Today as Rotarians we are at a crossroads. We are looking at the year that may one day be known as the greatest year in Rotary’s history. The year that sees the world’s last case of Polio. We are so close, so much closer than we have ever been before. Wouldn’t that be an amazing way to celebrate the Rotary Foundation’s 100th Anniversary? Together, this year we will celebrate 100 years of the Rotary Foundation- in our Clubs, in our Communities and around the world. This is your opportunity to share what your Clubs have done, what you as a Rotarian have accomplished and are planning for our future in Rotary. It is my privilege to serve all of you as the District Governor as we celebrate this milestone for the Foundation.

RI President John Germ from Chattanooga, Tennessee has chosen “Rotary Serving Humanity” as our theme for 2016-17. Noting Rotary’s unique ability to bring together committed people to achieve remarkable goals, he believes that “now is the time to capitalize on our success: as we complete the eradication of polio and catapult Rotary forward to be an even greater force for good in the world.”

This year is full of opportunities and each of us gets to decide what we do with these opportunities today, tomorrow and in the year ahead. Bill and I are looking forward to all our Club visits and getting to know everyone in the District. Let’s have an All Star year and grow membership, support our Foundation & celebrate the Centennial as we promote our Rotary Clubs.