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ROTARY DISTRICT 5300
THE MILLENNIUM TIMES
NET EDITION
(web address: http://www.district5300.org)

Highlighting the World of Rotary, District Activities,
Club Events and the People that Make it Happen!

ROTARY 2000:  ACT WITH CONSISTENCY, CREDIBILITY, CONTINUITY 

FOUNDATION RECOGNITION DINNERS SET FOR APRIL

DISTRICT TO HONOR TARO KAWA AS "MR. ROTARY FOUNDATION"
From Conrad von Bibra, PDG (South Pasadena)

The California Foundation Recognition Dinner, April 14th, will honor PDG Taro Kawa (Pasadena) as our district's "Mr. Rotary Foundation."  Taro has long been beloved both for his dedication and for the humorous stories he sprinkles through his speeches.  A past President of Montebello, he has been a member of the Pasadena club since 1977.  Over many years he has served our district as the Team Leader of a GSE Team, GSE Committee Chairman, Chairman of the Permanent Fund Committee, Chairman of the District's Rotary Foundation Committee and as District Governor in 1990-1991.  He is a Benefactor, Multiple Paul Harris Fellow and Major Donor.  The Rotary Foundation of R.I. has awarded him both the Citation for Meritorious Service and its highest honor, The Distinguished Service Award.

Mr. Jon Grant, The Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator, will present videos of humanitarian projects around the world and with Governor Garbis, will recognize new Paul Harris Fellows, Benefactors, and Major Donors.  Each club has been invited to nominate a club member to be recognized for his or her work with The Rotary Foundation and International Service.  Tickets to the dinner at the Industry Hills Sheraton Hotel are available through your club at $50.00 each or directly from Event Registrar, Carl von Bibra, 1810 Fair Oaks Ave., # 209, South Pasadena, Ca. 91030.  Telephone: 626.441.2279, Fax: 626.441.4048.

Congratulations to Taro Kawa:  From Jim Speer PDG 1962-63 - " Taro Kawa is a special friend to all and his life demonstrates his love of Rotary and the ideals of The Rotary Foundation."

 From Tim Siu PDG, 1987-88 - Taro Kawa never wanted to be a District Governor.  He said "All I want to be is a past District Governor."  Indeed, he did become a great PDG!  During his 35 years in Rotary, Taro has devoted his life to love, action, fun, fellowship and service, to the Objects of Rotary, and his true love, the programs of The Rotary Foundation. Congratulations Taro!

 From Chris Lyman PDG 1991-92 -  "Taro preceded me as Governor of District 5300 in Rotary Year 1990-91.  During his leadership year he kept me up-to-date on all the District's Foundation involvement because he wanted the Foundation to continue to be outstanding after he left office.  Taro held some very successful and productive Foundation events during his year as Governor and set a high standard for us to follow in the ensuing years.  Over the year, Taro has continued to be a key player in District Foundation activities, lending leadership, good ideas and suggestions as appropriate, and encouraging Rotarians throughout the District to be active contributors and supporters.  Taro, I salute you for your excellent Foundation leadership.  We owe you a great debt of gratitude."

From Ken Miller PDG, 1995-96 - "I was delighted to learn that PDG Taro Kawa had been selected as District 5300's "Mr. Rotary Foundation" for the 1999-2000 year.  There could have been no better choice.  Congratulations to the Committee and SPECIAL CONGRATULATIONS TO TARO AND TOSHI!" 

From Wayne Whistler PDG, 1997-98 - "There is no one I know that has been as deeply committed to The Rotary Foundation as Taro Kawa.  Not only has he been a generous contributor to The Rotary Foundation, but he has worked tirelessly to encourage others to support it.  He is a man who seeks no recognition for the many hours he has spent in support of the Foundation, but who deserves to much credit.  His dedication and persistent effort has convinced many Rotarians to contribute, for the first time, or to contribute more than they otherwise would, to the Foundation." 

From Garbis Der Yeghian District Governor -" What a perfect recognition of your outstanding and unparalleled contributions to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International and our beloved District.  Through your visionary District leadership, enthusiasm, tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to the ideals of Rotary in our District, as well as the Rotary World, by engaging all of your confidence and energy in the progress of The Rotary Foundation.  While most measure success in terms of personal achievement, it is noteworthy that your successes are highlighted by the numerous endeavors you have undertaken on behalf of others, thus bringing peace, health and happiness to people everywhere.  What a wonderful dream to live for!  All Rotarians in District 5300 join me and Angela in wishing you and Toshi continued success in your worthy endeavors."

From John Fee PDG, 1986-87 - My sincere congratulations to PDG Taro Kawa for being selected "Mister Rotary Foundation" for 2000.  Also congratulations to Rotary District 5300 for choosing him.  I have known Taro for almost 25 years, and during that time he has always been an intensely dedicated promoter of the Foundation.  In my view, he really deserves the honor.

 FOUNDATION RECOGNITION DINNER FOR CALIFORNIA CLUBS
From Ken Au (Covina)

to reserve space, clubs are asked to turn in Club Registration Form by March 17. Process now any applications you want awarded, such as initial Paul Harris Fellows.  General Questions: Ken Au @ 262.335.0968.  Black Tie Optional

ROTARY FOUNDATION CELEBRATION EVENTS
From Garbis Der Yeghian, District Governor

GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE
THE UNCHANGING UNDERTONE OF GOODWILL
By Dr. Garbis Der Yeghian, District Governor (La Verne)

Friendship was the foundation rock on which Rotary was built and tolerance is the element  which holds it together - PAUL HARRIS

In honor of the 132nd birthday of Paul Harris (April 19, 1868), the visionary founder of the first and greatest service organization in the world - - Rotary International - - we proudly mark this auspicious occasion in District 5300 by celebrating the following seven important events in the months of March and April, 2000.

1. Cultural Diversity Celebration Day - March 26, at South El Monte High School - - a special day of appreciation and fellowship to promote better understanding and friendship across cultural lines.

2. Inaugural Flo Jo Memorial/Arcadia Invitational - April 8, at Citrus College in Glendora - - to honor America's future Olympians and their quest and dreams for the Olympic Gold Medal.

3. Seventh annual Rotary International District 5300 Peace Conference entitled "World Religions and the Quest for Peace in the 21st Century." - April 15, at University of La Verne - - to celebrate our religious diversity and promote peace and unity.

4. Two Rotary Foundation Celebration Dinners in Southern California (April 14) and 

5. Southern Nevada (April 19) - - to recognize our new Paul Harris Fellows, Foundation Benefactrors and Major Donors, and to honor our illustrious Past District Governor Taro Kawa as "Mr. Rotary Foundation 2000."

6. Establishing a District-wide Conflict Resolution Academy - - to develop, learn, teach and implement conflict resolution skills for personal, professional, community and international effectiveness.

7. Rotary District 5300 Volunteers Week - April 9-15 - - to show our volunteer Rotarians, Rotary Partners, Rotoractors, Interactors, Mideractors, and friends how much we appreciate them. Recognize the efforts of your volunteers and salute and pay tribute to those who so unselfishly give their time and talents to your club.

"Peace comes only from loving, from mutual self-sacrifice and self-forgetfulness.   Few today have humility or wisdom enough to know the world's deep need of love.  We are too much possessed by national, racial and cultural pride."  (Horrace W. B. Donegan, D. D.).  But fortunately man-made boundaries crumbled when Paul Harris proffered his hand and heart in the spirit of understanding.  Through his profound dedication, humility and wisdom he shaped the essence of Rotary.  And so today, the ideals of our founder stand as warm and wise as they were in the beginning.  "Rotary itself,"  Paul Harris said, "offers a preview of the world at peace . . The ways of friendship are mysterious . . . There is depth of friendship in the hearts of some otherwise very commonplace men, which is nearly sublime . . . In the final analysis it seems to me that it must have been intended as the salvation of mankind."

I invite all Rotarians in District 5300 to actively participate in the aforementioned activities in honor of our dedicated founder, whose visionary, leadership, enthusiasm and commitment to: "Service Above Self" has touched and will certainly continue to enrich the lives of each and every Rotarian in District 5300 and throughout the Rotary World.

Let humility, tolerance and wisdom be our beacons as we carry out our ambitious agenda for the year, and let us never relax our search for the path of peace, because the alternative is unthinkable.  The challenge of world peace, goodwill and understanding . . . is the most pressing imperative of our time and I strongly believe it is Rotary's destiny . . . to change the world for the better.

GOVERNOR GARBIS ESTABLISHED CONFLICT RESOLUTION ACADEMY

Peace cannot be achieved through violence,  it can only be attained through understanding - Albert Einstein

The Conflict Resolution Academy (CRA) is a peace program of Rotary International District 5300.  Its purpose is to develop, learn, teach and implement conflict resolution skills for personal, professional, community and international effectiveness.

Conflict is a natural part of our lives.  We differ in needs, wants and motivation.  Conflict often accompanies changes in our institutions or personal growth.  Conflict can be a sign of hope reborn and it may serve a positive role for change.  It is how we deal with conflict that makes it either beneficial or destructive.

We all have choices when resolving conflict.  Some try to avoid the issue; others turn to force or violence.  Resolving problems peacefully is a matter of great urgency today, in our local communities as in the world as a whole.  Learning to negotiate or mediate mutually acceptable resolutions to conflicts is a skill which can be mastered with training and commitment.

Why does this matter to Rotary International District 5300?  The fourth element of the Object of Rotary is "the advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service."  The challenge for Rotary to play a role in peaceful dispute resolution is as great as ever.  As leaders within their vocations and communities and members of an international non-profit organization committed to service, Rotarians in District 5300 are ideally situated to help find solutions to help find solutions to a variety of conflicts.

Conflict Resolutions is part of Rotary International's goal of World Peace and Understanding.  In the Rotary publication Building Peace in the Community, a statement is made that "the ways Rotarians can build peace in their communities - global, local, workplace, and club - are legion."  Rotarians with skills for resolving conflicts can take leadership roles in peacekeeping.

MISSION AND GUIDELINES

1. Highlight the growing use of and potential for mediation in a wide range of disputes.

2. Motivate Rotarians to see dispute resolution as an avenue of public service.

3. Identify skills, techniques, activities and resources for conflict resolution.

PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

1. Organize bi-annual seminars, workshops and panel discussions on conflict resolution.

2. Sponsor an annual conference on World Peace.  Co-sponsor Model U. N. program with the United Nations associations in Southern California.

3. Arrange for speakers on mediation and arbitration for Rotary club programs - "Mediation: An       Alternative to Fists, Guns and Courts."

4. Coordinate International Friendship Exchanges to promote mutual respect and understanding.

5. Establish a program of matching funds for School Mediation programs supported and funded by District 5300 Rotary clubs.

6. Publish a quarterly newsletter.

7. Present Peace Ambassador and Mediator of the Year awards annually to people and organizations whose work has made the greatest contribution  to the peaceful resolution of a conflict.

For further information contact Governor Garbis @ 818.548.9345.

CULTURAL DIVERSITY CELEBRATION DAY - MARCH 26TH
 From Linda Holman, Event Chair (South El Monte)

The purpose simply stated is to become better acquainted.
As we live and work side by side, negative attitudes must change
by celebrating the beauty of our diversity
Celebrating the Art and Spirit of Cultural Diversity With
Music - Dancing - Food and More  -  Admission is Free
March 26, 2000 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM
South El Monte High School - 1009 Durfee Rd. South El Monte, Ca.
(Peck Road exit off Pomona (60) Freeway)
For more information contact Linda Holman @ 626.443.8733; Fax 800.870.2467

MILLENNIUM DISTRICT CONFERENCE - "BACK TO THE FUTURE"

WHO? ROTARIANS AND THEIR FAMILIES  WHEN? MAY 18-21, 2000 
WHERE? HYATT REGENCY LONG BEACH

 HIGHLIGHTS

6 Outstanding Speakers, 4 Plenary Sessions, Talent Show
Dan Stover Music Competition and Four-Way Speech Contest Awards,
GSE teams from India and Lebanon, Rotary Trivia Championship,
RI and District Awards, Governor's Ball,
FUN AND FELLOWSHIP

SPEAKERS

The Honorable George Deukmejian, Former Governor of California
The Honorable Lee Baca, Los Angeles County Sheriff
Dr. Otto Austel, Governor, RI District 5240
James A. Speer, PRID, PDG
James Bruce Joseph Sievers,
RI President Carlo Ravizza's Representative

PLENARY SESSIONS

Club Service, Community Service, Vocational Service, International Service,
Foundation, and "Dreams for the Future"

SPECIAL EVENTS

Children/Youth Activities, Sports Day, Excursions, Club Displays,
Silent Auction, Solo Rotarians Mixer, Interact World Peace Mural Competition

HOW TO REGISTER

Complete and return Registration Form/Payment to the Registrar:
Jan Lemons, 350 S. Garvey Ave., P. O. Box 1520 Pomona, Ca. 91769
Tel: 909.623.2323 X 733: Fax: 909.620.0296: e-mail: janlemons@pffb.com

HOTEL RESERVATIONS

Contact Hyatt Reservations @ 800.233.1234 or the Hotel directly
@ 562.491.1234 and ask for the special Rotary Room Rate
of $119.00 per night

District Conference Hosts: Governor Garbis and Angela Der Yeghian
District Conference Honorary Chair: Jim A. Speer, PRID, PDG
District Conference Chair: Jerry & Marci Smith (Covina)

DON'T MISS THIS ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY

A KEY ELEMENT TO MEMBERSHIP STABILITY
  One in a Series: From  Jim Speer, Past Director, R.I. (Covina)

A sense of timing is important if we are to have success in carrying out those activities which make for a vibrant Rotary club.  Certainly, a sense of timing is essential if Rotary clubs are to insure membership stability to overcome losses and provide a degree of growth.

So often membership development activity is placed on the "back burner" until the club lreadership realizes it must somehow overcome current membership losses which affects the lasting image of a club administration.  By the time the leadership realizes what is happening it is difficult to overcome the losses.

An effective membership stability strategy must be in operation when the Rotary year starts on July 1st!  It is often said, "We plant the seeds for membership growth in the first six months and then hopefully reap the harvest in the second six months."  To a great extent this is true, but our plan for membership stability and growth calls for a program of continuity throughout the entire Rotary year.

A club's Membership Committee and club membership awareness may have gotten off to a slow start during the current Rotary year.  Regardless, it is never too late to get organized, develop a membership growth plan and then make sure it is active throughout the remainded of th the Rotary year.

An analogy to membership development is worth remembering:

"Plants either grow or die. There is no such thing as suspended animation"

GSE TEAM RETURNS FROM INDIA
From Chris Montan, GSE Chair (Alhambra)

On Saturday, February 12th, Governor Garbis, GSE Committee members, friends and families met the district's GSE Team on its return from District 3240 in India.  GSE Team leader, Margaret Cooker (Victorville), and her GSE team members are now available to share their experiences with your Rotary club.  Contact them directly to schedule a speaking engagement:

Margaret Cooker (Victorville) 760.243.5928; Uzi Daniel (Alhambra) 626.286.5586.x24; Eva Esteban (Las Vegas) 702.895.3641; Paula Faust (Montebello) 323.887.4658; Keith Gage ( East Los Angeles) 323.266.0182.

SUMMER 2000 SHORT TERM HOST FAMILIES NEEDED
From Dick Miller, District Short Term Exchange Chair (Henderson)

Arrangements for Short Term youth exchange students for the summer of 2000 is now a top priority for our committee.  Each Rotary club is asked to bring up the subject of Home Hosting for a 3 week period this summer.  Hosting periods vary from June through August and can be adjusted to fit almost any schedule.  During this past Rotary year we HOSTED 26 students from 6 different countries.  For further information contact Dick Miller @ 702.558.5476, or Frank Carroll @ 702.294.3173

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MARCH 17TH FOR GSE TEAM CANDIDATES
From Chris Montan, GSE Chair (Alhambra)

Clubs have until Friday, March 17, 2000 to submit their candidate applications for the outbound GSE Team to District 1200 - England.  The area covers Dorset, Witshire and Somerset, and has beautiful coastlines on both the east and west.  Tourism and agriculture are the two principal industries of the region.  Team travel dates are October 1 - October 30, 2000.  Inbound GSE teams will be hosted in our District from April 22 through May 24, 2000.

A qualified candidate is any young professional between the ages of 25 and 40 who lives or works in District 5300, be in good health, well-spoken, have been employed full time for at least two years,  and be able to leave business or family for a full month of travel.  In addition, there are hours of orientation and team preparation in advance of the exchange. Successful candidates will commit to the completion of a final report and speaking to District Rotary Clubs upon their return.  Travel expenses are paid by the Rotary Foundation, and team members stay in the homes of Rotarians.  This is a wonderful opportunity for the right professional in your community! Contact GSE Committee Chair Chris Montan @ 626.308.4880 for an application form.

GOVERNOR'S SPECIAL AWARDS TO RECOGNIZE PDG'S
From Gary Fox, District Awards Chair (Alhambra)

(Note: Refer to "District 5300 Awards 1999-2000" information materials for eligibility and requirements).

One of the highlights of the annual District Conference is the presentation of awards to clubs and individual members.  The RI Presidential Citation, Governor's Award, Governor's Special Awards and Outstanding Rotarian of the Year provide recognition for outstanding service.

This year, the Governor's Special Awards will be in honor of a Past District Governor (PDG).  Awards and honored PDG's are as follows:

District Membership Award, PDG Jim Speer (Covina)
Club Attendance Award, PDG Roy McDaniels (Covina)
Club Newsletter Award, PDG "Joe" Buckley (Las Vegas)
Club Display, PDG Art Ferris (Altadena)
Quality Rotary Program Reports, PDG John Fee (Arcadia)
PRLS Award, PDG Steve Garrett (Sierra Madre)
Youth Service Award, PDG "Jerry" Tambe (Claremont)
International Youth Service Award, PDG Richard Miller (Dist. 6298 - Michigan)
Foundation - Sustaining Membership Award, PDG Eldon Osborn (Pasadena Sunrise)
Foundation - 100% Paul Harris Club, PDG Tim Siu (Alhambra)
Foundation - Major Donor Club, PDG Taro Kawa (Pasadena)
Foundation - Benefactor Club, PDG Conrad von Bibra (South Pasadena)
Club Extension Award, PDG Kirk Isitt (Barstow)
Teacher/Educator Award, PDG Lee Mothershead (San Marino)
Volunteer Award, PDG Don Aiken (Las Vegas)
Community Leader/Public Official Award, PDG Wayne Whistler (Glendora)
Rotary Family Award, PDG "Chris" Lyman (Glendora)
Most Make-Ups - With Club Flags, PDG Walter Lack (San Dimas)
Best Fundraising Program, PDG Ken Miller (Las Vegas)
Most Improved Club Award, PDG Ernie Jensen (Arcadia)
Outstanding Club Award, PDG Myron Stolp (Pasadena)
Distinguished Club Millennium Award, In Honor and Memory of PDG "Bill" Walk.

DISTRICT-WIDE INTERNATIONAL LITERACY PROJECT LAUNCHED
From Doloras Diaz-Carey, District International Literacy Chair (East Los Angeles)

If your club is still searching for an International Project, we've got one for you!  Imagine making literacy a reality for the children of Winterveldt, South Africa.  Join the Winterveldt School Project of the Rotary Club of Pretoria East, TOGETHER WE CAN!  We think you will find it compelling.  Through the efforts of Michael Fels  (East Los Angeles),  Annaeus Schjodt of the Pretoria club, and Governor Garbis support for the Project has become a District 5300 Project....Funds for paying the teachers are urgently needed....It is estimated that it will take about five years before the school can finally become independent and can be transfered to the community to manage.  Our goal is to collect an average of $10.00 from each Rotarian in District 5300...a total of $28,000. To do that, Governor Garbis proposes the following " per club" contribution:

Please consider this very important project.  Make checks payable to R.I. District 5300 and mail to: Dr Michael Fels, 5151 State University Dr., Los Angeles, Ca 90032.  (See pictures on collage page)

PROMOTING LITERACY IN ALHAMBRA
From Tim Siu, PDG (Alhambra)

The Rotary Club of Alhambra and the Soroptimist Club of Alhambra-San Gabriel-San Marino continue their joint effort in promoting literacy.  The second distribution of books has been completed to third grade students in Alhambra and San Gabriel Scholls. 1200 books were distributed on this occasion.

Soroptimists and Rotarians visited the schools and read to students, demonstrating the fun of reading.  The students were then invited to select a book from the collection of books brought by the volunteers.  The students are encouraged to make their own selections. Each student will have three books to call their own by the end of the school year.  A total of 3,600 books will be distributed by the end of the school year.

This project promotes literacy by putting books into the hands of children and into their homes.  Teachers can promote the love of reading by having the children share their books with each other and with their families.  Children develop more self esteem and they are encouraged to read to their siblings and parents.

Increased literacy is a high priority community service to Soroptimists and to Rotarians.  Funds raised in the community arfe directed to this type of service.

ALTADENA CLUB HOSTS 14 JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT TEACHERS FROM ARMENIA

At a recent meeting 14 teachers who participate in the Junior Achievement program of Armenia were hosted by the club.   Over the past several years the Altadena club, along with several other club's from the district, have donated over $32,000 to support the Junior Achievement program.  The goal is to establish JA programs in all 10 regions of Armenia.  For over 70 years, the country lived under Communism and did not develop a free market system.  The JA program started in 1992 with just 8 schools in the country.

Today, the Junior Achievement of Armenia (JAA) program is part of the curriculum in over 350 schools throughout Armenia.  This number represents approximately 25 percent of the schools in Armenia.  There are over 24,000 students currently enrolled in JAA studies.  The teachers who are involved in the JAA receive extensive training prior to their teaching.  They go to a two-month training program in the summer.  In addition, they receive one to two hours of training every week during the school year.  As part of their training, selected teachers come each year to the United States where they have the opportunity to observe American schools and governmental agencies.  Altadena Rotarians Ray Carlson and Luther Eskijian have been instrumental in establishing the Junior Achievement program in the club.

SIERRA MADRE CLUB FOCUSES ON READING PROGRAM

During a four week promotional period in November, 1999, Sierra Madre Rotarians were able to raise $1100 for the "Read By Nine Program."  With $1100 of matching funds from Scholastic Books and $100 from the Los Angeles Times, the club was able to provide 600 recreational reading books, and 800 classroom books for grades K-3 at the Sierra Madre Elmentary School.  Going the extra mile, club members raised an additional $700 to provide 100 copies of a much needed World Atlas for the elementary students.  Rotarian Pete Siberel, who spearheaded the club's "Reading By Nine" program expressed the hope that the program would continue next year so that classroom and recreational reading books will be available to instill the joy of reading in today's classrooms.

LEBANESE AND ARMENIAN DIPLOMATS ADDRESS LA VERNE ROTARIANS
From San Gabriel Tribune

The Honorabale John Makaron, Counsul General of Lebanon and the Honorable Armen Melkonian, Armenia's Consul General in Los Angeles were recently hosted by the Rotary Club of La Verne.  Consul General Melkonian presented an in-depth political and economic analysis of Armenia. 

Consul General Makaron delivered a provocative speech in which he highlighted several requirements for diplomats and detailed the finer points of what many consider to be an art.  "Diplomacy is to do and say the nastiest thing the nicest way,"  and adding, "A diplomat should think twice before saying nothing."  And lest anyone think diplomacy and politics are the same, Makaron explained the difference:  "The difference between diplomacy and politics is diplomacy is about surviving in the next century,"  "Politics is about surviving 'til the next afternoon."

The distinguished speakers were introduced by District Governor Dr. Garbis Der Yeghian, who also presented appreciation plaques to the club visitors.

MONTEREY PARK CLUB IN THE LOCAL NEWS
From the Monterey Park Journal, Courtesy of Club President Linda Wilson

Club Spotlight  - WHAT IS ROTARY?  ....Rotary International of Monterey Park was established November, 1946.  It serves the community through a variety of programs, including the Buddy Program at MERCI (Mentally & Educationally Retarded Citizens, Inc.), contributes to LAMP Literacy, 4th of July celebrations, DARE program, the Monterey Park library, the Boys and Girls Club, among others.  It also has provided support to Romona Convent School, Mark Kepple High School, Los Angeles High School for the Performing Arts and Macy Intermediate School.

Although MP Rotarians primarily serve Monterey Park, they take the "International" designation of their organization seriously.  During the past few years they have helped with war relief in Kosovo, contributed to provided a fire truck to a town in Mexico, supported a Mexican orphanage, and assisted with earthquake relief in Taiwan.

Monterey Park Rotary meets  Thursdays at 12:10 p.m. at Luminarias Restaurant.  For more information, click onto the club's web page http://members.@aol.com/mprotary/mprotary.html. Or contact club president Linda Wilson at 626.307.5650, e-mail: lindawilson@juno.com.

FOOTHILL SUNRISE ROTARY PLANS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNEY

The 9th annual Richard Diaz Memorial Golf Tournament at Sierra La Verne Country Club has been set for Monday, May 22, 2000.  The 4 person scramble will begin at 12:00 noon.  Proceeds will benefit the Educational progress of elementary school children in Azusa, Glendora, Irwindale, and other Rotary club projects.

The $150.00 entry fee includes green fees, golf cart, box lunch, tee prizes, awards, dinner and raffle ticket.  Entries must be received by May 1, 2000.  Sponsorships are still being received.  For further information 800.237.1252.

 A SPIN AROUND THE WHEEL
By Anne Donofrio-Holter (Montebello)

EDITOR'S NOTE: This new feature provides a brief summary of club activities from around our district compiled from club bulletins..  If you would like your club's events and highlights included in "A Spin Around The Wheel'" please send your weekly club edition to Anne Donofrio-Holter, PMB 145, 1012 W. Beverly Blvd. Montebello, Ca. 90640.  LE

Proceeds from the Pahrump Club's annual raffle have supplied computers to the local library, purchased trees for the community, and equipment for the park.  In addition, half of the proceeds go to the "Boo To Abuse" Center.

The Victorville Club participated in registering people for a bone marrow program.  The club has also started a blood bank.  Any Rotarian in the high desert can get blood at no cost.  In addition, with the help of a grant from the County of San Barnardino, every other month the club sponsors an immunization clinic and immunizes between 1,500 and 2,000 people.

In a show of appreciation, this past New Year's Eve, the Boulder City club catered dinner for the city's fire and police departments.  In addition, the club donated $ 10,000 towards the new exhibits at the Hoover Dam Museum.  The club has also approved donations to the Boulder City Hometown Fiddlers, the Boulder City High School Eagles football team for a trip to Disney World, the Pack 12 Cub Scouts towards the rebuilding of their Pinewood Derby track, and to the Boulder City Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament.

Montebello club members delivered warm clothing and blankets to 350 children in two Tijuana orphanages last month.  The clothing was purchased for the children by club members.  Each member adopted one or more of the children and purchased items specifically for them.  The blankets arrived at the height of the flu season so orphanage officials were very grateful.

Club members also pruchased tickets for 40 elementary school students to attend a performance of "Peter and the Wolf" at the San Gabriel Civic Auditorium.

The Duarte club awarded Duarte High School Art and English teacher Terri Lujan a grant for $205.  With the funds, Lujan purchased a Sony boom box with AM/FM radio, CD player and tape deck, a rolling stereo cart, and several compact disks and tapes.  Her application, one of three selected, was chosen because of her devotion and dedication to teaching her students.  She provides her students with a structured curriculum that focuses on working together, cooperation, sharing, and relying on one another.

The Laughlin club awarded 21 mini grants totaling $6,589 to Laughlin High School and Bennett Elementary.  Over the past eight years, the club has awarded a total of $54,589 to the two schools.

The Covina Sunrise club started an after school activities program in the local elementary district.

The West Covina Interact club participated in a PTA reading festival, volunteered their time at the local YMCA doing whatever was needed, and are involved in the "Daffodils for Cancer" program.  The students are also collecting school supplies for a needy community in New Guinea.

The Alhambra club awarded 61 local teachers mini grants ranging from $60 to $200 each, totaling $7,294.  The awards were presented during the last school board meeting.  This is the 8th year the club has presented mini grants to local teachers.

This year, the Altadena club will set a new club record for scholarships given.  The club has several scholarship programs at Pasadena City College, John Muir High School, Blair High School, and Pasadena High School.  Several students at John Muir will receive scholarships for the business plans developed through their Junior Achievement classes, and several scholarships will be given to members of the ROTC programs at the high schools.

100! That is the number of Pasadena Rotarians that President Bob Monk promised would attend the District Conference.  Given his military background, Bob and his Conference Committee have formed a brigade known as Monks' Millennium Brigade which is planning an all-out assault on Long Beach.  The club's hospitality suite will be headquarters for the Brigade.

THE MILLENNIUM DISTRICT
CONFERENCE INFORMATION
From Jerry & Marci Smith, District Conference Chair (Covina)

For more information, contact: Jerry & Marci Smith  @ 626.339.7300; Fax 626.339.4540, or leave message @ 909.629.0273.

ON-GOING PROGRAMS

1999-2000 AWARDS PROGRAM - Contact Gary Fox, Awards Chair (Alhambra): Telephone, 562.429.8696; Fax, 562.425.6245; e-mail, foxlairxx@aol.com.

CHARACTER COUNTS -  Contact Rev. Butch Fahnestock, Character Counts Committe Chair (Victor Valley Sunrise)

CLUB BULLETIN - Rueben Merchant (Henderson) 702.565.3935.

CLUB EXTENSION - Contace Clif Earp (Apple Valley) 760.244.4818.

COMPUTER/INTERNET LITERACY - Ed Holley (Apple Valley) 760.241.0036.

DAN STOVER & FOUR-WAY SPEECH CONTESTS -  Dan Stover:   Contact Francis Moore, Chair (Alhambra) or Jim Veltman, Chair (LV Northwest).  4-Way Speech:  Contact Sam Howe, Chair (San Dimas) or Tom Novotny, Chair (LV West).

DISTRICT FOUNDATION -  Contact PDG John Fee (Arcadia),  PDG Conrad von Bibra (South Pasadena)

EXCHANGE STUDENT HOSTING - Contact  Dick Miller District Short Term Exchange Chair, (Henderson)

HOST FAMILY PROSPECTS!!!  For additional information contact Dick Miller, Chair, @ 702.558.5476 or Frank Carroll, Vice Chair @ 702.294.3173.

GEORGE R. HENSEL PRIZE IN ETHICS ESSAY CONTEST FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS First prize will be $1000; 2nd prize $500; 3rd prize $300, and honorable mention $100.  For additional information, qualifications and requirements contact: Governor Garbis Der Yeghian, 5507 Los Robles, La Verne, Ca. 91750.  Telephone: 818.548.9345.

 INTERACT CLUBS - Contact Ed Jasnow, District Interact Chair (Altadena) 626.395.3044.

 JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT - From C. Ray Carlson, Junior Achievement Chair (Altadena) 626.798.0404.

 KIDERACT CLUBS -  Contact Dave Beltran Youth  Service Chair (East Los Angeles) 323.722.4870.

 MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT - Contact Jenni Del Castillo, District Chair (South El Monte) Telephone, 626.442.4470; Fax, 626.444.2763, e-mail, jdelcast@sprintmail.com

 MENTOR COMMITTEE - Contact  Austin Weston, Club Mentor Chair (Pasadena), Telephone, 626.797.5693; Fax, 626.791.7066.

POLIO PLUS  PARTNERS - Contact Ken Au - PolioPlus Partners Chair (Covina) Additional information can be obtained from Ken Au @ 626.335.0968, or PDG Conrad von Bibra, District Foundation Chair.  Ken Au is also available for PolioPlus presentations at club meetings.

 PRLS - Contact Steve Garret, PDG, (Sierra Madre) 626.294.0802

 PROGRAM/SPEAKERS BUREAU - Brad Underhill (Apple Valley) 760.243.9599.

ROTARACT CLUBS - Contact John Najarian, Rotaract Chair (Claremont)  909.626.6199.

ROTARY PARTNERS SOCIALS - Contact Jerry and Marci Smith (Covina)  626.339.7300; Sharon or Frank Kautzmann (LV Northwest) @ 702.256.6549.

RYLA SELECTION AND FACILITATOR TRAINING - Contact Barbara Risher- Welch, Chairperson (Montebello) Telephone, (W) 562.699.0916, (H) 562.431.1426.

 UP-COMING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE - From Sylvia Whitlock (Duarte)  Deadline is March 15, 2000.  Contact Sylvia @ 909.596.3586 or Email Sylvia5@msn

CULTURAL DIVERSITY APPRECIATION DAY MARCH 26, 2000 - From Linda Holman-Konieczny (S El Monte)

In honor of Cultural Diversity, Governor Garbis has called for a day of celebration.  This event is in the planning stages and is scheduled for Sunday, March 26, 2000.  The Day will include dancing groups, music, games, and delicious foods from the many different cultures that make up our communities.  This will be a special day of fun, fellowship, and festivities to promote understanding and appreciation of our differences.

We need input from your club.  Does your club have a cultural aspect that you would like to contribute.  We need committee members.  To be in on the planning or to share your ideas, please contact Linda Holman-Konieczny @ 626.443.8733; Fax 626.443.1939; Email www.LindaAims@aol.com.

LAUGHLIN ROTARY CLUB GOLF TOURNAMENT - Bob McLean Club Director

All Rotarians are welcome to try their luck at the $$ Million Dollar $$ "Hole in One" Golf Tournament.  The Tournament will be on March 26th in Laughlin, Nevada and is considered the premier tournament in the Tri-state area.  Contact Joe Cleary @ 702.299.0090 or Chuck Winn 702.298.0055 for information/reservations. All Rotarians are invited to the Laughlin Rotary for make-up meetings when visiting.  Wed @ 7:30 a.m. at the Harrah's Hotel buffet.

 INAUGURAL FLO-JO MEMORIAL/ ARCADIA INVITATIONAL -  From Ron King, Event Chair (Walnut Valley)

On April 8, 2000, District 5300 will host the Inaugural Flo-Jo Memorial/Arcadia Invitational  at Citrus College in Glendora, Ca.  Honored Olympians and Rotarians worldwide will come to welcome their new millennium commitment to America's youth.  This Invitational will not only honor one of America's greatest female track athletes, but will also honor all future Olympians and their quest and dreams for the Olympic Gold Medal.  Proceeds from this event will benefit The Rotary Foundation Scholarship Fund and the Flo-Jo Foundation.

This is expected to be a World Class Event!  There will be a number of featured track and field events for that day.   Included will be: the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, 100 meter relay and the long jump.  In addition, the event will be host to many activities in which the participants and spectators may indulge themselves.  There will be a food court, game tents, TV lounge and over 20 convention booths for local and regional sponsors to display or sell products.

We need your support for this event!  We want every Rotarian within the District to purchase at least one ticket!  The stadium at Citrus College seats over 10,000.  Ticket prices range from $8.00 to $20.00 for VIP tickets.  There is still sponsorship and booth space available.  For further information contact Ron King @ 714.288.1977 or www.district5300.org.  Contributions should be made payable to R.I. District 5300, P.O. Box 4134 Diamond Bar, CA. 91765.  Contributions are tax deductible.

LEBANON GSE TEAM LEAVES APRIL 10TH - From Chris Montan, GSE Chair (Alhambra)

The Lebanon team is composed exclusively of educators.  The team, under the leadership of Dr. Michael Fels, (East Los angeles) will travel to Lebanon April 10 to May 10, 2000.    Team members include the following:

ROTARY FOUNDATION DINNER APRIL 14, 2000 @ INDUSTRY HILLS
ROTARY FOUNDATION DINNER APRIL 19, 2000 IN LAS VEGAS-  From Ken Au, Events Coordinator (Covina)

The Governor has set aside Friday evening April 14, 2000 (California) and Wednesday, April 19, 2000 (Nevada), for gala dinner events to honor our contributors and raise district Rotarian and non-Rotarian awareness of the work of The Rotary Foundation.  Please mark these important dates in your calendar.  More information will be forthcoming. 

BOULDER CITY ROTARY TO SPONSOR BBQ CHALLENGE - From Frank Carroll, President Elect (Boulder City)

We know it is well into the future, but some people need to plan well in advance.  We expect 30-40 cookers at our first annual BBQ cookoff to be held in Boulder City.  The event will benefit the children of St. Jude's Ranch, and the Rotary International Foundation.  The event will be held at St. Jude's Ranch on May 12-13, 2000.

We would like District 5300 clubs to participate. How? We would like your club to field a small team and send them to a special contest to be held on Friday evening May 12th.  Each team will cook a rack of ribs, and then have them judged by the other cookers in the contest.  We already have entries from District 5450, and the Rotary Club team from Taos, New Mexico.  The Team entry fee is $100.  You will also have the opportunity to judge in the contest next day.  Watch the District Millennium Newsletter for additional information.

DISTRICT 5300 MILLENNIUM ACTIVITIES
DATES TO REMEMBER

DISTRICT CALENDAR -   MARCH & APRIL

MARCH 2000

March Planning Tips:

Encourage members to sign up for the Millennium District Conference 

 APRIL 2000 - THE ROTARY MAGAZINE MONTH

April Planning Tips:

Reminder that May 15 is deadline for the Membership Development and Extension Award program is approaching

Encourage members to sign up for the Millennium District Conference

MILLENNIUM NEWSLETTER EDITOR - A. C. LANI EXTON (GLENDORA)  (B) 626.792.2186