DG Karen's May Message
Recognition Event for Rotary Club of Buffalo's 100 Years of Service, which took place mid-day at the Frank Lloyd Wright Fontana Boathouse April 28, 2011. Left to Right: Anthony Diina, President Charles Martorana & Governor Karen Oakes.
Greetings!
Well, here we are in May 2011
approaching the end of this Rotary year (2010-2011). I know that many of you are enjoying celebrations of Paul Harris Fellowship, anniversaries of club charters, perfect attendance, and special recognition pieces for work well done. Wolfe and I have enjoyed being with you on these special occasions and sharing in the excitement of well deserved accolades. Yes, Spring is a time for celebrations and plans for new undertakings. I encourage all of you to celebrate the many accomplishments of our fine Rotarians and Rotary clubs in District 7090 as we are not only the BEST of FRIENDS District, I believe that our clubs and our members are amongst the BEST of Rotary.
As you are aware, on April 28th, 2011 the Rotary Club of Buffalo, New York celebrated their 100th anniversary of Rotary service. The Rotary Club of Buffalo was founded in 1911 and is noted as Rotary International's 28th club in the world. The evening's gala dinner was a festive celebration with club members enjoying fellowship and congratulations from fellow Rotarians around the district and local dignitaries and friends of Rotary. Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith battled the elements of wind turbulence to reach the evening podium to join all in attendance in congratulating the Rotary Club of Buffalo on their many fine contributions to their community and communities beyond. The Rotary Club of Buffalo reciprocated by presenting Rotary International President Ray with monetary donations to both The Rotary Foundation Annual Programs Fund, and the Polio Plus Campaign. As the saying goes, "I wish that you had all been there to witness this historical celebration in our district." As well, I wish that everyone could have been present at the mid day celebration at the Frank Lloyd Wright Fontana Boathouse. Like myself, you would have been so proud of our Rotary Club of Buffalo for their leadership to showcase and support a landmark site on Buffalo's waterfront. It was readily evident to all present that the Rotary Club of Buffalo is highly regarded and considered a major piece of the fabric of Buffalo, New York. I extend sincere appreciation to the entire Buffalo Centennial Gala committee led by Chairperson Rotarian Ed Meyer for a fine job of celebration and recognition of 100 years of Service in Rotary. Well Done!
Rotarians of District 7090 enjoy the fellowship of your Rotary Club, and continue to invite others to join you in making a difference as a Rotarian. Let us all follow the lead of the Rotary Club of Buffalo and celebrate each and every milestone of Rotary Service in our communities. Always, remember BIGGER BETTER BOLDER!
Yours in Rotary Service,
Karen L. Oakes
Buffalo Club President & Governor Karen with "Tree of Life Sculpture" which now marks the entrance to Rotary Park of Buffalo's waterfront.