Thank you all for being here tonight. 

I suppose I am expected to stand here and tell you all about the wonderful things I  plan to accomplish during my year as President. 

But the truth is, this is not about me. It is about you. It is about the dedicated members of this club who have spent years serving our  community, giving their time, sharing their talents, and making a difference in the  lives of others. 

When I was asked to serve as President, the only reason I accepted was because I  knew I would not be doing it alone. I knew I could count on the remarkable  individuals sitting in this room tonight. Who have been diligently and selflessly serving the community and will continue to do so as long as they are physically  able.  I have seen firsthand how hard many of you work behind the scenes. I have  watched your dedication, your compassion, and your commitment to helping  others. For that, I thank each and every one of you. 

We are proud of what we do, but if we want Rotary to continue making a  meaningful impact in our community, we must grow. Growth is not just about numbers. Growth is about bringing in new ideas, new perspectives, new energy, and new  friendships. My challenge to each of you this year is simple: 

Invite someone. Each one bring one 

Bring a friend, a neighbour, a business associate, a family member, or someone  you admire in the community to one of our meetings or events. 

Our mission is not simply to raise funds. Our mission is to improve lives. 

Whether we are helping local families, supporting youth, contributing to  international projects, or simply lending a helping hand to someone in need, every  act of service matters. 

When we work together, small actions create extraordinary results.   As President, my goal is not to tell people what to do. My goal is to support, encourage, and empower each member to contribute in  whatever way they can. Some people lead projects. Some organize events. Some raise funds. Some quietly help behind the scenes. Every contribution matters. Every member matters. And every person has something valuable to offer. 

As we begin this new Rotary year, I ask all of us to remember why we joined  Rotary in the first place. We joined because we wanted to make a difference. We joined because we care. We joined because service above self is more than a slogan—it is a way of life. Let us continue building a club that people want to be part of. I am excited about the year ahead. Not because of what I will do. But because of what we will do together. Thank you for your confidence, your friendship, and your support. I am honoured to serve as your President. 

Together, let us continue making a difference—one project, one member, and one  act of kindness at a time. 

"Service Above Self."

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Other happenings:

Rotary International Convention 2026 - Taipei

Sheila attended and had a great time. There was friendship, learning, inspired moments and lots of culture. Next year the convention is in Barcelona June 26–30, 2027. Plan to attend!

Garage Sale proceeds - so far $2,200 but more to come from Facebook sales. Stay tuned.

Nanaimo Airport Operations Tour

July 7th.  Meet at the Administration Building at 6pm. Let Larry know if you are going. Dinner after at the Crow and Gate.

Lantzville is holding a Puzzle Drive and Sale.