Happy Birthday to Rotary in February 

The RI President in his monthly message ponders how much has changed in our world and our organization since the first Rotary Club met 112 years ago.  As he notes there are many obvious things that have changed, but there are things that we just can’t compare or know, we must believe that the world is a better place because we as Rotarians are here.
 
He notes that Rotary provides solutions including; “peace for conflicts, education for poverty, basic health care with projects large and small, eradication of polio and potable water,” just to name a few. 
 
Through social media, I had the opportunity to observe the good works and preparations of the District this past week-end.  The leadership for youth exchange and inbound youth exchange students were in Tulsa at the 2017 SCRYE Winter Conference.  They enjoyed both fellowship and training.  Several of our clubs are preparing for celebrations and fundraisers to continue their good work and my own club was out in the rain building a wheel chair ramp.   Finally, the post from the training meeting of the 2017/18 District 5930 Leadership team reminded me that Rotary is truly a unique organization that changes its leadership from the club level, through district, to Rotary International.
 
As the Governor and I look forward to the final months of the 2016/17 year, we also look backwards to our journey over the last 18 months.  We reflected upon our time at the International Assembly in San Diego, the fellowship dinners in our home, and the completion of the official Governor visits to all the Rotary Clubs in South Texas, home of District 5930.  It is clear, each club is unique, with their individual ways to serve our communities.  Governor Debbie has enjoyed these visits, and is greatly inspired through the good we have done in our communities and beyond.   RI President John notes; “When we choose to do good, good will follow; and that when we choose Service Above Self as our life’s path, the direction it will take us will be a good one.”
 
Life is good!
Yours in Rotary,
Joe (First Dude)