Dear Rotary friends,
Welcome to fall of 2020. We have all shared in beautiful weather and are now looking at how we proceed.
How fortunate we are, as people who hold onto our core values of service, integrity, diversity, leadership and fellowship, at this time of this particular year. I am so proud of how each of you are adapting and reaching out to others in your clubs, communities, and even in the world.
Fellowship is important to us, just as protecting each other from disease and harm. We want to be together, to laugh and care for each other, and work on projects together. Many of you are reaching out to me for my position, and what I am hearing from RI, as to in-person or virtual meetings and events.
While I understand that members are eager to meet in-person, please be aware that as the Rotary International and District’s representative, I have been advised to attend all club meetings and events, virtually, until Jan. 1, 2021. I have no ability to authorize nor to publicize, an in-person event or meeting, until January 1, 2021 at the earliest. If we receive any further guidance from Rotary International, I will share with everyone in the district.
As District Governor, I very highly recommend that clubs seek advice from legal counsel and the City or County Health Department for advice and confirmation that you are following legal and government guidelines. As promised, please refer to the side bar for an update on recently adopted state legislation regarding “limited immunity”’ (House Bill 606) prepared by Past District Governor John Reyes.
What an honor to read about a fellow Rotarian Dr.Tunji Funsho being recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world for his work eliminating Polio. The entire continent of Africa is now polio free. Past District Governor and Vice-Governor 2020-2021, Steve Zabor, had the privilege while distributing polio drops to children, to stay at his home. Read his account following this letter.
World Polio Day is Oct. 24. Clubs across the district are planning fundraisers and programs to bring awareness of Polio and the work that is being done around the world to finally eliminate this disease. If you need some ideas and resources follow this link.
We may be meeting virtually but that does not stop Rotarians from honoring veterans and unsung heroes, focusing on the environment by installing interpretive signs in the parks, working with a library to continue the summer movies, having virtual fund raisers, sending shoes boxes, learning leadership skills, and still having fellowship fun. Rotarians find a way!!
I look forward to virtually seeing you October 10, 2020 at the Zone 30-31 Institute and on November 19, 2020 to celebrate you, as a donor to the Rotary Foundation, as we continue to raise funds to end polio and to address needs in our communities and around the globe.
Pat Myers
District 6630 Governor 2020-2021
c. 330-388-2635
