Each year leading up to October 24 we receive reminders from Rotary International that support for the End Polio Now initiative is still important. This year that reminder also came in the form of an emergency warning from health officials in New York. Over the last several months the poliovirus has been detected in Orange County, New York City, Sullivan County, and Nassau County on Long Island. Here is a link to New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s declaration of this being a statewide disaster emergency:
The burning question of “Why” has already been answered. It was the predictable result of decreasing vaccination rates among children over the last few decades. We often think of polio being something just from the 1950’s in the United States, or more currently just a third world problem, however that is simply not the case anymore.
The year is 2022, and the poliovirus is in our most densely populated city for the first time in 30 years. More than ever, now is the time to do our part as Rotarians to help End Polio Now. To that end, the West OKC Rotary Club is having a charity raffle with all proceeds being sent directly to Rotary International for their End Polio Now initiative.
The raffle will be for a wonderful romantic getaway. The items include a one-night stay with dinner at the Bradford House Bed & Breakfast, and a homemade quilt with Rotary theme. The Bradford House package alone is valued at $250, and the quilt is about queen size. Perfect for a bed, or cuddling on the couch. Take a look at the attached flyer, and be prepared to get your tickets from Becky or John K at the next couple of meetings. Tickets are $10 each or six tickets for $50. The drawing will be held at the West OKC Rotary Club meeting on November 16, 2022, and you don't need to be present to win.
