Dear Fellow Rotarians,

As we step into a new Rotary year, I am deeply honored to serve as your President. July is always a time of transitional moment to look forward with renewed energy, but also a time to look back with immense gratitude.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our immediate past president, Heidi Ruster. Together with the steadfast support of her husband, Kevin Mack, Heidi provided exceptional leadership and guidance over the past twelve months. Our club is stronger, more vibrant, and better positioned for the future because of her dedication to Service Above Self. Please join me in thanking Heidi and her husband for their outstanding service to our Rotary family.

This July also brings a truly unique milestone outside our club. As we launch our new Rotary year, our nation is celebrating its 250th anniversary. This semi quincentennial is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on our shared history, honor the contributions of those who came before us, and look ahead toward the future we want to create. It reminds us that great communities are built by people who believe in something bigger than themselves.

This historic backdrop aligns perfectly with the call to action issued by Rotary International President Olayinka Hakeem Babalola: Create Lasting Impact. Just as our nation's founders forged a legacy 250 years ago, this theme challenges us to focus on sustainable, long-term change that empowers our community for generations to come.

Creating lasting impact doesn't always require grand gestures; it begins with the everyday magic of our members. It happens when we welcome newcomers with open arms, support one another, and allow our Rotary experiences to transform us personally.

Our club has a rich history of service, and I am excited to see what we will achieve together this year. Whether we are addressing local needs or contributing to global initiatives, let us turn our strong connections into collective action.

Thank you for your continued dedication, your fellowship, and your commitment to making this a truly historic and transformative year.

Yours in Rotary service,

Don Weakley

President, Rotary Club of Salt Lake City

2026-27