. Thank you, Mike for stepping up in this leadership position. THANK YOU, Charles Miller, for your prior service as AG.

mike.crumbo@gmail.com


AREA 3: Jasper, Vincennes, Washington, Young Leaders of Vincennes
Gary Hackney is the new Assistant Governor for Area 3. Thank you, Gary, for stepping up into this leadership position. THANK YOU, Shanon O’Toole, for your previous years of service and we look forward to your leadership this year as DGE!

ghackney@gshvin.org

AREA 4: (The BEES!) Bedford, Bloomfield, Bloomington, Bloomington North, Bloomington Sunrise, IU Rotaract Club
Joy Harter is the new Assistant Governor for Area 4. Thank you, Joy, for stepping up into this leadership position. THANK YOU, Sara Laughlin, for your previous years of service!!


joytracy9@gmail.com

AREA 5: Brown County, Columbus, Columbus Sunrise, Seymour
Todd Boilanger is the new Assistant Governor for Area 5. Thank you, Todd, for taking on this leadership role. THANK YOU, Lukie, for your many years of service!!

boilanger@gmail.com

AREA 6: Batesville, Greensburg, Madison, North Vernon
Mandy Lohrum continues as Assistant Governor for Area 6. THANK YOU, Mandy, for your dedication and commitment as AG. We look forward to your leadership in the coming year as DGN as well!!

mandylohrum@gmail.com

AREA 7: Evansville, Evansville Morning, Evansville@night, Warrick County, Evansville Rotaract Club.
Sharon Oliva is the new Assistant Governor for Area 6. Thank you, Sharon, for ‘stepping up to the plate’. THANK YOU, Pepper, for your prior years of service.

solivarotary@gmail.com

AREA 8: Clark County, Corydon, New Albany, Salem
Scott Peyton continues as Assistant Governor for Area 8: THANK YOU, Scott, for all your dedication and commitment as AG.

speyton1961@yahoo.com

Thank you, ALL, for your leadership in Rotary!

Three- $500 Scholarships available for Emerging Rotary Leaders

RYLA Headed BACK to The Woods!!!

by Loren Snyder, District RYLA Chair

The last time RYLA was at Bradford Woods was back in 2019, when we hosted a record number of students from across Southern Indiana. Then we hosted a virtual RYLA Fall 2020 and ultimately were unable to be on-site or virtual in 2021.

Good things come to those who wait. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, RYLA is headed back on-site to Bradford Woods October 21-23, 2022.

We are very excited to be back at Bradford Woods, but we have our work cut out for us. Due to a significant loss of momentum and returning students to be less likely due to graduation. We will need a word-of-mouth campaign throughout Rotary Clubs and high schools across District 6580.

The weekend at RYLA and Bradford Woods changes lives and the trajectory of young people throughout District 6580 with the camaraderie, challenge courses, and conversations lead by the Bradford Woods staff.

We encourage Rotarians to join us on-site throughout the weekend to witness the beauty of Bradford Woods in the Fall and be inspired by tomorrow’s leaders. We will need a few volunteers to chaperone the cabins overnight. If you are interested in stopping by or volunteering, please feel free to contact RYLA Chair, Loren Snyder (371-407-1837; LASnyder@rwbaird.com).

Most importantly, please spread the word that “RYLA is Back!” Further event details, application, rules, and more to come.

Connecting with other Rotarians Around the World!
Martinsville Rotarian Exchanges Banners with Club in Belgium

Youth Exchange is BACK for 23-24!!

by Rowena Cross-Najafi, District Youth Exchange Chair

We are happy to announce that the Rotary District 6580 Youth Exchange Program is back for the 2023-2024 academic year! We will begin accepting applications this fall, with an anticipated application due date of October 15.

Rotary Youth Exchange is one of the largest, oldest and most respected exchange programs. Its goal is to promote the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace at the person-to-person level. While on exchange, students will have the opportunity to learn the language and culture of their host country.

What is included in the Youth Exchange Scholarship?
• School tuition
• Room and board (homestay) for a full academic year in a foreign country
• Small monthly stipend
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure in the host country
• 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance throughout the program
• Pre-departure and in-country orientations
• Overall, the scholarship is valued at around $20,000

Where can a Rotary Youth Exchange student go?
Rotary Youth Exchange includes nearly 40 countries, mostly in Europe, South America and Asia.

How long is the program?
10 - 12 months.

What are the qualifications?
Age: Students must be between 16-18 years old at the time of departure.
Academics: Student must be in the top half of his or her class for the most recent year.

How much does it cost?
The Rotary Youth Exchange fee was $6,500 in academic year 2019-2020, the last year in which District 6580 participated. That fee covered most of a student's expenses in preparation for the year abroad, transportation, conferences, and insurance. The student and his/her family are responsible for some expenses such as language preparation, required emergency funds, school uniforms if required in the host country, and trips during the student's stay abroad. Some countries also require additional insurance, the cost of which is not covered by the fee. Please keep in mind that costs have risen dramatically since 2019-2020; we will most likely have to adjust the fee upward.

District 6580 does not presently have the resources to offer scholarships to help cover student expenses. Students and families can, however, set up easy installments to pay the exchange fee.

We would very much like to know what clubs are interested in participating in the program this year, and whether you are hoping for both inbound and outbound students, or just one of the two. Please signal your interest in the program by reaching out to District 6580 Rotary Youth Exchange Chair, Rowena Cross-Najafi (rcross11@msn.com) or District 6580 Rotary Youth Exchange Outbound Coordinator Meg Butcher (mbutcher@cbbel-in.com).

District 6580 Receives Award for Paul Harris Society Growth

by PDG (!) Kirk Bouchie

We were recently notified that our district was one of four districts in Zone 30 that has exceeded 10% growth in Paul Harris Society membership. We had 15% growth this year. The Paul Harris Society is made up of Rotarians that commit at least $1000 per year to The Rotary Foundation Annual Fund. During the 2021/2022 Rotary year, our district had a net growth of eight new members, resulting in 15% growth. DG Kirk Bouchie commented, “I want to thank all of our Paul Harris Society members for stepping up to this very generous commitment each and every year. Also, a huge thank you goes out to DGND Mandy Lohrum for chairing our very successful PHS committee, within our foundation team led by iPDG Jessika Hane.” As a result, for the second year in a row, our district received a cash award of $2000 that will be used in coming months to promote foundation giving within our district. Thanks to all D6580 Rotarians that so generously support The Rotary Foundation.