District Governor, Marge Barker

 

 

 

District Governor, Marge Barker was the speaker for the evening.   I’ve included portions of her speech below:

She thanked all 3 clubs for allowing her the opportunity to meet with everyone.  She congratulated Saco Bay for their District Grant application to improve childhood literacy education outside the library.  Reading & fresh air together enhances vocabulary and literacy skills. She also commented on Saco Bay also receiving a District Grant for building a wheelchair access ramp at the Ball Park in OOB used by Wounded Warriors and other groups.  Because of the collaboration between the Biddeford-Saco, Saco Bay & Saco Bay Sunset Clubs, the work was completed in swift order.  This project exemplifies collaboration to its fullest.  

DG Marge commented that the Biddeford-Saco Club was chartered in 1920 and that we’ve had 4 women presidents, with our current President, Lucie Kay, at number 4.  She also commented on the Red Ribbon Committee that was established with the Biddeford-Saco Club.  She is hoping to learn more about the details of our program which she believes mirrors others throughout the district and would love to foster collaboration among these clubs.

 

DG Marge is also aware of our club working with international partners on a Global Grant in Jordan with a focus on literacy-which is something dear to her heart. She stated that so much is being done throughout the community and the world because of our commitment to Rotary.  Working together helps to shape those we come into contact with.  With all the sadness in the world it is humbling to know such dedicated men and women are working together to make this a better world.  

 

Tony Wagner has been asked to serve as Assistant Governor for Saco Bay Sunset and Suzanne Ilsley has been asked to serve as Assistant Governor for Biddeford-Saco and Saco Bay.  The International Convention is in the US-Atlanta-where we will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Foundation.  

 

On October 22nd, your Clubs will invite members from your community to a celebration highlighting the work we have done on Polio eradication.  Over the last two years there has been a Polio Walk in Portsmouth.  For the past 8 years, our Club (Biddeford-Saco) has held a Polio Plus Bingo Fundraiser.  The money we raise does make a difference.  The opportunities are endless.  Please continue your efforts making a difference in your areas and tell the public what we are doing to eradicate Polio.  Remember, we are only one plane ride away from contracting this crippling illness.

According to Rotary International President, John Germ, “As members of Rotary, we are out to change as many lives as we can, for the better.  Not alone.  Not as individuals. But together-as a team-through Rotary Serving Humanity.”