October 25, 2026 | Issue 9

Hello Rotarians,

As we focus this month on Community Economic Development, it is worth remembering how closely Rotary’s Areas of Focus are connected.

Consider how our recent themes of Maternal and Child Health and Basic Education and Literacy complement others, such as Disease Prevention and Treatment, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, and Protecting the Environment. When communities can meet their basic needs, educate their children, protect their health, and live in a healthy environment, they have a stronger foundation on which to build a sustainable local economy.

At the same time, economies cannot thrive where war and conflict exist. That is why the Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Area of Focus is equally important. The power of our Areas of Focus is that they do not stand alone. They work together to help us achieve Rotary’s mission of “Doing Good in the World.”

As challenging as the world can be, the Areas of Focus give us direction, and The Rotary Foundation gives us the resources to turn that direction into action.

As we look ahead to November and our focus on The Rotary Foundation, let us remember that our contributions help support this work across all of Rotary’s Areas of Focus. When we invest in The Rotary Foundation, we invest in stronger communities and a better tomorrow.

Thank you again for all you do for your club, community, and Rotary, and for investing in the communities of tomorrow.

Yours in Rotary Service,

Bo Norton
District Governor

This month, the Rotary Clubs of Gainesville proudly received a proclamation from the City of Gainesville, the Gainesville City Commission, and Mayor Harvey Ward designating October 24, 2026, as World Polio Day!

Rotarians representing four local clubs were on hand to accept this special recognition, with Area Governor Stephanie Esposito sharing remarks on behalf of our area clubs.

This proclamation celebrates Rotary’s longstanding commitment to a polio-free world and reminds us that our work is not yet done. Together, we can continue raising awareness, supporting vaccination efforts, and protecting future generations from this preventable disease.

Rotary is People of Action, and together, we can End Polio Now!

Rotary Club of Flagler County

Makes a Community Splash!

On Tuesday, October 20, the Rotary Club of Flagler County was recognized at the Palm Coast City Council meeting with two mayoral proclamations honoring the club’s 45th anniversary and recognizing November as Rotary Foundation Month.

The club also announced an upcoming banner display along Palm Coast Parkway near I-95 and unveiled its vision to fund a permanent Town Center Pavilion, providing much-needed shade at the city's beautiful lakefront park.

Leading up to World Polio Day on October 24, the recognition highlighted Rotary’s ongoing commitment to service through local nonprofit funding, youth scholarships, community food programs, and beloved traditions such as the annual Fantasy Lights.

The club extends its sincere appreciation to current President Kenneth Costa and Past President Michelle Bartlome for their leadership and dedication in making these milestones possible. For 45 years, the Rotary Club of Flagler County has continued to demonstrate what it means to put Service Above Self into action.

Are you a computer guru? D6970 needs a Club Communication Officer from your club!

Know DACdb? Help keep your club's member info current and accurate.

District 6970 is actively looking for one member from each club to serve as a Club Communication Officer. It's an important role: you would help keep your club members' information current and accurate. You'll work directly with the D6970 Support Team, so you won't be on your own.

How you can help:

Volunteer yourself if this sounds like you.

Nominate or assign a member in your club who has the skills and the interest.

Club Presidents and Secretaries, we're especially counting on you to help us find the right person.

Interested? Reach out to District Communications Officer Jim Z at DACdbSupport@Rotary6970.org.

Thank you for helping us keep every club's information accurate!

SE Volusia Rotary Clubs Ride to End Polio Now

A non-competitive social bicycle rally to raise awareness and money to help eradicate polio from the earth forever. Join us for a great ride along the East Central Rail Trail. You choose the miles and the pace. Stay for the post ride picnic, TREK FX 3 Gen 4 bike raffle, prizes and games.

Location: Rotary Park, 902 W. Park Ave., Edgewater, FL

All donations received will be eligible for PHF Recognition Points and a 2:1 Gates Foundation Match.

For more information: Contact District Membership Chair, Charles Miller at chasm322@gmail.com.

To register or donate, click here: https://raise.rotary.org/