Posted on Dec 16, 2022
Best wishes to everyone for a Happy Christmas season!  And as we celebrate what is both a secular and a Christian observance in our society, let’s remember and respect the many other religions that also celebrate special occasions at this time of year.  It is wonderful to see so many of our clubs engage with their communities as they celebrate holiday events. We’ve had an active month in Rotary!  Here are some highlights.
 
• We’ve chartered a new club!!  The Rotary Club of Vancouver Waterfront received its charter November 30.  Welcome, club, and a special welcome to the many new Rotarians who are among the 22 charter members.
• District appointments: we’ve announced a number of appointments as we get ready for the 2023–2024 Rotary year. Welcome, Rotarians, to your roles on the District team!
• Our District board has approved a revised District Policy paper, posted on the website. A special thanks to PDGs Penny Offer, Leigh Higinbotham and Gordon Dalgleish for the many hours and dedication that they devoted to this. It complements the bylaw revisions passed at our 2022 AGM.
• We have a Lower Mainland Foundation Dinner coming up, February 4.  It is a joint dinner with the Rotary Club of Richmond, who are celebrating Lunar New Year and their 60th club anniversary.  You can support your Foundation and a member club, and have a great evening all at the same time!
• RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) South, for 16 to 18 year olds, is happening March 25 to 28, and registrations are now open. It's the first in-person RYLA since the start of COVID!
• District Conference April 28 to 30 is a great opportunity to connect with Rotary and Rotarians. Hear some great speakers and have an enjoyable time in a lovely venue in downtown Vancouver.  Registration rates go up January 1, and our hotel block with a negotiated rate is filling.
 
John
 
John Berry
District Governor 2022-23