District Governor’s Message

Scott D Marcin, JD

Rotary International D7090 District Governor 2023-24

“Happy New Year!” District 7090. Although it’s officially the New Year throughout the globe, it is officially the half way post for our Rotary year.  That means that I am officially half way through my time as District Governor for Rotary International District 7090. I am not sure I am excited about that prospect, or if I am sad that the ride is already 50% done.

Based on my experiences so far, I would consider my feelings to be the latter.  There is no doubt that the being a District Governor has been mostly a non-stop rollercoaster ride.  And that Christmas break could not have come at a better time to recharge the batteries and reconnect with my family (who has been so gracious to grant me the time and space to do this role).  But if we are weighing the scales on this matter, being District Governor has been such an unbelievable experience, on so many levels, that really there is no contest.

Seriously, in what other position could a person be flipping pancakes one morning, slinging beers on another day, dancing salsa at 7:30 in the morning, providing house tours to a historic home, handing out Paul Harris awards, inducting new members, serving lunch and breakfast to elementary students, filling food pantries, participating in a trivia night fundraiser, golfing with Rotarians from around the district and world, helping out at a Rib Fest, honoring a 60 year Rotarian, and giving speeches about “Creating Hope in the World”. And all the while, being welcomed by the most gracious of hosts, who  introduced me to so many wonderful Rotarians, sometimes welcoming me into their homes, sharing meals, conversations, and our passion for Rotary. And the best part, is that I am only half way through.  There are more clubs to visit, fundraisers to attend, community service projects to participate in, more Rotarians to meet.  There is still so  much left to do, and the time is ticking.

And as I view my Rotary Half Year, where much has been done, but there is much to do, it is not much different for each of our clubs.  I know of so many great things that clubs have done in their communities, but know that there is still so much left to accomplish. So take stock of what you need to do to meet this year’s goals, whether it’s a project, fundraiser, foundation goal, membership goal, or international grant.  There is still plenty of time to meet those goals, and in the process, create the lasting impacts in our communities that we endeavor to do.

So as we begin the New Year, I say Thank You to all those who have helped make the first half of my District Governor year memorable, and so rewarding.  And I say a special thank you for all those who have stepped up to help me and guide me on this journey, for without all the help, none of the moments that I have enjoyed would have been possible.  And now it’s time to get on with the business of Rotary and the ideal of Service Above Self, and go out and “Create Hope in the World”!