Frank Deaver Rotary Editorials

     An observant Past District Governor told Rotarians at a District Assembly, “There seems to be a direct relationship between the quality of a club bulletin and the quality of the local club.”  He avoided establishing a direct cause-and-effect relationship.  He could have said, “The club that has a good bulletin will be an active club,” or “The active club will have a good bulletin.”

     But no, he only pointed out the apparent relationship, and the probability that quality in both the club and the club bulletin can best be described as reciprocal.  The obvious point is that the club bulletin holds the potential for being a strong positive force in a club – while at the same time its content cannot help but reflect the club’s characteristics.

     Some bulletins are done in a conversational tone, with generous use of personal pronouns.  Others are in a more journalistic style, concise and factual.  The first is more of a newsletter, the second more like a select few newspaper articles.  But excellent bulletins can be found in both categories.

     The content of a Rotary Club bulletin can be quite varied, but there are a few things that are obvious:

     • Weekly programs.  A few summary statements of the past program can be useful, but far more important is a preview of the next program.  A well-written “prelim” encourages attendance, and may promote bringing guests or prospective new members.

     • Club information.  Does the president, secretary, or treasurer have an announcement that needs to be shared?  Has the Board of Directors made a policy decision that members need to know?  Is a club committee involved in a service function that should be commended and supported?

     • Rotary information.  District meetings – Conference, Assembly, etc. – can be promoted before the fact and reported after the fact.  Worldwide information from RI is of local interest – PolioPlus progress, Rotary scholars, Group Study Exchange, and more.

     • Rotary fellowship.  Among club members is there a new child or grandchild in the family?  Has a member received a promotion or an honor at work?  On the other hand, is there sickness or hospitalization of a member, or a death in the family?  Personal news promotes fellowship.

     Even with the best of content, the bulletin must get into Rotarian hands, and several methods are employed.  Traditionally, bulletins were printed for mailing or handout, but increasingly bulletins are being circulated by Email.  With all its speed, economy, and efficiency, Email can leave out those members not online.  Print has not been totally replaced.

     Printed bulletins are most effective if mailed in advance of weekly meetings, providing information and encouraging attendance.  If not mailed, they can be available at meetings.

     But to return to the original assertion, “There seems to be a direct relationship between the quality of a club bulletin and the quality of the local club.”