DYK why…The Rotary year begins on July 1?

 

Initially, Rotary conventions played a key role in determining the start date of our fiscal and administrative year.  The first fiscal year began the day after the first convention ended, on 18 August 1910. The 1911-12 fiscal year also related to the convention, beginning with the first day of the 1911 convention on 21 August.

 

The next August, the Board of Directors ordered an audit of the International Association of Rotary Clubs’ finances. The auditors recommended that the organization end its fiscal year on 30 June to give the secretary and treasurer time to prepare a financial statement for the convention and board, and to determine the proper number of club delegates to the convention.

 

If you’re reading this bulletin on June 1, you’re probably not at the international convention in Hamburg, Germany. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the fun! You can follow all the action live on social media. Go to the social media convention page and check it out. Remember to use hashtag #rotary19 if you want to join in the conversation.

 

Take a look at the Rotary Vimeo channel for videos from throughout the week!

A good time was had by all who attended the 7820 District Conference this past month in Pictou County.

 

The Kairos Blanket Exercise was a thought provoking experience for the ± 80 people who participated on Friday morning. Throughout the two days, there were engaged speakers and opportunities to share best practices with our fellow Rotarians. RI Representative Greg Yank provided a commentary on RI’s mission and activities around the world; Foundation Chair Stella Roy brought us up to speed on the Foundation’s activities and polio stats for 2019. Senator Dan Christmas spoke to us about the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and how the Ivany "Now or Never" Report from 2014 addresses some of Nova Scotia's challenges by involving the aboriginal community. Incoming Leadership Chair Louisa encouraged us all to “be flamingos” and think of ways we can affect positive change, thereby moving the needle in our clubs.

 

Many thanks to the organizing committee for this year’s event. Mark your calendars now to join us in Sydney, May 29-31, 2020 for next year’s conference!