February Letter from DG Bassett

that includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905.  Rotary International promotes world understanding through Rotary’sFourth Object:

“The advancement of International Understanding, good will, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.”

How can a Rotary Club in the Hudson Valley address the topic of World understanding?  There are many opportunities in our District to address this theme of World Understanding.

At a recent Youth Exchange Weekend in Phoenicia, I observed our fabulous group of In-bound exchange students from around the world.  We have Rotary World Ambassadors in our District from Brazil, Turkey, France, Belgium, Thailand, Taiwan and Austria.  They are all well spoken and love to talk about their homeland.  In fact, they are expected to visit other Clubs and talk about this Country.  They are all enthusiastic, spirited and love life.  I encourage all  of you to invite a Youth Exchange student to your Club as a speaker.

You could also plan programs involving former GSE Team members.  Many of our GSE alumni have not joined Rotary, but still have a soft spot in their hearts for Rotary.  You might want to arrange discussions on World Topics that are  important to all of us.  You could present entertainment with an International cultural or artistic theme, or plan other programs with an International emphasis. Many Clubs take the opportunity to launch an International Community Service activity or make contact with a Rotary Club in another country.  It is a good month to initiate a Rotary Friendship Exchange, 3-H Project or encourage  support for  Polio Plus and other Rotary Foundation Programs. Would you like to do something special in honor of Rotary and its birthday?  Make a contribution to a project, local or international.  Give of your time, your treasure, and your commitment to bettering the  world.  World Understanding, an opportunity for all Rotarians.

Thank you for all you do for Rotary.

William J. Bassett
District Governor
District 7210

PS – Speaking of World Understanding, I hope you all read the cover story in the February Rotarian.  It is about an amazing young woman who lost her arm in Sierra Leone.  Well worth your time.