The 2012-13 Rotary year is off to a great start with lots of activity around the District and from the contacts that I have had with Rotarians there is a positive buzz in the air.

I am pleased to tell you that all 32 district chairperson positions at the district level are filled and all committees have been very active. I am in awe of the number of experienced Rotarians there are who have been so unselfish with their time on behalf of this wonderful organization.

There are several important events coming up very soon that are of importance to us all.

I’m looking forward to the combined 7080-7090 District Conference that will be held in Richmond Hill October 19-21. All information can be accessed online including an opportunity to register.

This is an excellent opportunity to network with a lot of new Rotary faces while enjoying a top notch program that includes Debra McGrath and Zaib Shaikh of Little Mosque on the Prairie, and Colin Mochrie of Whose Line Is It, Anyway? There will be ethnic entertainment on Friday night as well as five hospitality suites. For the golfers there is a chance to play the famous Angus Glen Golf course as an add on. All of the hotel rooms are very reasonably priced for those who want to stay over, and the facility is easily accessible by car just off the 407.

I suggest that this is a great opportunity for clubs to encourage new members to attend and many are subsidizing the cost for them to do so. It is a great way to engage them in the programs of Rotary.

As you are aware the District Strategic Plan had been in development for the past two years. Later this month, under the chairmanship of DGE Mike Gauthier, the final plans will be pulled together and circulated to all of the district clubs for their review. I know that the committee will appreciate your feedback. Having a well planned directional document will serve the district well and help us to continue as a strong resource to all Rotarians.

A reminder that all District Council meetings are open for all to attend. They are held every two months; check the District website for details. It is good opportunity for everyone to observe the workings of the organization and to further familiarize members with the programs and the issues that surround them. We will be moving the meetings around the District as much as possible to facilitate Rotarians’ attendance. The next meeting is at the Elmhurst Inn in Ingersoll on Thursday, September 13th. If interested, sign up on line.

I look forward to completing my club visits over the next few months, and I hope to see a great turnout at the district conference.