PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
As many of you know, I have been honored to serve in multiple Rotary Clubs since being inducted in the Longview South Club in the 1980’s - every club has its own “character” and is blessed with many great leaders. Prior to moving to Tyler at the end of 2014, I was an active member of the Rotary Club of Orlando, which is one of the largest and oldest Rotary Clubs in the State of Florida. My dear friend and 
current Rotary Club of Orlando President, Bill Pepper, recently challenged fellow Rotarians with the following:
WILL IT BUILD GOOD WILL AND BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
As you know, that is the third question of the FOUR WAY TEST. Put another way, perhaps the question should be: Are we speaking and acting with courtesy and respect to our fellow club members, our speakers, and our guests in such a way that conveys a club culture that is welcoming and courteous? Let’s set the standard for friendliness, respect and professional camaraderie.
We are, indeed, welcoming and courteous; but from time to time there is merit in stepping back to reflect on how our joking comments are really being interpreted by others. While surely no disrespect is meant by that funny comment, it may not be so funny to others - especially if the comment is about another individual or group…but a sense of humor isn’t all bad either.
Our speakers come to us out of their generosity of time and talents to share information. We are most appreciative and we show that appreciation in the form of respectful questions. We also take the time to talk to them “one on one” after the meeting.
As Rotarians, the Rotary Club of Orlando and South Tyler Rotary Club utilize the official Rotary Code of Conduct, which states the following:
As a Rotarian, I will:
- Act with integrity and high ethical standards in my personal and professional life.
- Deal fairly with others and treat them and their occupations with respect.
- Use my professional skills through Rotary to mentor young people, help those with special needs, and improve people’s quality of life in my community and the world.
- Avoid behavior that reflects adversely on Rotary or other Rotarians.
With Respect,
Jeff W. Johnston
STR President 2019-2020
NEW MEMBER POSTING
Message from PDG & District Polio Plus Chair Shirley Griffin, "World Polio Day is October 24, 2019 and I would like to
encourage each of the clubs in the District to have some kind of fundraiser for Polio Plus. November is Polio Month and this will give us an additional opportunity to hold an event or fundraiser for Polio Plus efforts. Our goal is to be rid of this disease."
