Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Gurdon Rotary is exemplary organization

The Gurdon Rotary Club is a prime example of all things that Rotary stands for. That was the word from Ian Cosh, district governor for Rotary International.

Cosh said that he works with a number of economically challenged communities about the same size as Gurdon, but said the Gurdon Rotary is doing better than others in similar circumstances.

Cosh said the goal of Rotary is to create and aid leaders around the world.

And youre leading the way, right here in Gurdon, Arkansas, Cosh said.

Cosh told members of the Gurdon Rotary that many clubs struggle to get news and information out to the public. He then commended the Gurdon Rotary for their productive efforts on several points, including coverage from local media points.

The fact that you do it and do it regularly is a real strength, Cosh said.

Among the positive aspects of the Gurdon club, according to Cosh, are the diversity and the communication among the leaders. Cosh said diversity - including gender and ethnicity - are important to Rotary and commended the local group for their obvious efforts on that point. He said the fact that current, past and future presidents are continually involved in the club means the group has a more constant leadership - vital to growth and success.

Cosh talked about the organizations pledge to eradicate childhood polio. He said a small Rotary group couldnt have managed a feat as large as that, but the total organization has found a place among the biggest groups in the world to work at this project.

He said the fact is that Rotary is nearing the goal, but cant stop working now. Cosh said the world will likely be polio-free in five years.

Rotary is a living organization, Cosh said, adding that all living things change. We must be prepared to change with it.

Cosh again commended local club leaders, including current president Jon Capps.

Its a great club and youre doing a fantastic job, Cosh said.