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President's Message

Friends,

I want to start with a simple but heartfelt thank you. It is an incredible honor to serve as your President this year, and I am truly grateful for your trust. I step into this role with a lot of excitement—and just enough humility to know I have some big shoes to fill.

We have a great year ahead of us—filled with service projects that matter, fellowship that keeps us connected, and plenty of opportunities to make a real impact in our community. I will share more about where we are headed at my Vision Meeting on July 9 (mark your calendars), but for now, just know that I cannot wait to get started with all of you.

A quick reminder: there will be no meeting on July 2, so enjoy the extra time with family and friends as we head into the July 4 holiday.

This year’s Independence Day feels especially meaningful as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Two hundred and fifty years of history, progress, challenge, and resilience. As John F. Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” That spirit of service is something we as Rotarians understand deeply.

And as if that were not enough, we also have the excitement of the World Cup coming to the United States during this milestone year—a powerful reminder that connection goes beyond borders, bringing people together across cultures and communities.

In a bit of personal perspective, I recently realized I have now reached the impressive milestone of being one-fifth as old as our nation. So while America celebrates 250 years, I am just getting warmed up.

This July 4, I hope you will take time to connect—really connect—with the people around you. Whether that looks like a backyard barbecue, a morning road race, enjoying the Roswell fireworks celebration, or a relaxed afternoon at the pool, these are the moments that matter.

And here is where I need your help: take photos. Lots of them. We are launching our Strengthening Connections Challenge on July 9, but let’s get an early start by sharing how you are connecting on this historic holiday. Please send your photos to Alicia Hughes so we can highlight the many ways our Rotary family shows up for each other and our community.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve. I am looking forward to a year of connection, service, and shared purpose.

Leslie M. Bassett
President Roswell Rotary 2026-27

Posted by Leslie Bassett
June 30, 2026

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