Greetings!   Welcome to the 2014-2015 Year as we will “Light Up Rotary “ in District 5550!
 
President Gary C.K. Huang's theme  symbolizes both his and my passion for Rotary. Although my passion is Rotary, I am passionate about its many parts especially the PolioPlus program and as the examples below demonstrate the work of our clubs. Hence, I have chosen to title my 2014-15 newsletters Pat's Passions.
 
Thank you for the honor and privilege of District Leadership! We have begun our wonderful journey of the District and are already amazed at the ways in which Rotarians, with their expertise and passion, are creating a positive image in their communities and in the world.
 
Our District Goals are
  1. Polio Eradication ……………. We MUST finish the job by 2018, continuing with our own contributions PLUS advocating for help from the non -Rotarian public, governments, etc.
  2. Membership Attraction, Retention, Engagement …………. We need to grow in these areas to keep up our good work, and must be FLEXIBLE and appealing to new and prospective members.
  3. Showcase Rotary! We NEED to deliver our story in the best possible way, tell people who we are and what we do. We are such a positive force in communities around the world that we need to bring our story to life! I look forward to the innovative ways in which you will present Rotary to the public in your “Rotary Days”!
  4.  To be strong in Youth Programs especially increasing the number of  Long Term Youth Exchange students
  5. Support OUR Foundation!
I would like to share some Clubs’ success stories we have experienced this month ……… as I feel that will bring new ideas to others!
 
SASKATOON RIVERSIDE …….You are receiving excellent visibility at your major Fundraiser  “ A Taste of Saskatchewan” . Your support of the “Global Gathering Place” providing services for immigrants and refugees creates a so needed welcoming environment for these people as they begin their lives in Canada.
 
FLIN FLON ………… Spending time at Camp Whitney demonstrated your deep and ongoing commitment to Youth Exchange, making this happen year after year! Glad to be involved in one new Paul Harris presentation!
 
THE PAS ……..PDG Rick at the helm! So pleased to have a brand new Interact Club in the District!
 
THOMPSON ………… Support for “Port in the Storm” gives the opportunity for cancer patients to stay in the city at less cost while undergoing treatment; this is so helpful for these families at a time like this.
 
HUDSON BAY ………. Your signature project with the “Food Grains Bank” is such a success and bringing 200 elementary school students out to observe this expeditious harvesting process made memories!
 
SASKATOON MEEWASIN  ……… your dedication of a signed book for elementary children by guest speakers greatly promotes literacy; and of course “Just in Case” will bring our Polio Plus contributions to the TOP!
 
SASKATOON …….   Completion of a  Member  Satisfaction Survey is a great process  in assessing Club Health and moving forward; your initiative in working together in Communications with all 5 Saskatoon Clubs should eventually be a stronger force in enhancing the public Image of Rotary in the city! We have strength in numbers!
 
SASKATOON NUTANA …… The Nobel Peace Program at Rotary Park in September with laying a brick in honor of a Nobel Peace Prize winner by school children so effectively promotes World Peace and Understanding, and that is what Rotary is all about!
 
BRANDON SUNSET …… Your skill in implementing the goal of Literacy support by the Program which you are doing and providing books to Grade 1 and 2 students of low income families who have  probably never owned a book is commendable!
 
NEEPAWA …………….. Great to be a part of inducting 2 members into your Club!  Support of both Rotary and non Rotary Youth Programs is very strong!
 
KENORA ………….. We were touched by the words of a man so appreciative of the Walking Track which you funded in the Rec Centre! Good signage around the Community.I was also pleased to see the club donate $1000.00 to Polio Plus at the time of my visit! ​
 
SIOUX LOOKOUT ………. The International Wilderness Canoe Camp is one of the best kept secrets in the District! Good to partake in the recognition of so many who make this happen yearly.  I know you are proud of the innovative Health Centre,  geared to Aboriginal needs and culture,  to which you have contributed. Good to present a Paul Harris+1!
 
DRYDEN …………..  45% Female Club ……….. Way to go! Raising a million dollars in ten years in the Rotary Radio Bingo is a milestone! The Bingo is broadcast over CKDR in Dryden, Red Lake, Ear Falls, Sioux Lookout and Ignace and the proceeds are shared with each community.
 
WATROUS ………… Good work on the Walking Trail! The highlight was induction of 2 new members!
 
An update on Shelter Box is included.
 
As we roll into August (Membership Month) let’s explore new ways to retain and attract! Corporate Memberships and Satellite Clubs can prove to help us grow! And remember ………… be FLEXIBLE and passionately share that story of Rotary!
 
Thank You for your commitment to Rotary.