We are completing this project! [See below for project outlines.]  We've built nine (9) Microflush toilet blocks at eight schools.  The final two boreholes are being drilled this week.  A sign will be located at each school and each new well funded by this project. One of the elementary schools is in Domeabra which means "You've got to love me to come this far to see me!" We appreciate your continued support. The toilet blocks will make a big difference. The biggest achievement is that men and women in universities and young professionals from Ghana, Turkey, and America who have worked together to make this project successful.


Project outline reminder: Global Grant 24-60049, Water and Sanitation with Economic Impact in Ghana will drill 36 new wells including 8 small-town water systems and build 376 composting Microflush toilets for communities. We will administer micro-credit loans for wells and household toilets. 20 farmers and small businesses shall receive lending support to boost their business. This will improve the economic strength of our communities. The budget is $190,000.  This project is jointly hosted by Rotary Clubs of Obuasi and Kumasi in District 9104 in Ghana. The lead Rotary Club is Obuasi. Our team will impact 37,994 lives.  This partnership will also strengthen relations between Rotarians across the world.
 

The children in the Early Act Club at A.S. Rhodes Elementary School completed 100 hygiene care packages at their March meeting. These packages will be given to the local Salvation Army to help families in need. 
 Visit our District Facebook page to see more photos!

To develop our Public Image skills & abilities, the following resources are available to you:

• Learning Center: (this does require a log in with Rotary.org) Learn.Rotary.org
• Public Image Resources from your Zone:
• Brand Center: BrandCenter.Rotary.org
• Excellence in Public Image Coordination (EPIC) Award

Register & More information: www.lexvaroadandriverrelay.org/ 

DESCRIPTION:
The Lexington Road & River Relay is a four-leg event over a challenging 16.1 mile course in and around Lexington, Virginia.  Participate as an individual or as a team. Teams may consist of up to 5 members. 

The first leg is a 3.5-mile run on paved road over a moderately hilly course. The second leg is a 9.1-mile bicycle ride on paved hilly roads. The third leg is a 2.2-mile canoe or kayak course down the Maury River. The fourth and final leg is a 1.3-mile loop run on slightly hilly trail course.

WHEN & WHERE: 
Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Time: The race will begin promptly at 10:00 am
Start Location: The race will start on Main Street in front of the Rockbridge Regional Library.

Congratulations to our District Club Winners for the District Conference Awards 2025!

2025 Winners

As April arrives, Rotary invites us to turn our attention to one of our key Areas of Focus: the Environment. It’s a time to reflect on how we care for the natural world (and how all those EndPolioNow tulips we planted last fall are blooming!)—but also how we nurture the communities we serve. Because just like any healthy ecosystem, Rotary thrives when every part is connected, contributing and cared for.

Last week, we gathered in Blacksburg for our District Conference—and while I’m still completely exhausted, I’m energized by the spirit of connection, service and purpose that filled every session, every hallway conversation and every shared laugh over a meal. From painting peace poles to exploring the power of artificial intelligence, from youth-led inspiration to motivational moments, we witnessed Rotary in full bloom.

Sam Glenn had us laughing, reflecting and probably wondering how many cups of coffee he’d had that morning (answer: enough to power a small city). Richard Reeves and Tim Carney challenged us to think deeply about relationships, mental fitness and community renewal. Our Youth Exchange Students and 4-Way Test speech winner, Gabe Tweedie, gave us genuine hope for the future.  We even had a special surprise visitor from Kosovo Zoom in!

Of course, no conference is complete without a packed schedule—and I do mean packed. I’m convinced we ran such a tight program we may have accidentally set a world record for “most engaging sessions with the fewest bathroom breaks.” (Next year, I promise Andy will provide more hydration and relief opportunities.)

Then there was the special guest appearance that kicked it all off—the Hokie Bird himself—reminding us that not only were we on the campus of the greatest university in the world (yes, I said it), but that spirit and pride matter. Whether it’s in service, school colors or silly dances on stage, showing up with heart makes all the difference.

And nothing says “recycling” like bringing back a band from the 1960s to entertain us! Turns out, all you really do need is love—and maybe a Pittsburgh-style cookie table.

Much like the environment we strive to protect, our Rotary community flourishes when we invest in it. Every handshake, every new idea, every commitment to peace and service is a seed. And I saw a lot of seeds being planted last weekend.

To everyone who helped make the conference happen—our planning committee, volunteers, speakers, sponsors and every Rotarian who took the time to attend—thank you. Your energy and effort created something meaningful. You reminded us that when we come together, we grow stronger.

In the spirit of April and our environmental theme, I challenge each of us to think not only about what we can clean up or protect in the natural world—but also what we can cultivate in our clubs. Let’s plant more seeds—of friendship, mentorship, service and sustainability. Let’s water them with encouragement and shine a light on the great work being done across our district.

Because when Rotary grows, our communities flourish. When communities flourish, so does peace. And when we care—for our planet, our neighbors and each other—we truly live up to the Rotary ideal of Service Above Self. That is the Magic of Rotary.

Let’s keep growing together.

On March 18, 2025, the Johnson City Noon Rotary Club experienced a visit that combined tradition, community spirit, and a touch of grandeur. Bart Long, a distinguished auctioneer known for his engaging style and deep community involvement spoke to the club. But what made this day truly special was Bart's decision to bring along two of his magnificent Clydesdale horses, adding a unique flair to the meeting.

Bart began by sharing stories from his rich career in auctioneering, emphasizing the importance of community bonds and the stories that connect us all. He spoke of his passion for these gentle giants, the Clydesdales, and how they symbolize strength, reliability, and grace—qualities that resonate deeply with our Rotary values.

Stepping outside after the meeting, members were greeted by the sight of these impressive horses, their sheer size and elegance leaving many in awe. It was a rare treat to witness such beauty up close, and the joy was evident on everyone's faces as they interacted with the animals, capturing photographs and sharing stories.

This visit not only provided a delightful experience but also reinforced the essence of community—coming together, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bart Long for enriching our meeting and reminding us of the simple joys that life offers.


In the picture: Bart Long, Rotarians Ben Siler, Gary McAllister, Raleigh Green 

While the photos do not do justice (see more on Facebook) for the 19 full bags of trash, five tires and a lot scrap metal was picked up recently, along the 1.2 mile section of Kendrick Lane.  Michael is so proud of the Rotary Club of Warren County, The Rotary Club of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, Interact students from John Handley High School, Gabe Tweedie from Skyline High School and Christian Henry from the Early Act Club at E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School for coming out today on a beautiful Saturday morning and doing so much good for our community.

Visit our District Facebook page for more photos!

Let’s Go to Brazil!
We are thrilled to relaunch the Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) program with a brand-new adventure—and you’re invited! District 7570 is headed to Brazil’s District 4640 (the beautiful western region of Paraná), and we’d love for YOU to be part of this unforgettable journey.

 When’s This Happening?

• Outbound to Brazil – March 2026
• Inbound from Brazil – September 2026

• Round-trip airfare to Brazil: Currently running about $1,100 from most airports in our district to São Paulo
• In-country travel: Affordable (domestic flights/trains)
• Total estimate: Around $2,000 per person, depending on your choices and spending style

• Burt & Donna Duren – D7570 RFE Committee Chair and seasoned RFE travelers
• Odilete Herget & Dalzira Silveira – Our amazing contacts and leaders from Brazil’s District 4640

• Download the Outbound Application Form
• Send it to Burt Duren at [email protected]
• Spots are first-come, first-served—so don’t wait!

Help us preserve the written story of District 7570 club history.  D7570 is fortunate to have a storage room at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in Blacksburg to house our records and memorabilia.  In addition, the district will save any electronic resources provided by clubs for future reference. 

This is a good time for the outgoing club presidents to complete a Club History form to record highlights from the previous Rotary year.  It’s also a good resource for past presidents to complete for their year as president.  Please take a moment to review this form and complete one for as many Rotary years as possible.  Forms may be emailed to DG Paula Alston ([email protected]), who will save them in the history archives room.  Form link:  Click here
 

Thank you to Dr. Ralph K. Hawkins for speaking to the Rotary Club of Danville. Dr. Hakwins spoke with the club regarding his book titled "The Last Enemy To Be Destroyed".  He hit on points regarding the resurrection and how it was mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament.