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What a year it's been!
After going to the 2012 Rotary International Convention in Thailand, I decided that I wanted to be more involved in Rotary.  I became an assistant governor and realized how little I knew about other Clubs and the District.  Time to learn, connect and listen.  Serving Milan, Ann Arbor North, Saline and the newly formed Ann Arbor West club opened new horizons.  They adopted me as one of their members as I acted as a conduit for the Governor.   I had the privilege to meet the District team and learn about: Foundation, membership, AG's, youth and the Canadian side of the District. 
 
In late 2015, my club (Brighton) nominated me to run for District Governor.  After the interview, Barry Fraser was to be the District Governor Nominee Designate, not me.  Disappointment soon turned into determination to work on improving myself and increase involvement in the District.  The next year, I was again nominated by my club and after the interview, was selected to be the Governor Nominee Designate for 2018-2019.
 
For the next two years Barry Fraser and I worked closely together.  We have different styles which strengthen both of us.  January 2018 was International Assembly in San Diego – the final Rotary International training to be the next Governor.  A week of intensive training, meeting Rotarians from around the world and getting ready for the coming year.
 
As I look back and reflect on this past Rotary year, I recall the many opportunities I was able to be a part of:  visiting numerous clubs and their projects; signing the charter for the newest district club (Motorcycling Rotarians e-club); inducing new members, recognizing Paul Harris Fellows and Major Donors; introducing a past Rotary International Vice President (Jennifer Jones); interviewing and recommending candidates for the Peace Center programs; and approving District and Global grant projects.
 
Change is the only thing that is constant.  Rotary Leadership, at the International and District level, changes every year.  New ideas come with new leadership.  Don ‘Sparky’ Leonard and his team will do it differently, as they should.  It’s going to be an exciting year with Sparky’s leadership.  Embrace the changes so Rotary can grow. 
 
Remember to get your ASK in Gear, keep 'Being the Inspiration' so that Rotary can Connect the World.
 
Thank you for your friendship, ‘Being my Inspiration’ and a year full of awesome memories.  It was an Honor and a Privilege to Service you as District Governor during 2018-2019
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Russell Hampton
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