I have been fortunate, over the last 17 years, to have held a variety of roles both within my club and our district. I’ve enjoyed the opportunities to learn from some really brilliant people. To make deep, lasting friendships and to find my path in leadership.
So, as I accept the honor of serving as your District Governor it is with a full heart of gratitude and sense of humility.
Rotary, to me, is about creating life-changing opportunities, which continue long after our term of service has ended. As I look forward to the year ahead, I am inspired by one especially important question: What lasting impact will we have?
As you read this, Boothbay Harbor Rotarian Martha Peak Helman – Marty – will have just completed a term as Rotary Foundation Trustee (2022-26) and is now beginning to serve on the Board of Directors of Rotary International. She reflected recently with 7780 Newsletter’s roving reporter on her experience as a Trustee and looked forward to her time as a Director.
As a Foundation Trustee:
Marty was able to serve on the board with the most knowledgeable people in Rotary; she found it a “humbling and amazing experience to work closely with four Rotary International Past Presidents.” When asked what she was most proud of as a Trustee, Marty demurred, saying they were “seemingly little things.” But the “little things” could be life-changing for the people affected. Case in point – the Trustees considered “21st Century Issues,” among which is the environment and transitioning from fossil fuels.
Help create a breathtaking image of Rotary pride and patriotism as we celebrate USA250. On July 29, Rotarians, families, and friends will gather at Pedro Field in Portland to hold 250 American flags in formation - a beautiful photo you’ll want to be in!
Wednesday July 29th, meet at 4:45pm at Pedro Field, 30 Baxter Blvd, Portland. It’s right off I-295 Exit 6B. We’ll meet, get our headcount of flag bearers, and take the field.
By: Marion Cheney, PDG, 2026 Zone 28/32 Chair, Dover RC
Join Rotarians from across 15 nations for an unforgettable experience of fellowship, learning, and inspiration at our premier Rotary Zone Event in beautiful Cancún, Mexico.
Set along the stunning Caribbean coastline, this oceanfront gathering offers the perfect blend of professional development, networking, and relaxation at a luxurious all-inclusive resort. Attendees will enjoy exceptional accommodations and dining, with a choice of six buffet and à la carte restaurants.
District International Café Wraps Up the Rotary Year with Inspiring Global Projects
By: Bill Dunn, Member DISC, Yarmouth RC
On Saturday, June 13th, more than 20 Rotarians set aside the beautiful weather — and other District events, including the Crutches4Africa container stuffing — to attend the final International Café of the Rotary Year. Together, we traveled virtually to Guatemala, Uganda, and Kenya.
Before the presentations began, Emma Bodwell announced that Marion Cheney is taking over as Chair of the District International Committee and as host of DISC's International Cafés. Marion then introduced incoming District Governor Michele Bois-Gilbody of the Freeport Club, who shared an exciting project underway at the Community School in Santa Cruz, Guatemala.
By: Dennis Robillard, Chair, District 7780 Crutches for Africa, Saco Bay Sunset RC
On June 13, Rotarians from 11 clubs across District 7780 joined five members of the local Democratic Republic of the Congo community to load the district’s 15th 40‑foot shipping container bound for Africa. The container, packed at 128 Saco Avenue in Old Orchard Beach, held an impressive 3,142 mobility aids — including 1,162 crutches, 821 walkers, 79 wheelchairs, 788 canes, 149 boots, 37 rollators, and 106 miscellaneous items.
