The Future of Rotary Is In Your Hands

July 14, 2009

John Cairns introduced himself as the 90th President of the Rotary Club of Belleville and gave recognition to the 89 past presidents who went before him and quoted Isaac Newton "if I have seen farther than others, it is because I was standing on the shoulders of giants". We are ordinary people achieving extraordinary accomplishments, recognizing the support of our families, friends and community partners.

John provided a little insight into his trip to the Rotary International 100th milestone Convention in Birmingham, England with 200 countries represented and encouraged club members to consider attending the RI Convention in Montreal in 2010. John Cairns met RI President John Kenny, a retired judge from Scotland who made comment about our John's last name. Something about the meaning of Cairn in Scotland, a pile of rocks which must mean steadfast, sturdy and solid.

John Cairns expressed his thanks to PP John Chisholm for introducing him to Rotary, ten years ago, an experience that has taught him to overcome life's obstacles and never give up. John's slogan is "possibility thinking" and he is confident that the Club will weather the current economic climate and continue doing what we do best -- improving the human condition and meeting needs in our community and internationally. With 39 committees and 128 members we can accomplish much and make a difference in the life of someone else. Our club has a proven track record in bringing education to the illiterate, health to the sick, water to the thirsty and sustainable quality of life to the hungry and mobility to the special needs population.

John reviewed the 2009/2010 Club Goals

• Fun -- with rotary knowledge trivia and increasing our community awareness profile
• Fellowship -- a few intra club events are being planned to bolster fellowship and fun
• The Rotary Foundation -- our primary focus will be TRF/APF by having a Foundation Dream Goal of achieving a 100% Sustaining Membership Club. Each Rotarian, $100 or $8.33 a month which equates to two starbucks coffees. Check off the $100 EREY box on our dues notice.
• Membership -- to succeed in netting minimum of one new member. Retention is just as important as recruitment.

The Rotary Club of Belleville has earned respect in the community and it is essential that we continue to be worthy of this respect. With every Rotary year comes new challenges and opportunities and it is our responsibility to meet them. The future of Rotary is in your hands!