Rotary District 5750 Monthly Theme Newsletter – Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Month
Every February, Rotarians across the world stop and put extra focus on one of the most important things we do, Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention. In Rotary, peace is not just “no fighting.” It is people understanding each other, having real opportunities, and treating one another with basic respect. Peace comes from education, stable jobs, strong communities, and the everyday choices that pull people together instead of pushing them apart.
Here in Rotary District 5750, peacebuilding usually does not start in some big international meeting. It starts right here at home. It shows up in how we greet a new member, how we work with local groups, and how we listen even when we do not agree. Mentoring kids, helping with literacy, supporting mental health, cleaning up neighborhoods, all of that matters. Peace is not just a global idea. It is something we either practice locally or we do not practice at all.
A big part of that peacebuilding is something simple but powerful, building better friendships. Rotary works best when we are not just attending meetings, but actually getting to know each other, supporting one another, and inviting others into that circle. Share Rotary with your neighbors. Talk about it with your family. Bring your friends to a meeting or a service project. Let your community see what Rotary looks like in action. The stronger our friendships are, the stronger our clubs become, and the easier it is to share that spirit not just across town, but across the world.
This month is also a moment to recognize leadership and service in our district. We want to openly thank DGE Michael Trewitt for everything he has poured into Rotary over the years. DGE Michael Trewitt has dedicated his life to service and is a great Rotarian. Because of physical health limitations, he will not be able to continue in his role, and we respect him deeply for what he has already given. I will be stepping in to finish Michael Trewitt’s term and keep things moving forward.
This month is an open invitation for every club and every Rotarian to take a hard look at what we are doing and ask, “Are we actually building understanding, or just staying busy?” Even small actions, a real conversation, an hour volunteering, a new partnership, can ripple farther than we think. Peace does not come from one big speech or one flashy project. It comes from steady effort, showing up, and treating people right over and over again. That is how compassion turns into progress, and community turns into something that actually lasts. We also want to extend congratulations to the next DGND James “Chili” McQuillar, and offer sincere kudos to the Rotary District 5750 Nominating Committee led by PDG Jack Werner. Their steady leadership, thoughtful consideration, and commitment to the long-term health of the district help ensure Rotary continues to move forward with strength and clarity. The time and care they invest behind the scenes often go unseen, but the impact is felt across every club and every year that follows.
Thank you PDG Jack Werner for leading the nominating committee for the District Governor line.
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Round Table Discussions - Edmond
January’s focus on Vocational Service invites us to learn not only from guest speakers representing a wide range of professions, but also from one another. When we listen to the experiences and viewpoints shaped by different careers and lived experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of our community and strengthen the relationships that make Edmond Rotary impactful.
That sense of curiosity and connection was on full display during our Rotary Round Table Conversations in January. This interactive experience brought members together with guided discussions centered on Connection, Community Impact, and The Future. Staying at their tables, members moved through each round with openness and energy, sharing ideas and learning from the perspectives around them.
These conversations were designed with purpose, ensuring the insights did not end when the tables cleared. Key themes and ideas gathered during the discussions will be brought forward at a February meeting, giving the entire club an opportunity to engage, reflect, and help shape what comes next. This approach allows us to carry the momentum forward and turn thoughtful dialogue into meaningful action as we continue to #UniteForGood in our community.
The round tables reminded us that our strength as a club comes from the diversity of vocations, experiences, and talents represented in the room. When we listen closely and value those differences, we see new possibilities for service and leadership. We look forward to continuing this work together, drawing on everyone’s strengths to deepen our impact and serve our community with purpose.
The Rotary Club of West Oklahoma City proudly hosted its annual Hal Almen Scholarship Banquet on Wednesday, December 17, 2025—and the impact was nothing short of inspiring. During the evening, 26 students were awarded $5,000 scholarships, continuing a powerful tradition of investing in education and future leaders.
The scholarship honors Harold W. “Hal” Almen, a man whose life embodied Service Above Self. A U.S. Army Air Corps Major, Ohio State graduate, successful Oklahoma City entrepreneur, Charter President of West OKC Rotary, and Paul Harris Fellow, Hal believed deeply in education, faith, and community. Upon his passing in 2002, he ensured his generosity would live on—leading to the creation of the Hal Almen Scholarship through the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.
Since its founding in 2005, the program has awarded 393 scholarships totaling more than $1.7 million, transforming lives and opening doors for students across our community. More than financial support, the scholarship carries forward Hal’s vision of service, leadership, and opportunity—proof that one Rotarian’s legacy can shape generations to come.
MEMBERSHIP NOTES
We are halfway through RY 2025-2026 and our membership goal of a 1700-member strong District before the end of the rotary year is well within reach. We are 1643 strong and we need to bring in 57 new members and community changers before the end of the Rotary year. This equates to bringing in an average of 11 new members per month. We’ll have to use every tool in our membership tool kit to accomplish this goal, and, simultaneously, keep our attrition/keep rate at ZERO. Thank you to the clubs who have a vibrant and transparent membership growth plan. If you do not have a membership plan and you need help developing a 5 month membership plan to close out the Rotary year, please do not hesitate to contact me: Cell, 405-659-2116; work, 405-734-0312; home email, jmcquillar@cox.net; work, james.mcquillar@us.af.mil.
Thank you to the following clubs for having positive net membership growth: Bricktown, Del City, East Oklahoma County, Edmond, Edmond Summit, Guthrie, Midwest City, NW Oklahoma, OKC, Perry, Ponca City, Ponca City Trailblazers, Stillwater Frontier, Weatherford and Yukon.
I’ll close with a quick primer on what Rotary membership is good for.
1. Service with impact
Rotary turns good intentions into action. Local projects, global causes (hello, Polio eradication), and hands-on service that actually changes lives—not just talk.
2. Relationships that matter
You build genuine friendships with people who show up. Business leaders, educators, first responders, retirees—folks you’d never meet otherwise, united by service.
3. Personal growth
Public speaking, leadership skills, project management, confidence. Rotary quietly stretches you in all the right ways.
4. Professional connection (without the awkward networking)
It’s not a sales club—but business happens naturally when people trust and respect you. Credibility grows because service comes first.
5. Leadership opportunities
Want to lead without politics or ego? Rotary gives you a safe place to practice leadership that serves others.
6. Belonging
In a disconnected world, Rotary offers purpose, accountability, and a place where you’re known—and needed.
Bottom line:
Rotary membership is good for our communities, our character, and our circle of influence.
A Passport to Possibility: Midtown Rotary Helps Fund Student’s Trip to Japan
The Midtown Rotary Club proudly donated $1,000 to support a Midwest City Interact Club student as he prepares for a life-changing trip to Japan through the Wings exchange program. This contribution helps advance Rotary’s commitment to youth leadership and international understanding, giving a local student the opportunity to experience new cultures, build global friendships, and return home with a broader perspective on the world.
Giving Chair, Sylvia Sterling got to share the good news with Interact recipient, Jonathan. They are both pictured along with Midwest City Rotarian, Sally Newey.
Your year as President is just around the corner, and with it comes an exciting opportunity to strengthen your leadership, deepen your Rotary knowledge, and connect with committed leaders from across our region. Mid America President Elect Training Seminar (PETS) is where that journey begins.
PETS is more than training — it’s a powerful, energizing experience designed to equip you with the confidence, clarity, and inspiration you need to lead your club with purpose. You’ll gain practical tools, meet fellow leaders who share your passion for service, and walk away prepared to guide your club through an exceptional year.
Important Registration Information
Please register ASAP
Register by going to www.midamericapets.org or contact Amy Hollas at Rotary5750@gmail.com.
President-Elects: Your district has already covered your PETS registration fee — no payment is required from you. You must still register to attend.
Hotel Reservations: All attendees must make their own hotel reservations using the official PETS hotel reservation link. Lodging is not automatically included with event registration. www.midamericapets.org/hotel-reservations-3/. Be sure to check the dates to make sure they reflect your stay.
Your club selected you because they believe in your leadership. PETS is designed to help you step into that role with confidence and inspiration.
We look forward to welcoming you, learning alongside you, and supporting you as you prepare for an extraordinary year of Rotary service.
Register today — and take the next step in your Rotary journey.
If you have questions please reach out. We will be happy to assist you.
RYLA 2026
The date for our next RYLA is set for July 17-20, 2026 at Camp Twin Cedars. We need your support to sponsor students and encourage students to apply. Our goal is to have 100 students for this LIFE CHANGING Camp.
Reach out to your schools and students in your area. The QR Code on the attached flyer lands on the application page. Additional information can be found on the District Website. rotary5750.org. Encourage the high school Sophomores and Juniors to apply as soon as possible!
Since we have the entire camp AND the kitchen we would love some kitchen help. It would be great if a few Rotarians and or clubs would volunteer to help preparing meals and cleaning up. Let Nicole know you would like to help. nmhs40@gmail.com
Del City Rotary Celebrates 50 Years
February Theme: Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention
February highlights Rotary’s long-standing commitment to peacebuilding and conflict prevention—one of Rotary’s seven Areas of Focus and a cornerstone of the mission of Rotary International. Rotary approaches peace not as an abstract ideal, but as a practical, sustained effort to reduce the root causes of conflict by fostering understanding, dialogue, education, and cooperation. While Rotary’s peace efforts span the globe, peacebuilding also begins at the club and community level, where everyday interactions shape trust and mutual respect.
Peacebuilding is both proactive and inclusive. Your contributions to The Rotary Foundation in part invests in long-term solutions such as the Rotary Peace Centers, community-based conflict resolution, and educational opportunities that equip individuals with the skills to lead dialogue and bridge differences. Youth-focused programs are especially powerful. Rotary Youth Exchanges give young people firsthand experience with other cultures, helping them develop empathy, global awareness, and lifelong connections that reduce prejudice and misunderstanding. These programs quietly but profoundly shape future leaders who value cooperation over conflict.
Clubs play a direct and meaningful role in advancing peace initiatives. Clubs can sponsor and host Youth Exchange students, support outbound students from their own communities, or partner with nearby clubs to share hosting responsibilities. Clubs may also support Rotary Peace Fellows through financial contributions, program speakers, or community engagement opportunities for fellows and alumni. Locally, peacebuilding can take the form of service projects that strengthen education, support youth and families, promote inclusion, or partner with organizations focused on mediation, mental health, or community dialogue. Even modeling respectful discussion and collaboration within club meetings reinforces Rotary’s peacebuilding values.
February is an invitation for every club to reflect on how its programs, partnerships, and culture contribute to a more peaceful world. Whether through youth exchanges, international service, or local community initiatives, Rotarians help build peace one relationship at a time—demonstrating that peace is not only something we aspire to, but something we actively create through service and leadership.
A Visit to Remember: DG Mack Patel Brings Inspiration and Honors a Rotary Legend
The Rotary Club of Edmond enjoyed a memorable visit from District Governor Mack Patel, who brought meaningful surprises and powerful reminders of what Rotary stands for. DG Mack presented the Unite for Good banner, reinforcing Rotary’s mission of building goodwill, strengthening friendships, and making a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.
The highlight of the visit was a special tribute to one of our own. DG Patel honored Past District Governor Chuck Musgrave with a Lifetime Service Above Self Award, recognizing decades of outstanding dedication to Rotary and service to our district. Known affectionately as the district’s “Doodad Rotarian,” Chuck’s creativity, commitment, and servant leadership have shaped Rotary for generations. PDG Jack Werner & PDG Jerry Burger were there to present the award.
The visit left members inspired and proud, celebrating both Rotary’s shared purpose and the remarkable legacy of a true Rotary leader.
Burrito Breakfast to Buy Shoes
Rotary Club of Midwest City held a Burrito Breakfast Fundraiser to raise money to buy shoes for local students.
