Julie Craig, Rotary Club of New Berlin, New Berlin RotaryRotary overview from District Gov. Julie Craig
 
We were treated to an interesting review of Rotary activities during our meeting on Oct. 12.
 
Craig began by reviewing Rotary's five Avenues of Service--Vocation, Community, Club, International, Youth--and encouraged members to get involved. "There are so many amazing things you can do in Rotary," she says.
 
A member of Rotary Club of Kenosha West, Craig's term as our district governor runs from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017 (the Rotary year). District 6270 is comprised of 54 clubs throughout eastern Wisconsin.
 
Craig recalled fondly the international conventions she has attended, the 2005 convention in Chicago and the 2009 convention, held in Birmingham, England. They provide a great opportunity to establish friendships and connections near and far, she says. Craig encouraged us to participate in next year's International Convention. It will take place June 10-14 in Atlanta. "Rotarians are really the friendliest people you will meet," she says.
 
Another good opportunity is our district convention, June 2-3, 2017, in Milwaukee. Rotary Vice President Jennifer Jones, the first woman to hold that position, will pay a visit. Potowatomi Hotel is offering a special room rate for Rotarians who wish to stay overnight.
 
Now in its 111th year, Rotary International is comprised of 1.2 million members in 34,000 clubs worldwide. Craig calls Rotary a "one-stop for volunteers," providing opportunities to do good deeds locally and internationally. These can include "random acts of kindness" and community events, among other initiatives.
 
Next year is the 100th anniversary of the Rotary Foundation. Started with just $26.50, the foundation has received more than $3 billion in donations since. During fiscal year 2014-15, the foundation granted more than $162 million for humanitarian projects around the globe (including $123.4 million for polio eradication). "If you want to be a part of an organization that is changing the face of the world," Craig says, "we are it."
 
A Rotarian for 15 years, Craig is amazed at her rise to position of district governor and participation in corporate functions. "You never know where your Rotary journey will take you," she says.
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We are happy to once again make a donation to New Berlin School District. Here, club president Pat McLaughlin presents a check for $1,500 to Natalie Baertschy, Director of Choirs for New Berlin Eisenhower.  The funds will be used to purchase a digital piano. This donation is the result of our KIDS From Wisconsin concert in August. "Thank you for your support and generosity," Baertshy said.
 
Joining in the celebration are Rotary District Gov. Julie Craig and Joe Garza, Superintendent of New Berlin School District.