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District 6900 News for March, 2025
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Southern Hospitality
By Gordon Owens The magic of Rotary is alive and well in South Georgia. Ashley and I spent 10 days during February with a home base in Thomasville to visit clubs all along our southern boarder. We had great fellowship with club members, did tons of service, joined club meetings and generated some great ideas to grow Rotary in this area. I can't thanks the clubs for making us feel right at home. We even crashed a Rotarian's Super Bowl/birthday party. Between father daughter dances, senior valentines projects, food packing and peace pole planting, Rotarians are doing great work. Keep it up!
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GeorgiaUnitedDC.com
By Gordon Owens To get us ready for the first ever multi-district conference we got the three Georgia Rotary Districts together for the home opener of Atlanta United. It was a fun night cheering on the Five Stripes while making some new friends from across the state. We ended up with 130 tickets sold to the event and the best of all, the home team won. We look forward to seeing our new friends on Jekyll Island at the end of April for the Georgia United District Conference, we hope to see you there. Visit GeorgiaUnitedDC.com for registration, hotel rooms and the weekend agenda.
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Saturday, March 30 @ 3pm
By Gordon Owens We had so much fun at the Atlanta United game, we are doing it again. Join us for our second multi-district event leading up to the Georgia United District Conference. The Atlanta Vibe, our professional women’s volleyball team, has offered us 20% off tickets for their (404) night at the Georgia State Convocation Center. Get your tickets today and we will see you Saturday March 30th. [more] |
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PolioPickem.com
By Gordon Owens It's time for March Madness and we have both a men's & women's tournament bracket to play. Enter each pool for just $20 and win half the pot, up to $1000 per bracket. The best part is each $20 entry fee provides 50 doses of the polio vaccine to children around the world. So even if you don't win the pool you help Rotary win the fight to eradicate polio. Visit PolioPickem.com to get started.
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Peace & Conflict Resolution
By Gordon Owens Laura McConatha from Americus, Cedric Hill from Columbus, Ada Wikina from North Cobb and Cynthia Dorsey Edwards joined DG Gordon for a great lunch with Paul Wolpe from Emory University to discuss how Rotary can partner with the Center for Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation (PACT) he has been charged with creating. Each Rotarian at the table has a passion for bringing peace initiatives to our communities and this partnership will amplify our efforts. Together we will create lasting change in our community. Stay tuned for big things to come form this budding partnership.
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Grow Rotary
By Dave Schwickerath Satellite clubs allow members and prospective members to create a new club experience while benefiting from the support of an established local club. This club type requires fewer members to get started and is a great way to offer people what they want, whether it’s a different service focus, a different atmosphere, or just a different meeting time or place. Learn more in this video about satellite clubs.
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End Polio Now
By Bob Hagan The number one initiative of Rotary International is to eradicate Polio. The picture to the left provides the three main elements of information every Rotarian should know about Polio if ever asked by anyone outside of Rotary. It covers who it mainly affects, what can be done about it and where we are today in the fight against Polio. That might be enough for most people, but as Rotarians, knowing a bit more is never a bad thing, so let’s cover a few extra points that may be considered, “nice to have”, but they sure are important. Are you aware that Rotarians have donated billions of dollars in the global effort to rid the world of Polio? Additionally, we have donated countless hours dedicated to the fight against the disease, so numerous, it’s hard to keep an accurate count. [more] |
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Listen To The Podcast
By Audley Knight In this episode, co-hosts Nick Taylor and Michael DeGrandis sit down to chat with two different Rotaract Club Presidents! We are honored to have Kaylee Melessa from the Rotaract Club of Southern Utah University and Norman Giumelli from the Rotaract Club of Zurich International. Ever wonder what the difference is between a community based and university based Rotaract? Interested in learning more about Rotaract and how to join, charter or sponsor a club? Well, then this episode is for you! We hope that you enjoy this conversation! LISTEN [more] |
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Our Foundation at Work
By Bob Hagan February came and went this year with, in many ways, very little fanfare. It really shouldn’t have. A date that most likely slipped past most of us, even those of us who consider ourselves very good Rotarians and done so with very good and viable reason, may well have missed February 23rd this year. It marked the 120th anniversary of Chicago attorney Paul Harris forming the Rotary Club of Chicago in 1905. The quote above is one most Rotarians are familiar with, uttered by Paul Harris in 1914. It sums up so well what we as Rotarians strive to achieve…Results! [more] |
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March 10 | 5:30PM
By Mary Ligon What’s our PTS (Problem To Solve)? As Rotary leaders, we know that growth and engagement don’t happen by accident—they happen by design. But are we focusing on the right things at the right time? Join us for our next Membership Action Plan (MAP) Webinar as we tackle this critical question: This interactive session will help you identify the key challenges facing your club’s membership and provide actionable strategies to address them effectively. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and strengthen your club’s future.
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Duke-UNC Rotary Peace Center
By Gordon Owens This year’s theme for the Conference is Stories of Peace: Centering Community for Collective Transformation. The graduating Class 22 Rotary Peace Fellows selected this theme and will present their research, exploring new ways of thinking about peacebuilding, international development, and conflict transformation. The conference will take place at the FedEx Global Education Center (UNC-Chapel Hill) on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 from 8:30am to 3:00pm. Doors will open at 8:00am, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to check in and view an exhibition of research posters by Class 23 fellows, featuring work from the Peace Innovation Showcase at Duke University last December. REGISTER [more] |
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By Cynthia Dorsey Edwards In April of 2024, Rotarians Synthia Padala, PAG Dr. Paddy Sharma, and DGND Cynthia Dorsey Edwards, initiated an event, with the support of then DG Andre’ Marria, in which 33 women were recognized as Women of Impact for their achievements in a wide variety of fields. Since then, a committee formed from this group of Rotarians and other leaders has been meeting to further goals of addressing key issues affecting women and girls. The first public activity of the USA chapter is to host a free webinar on Menopause which is open to Rotarians as well as non-Rotarians. The audience is not limited to women only. All attendees may learn and benefit from information on this critical, life-altering subject. RSVP Now! https://app.getcontrast.io/register/beyond-pause-beyond-pause-menopause-matters [more] |
 DGE Steve & Anna Ivory, Rotary International President Elect Mario Cesar Martins de Carmargo & his wife, Denise |
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International Assembly 2025
By Mandy Timmons District Governor-Elect (DGE) Steve Ivory and his wife, Anna, recently attended Rotary’s International Assembly, where they joined over 300 district governors from around the world in a powerful gathering of leaders dedicated to service and positive change. This annual event is an incredible opportunity for future Rotary leaders to connect, learn, and prepare for the year ahead. A key highlight of the assembly was the unveiling of the 2025-2026 Rotary theme by Rotary International President-elect Mário César Martins de Camargo of Brazil—"Unite for Good." This theme is a call to action for Rotarians everywhere to come together in service, collaboration, and impact, reinforcing our shared mission of making the world a better place. [more] |
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RYLA Update
By Jaclyn Donovan It’s getting closer to RYLA time! With all the talk this month about “lucky” things and “being lucky” we thought we’d share why we think anyone who goes to RYLA is the luckiest of all for the many positives they gain from the experience: - Personal Development
- Meeting Other Like-Minded People
- Learning from Others
- Confidence Boost
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Looks good on Applications and Resumes
- Inspiration to Reach Future Goals
- Opportunities to Challenge Yourself
- Grow Your Impact and Positive Influence on Others
If you and your club want to get in on all the great things that come along with sponsoring a student to RYLA, there is still time to commit to sponsoring a student or two or ten! Read on for the rest of the story and registration/payment instructions. [more] |
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Club News
By Clark Savage February 1st started chilly for the Seventh Annual Polar Bear Plunge, with the water languishing in the low 30s. But by 10:00 AM, over 200 jumpers had gathered, costumed as everything from macaroni & cheese to superheroes, and were ready for feats of aerial acrobatics into the pool. The teams, comprised of volunteers of all ages, attacked their jump tasks with the enthusiasm of polar bears on the prowl. High-flying flips, belly flops, and organized, sequential diving delighted the crowd gathered around fire pits. The first Polar Bear Plunge generated $32,000 for non-profit organizations. This year, we collected a steaming $280,000 for our Jump Teams. The formula is simple. Non-profits (including other Rotary Clubs) form teams and raise money for their cause. Rotary Club of Alpharetta manages and markets the event, keeping 10% of all proceeds. The Club sees no end in sight for growth. [more] |
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GRSP Update
By Katheryne Fields The Georgia Rotary Student Program celebrates two scholars who promote peace and understanding among their peers and nations. Rotary International marks February 23 to celebrate its 120th anniversary and World Understanding and Peace Day as it is also the anniversary of the first Rotary meeting in 1905. Two GRSP scholars were honored in their respective host Rotary Club meetings recently by Committee Chair John Carruth representing the Roswell Rotary Club and presenting the Barbara M. and Donald L. Thomas Peace Award to Shifa Maherali Jiwani of India and Jordan Laurent Noueku of Cameroon. The pair will also be recognized at the Georgia United District Conference in April. Each received an award of $2,500. [more] |
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Club News
By Jackie Cuthbert The GRSP Class of 2024-25 gathered in Dunwoody this Presidents' Day Weekend for the "silver anniversary" of the GRSP Leadership Weekend. While we haven't hosted quite 25 weekends (a snowstorm and COVID each interfered), this weekend carried on the tradition of developing future leaders and Service Above Self that started on MLK weekend in 2000. The Rotary Club of Dunwoody took the lead with support from the Rotary Clubs of Buckhead and Atlanta Metro, the Rotaract Club of Atlanta, and the Georgia Rotary Student Program - thank you for being a big part of the weekend. Highlights: 10,000 meals packed for Rise Against Hunger, leadership bootcamp on Saturday afternoon, Shark Tank for Service Projects on Sunday - with amazing projects submitted by student teams! [more] |
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Rotary Means Business
By Carter Stout Paul Harris said, "Each Rotarian is a connecting link between the idealism of Rotary and their trade or profession.” Join us on Tuesday, March 25, from 6-8pm at Politan Row, Ashford Lane in Dunwoody. It’s the perfect opportunity to network with fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors, and professionals from all over the Atlanta area. Come mingle, share ideas, and grow your network in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere! [more] |
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8am, March 29 | Columbus, GA
By Stephanie Windham As you embark on your journey as leaders of your Rotary Club, we are excited to invite you to attend District Training Assembly on March 29 in Columbus, Georgia. This vital event is designed to equip your club leadership with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to lead your club effectively and make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Registration Is Open. [more] |
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Club News
By Mandy Timmons Thanks to the Rotary Clubs of Columbus, North Columbus and Muscogee-Columbus for an awesome job hosting local police, sheriffs, GBI, Army CID and FBI along with victim advocates and supporting agencies for three days of human trafficking training. A special thanks to Marty Kemp, the Mayor, the Attorney General’s office and Piedmont Midtown for your support. [more] |
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By Nell Boggs The Rotary Club of Douglas County had a wonderful day celebrating STAR Students and Teachers in early February! It was an honor to host these exceptional educators along with our future doctors, engineers, architects, and cybersecurity professionals. The speeches were heartfelt and inspiring. Our future is in good hands. [more] |
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Support Our Rotary Foundation
By Lee Hollingsworth Often it's contributions by our District 6900 clubs that make the difference to children and mothers around the world. In this case, however, Argentine Club President Cesar Ferrari (behind his daughter) stands behind the $10,000 RI Foundation funded Matching Grant that his club sponsored for a project in District 6900. Inspired by the projects District 6900 had sponsored in their homeland, this grant provided desperately needed equipment and supplies for single moms and children in North Fulton County. Increased Foundation donations of only $2500 were quadrupled. Friendships deepened, those in need were helped, and we saw “service” put above “self." Find out how modest gifts can have monumental impact. Email Rotarian lee@leehollingsworth.com [more] |
 1st row, teacher Chris Peace and student Banks Bell; 2nd row from left, parents Todd and Angela Bell, counselor Linda Warren, Supt. of Schools Dr. Jennifer Brown and Chamber chair-elect DeWana Fields. |
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Club News
By Charles Gordon Early County High School senior Banks Bell and Southwest Georgia Academy senior Grant Fletcher were announced as the county’s STAR STUDENT award winners at a Blakely Rotary Club meeting in December. The STAR STUDENT and STAR TEACHER project is sponsored by the Blakely-Early County Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Rotary Club. Chamber Chairwoman-elect DeWana Fields presented the checks to thewinners.
As the systemwide county winner, Bell will compete further in statewide competition. He named Early County High School teacher Chris Peace as his STAR TEACHER. Fletcher named SGA teacher and head football coach Kerry Morris as his STAR TEACHER honoree. The Rotary Club awarded the student winners $500 each and Bell received a bonus of $250 for being systemwide winner. Each STAR TEACHER took home a $100 gift certificate to be used in local businesses. [more] |
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Club News
By Jeff Lovett The Rotary Club of Cairo worked for months to organize and promote their Father-Daughter dance which draws a huge crowd from this Georgia town. Thanks to all their members who were there early this morning and late into the evening to make this special event happen. [more] |
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Club News
By Jeff Wright The Rotary Club of LaGrange had a great time at a brand new venue in downtown LaGrange, including a celebration for Bill Bowling's 90th birthday, complete with cake! We were also treated to live piano music as both Bill Bowling and Ken Miles entertained us with their skills on the two baby grand pianos at the venue. BINGO! was heard many time during the evening and all the winners took home prizes donated courtesy of Rotary Club of LaGrange members. Thanks to LaGrange Rotarian Sandy Lee for planning this excellent event for everyone to gather together and have a fun evening. Also thanks to President Connie Hensler, Michelle Bedingfield and Kerri Vice, who worked to make sure drinks and ice were out and that everyone got a piece of birthday cake. [more] |
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Club News
By Cynthia Dorsey Edwards Assistant Governor/District Governor Nominee Cynthia Dorsey Edwards holds monthly Zoom meetings with the Presidents of the clubs she supports to provide assistance and guidance in helping them to achieve their goals and to make sustaining impacts on the communities they service. During these meetings, several District staff members have joined to provide additional information and/or training to the presidents. Guests have included Dave Schwickerath, Membership; Mandy Timmons, Public Image; PDG Alec Smythe, Rotary 6900 Website; Jackie Cuthbert, District Newsletter; and Kay Williamson, District/Community Grants. In February, Olga Narvaez, Global Grants Chair was guest speaker. [more] |
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By David Sofferin The Rotary Club of Thomasville had the honor of celebrating Valentine’s Day with the senior citizens at the Scott Senior Center in Thomasville. Everyone enjoyed fun games, heartfelt conversations, and Rotarians showered our senior citizens with thoughtful gifts and delicious food to make the event extra special. A special thanks to Rotary District Governor Gordon Owens, who joined the festivities and added to the joy of the occasion. We are so grateful for the opportunity to spread happiness with our senior community. Let’s continue to spread kindness and make every day as special as Valentine's Day! [more] |
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By LeighAnn Dicesaris The Rotary Club of Columbus celebrated outstanding academic achievement with its annual STAR Student presentation - recognizing students and their STAR Teachers from 11 local schools. The meeting culminated with the announcement of the system-wide STAR Student winner: Joanna Wang from Brookstone School. Joanna’s exceptional academic performance and dedication to both the arts and sciences set her apart, making her a distinguished representative of Columbus-area students. The Rotary Club is honored to recognize these bright minds and their dedicated educators, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to supporting education and the future leaders of our community. [more] |
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Club News
By Gary Rice The Camilla Rotary Club recently donated $1,500 to the End Polio Now campaign. With the Gates Foundation 2 to 1 match, this donation will provide 7,500 doses of polio vaccine. And that’s not all – last Saturday night, the club hosted a Casino night, with proceeds to support the Mitchell-Baker Service Center, a day program that serves over 95 adults with developmental disabilities. [more] |
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Club News
By RJ Taylor, II The Rotary Club of Moultrie created special Valentines for seniors in its meeting with DG Gordon Owens, and showed support for a local resident by building a much needed ramp – with help from Holman Supply Company and a Rotary Foundation Community Grant. [more] |
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Club News
By Claudia Mertl The Rotary Club of Atlanta Southern Crescent provided each resident with a bag of treats and spent some time with them at Jonesboro Assisted Living Facility. The "Rotary Has Heart for Seniors" program was started by Past District Governor Bob Hagan in 2015-2016. We have carried on the tradition since then. [more] |
 Dawn Hill Woodard, Jo Phillips, Cynthia Sanford Kilby, Assistant District Governor Chunk Newman, and Melissa Melissa Cody Trujillo. |
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Club News
By Kay Williamson In February, the Meriwether County Rotary Club honored eight Rotarians were honored as Paul Harris Fellows (PHFs), recognizing their significant contributions to the Rotary Foundation and its humanitarian and educational programs. The award is named after Rotary's founder, a Chicago lawyer who established the organization with three business associates in 1905. [more] |
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Club News
By Debby Daniel-Bryant Rotarian George McCanless
spoke to Daybreak Rotary recently about United Way. He is working with an
“Issue Focused” approach, that looks at key needs in a community and comes up
with initiatives to improve a situation. Dan Wulf, of Dan Wulf
Games, talked to Daybreak Rotary about his plans for a table game fundraiser
called Homes 4 … [more] |
LEADERBOARD |
Check out the full district scoreboard |
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| Here are the clubs that are leading the way in our district for membership, annual fund and polio plus. |
| Category |
NET MEMBERSHIP |
ANNUAL FUND |
POLIO PLUS |
| I |
Henry County |
North Atlanta |
North Atlanta |
| II |
Johns Creek North Fulton |
Vinings Cumberland |
Vinings Cumberland |
| III |
Decatur |
Dunwoody |
Carrollton Dawnbreakers |
| IV |
Roswell |
Peachtree City |
Columbus |
Upcoming Key Dates
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