DGE Message
IN THE ZONE
The highlight of my year thus far has been attending Governor Elect Training and the Zone Institute in Winnipeg, Manitoba in late September. Because of my late appointment last year, I did not have the opportunity to meet fellow DGNs in Providence, RI last year. Getting acquainted then, with 35 other DGEs, was an interesting and exciting opportunity. I finally have the picture of Zone 24/32 etched in my mind and know the four countries who make up the zones (Canada, United States, Bermuda and France).
The first two days of the week spent with my fellow DGEs and their spouses was indeed a fantastic learning experience. It was certainly worth the hours of homework in preparation for attending. We came home with pages of great ideas that will assist us as we go forward to 2017/18.
The Zone Institute portion of the week (the last four days) was also a valuable experience. I would classify it as being somewhere between an excellent District Conference and an International Convention. We heard from many outstanding speakers and workshops that week. The highlight of the week though was the ceremony where we received our diplomas and shook hands with RI President John Germ, Director Dean Rohrs and their spouses. At dinner that night, we had the pleasure and privilege of being seated with Dean and her husband Rhino, DGN Melisa Schrock and District Trainer and PDG Ralph Montesanto and Barb.
The most lasting impression from the whole week came from the dinner held at the newly opened Museum of Human Rights. It was a sobering experience to tour the unique architectural structure and either learn of or be reminded of the ills of society since history was recorded. I would certainly urge all Rotarians and their families to make this Museum of Human Rights high on their list of places to visit.
My wife Loretta and I really appreciated the opportunity of attending this Zone event. We hope to see you all at the upcoming District Conference in Batavia.