Happy New Year! It has now been six months since I became District Governor, WOW what a whirlwind. It started off with my training in San Diego and International Assembly, District Leadership Training, then moving on to PETS training, District Assembly, Installation Dinner, the Foundation/Membership Seminar, The Foundation Gala and not to mention visiting the 67 most fantastic Rotary Clubs in Rotary International. I would first like to say that the experience has been life-changing for Jeani and I. The exposure to the quality of the people we have engaged in our Rotary District is phenomenal from the individual members, the club leaders, Assistant Governors, to the District Leadership and finally and most importantly the support of the Past District Governors. The good works that all of you do for our communities, our District, Rotary and for the World is awesome! 
 
 
The thing that I have learned so far that was not anticipated is all of the clubs and individuals in Rotary are very diverse in all aspects but we all have one thing in common; that is we care for our fellow humans and we express that in our involvement in Rotary by illustrating it in “Service Above Self and “Peace and World Understanding”. As we embark on the final 6 month of this Rotary Year, I would like each of you as members of our organization to seek out those individuals that are like minded as yourselves and ask them to become part of Rotary and “Be a Gift to the World”.
As we focus the next 3 months topics: Vocations, Peace and Conflict Resolution & Water and Sanitation lets have our clubs focus at least one of those meetings of the month to have a program related topic. For example, maybe during the Vocational month you could visit one of your members business and let them showcase what they do in your community. For Peace and Conflict Resolution, & Water and Sanitation utilize our district speakers bureau to find a subject matter expert to come and talk with your club about those specific topics. Use your imagination, make Rotary FUN!
Thank ALL of you for a fantastic experience in the first six months of this Rotary Year, Jeani and I look forward to all of the activities and events that are coming in the last six months of the year. Let’s not forget the ALL Clubs Conference in Arlington on May 12th through the 16th where we can celebrate your clubs achievements this Rotary Year to “Be a Gift to the World.