DG Ken says thanks and passes the torch on to DG Rod

Posted by Ken Krebs on Jul 01, 2016
 
I am starting with a huge “THANK YOU” to all Rotarians in District 5550 for making this year as District Governor such a wonderful experience. The welcome I have received at all the clubs, not only during my term as Governor, but ever since my confirmation as Governor Nominee has been heartwarming and an inspiration to serve as well as possible.
 
The official club visits have been a source of inspiration and I have shared as many new ideas from the clubs as possible to other clubs in the district. I have seen clubs working hard to increase membership, to share the sense of accomplishment of work well done and to promote goodwill and fellowship amongst Rotarians and friends of Rotary.
 
The many projects we were shown have demonstrated your eagerness to be a “Gift To The World”. Your generosity has benefited people around the world through your gifts to the Rotary Foundation. Your support of the Polio Plus project have brought us closer to a polio free world. Your support of literacy, water and sanitation, health and disease issues, economic improvement, women’s issues have all contributed to our ultimate goal – that of Peace and Understanding among all people.
 
I have been asked “What will you do now that your term is over?” As the Immediate Past District Governor, I will remain on the executive and board of our district, and I begin a three year term on the selection committee tasked with finding future district governors as well as being the Vice-Governor for one year. In terms of Rotary Service, I am stepping into a pair of shoes that will be a challenge to fill. PDG Nancy Morris is stepping down as co-chair of the D5550 World Peace Partners committee and I will be taking that position. It will be a challenge, but one I will be happy to address and hope I will be up to the job. This is a busy committee and you will be hearing much about it in the future.
 
Only a year ago I was starting the year’s journey and the time has passed quickly. Today I am saying farewell to the task of being District Governor and pass the privilege of governing our district to DG Rod Riopel. I know you will all grant him the same welcome, friendship and support you have given me over the past year.
 
I wish all of you a great new Rotary year and much success in the future.