Mark LaCour, newly elected Governor of District 6200 in Rotary International, was the featured speaker at the July 18 Zachary Rotary Club meeting.

LaCour said he was there to spread peace through Rotary and share his "good-ship of Rotary." Literally.

LaCour brought a ship, though small in size and scale, which symbolizes much more figuratively. "It motivates me," said LaCour. "Everyone has something that motivates them."

LaCour told the Zachary Rotarians that his ship is "kept at full sail and is always moving forward."

Always the public relations guy, LaCour said all members of the service organization should have a 1-minute elevator speech prepared of what Rotary is all about. "Educate yourselves on what Rotarians are about and what projects Rotarians are involved," said LaCour.

An area LaCour says could be much better with Rotary clubs nationwide is its membership. In 1997, Rotarian membership showed 1.2 million people and that same number of members was recorded in 2012.

"We must do better at our public relations and new member recruitment," said the District Governor.

Benefits of becoming a Rotarian include friendship and fellowship, networking and leadership awareness to name a few.

"Rotarians lead by example," LaCour said. "We should inspire others around us to give back, volunteer and to serve."

In addition, Rotary's theme this year is: "Peace thru Service" and to promote it, LaCour gave each Rotarian a colorful pin embossed with the theme.

LaCour also encouraged the service organization's members to write more grants, promote club membership and attend Rotary's annual conferences and conventions.

"If you see someone with a Rotary pin, you know you've got a friend," LaCour said.

To learn more about becoming a Rotarian and how to join, visit www.rotary.org.