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RLI Sunshine Division enjoyed great success in its recent RLI held at the University of St. Martin in Philipsburg, Sint-Maarten. With thirty Rotarians representing the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, St. Barths and Anguilla, RLI participants enjoyed a day of sharing experiences and knowledge about Rotary International. Discussion Leader Diana White was quoted as saying,Rotary is somewhat unique in terms of having its membership having different vocations…We try to have a mix that is representative of the community in ever sense–professionally, ethnically and gender diverse.” Sessions on public relations and Rotary policies were a favorite among many that participated in the day’s session.

As we near the end of the first semester of this Rotary year 2011-12, I would like to bring you up on happening around the division. First of all, We had our annual meeting in early July where we adopted some curriculum changes (more on that later), approved a redesign of our website (still in progress, but getting close) and welcomed some new District Directors, a new Regional Coordinator and a new Rotary District to the Sunshine Division.

We welcome District Directors Jeannette Loftus (6970) and Ted Thompson (6920), Regional Coordinator, Larry Johnson (6970) and District 4370 which includes Aruba, Bon Aire, Curacao and the eastern part of Venezuela!!!

With only a couple more events for 2011 in the Caribbean, we have held many events this year with either 2 Part I’s or 2 Part II’ so we are building for the future. We have also had a number of Discussion Leader Training sessions to boost our DL capabilities. We are working to help our friends in 7020 become less dependent on the mainland by increasing the number of qualified DL in some areas. A good example was the class of 8 trainees held October 1 down in the Cayman Islands. Thanks to RLI coordinator for the Caymans for his hospitality and the warmth of those participating!!

An important event is the December 3rd Curriculum workshop in Orlando. At this event we have the Executive Committee, Regional Coordinators. District Directors and Discussion Leaders all work-shopping their facilitation techniques and being introduced to new curriculum sequence as well as some new classes. By the end of the day we hope to have everyone in attendance up to date in best practices so that we hit the street polished and running for the new year!!

My thanks to each and every one of you who have given of your time and talent this year or been a part of any of the classes that have been given. Together we are working to strengthen the many Rotary Clubs throughout the Division. You are the best!!!!

Thanks for making the Sunshine Division the BEST of the BEST!!

Gary

Gary Israel, PDG
RLI Sunshine Division Chairman, 2010-12
All Florida Multi-District PETS Training Chair (2010-12)
District 6960 Rotary Foundation Chair (DRFC)
glipdg@embarqmail.com
239.287.4246
Skype: garyisrael.estero