From RotaryDad ...

I participated in something new yesterday: I spoke at a campaign rally for my City Council member who is running for County Supervisor. The candidate is someone with whom I've had lengthy contact over the years; he's helped the non-profit agencies I've run, and I've always supported his candidacy.

His new district would include most of the geographical area of my Rotary Club, and he'll be speaking to the club in a few weeks. I'm confident that he will represent the larger service area very well, but he's not as well known outside of San Jose. He's great with constituent service, and he will be very visible in the community.

Who am I, and does my endorsement actually help? Of course, I've been involved with the community, but hadn't really thought of myself as a community leader, per se. But my title as President of my Rotary Club certainly brings the connotation of leadership, so I guess I should embrace it. I consulted some friends and club members before allowing my title to be included in my endorsement. A president of a neighboring club is on the council in his city, and he thought it was OK to be identified as president, as long as it didn't appear that the club itself was endorsing any candidate. He even thought it might bring some recognition back to the club, too.

So, I walked up to the podium and represented my club's community, speaking as a friend and proponent. I hope others are comfortable with that, and I hope I didn't embarrass myself.

Good luck, Ken!