Pictures from RYLA

Steve Reid has posted several pictures from the 2009 RYLA Session, March 26-39. The Rotary Youth Leadership Award program in District 6110 provides intensive leadership training for 11th grade students at the Salvation Army’s “Heart O’ the Hills” facility located outside Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

In addition to leadership classes and making new friends with outstanding students from other high schools in the area, RYLA uses a ropes course to build self-confidence and reinforce the leadership skills and teamwork covered in the classroom.

Ross Hellilker, who participated in the RYLA camp this year, will be the club's special guest at the May 21st meeting.

To check out the pictures and learn more about RYLA -
RYLA Pictures: http://www.ri6110.org/news/09/03/26/RYLA_Fri2009/index.html
RI RYLA Brochure (PDF): http://www.rotary.org/RIdocuments/en_pdf/636en.pdf

Photo: Steve Reid, District 6110

Univ. of Arkansas Fort Smith showcases the arts and local talent

The Van Buren Rotary Club had two special guests at the March 26th meeting. First, Stacey Jones, Vice Chancellor for Campus and Community Events at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith reminded all present of the special presentation of the Birdhouse Factory at the Fort Smith Performing Arts Center on the Fort Smith Campus on April 1, 2009. Imagine bringing together an international cast of actors, acrobats, machines and laughter in the tradition of Rube Goldberg and Charlie Chaplin's Modern Times and then putting it all on the stage. For more information about the show (and a quick preview) visit: http://www.birdhousefactoryshow.com/ and then call 479-788-7300 for tickets.

Jones then introduced the new Miss University of Arkansas Fort Smith, Lindsey Lochmiller. Lindsey will be competing for the Miss Arkansas title and hopes to represent the State of Arkansas in the next Miss America contest. Lindsey ended her portion of the program singing two selections from her repertoire which includes both contemporary music and opera. By the end of her performance, all the Rotarians present were impressed by Lindsey's musical accomplishments and that Fort Smith and Arkansas would certainly be well represented in the state and national competitions.

Snapshots from MAPETS - 2009

It's always more fun if you're there, but the comments around the coffee urn or at the banquet were that this was the best PETS the participants had seen yet.

The luncheon speaker was a special guest, John Kenny, Rotary International President for 2009-10 who will be installed this summer in Birmingham, England at the Rotary International Convention. Kenny's theme for the next year is "The Future of Rotary Is in Your Hands." He admonished every Rotarian that we all are responsible to see Rotary's Polio project through until the end - when new infections of Polio are completely eliminated. Close is not good enough! Our reputation is on the line.

Larger versions of the images may be downloaded from: http://picasaweb.google.com/brt.black/MAPETSFortSmith?feat=directlink

Van Buren Housing Authority promotes gardening with "Dig-N-It"

This summer the Van Buren Housing Authority plans to continue its gardening program for children. Since Dig-N-It was started in 1999, over 480 have enjoyed being outdoors and participating in the learning activities the program provides. Those children who participate in Dig-N-It all get to divide up their weekly harvests to take home and share with their family. This year, the children decided that they want to plant an extra garden plot that will be dedicated for the housing authority's food pantry.

During the March 19th meeting, Shirley Williams, the Van Buren Rotary Club's President-Elect, explained how Dig-N-It worked and could help build a life-long interest in gardening. She also pointed out several ways that Rotarians could help.

The housing authority is looking for donations of plants (tomatoes, cucumber, pepper, etc.) children sized gardening tools and gardening gloves. Tax-deductible monetary donations from community members and organizations would also help fill in the gaps and purchase other needed supplies to help the children get the gardens started. Community members with gardening experience are also welcomed to share their knowledge and experience. If you can help, call Tammie Locklear, Garden Coordinator at 479-471-0438.

For more information visit: http://www.vbha.org/DigNit.asp
Photo: Van Buren Housing Authority

Alzheimer's Disease: help available in Western Arkansas

Beth Deramus, representing the Alzheimer's Association's Western Arkansas Regional Center, updated the Van Buren Rotary Club on the current trends in Alzheimer's research, treatment and support for family members and care givers at the March 12th luncheon. Alzheimer's disease symptoms vary widely but the disease can cause problems with memory, thinking and behavior that are not a normal part of aging. Crawford County residents are fortunate to have a regional center located in Fort Smith where information and support groups are available.

Beth emphasized that a 24-hour help line is available at 1-800-272-3900 where trained staff members can help with information, decision-making support and crisis assistance. Confidential referrals to local community programs and services are also available.

Additional information is available on the web:
National Alzheimer's Association website: http://www.alz.org/index.asp
Alzheimer's Assoc. Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter: http://www.alz.org/alzokar/index.asp

Rotarians helping with King School 5K Run

Kelly Turner from the King School PTA greeted Van Buren Rotarians at the March 12th meeting with a course map and an community service opportunity to work as road crossing guards for King School's 4th Annual 5K Run on Saturday, April 4, 2009. If you've ever worked as a 5K run crossing guard with Eck Rowland and his Razorback noise maker, you know this can be a fun way to help your community. If you're available April 4th, and missed your chance to volunteer, send an email to Kelly at: kellyturner@cox.net to get on the list and then find your cow bell or whistle to urge all the runners and walkers who participate in the event.

If you're a runner, jogger or walker, on-site registration begins at 6:30 A.M. on the day of the event. Race begins at 8:30. The first 300 entrants will receive a 5K run T-shirt. Entry fees: Adults-$15 if pre-registered by March 30th, $20 after and day of the race, $10 for students 18 and under, and students 8 and younger run for fun. For more information, call 479-806-7440 or 479-883-2949.

Waiva Strain recognized for over 30 years of service

Mrs. Waiva E. Strain, was recognized at the March 5, 2008 luncheon for having served as the Rotary Club's pianist for over 30 years and contributing to the fun and enjoyment shared at each meeting. In honor of the occasion, Drew Deffenbaugh presented Mrs. Strain with a new Rotary Club songbook to a rousing ovation of appreciation from the club members.

Denise Hill, of Hill Vision Center in Van Buren was the program speaker and discussed several of the health factors that can influence a person's vision. Hill recommends an annual eye exam to check for such conditions as glaucoma and cataracts.