A Message from Rick Debe - District Governor

Best wishes to all Rotarians as we work together for a common cause of “Service above Self”.  How do we communicate this doctrine to others that may or may not know what Rotary is?

I  struggle myself on how best to convey my passion and the works of so many other Rotarians.  How do we, in that short moment of time, convey these efforts when someone asks, “What’s Rotary?"

I am extremely proud of the local and international projects that our clubs embark on, but am disappointed that we don’t always get the local or national media to recognize our efforts. Polio eradication seems to capture a lot of the national attention but the local involvement and support is by far the greatest impact that we do as Rotarians.  This has started to change with a major feature in Time Magazine, January 3, 2013 on Rotary and its great works.

January 2013 was Recognition month and many clubs have or are hosting events that showcase their involvement. These events are extremely important, whether a club is 15 members or 400. Exposure to the benefits of Rotary involvement helps us grow as a nation and as a community.

February 2013 leads into World Understanding and our anniversary as an organization on the 23rd of February. I reflect on what my grandchildren will think of us or myself, 50 years from now. Was I a good steward?  Did we do all the things we could to make a better life for the ones around us or abroad?  Was I too focused on the here and now or did I have the foresight to look ahead and plan and prepare and more importantly do?

I, like you, want to make the best of what we have today. How I do that is by being tolerant, listening, being compassionate, respectful and most importantly valuing the efforts of others when they have the same hopes and desires but may look or act differently than I do.

Our clubs are diversifying quickly. With that comes the challenge to be all of the above.  Be engaged, be thoughtful, be respectful and follow the 4 way test. 

It has never failed.