President's Message

Dear Rotarians, Sponsors, Supporters & our Community Members,

 

Thank you. Thank you for your continued support, participation and service but most importantly the trust you’ve instilled in us to do what we are most passionate about; bringing together business leaders with a humanitarian focus to provide services and advance goodwill around the world.

 

Did you know that around the globe there are more countries represented by Rotary then there are nations in the UN? That is well over 200 countries. Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change… to create hope. Our small but mighty Rotary club is one of many (46,103 member clubs to be exact), that provide much-needed services and support to our local community through a host of veteran, senior citizen and youth programing; supporting diverse and at-risk populations, leading professional development opportunities, outreach programs and partnering with local non-profit & government organizations to enhance the quality of life for those in our community whom may need assistance.

 

I am Rick Bull, PhD & I am honored to be the President of Southern Ulster Rotary Club for 2023-2024 – a graduate of Wallkill, a long-time past resident of Plattekill, first Eagle Scout of Boy Scout Troop 195, husband, father, innovation leader & researcher. While I am a proud Rotarian, my favorite title by far is Dad. It has been incredible watching our communities grow over the years from farm land, to bedroom communities; our needs may have changed, but we remain humble & neighborly to one another. Our club has evolved too, today we’ve introduced new community programs, supported local youth camps, grew our foot print to help food pantries, backpack programs, support veterans services and feed our seniors. We’ve built youth Volleyball & Basketball programs during the winter months and kicked off a new after-school art program. Together we’ve expanded our scholarship offerings, revisited our youth exchange program and have inspired future leaders to take action. We’ve assisted international organizations in obtaining resources to meet basic human needs and have acted to provide humanitarian assistance in areas of conflict, global unrest and natural disasters. I couldn’t be more proud to be a Rotarian then I am of all our club and all its members have achieved. We have a past rich in history but I am hopeful for our future.

 

In the year ahead, we will continue these initiatives, as well as add programming designed to identify and support community needs in areas that we haven’t previously considered. We will continue to collaborate with other local community groups that support our mission and Rotary clubs in the area. The bar is set and we could use your help… we need your help. If you are service-oriented and have a passion for helping others, we would love to hear from you. Please speak with any member and ask how you can get involved or discover more by visiting southernulsterrotary.org 

 

Finally, I'd like to give a special shout-out of appreciation to our Club’s Board of Directors, Secretary, Amy D'Anci | Treasurer, Kurtis Nordahl | Membership, Sue Reichardt | Director, Michele Tomasicchio | Director, Chris Dawes | Immediate Past President, Will Farrell | Youth Services, Debbie Botbyl | Executive Secretary/Director, Paul Daniels | Sergeant-at-Arms, Frank Hrelja.

 

I would also like to acknowledge our District Governor 7210, Peter Sullivan & Region 2 Assistant Governor, Maria Rice for their continued appreciation of our mighty club.

A warm resounding thank you to my loving Wife, Yuying, and our children Naylani, Iolana & Malakai for sharing their time with us & their patience while Daddy helps save the world on Wednesdays.

 

Wheels & Wings, Annual Car Truck & Bike show, is not just one of our biggest events, it’s become a staple in the community a symbol of coming together, fellowship, friendship & fun for all. This event would not be possible without the continued support of the many members of our Car Show Committee, Chaired by Becky & Chris Dawes. We couldn’t be more grateful for their leadership & service alongside each and every member of Southern Ulster Rotary who has touched this show in one way or another. 

 

If you have an idea, suggestion, comment, improvement, or feedback, please contact me, any of our leadership team and convey your thoughts.  If you want to make a difference, reach out to our Membership Chair, Sue Reichardt and let them know you want to get more involved.

 

I’m looking forward to a fantastic 2023-24 Rotary year, and I am grateful for your partnership and dedication to Wheels & Wings, our annual Car, Truck & Bike Show hosted by Southern Ulster Rotary to make it all possible!

 

Yours in Rotary,