Governor

My fellow Kiwanians:

Thank you so very much, for this opportunity to serve and lead the Great New York District.
It has been a great time for me and my First Lady Debbie, traveling around the state, seeing first hand all the great events that we do. We had a very memorable weekend at the Lewiston Peach Festival. The hard work and dedication is truly inspiring. Recently we closed the camp down for the winter. We had 125 Circle K Kids there. They worked very hard to help the adults winterize the Kamp. Plus enjoying fellowship with each other and the adults present.
My Governor's Project will be an important issue that affects so many, Mental Health Awareness. I have instructed my team of lieutenant governors to have at every division meeting someone or something to bring awareness to this issue. For example, depression, suicide, drug addiction, even poor lifestyle, such as poor nutrition. This can also contribute to mental decline. For example, there could be a health fair day in the community. I feel if we could be more open to this issue, it would take the stigma out, so someone, hopefully, would feel motivated to seek help. I would hope by talking about our drug epidemic, we could raise more awareness. This problem is so widespread and so devastating to so many families.
Looking at all the fund raisers and activities we do made me think, we need to get more information out to our members. This is why I chose to have four executive assistants, strategically located through out our district. Their purpose to gather and share news to help us be aware of other clubs activities throughout the entire New York District.
I would also like to see more interclub activity. It's so good to see what other clubs are doing. Also, please think about attending our convention and conference. I would ask our clubs, through the administrative fund, to support a new person attending, one or both. These events bring a whole new perspective to our members.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Gov. Hank Baker. Through his love of Kiwanis, he allowed me the opportunity to work with him during his reign. By being so unselfish, it allowed me to get a good feel of the opportunities ahead of us. Thank you Gov. Hank for your service and friendship.
Looking toward a Great Year. See you all soon.

Column Posted on Web Site October 17, 2019