Hello to my fellow District 5810 Rotarians. I am writing this shortly after returning from Taipei, where we wrapped up an amazing week at the Rotary International Convention with 37,000 Rotarians from around the world. As my wife, Jill, said, “Taiwan was not on my bucket list, but I’m glad we made it here.” Even with two sixteen-hour flights, it was well worth the trip.
Throughout the week, we heard several times from our new RI President, Yinka Babalola of Nigeria, as he shared his presidential theme: “Create Lasting Impact.” As Rotarians, we often talk about the projects we do, but not always about the impact they have on our communities. For example, the PolioPlus campaign has helped ensure that more than half a million children never have to worry about walking with braces or crutches.
On a personal note, thank you for giving me the honor of serving as your 2026–2027 District Governor. My team and I are here to help your club be “better than the best.” As our year unfolds, we will talk more about how we can increase membership, strengthen our Foundation giving so we can support more service projects, and expand our reach through Youth Exchange and Interact. Together, these efforts allow us to “Create Lasting Impact.”
A big thank you goes to soon-to-be PDG Mary Bedosky and her team for the terrific work they did this past year. They added two new clubs, built a strong officer bench at the district level, and brought new energy to our monthly district meetings, now called the Club Leadership Exchange. I have two very big shoes to fill, so to speak.
I wish all of you an amazing Rotary year—and happy 250th birthday to the USA!
Mike