SIMPLY INCREDIBLE!
Wow!! That is the only word I can summon from my mind that describes best our experience of our first 25 official club visits. The venues, the hospitality shown us, the humongous list of activities that are Making a Difference in communities in the District and the world, but most of all the people, the Rotarians we’ve met who have impressed us. If you were attempting to solidify your belief and commitment to Rotary there is no better way than to first read of the multitude of good being done by all of our clubs and then days or weeks later visit those clubs and see the faces and get to know the phenomenal people behind it all. Yes, you do so much good in this world, you are Making a Difference! I am so proud to be your Governor!
Above, I am "the guy in the funny glasses" with the Rotary Club of Stoney Creek! What a way to start the day! Below, Grand Island welcomed us with a Making a Difference cake! Just two of many memorable club visits. 
One thing I have noticed is there are a limited number of clubs who to date have entered their Foundation and Rotary Citation goals on the new improved Rotary Club Central. I would urge those who have not yet done this to please make it a priority in the coming weeks so both the District and Rotary International will have a picture of what to expect in this year. After all, you wouldn’t leave on a trip without knowing where you were going. On the 19th, we meet with the Canadian club presidents and the following night the U.S. club presidents where assistance will be provided to ensure this important task is completed.
We had a lengthy discussion at District Council about the many tragedies that have befallen us recently; forest fires in British Columbia, Manitoba and California, the devastation of hurricanes Harvey and Irma and we’ll be providing guidance by a communication to clubs and a posting of the message on the District website homepage.
It is difficult to fathom that officially fall is almost upon us; where did the summer go? I ask all clubs to consider some type of activity in their communities on Tuesday, October 24th, World Polio Day. We are ‘This Close’ to eradicating this horrible disease from the face of the earth and do need to let our public know of our involvement and passion by some activity in each of our communities. Whether it is handing out information to our public or a fund raising event, let’s take this opportunity to blow our horn about ending polio!
October also marks the date of the 2017 District Conference and I urge you to please register for this outstanding event at the White Oaks Conference Centre, Resort and Spa. The event begins Friday, October 27th and concludes prior to noon, Sunday, October 29th. The mix of fellowship, great speakers and breakout sessions at this fabulous location will indeed be a treat. There is something for everyone and you can choose your participation for the weekend from the complete conference package to a buffet style selection on the website http://www.districtconference7090.org/. Please join us for a wonderful weekend of fun, fellowship and growth in Rotary!
Next month also means that many of the District leaders will be attending the Zone 24 Conference in Hartford and I’ll share our experience with you next month. So have a happy and safe Halloween! Thanks for all you do Making a Difference!