President's Message For September 2025

Welcome to the start of our new Rotary year - and what a start it’s been! We’ve dived right in with something big: our application for a Rotary Program of Scale - worth $2.5 million - has been officially submitted. If successful, it’ll be a huge step forward in expanding our impact and reach. Glenn Pfaff has done a great job preparing the Concept Note and coordinating the team from Thailand and the USA.

We’ve also received approval for two Global Grants from South Korea, which will extend the water, sanitation and health projects in northern Thailand. These projects will make a lasting difference in the communities we serve and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.

The Children's Water Safety and Drowning Prevention program and the School Vision Screening programs have begun thanks to our funders and the tireless work of John Schorr.

After years of being involved with Burmese children and students here in Chiang Mai, Gary Herman has handed over the running of our regular visits to BK KEE house to Andy Boud, and Ginger Green has taken on coordinating our association with Agape Home.

Over the past month, I’ve been visiting clubs and congratulating new presidents as they take on their roles. It’s been a great way to build relationships - and also, apparently, get a name change. At several of the Thai club meetings, my surname Hodgson, has proven to be a bit of a challenge. So now, I’ve been rebranded as … Owen Handsome. Not quite what my passport says, but I’ll take the compliment!

Thanks, as always, for your support and energy. It’s going to be a great year together.

Yours in service and smiles,

Owen “Handsome”

President, Chiang Mai International Rotary Club