'Light Up Rotary', District Governor Alistair Marquis

'Light up Rotary'

President Ian introduced and welcomed District Governor Alistair Marquis and his wife Margaret to this week's meeting. Before taking on the post of District Governor Alastair spent most of his working life in Primary School Education, having been a Head Teacher in Livingston for some years before taking on the role of Assistant Chief Inspector at HM Inspectorate of Education for Scottish Government. He is a member of the Whitburn Rotary Club.

At the start of his address, Alistair spoke of the excellent support he has received from our Secretary, Lindsay Craig, in his role as Assistant District Governor and he presented Lindsay with a Paul Harris Badge and Bar in recognition of his outstanding service to District. Alistair also presented RI 'Kingpin' badges to Ralph Allardyce and John Wilson in recognition of their current roles in District.

In reflecting on the RI 'Light up Rotary' theme for 2014-15, Alistair commented on how, in difficult times, we as Rotarians can light up our local community working together as a successful Club and also as part of the global family of Rotary. He is encouraging clubs in District 1020 to focus on four 'Light up Rotary' areas for action, as follows:

1. Light up yourself and your Club - be a beacon of light on an individual and collective basis in your community;

2. Lighten up Rotary - enjoy Rotary and have fun - do away with some trappings and traditions if they no longer suit your Club;

3. Enlighten yourself about Rotary - understand where Rotary is going - keep abreast of progress through attendance at meetings and read Rotary magazines, websites, etc. 

4. Delight in Rotary - be proud to be in Rotary and enjoy the experience - wear the badge at all times with pride and encourage others to join us - new members are essential. 

In closing his address Alistair reflected well on the efforts and many successes of the Currie Balerno Rotary Club and concluded his talk with a rapturous Rotary International Happy Clap.

Club member Walter Hallyburton, a former District Governor, thanked Alistair for his stimulating address.