Belated Happy New Year to all
my fellow Rotarians, Families and Friends. Here's to a great 2nd half of our DG
journey!
As 2022 has drawn to a close,
there is a tendency to spend our time looking back – certainly, there was a lot
to look back on in the year gone by.
We lost our dear Queen
Elizabeth II. We saw the rise of conflict in mainland Europe. We saw three
Prime Ministers. We lost many great and loved figures.
There are many things, both
good and bad, to look back at… But the New Year is a time to look forward, to
imagine how we can make the world a safer and better place; we need to have a
‘Why Not?’ attitude and look forward to all that we can achieve in 2023 and
then do it!
In the new spirit of Rotary
and the fresh ways we can release ourselves, we can be so much more to so many
more people. We can talk confidently to new generations, to potential new
members safe in the knowledge that we can find a Rotary model that suits them
and their lifestyles.
We have almost no barriers to
stop us achieving what we all want – a Rotary fit for the 21st century, a
Rotary that will not only survive, but thrive and grow!
The New Year is a time for
looking forward, for looking forward to what we can do, not looking back at
what happened.
I do not make New Year
resolutions, instead I have New Year ambitions; my ambition is to end my year
as your District Governor on the 30th June, with a District – and so Rotary –
that is stronger, better prepared, and able to achieve so much more!
In early December I was
honoured to be invited to 100 years of Preston Rotary Club - what an
achievement, and what a night. It was such a special evening full of fun ,
friendship, excellent food and entertainment.
President Colin was so proud
to be at the helm on this special occasion. I’ve always had a soft spot for
Colin and Mike Bamber from Preston, they work tirelessly, along with other
members of the Club and support local Rotary Clubs at every opportunity.
Throughout December and January, we have seen many great events
for Families and Children and have all been really active in our Communities.
Accrington Rotary launched a brand new , sparkly sleigh, built for them by
young people at their local college. It looked amazing and will last for many
years to come. Well done young people, the Club definitely owe you one!
I know many clubs have been
involved in collections and delivery of food and warm blankets for those in
need.
Cockermouth Club ran a Trip to
the Theatre for Families, many who hadn’t visited theatres before, what an
excellent project.
Ulverston Club ended our year
with a performance by the Houghton Weavers, again another fabulous night
enjoyed by all who attended, it really was a brilliant night.
To start the New Year I went
to a lovely lunch which was held at the Skiddaw Hotel in Keswick and was
attended by members from Bassenthwaite Club. I thank you all for a lovely
reception and it was great to learn of the many superb projects that are going
on around the District.
Please remember the Rotary Conference
scheduled for Saturday 18th March 2023, I hope to see you there. If you haven’t
booked already, please take look at the District website and book yourself a
place, Friends are also welcome to attend
My thoughts and best wishes go
to each and every one of you and you families, and I look forward greatly to
helping you make Rotary the best it’s ever been! I look forward to attending
many meetings, charters and events that are taking place this year.
That’s all for now folks,
TTFN
