Holiday Wishes from Your District Governor, Maxie Houser

     I heard of a recent study which polled Americans to determine the thing for which they were most thankful as our nation heads into the Thanksgiving holiday. Not surprisingly, “the health of themselves and family members” topped the list of noted blessings.

     Especially since news of the recent super typhoon in the Philippines has occupied our minds, it is understandable we would relish the health and safety we possess here in America. I am so glad Rotary International has partnered with ShelterBox to assist the families affected by the typhoon. If you and your family have not had an opportunity to participate in that endeavor, why not take a moment and check the District website for information on contributing?

     While I am most certainly appreciative of our common health and safety, there are additional items for which I am immensely grateful. Among those items would be my association with Rotary and the ideals which it espouses. I am honored to share with each of you in the work of  “Service Above Self.” The District is replete with so many Rotarians who exemplify this mantra.

     I think of the Taft club, the McAllen clubs, and other clubs which focus on a project of providing shoes for the needy children in their area. I think of the Port Isabel club whose grant project will provide needed latrines and water-related projects in Honduras. I’m reminded of the joint project of the clubs in Laredo, addressing the Mexico Literacy Project.

     At this particular time, I know the community of Corpus Christi has been blessed by the Corpus Christi club’s efforts in donating to the Thanksgiving Food Bank boxes program.  Especially since Thanksgiving originated as a celebration of a “bountiful harvest,” it seems fitting that we also celebrate the garnering of a half million dollars for the Endowment Fund of The Rotary Foundation through the Million Dollar Dinner event. PDG J.D. Simpson has dubbed it a “Maxie-Million Year,” anticipating our reaching the million dollar mark during what he termed “Maxie’s year.”  I know you join with me in anticipation of reaching that goal.

     I could go on and on with the many good things that come – both here and abroad -- as a result of each and every one of you being committed to serving others. I know none of you are expecting a pat on the back, but please accept it from me anyway.

     I treasure my association with each of you; it is one of the blessings in my life for which I am most thankful. I eagerly anticipate many more years of working with you.

     It is my heartfelt wish that you enjoy your holidays. May they be safe and happy!

Maxie Houser
District 5930