A Summer Filled with Gratitude, Pride, and Anticipation

Since I was a boy, summer has been one of my favorite times of the year.  This summer has special meaning: Becoming District Governor of the greatest Rotary District in the world!

Health-wise I am feeling good and upbeat as my doctors continue to discuss my treatment which might include more surgery. Until then I look forward to continued service as your District Governor.   

If you don’t remember green jello from my last Newsletter, you might find a copy and review --- there might be a test --- or at least a smile!

Hurricane Harvey Relief

Club President Bob Harrell for the Rotary Club of Camarillo Noon made me proud to be a Rotarian when he called me to ask where to send a donation by check for disaster relief for Hurricane Harvey. His club passed the money hat and collected $5,000 and his club Foundation matched the generosity of the club members sending $10,000.  

If a person or club would prefer to mail a check, please do so to Rotary D5240 Charitable Foundation C/O Barry VanderKelen, 1212 Marsh St. Ste 3, San Luis Obsipo, CA 93401

Monthly Rotary Theme

The monthly theme for September is Basic Education and Literacy. Think about the education programs we as a district support. We provide scholarships to high school graduates for college or trade schools. We support RYLA. We support schools for girls in India (PACE).  We support the schools in our communities. Perhaps your club might consider inviting local educators and literacy organizations. Perhaps invite your own club educators to provide a “Craft Talk”.

Membership

I’m very pleased to report that our district membership increased by 40 new members net. One added retention tool is our monthly polling which consists of one question: “How likely are you to recommend this Rotary club to a friend or colleague?” This Member Satisfaction Program is most effective if each club member replies and then club leadership listens and implements appropriate changes!

Human Trafficking 

At a recent Human Trafficking task force meeting lead by Lee Cunningham (San Luis Obispo County Assistant District Attorney) were representatives from the FBI, CHP, and local law enforcement as well as social services. The keynote for their meeting was our own Past District Governor Deepa Willingham. Also present was District Governor Elect Sandi Schwartz and yours truly. 

One request was for greater awareness in our Rotary district as this task force encompasses representatives from all four of our counties. This important topic reminded me of some keynote speakers at the just concluded Rotary Convention in Atlanta. Consider the following link featuring the famous actor Ashton Kutcher. See what you think…

https://www.rotary.org/en/ashton-kutcher-and-rotary-combat-human-trafficking

 

Rotaract Santa Maria Vallley  

On Saturday August 26th, our district chartered a new Rotaract Club! It was well attended by local Rotarians and the incoming six Directors and club members. They are sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Group 12 – Santa Maria and Nipomo. These Rotaractors are the bright future of Rotary lead by Club President Alex and future members of Rotary. Check them out at: https://www.facebook.com/SMVRotaract  

District Conference

YOUR District Conference is really shaping up and is certain to be FUN, INSPIRING, and a REAL happening Event. Check out what’s planned in the following article.   I look forward to seeing you all there! 

If you haven’t registered yet, you can do so at www.rotary5240dc.com.

Rose Parade

Each year Rotary Districts in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada along with many Rotarians sponsor, design, and build a float to promote a float in the Rose Parade which is seen by millions of viewers in person and on television worldwide. Each year a core group of dedicated volunteers raise funds for this unique marketing event. Our district has one spot left to walk in the Rose Parade which takes about 4 hours and 5 miles of walking. If you are interested in being that person, please send me an email suggesting why you should be chosen. A contribution to the Rose Parade Committee (through a Rotary Charitable Foundation) could help your chances!  http://rotarydistrict5240.org/Stories/rotary-float-rose-parade-2017

District Governor Club Visits to resume

Words alone do not adequately express my gratitude to all of you for your love and support.  Each of you has made me a better person and District Governor and I’m so grateful.  I can’t wait to visit your club (7 done and 65 to go!) and meet and thank you in person. If not at your club, perhaps at an event or, in particular, our District Conference which will be all things CELEBRATE!

Best Regards,
John Weiss,
Rotary Club of Morro Bay                                    
District Governor