Annual President’s Address Shared at the La Porte Rotary Club Meeting on July 14

city-of-laporteAt the regular noon Monday meeting for the La Porte Club of Rotary International, members were gathered not only for lunch, but for a time of listening to newly installed president, Mitch Feikes, share his vision for the upcoming year. As an organization based on the philosophy of “Service Above Self”, much of the discussion was directed to the selection of meaningful projects for the coming year. It was decided that a smaller project of working on the flower beds by the Rotary Gazebo near the Park Office was a necessary task. The larger project that was agreed upon was the work on helping to create a permanent concession stand with restrooms at the Kesling Park ball diamonds.

This project was selected because it was felt it would offer a positive community impact in furthering La Porte’s desire to be a destination location. The group will be looking to formulate a plan forward that includes funding, engineering, and possible other groups to join in the effort. The group also talked about undertaking a more visible place in the community with more effective publicity, marketing, and the use of social media. The Four-Way Test for all Rotarian involvement revolves around this pledge: “Of the things we think, say or do…1. Is it the Truth? 2. Is it Fair to all Concerned? 3. Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships? and 4. Will it be Beneficial to all Concerned?

Rotary will be providing a spaghetti dinner the evening before the Tour de La Porte on Friday August 22 from 4 to 8 pm at Cummins Lodge. This is open not only to participants in the annual Hospital Foundation Fundraiser which includes running and biking, but also to the community at large. Dinner tickets are only $7.00 in advance and can be purchased from any Rotarian, or at the door for $8.00. Rotary is always welcoming to those who are of like mind in the idea of Service Above Self and who would like to regularly attend weekly meetings at noon on Mondays at the Best Western on Pine Lake Avenue in La Porte. For more information, one can visit www.rotary.org and/or the local website of www.rotaryoflaporte.org.