May Highlights

One of the most meaningful moments of my Rotary journey so far took place in May. After four years of fundraising and advocacy, the Rotary Club of Westlake Village joined community partners in celebrating the transformation of Morrison Park in Agoura Hills into an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities.

This project began when parents of a child with cerebral palsy approached our club with a vision. What followed was a true grassroots effort that inspired our entire community. More than 1,000 donors came together to raise over $400,000, turning a dream into reality and creating a place where every child can play, belong, and thrive.

To learn more about this remarkable project, visit: https://www.facebook.com/morrisonparkplayground

May was also filled with fellowship and service throughout our district. Cindy and I enjoyed participating in the Goleta Rotary Golf Tournament and attending fundraisers hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Simi Sunset and Bakersfield Breakfast. I also had the privilege of attending the final Presidents Meetings for Groups 6/7 and Group 4, along with our District Leadership Meeting as we continue preparing for the 2026-2027 Rotary year.

Looking Ahead to June

Cindy and I look forward to visiting many clubs in June as they celebrate award presentations and leadership step-down events across the district. Currently we have 11 club step-down celebrations on the books.

We will also enjoy several outstanding community events, including the 20th Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival, the 25th Thousand Oaks Wine Festival, and the 38th Ojai Wine Festival. And for those who prefer hops over grapes, we'll be raising a glass at the Rotary Club of Westlake Village's "Down the Rabbit Hole" fundraiser on June 20. On June 10^th we will be hacking away at the Moorpark Golf Tourney. Cindy and I will have our separate teams, so hopefully I can finally beat her.

A fun personal highlight coming up is attending a concert with my son on June 7 to see one of my favorite bands, Rush, perform their first show since 2015. I've always appreciated the energy, musicianship, and philosophy woven throughout their music. One lyric that has stayed with me over the years comes from their song Dreamline:

"We are young, wandering the face of the Earth, wondering what our dreams might be worth, learning we're only immortal for a limited time."

The line "we're only immortal for a limited time" has always resonated with me. It serves as a reminder that our time is precious and that what we do with it matters. One of the greatest joys of this Rotary year has been witnessing how you, as a Rotarian, choose to spend that time—serving others, strengthening communities, and making this place we call Earth a little better before we leave it. It cannot be said enough but thank you!

June is Rotary Fellowships Month

June is Rotary Fellowships Month, a time to celebrate one of Rotary's greatest strengths: the connections we build through shared interests, professions, and passions.

Rotary Fellowships bring together members from around the world who share common recreational, cultural, and vocational interests. These groups create friendships that extend far beyond club, district, and national boundaries while strengthening international understanding, goodwill, and peace.

As Rotary Founder Paul Harris reminded us: "Fellowship is wonderful; it illuminates life's pathway, spreads good cheer, and is worth high price."

Whether your passion is cycling, photography, wine appreciation, sailing, aviation, music, or countless other pursuits, Rotary Fellowships offer opportunities to connect with like-minded Rotarians while enriching your Rotary experience.

District Step-Down Luncheon & Awards – Saturday, June 27, 11am to 3pm

Speaking of fellowship, I invite you to join us as we "Unite for Good" and celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our clubs and Rotarians during the 2025-2026 Rotary year.

This event is for everyone who wants to celebrate, connect, and be inspired:

Current Club Leaders — Celebrate your club's achievements and the impact you've made throughout the year.

Future Club Leaders — Discover successful programs and award-winning projects that can inspire your club in the year ahead.

Future District Leaders — Meet club leaders from across the district and learn how we can better support club success and growth.

New and Current Rotarians — Experience the incredible projects, events, and service initiatives taking place throughout District 5240.

Anyone Looking to Connect — Build friendships, exchange ideas, and network with fellow Rotarians committed to Service Above Self.

Meet Roary! — Spend some time with our District mascot and learn how we can use creative approaches to increase Rotary's visibility and impact throughout our communities.

Together, we'll celebrate a remarkable year, recognize outstanding achievements, and explore new ways to strengthen and energize our clubs for the future.

I hope you'll join us. Register today at:
https://rotarydistrict5240.org/events/district-stepdown-luncheon-awards/