The leaves are finally changing color and it sure feels like autumn in the air!  As we begin our second quarter of the Rotary year, I continue to be inspired by your leadership and service to your communities.  I was busy visiting many clubs in October, and that will continue in November.  As you know, November is Rotary Foundation Month.  So many clubs have already been busy raising money for polio in October using PDG Geoff Goll's wine challenge.  To date, we are over $8000 in contributions with many still coming in.  Keep in mind the 2-for-1 match from the Gates Foundation and the wine challenge will nearly triple our efforts for polio.  I can't thank you all enough for stepping up to this challenge.  By now,  Dr. Peter Apicella has sent all clubs information regarding our annual district foundation campaign and the chance to win a Paul Harris Fellow for each $20 that Rotarians contribute during the campaign.
 
This past month also focused on membership and many of you were able to attend the Tri-District Membership Summit sponsored by Rotary Districts 6600, 6630 and 6650, and organized by PDG Sieglinde Warren who is assistant Zone coordinator for membership development.  Haris Sofradzija, from Rotary International, provided attendees with significant insight about our membership efforts.  You will continue to hear about our district contest to increase our members.  Sadly, October also brought the reality that the hard decision to wind down the Rotary Club of Rittman.  Remaining Rotarians are transferring to the Rotary Club of Orrville.  I commend Rotarians Jere and Rochelle Dutt for their many years of leadership in Rittman.  However, we are looking to extend Rotary to Hartville and a new club is on the cusp of forming in that community.  If you know of interested individuals who want to serve in Hartville, please refer them to PDG Sieglinde.
 
I'm very much enjoying my time as District Governor and that's because of all of you---the Rotarians of District 6650, who impress and surprise me on a daily basis.  Continue your "Service Above Self" and "Be the Inspiration" this year!