Getting in Tune with Governor Judy

With the first leg of my governor club visits behind me, I can truly say that we have amazing Rotarians in our district!  It has been really inspiring to hear the Rotary story of each club.  Every club has a personality and energy all its own, and every club is making a valuable difference in the community they serve.  It is my hope that every club with share their Rotary story in pictures to be on display in the House of Friendship at our District Conference, April 26 & 27, in Merrillville.

I’ve enjoyed the many varieties of venues for club meetings and the warm hospitality that has been shown to me.  Al Veldman of Roseland Rotary really put out the welcome banner for my visit! Leigh Morris of LaPorte Rotary wrote lyrics in honor of my visit to the tune of "Hello Dolly!"  Auburn Rotary posed for a group board photo, and the mayor surprised AG Ana Bowman and me free with passes to the Duesenberg Automobile Museum.  Gene Stutsman, song leader of Goshen Rotary, enthusiastically led members in a number of energetic Rotary songs enjoyed by all.  I was very pleased with how many clubs sing at their meetings. 

Membership was the overall concern of every club.  I strongly suggest that every club has someone at the upcoming Membership Seminar on August 25^th at Ancilla College in Donaldson.  We’ve brought in a dynamic, innovative speaker, PDG Brent Rosenthal, who - I guarantee - will give you something new and beneficial to take back to your club on membership.  Sign up now!  This is a “don’t miss” seminar. It will be time well spent, and it will count towards the Governor’s Buzz Lightyear Beyond the Club Award.  Opportunities don't get much better than this!

Speaking of the Buzz Lightyear Beyond the Club Award, this is a win-win challenge.  Get your members to district events beyond the club so they can invigorate and improve your club.  Be recognized with an award at the District Conference for your achievement.

Thank you to all the clubs who are donating either a silent auction item valued at $100 or writing a check for $100 to the Rotary Foundation in support of our upcoming Foundation Dinner on Friday, September 28^th, at the Lerner Theater in Elkhart.  Half of the money raised for the Annual Fund this year comes back to our district in three years to help our clubs.  This is an important fundraiser, and a wonderful evening of Rotary fellowship. Plan to attend.  Both the cuisine and ambiance will be exquisite.