District Governor Rick Sterne, October 2012
DG Rick’s October Message
October is Vocational Service month. Vocational Service is often the forgotten Avenue of service. This month is a time when we should celebrate each of our individual vocations, which are a part of the original Classification system of Rotary membership. The Object of Rotary includes “the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations: and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society.”
The Object of Rotary also encourages and fosters “high ethical standards in business and professions”, hence The Rotary Four Way Test.
Of the things we think, say, or do:
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
October is the month that many Clubs focus on Vocational Service by reminding their members of the principles of the Object of Rotary and the Four Way Test. They recognize individuals and employers in their Community who exemplify the Rotary Four Way Test. Sometimes they even present them with a Paul Harris Fellowship. Whatever your Club does is up to you, but is very important to take a moment to reflect on this basic tenant of Rotary.
This past weekend we had an outstanding District Conference. The fun and fellowship was terrific. All of the speakers were exceptional and inspiring. RI Presidential Representative Phil Lustig III set the Conference theme of Peace through Service.
The Youth Exchange students provided us with a terrific show. The breakout sessions were full and stimulating. All of the meals and special events were sold out.
Annaleise Carr, the youngest person at 14 years of age to ever swim Lake Ontario, was presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of her efforts to raise funds for Camp Trillium, a camp for children battling cancer. So far her efforts have resulted in over $250,000.00 being donated.
Thank you to all the Clubs that brought Toy Boxes for our RI Foundation auction. Thank you also to all the bidders, together we raised over $4700.00 for our Foundation.
The House of Friendship was full with many Clubs exhibiting their projects.
Thank you to the Hamilton (winner), St. Catharines, Welland, Brantford Sunrise, and Brantford Rotary Clubs for hosting us in their suites. Their hospitality was outstanding and fun.
Finally, thank you to Scott Lyons, our Conference Chair and his Committee for organizing “one of the best Conferences yet”. JOB WELL DONE!
Rick Sterne
District Governor
Best of Friends District 7090