Many of you are aware of the recent communication from Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko concerning the COVID 19 pandemic. A portion of it is included here:
“We all know that the coronavirus pandemic is still raging in many parts of the world, and extensive public health measures and travel restrictions are in place.
As an organization that is at the forefront of eradicating polio and fighting other preventable diseases, we have clear responsibilities in mitigating the threat of COVID-19.
Out of an abundance of caution — and in keeping with our commitment to protect the health of our members, our employees, and our families — the RI Board of Directors decided not to fund any expenses (travel or otherwise) for in-person meetings for Rotary leaders for the rest of this Rotary year, other than for the president, president-elect, and trustee chair. This decision applies to directors, trustees, regional leaders, district governors, assistant governors, and other leaders. The Board also agreed to conduct all of its meetings and RI committee meetings virtually for the rest of the year; and we will also be holding the 2021 RI Convention virtually.” John Hewko, General Secretary.
The District Governor Team has had extensive discussions on this issue. R.I. is asking that we as Rotarians not gather together in groups until the pandemic is under control. We understand that the experience of the pandemic is different throughout the Rotary Clubs and communities in our District.
From a District perspective, we will not hold any District meetings, including the PETS seminar in March, the District Assembly in April or the District Conference in May in person. Each of these will be virtual. In addition, any Governor visits will be conducted virtually.
In the spirit of the directive from RI, we are asking each of you to exercise due diligence and care as to decide how and when to meet. We encourage you all to continue with virtual platforms for your meetings and to follow all directives of your local and state health authorities concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are all looking forward to the time when we can meet together in fellowship and in person. Working together will get us there.
