As the 2016-2017 Rotary Year Ends
I want to thank every Rotarian in District 5240 for the good you have done in the world.  Together, we have fought disease, provided clean water, saved mothers and children, supported education, grown local economies and promoted peace. We have looked for projects in our local communities that need to be done and we have done them. We have reached out to our youth, supported our seniors, assisted those in need. We have touched the lives of thousands of people – many of whom we will never know. In doing so, we have helped to create a more peaceful world.
On a personal note, this year has been an incredible journey. I have had the opportunity to meet many of you and to hear about what you and the members of your club do every day to make our world a better place to live. Your commitment to serving humanity  has been an inspiration to me and a reminder every day of the difference that Rotarians make wherever they are.Many of you have heard me talk about the lessons that I learned from my daughter who was a member of the 4x100 relay team in high school and college: Sprint to the finish no matter how big a lead you have and hand off the baton running at full speed.
These are important lessons for us in Rotary as we approach the change in year. This Rotary Year is not over until June 30. There is still time to invite a guest who will become a new member; make one more contribution to the Rotary Foundation; do an act of kindness to someone you don’t know, find the next project that needs your support.Just as the relay runners hand off the baton at full speed, we need to transition to the new Rotary Year running at full speed. The needs of our beneficiaries don’t stop because we are celebrating a new year. Our projects and our commitment to doing good in the world continues. The support required by your club and group for fundraisers and public awareness of Rotary does not diminish.  
Take a moment now to look back on the many tasks your club has accomplished this year. You may be surprised at how much you have done. Make your Rotary New Year resolutions to Make A Difference in the year to come.
The Rotary Year is ending, but the dreams are not. As you get ready to Celebrate Rotary in the coming year, keep dreaming and keep doing.  Remember, in our district because you wear a Rotary pin If You Can Dream It – You Can Do It!
I wish each of you an enjoyable and rewarding Rotary Year 2017-2018.
Nick Frankle, District Governor 2016-2017