Aloha Rotarians of District 5000,
I am honored to be your District Governor for 2010-2011 and accept both the privilege and the responsibility.
Those of us who just returned from the Rotary International Convention in Montreal want to share the
enthusiasm that was generated with all of you. We thank those who have built an outstanding District and
accept the challenge of making it better. I can't wait!
2010-2011 is an exciting year for Rotary. It is the first year of a "Future Vision" program transition which will
change the way we give Service Above Self. The Rotary Foundation is changing the way it supports our
Rotary service. This program was developed by the Foundation through three years of surveys and research.
During 2010-2011 one hundred "pilot" districts tried and revised these new procedures. In the year
2013-2014, all districts will be using these new procedures. The procedures emphasize bigger projects,
cooperative projects with multiple clubs and districts, and longer term projects. Districts will administer their
projects and must utilize management skill that exists within our Rotary community and not relying on Rotary
International to do the administration. Districts that are prepared will enter the new process easily. District
5000 has a record of good management and strong Foundation Programs. We will make this transition with
ease.
Our challenging theme this year is "Building Communities - Bridging Continents". "Building Communities"
requires action and results. It means persistence and flexibility. It means trying new approaches and revising
as we proceed. Communities must be integrated and also connected with neighboring communities. We need
partnerships. We need sustainability. "Bridging Continents" takes this Building Communities approach to the
International level. It requires broad vision while reflecting our world-wide reach and commitment. We realize
that we must look beyond our local focus. It means supporting the Rotary Foundation as a force in the world.
Our theme speaks to Rotarians and non-Rotarians throughout the world.
As well as Building Communities and Bridging Continents, Rotary President Ray Klinginsmith also urges us to
make our Rotary clubs "Bigger, Better, and Bolder". This speaks to Rotarians because it stresses Imagination
and Courage. We in District 5000 have a history of innovation and persistence. If we work together, we will
indeed become
John