DG John's June 2012 Message
Posted by Penelope Hutton
DG John’s June Message
The current Rotary year is quickly coming to a close. It has been an exciting year for Sandy and me. We wish to thank all those who were so kind to us during the year. We made many wonderful new friends and had an opportunity to become better acquainted with some of our other Rotary friends.
What struck us most during our club visits was how hard Rotarians in District 7090 are working to assist others in their local communities and in other areas of the world. It was an education for us to hear and see how creative our clubs are in solving problems and addressing needs. Thank you to all who work so hard to serve others.
Last month Sandy and I had the opportunity to attend the Rotary International Convention in Bangkok. We heard many wonderful speakers and received updates on many of Rotary’s programs, such as Polio Plus. We are truly close to eradicating polio. Bruce Aylward from the World Health Organization shared that we currently have the lowest number of infected countries and the lowest number of polio infected children in history! Bruce reminded us, however, that much hard work remains, but the end is in sight. India still remains polio free. Thanks to Rotarians, there are millions of children who did not have to suffer this paralyzing disease and as a consequence, now have a better chance at leading productive lives.
Many of the speeches given at the Convention are on the Rotary International website. I encourage each of you to visit the website and read what our leaders and others said during the Convention.
Recently our District reviewed our strategic plan. In preparing for the review, a survey was sent out to District and club leaders. Seventy-five individual completed and returned the survey. Those in attendance at the April District Council meeting used the results during a Saturday review of the plan. The survey and the revised plan can be found on our District website. I encouraged all District Rotarians, especially club leaders, to review this material.
In closing, I would like to again thank all of you for your support, encouragement and dedication during the year. It has proven invaluable to our organization as we strive to improve the lives of others. Service Above Self is alive and well in District 7090!
Governor John passes THE GAVEL to Governor Elect Rick at the last District Council of the Rotary Year, June 16th.