Can you believe we are already closing in on December? Where does the time go? Perhaps it is that we are very busy making a difference in the lives of so many people?  Or is it that we are creating opportunities to improve our communities?
 
On October 29, President Ray Bastarache welcomed us to the Lynn Rotary Club. Not only did we have a great lunch, but we were impressed by the club’s commitment to membership growth and retention! If you have a chance to speak to Ray, please ask him how they have gained more than a dozen members since July! We had the pleasure of meeting some of the new members of the Lynn Satellite Club and hearing the positive impact the club is doing for the great city of Lynn.
 
Rotary does a great job with community projects both locally and internationally. Clubs also share this important relationship with their schools, whether elementary, middle or high school. Reading Rotary and President Bob Hayes’s dedication to their community and service to schools is outstanding! I was impressed when hearing Bob and the club discuss all of the upcoming projects they are committed to doing.
 
On November 5th, the great Melrose Rotary Club and President Dan Burke welcomed us to a fantastic meeting. Such an engaged and lively club! They have an impact on the community of Melrose that is appreciated by many and provide incredible service. No wonder they are one of the largest clubs in our district!

I really enjoy Rotary and food! When you combine the two, it is tremendous. On November 12th, President Dave Eidle and the Everett Rotary Club led an excellent meeting at Everett High School. The students prepared this incredible meal! I eat out a lot and at some of the best restaurants in the city, and I have to say that these students can match the best chefs in the city with their skills! It is great that the club meets there for several reasons,  including the commitment they provide students. I was proud to meet some of the students from the brand new Interact Club of Everett, and I’m looking forward to visiting often.

On November 19th, we travelled up to Amesbury to visit that engaged club. President Todd Schell is in his second year as president and looks extremely comfortable at it! This club is such a force and dedicated to improving its community and beyond. It was great to see Past District Governor Terri Doerfler (Kidder), a mentor and dear friend. I am grateful for this club’s support of our veterans!

We have finished our “official District Governor’s” meetings and I had such a great time sharing our vision, collaborating, and hearing the great things our clubs and members are doing. Truly, an amazing group we have!

Also on the radar, we are gearing up for our 2016 Polar Plunge.  Please visit the Polar Plunge Page or text "joinplunge" to 51555. I personally appreciate the support for this event. Please join me. The water won’t be too cold!!
 
Lastly, showcasing Rotary and promoting the Objective of Rotary will increase membership which will then increase more service projects and Foundation support. As you know, November is Rotary Foundation month. Please consider your Foundation and the lives that are impacted and the programs that are supported.

My best to you,
D