September 13, 2026 | Issue 6

Hello Rotarians,

As we begin our new Rotary monthly theme of Basic Education and Literacy, let us remember that this remains a worldwide challenge.

While it is easy to take for granted the schools and educational opportunities we have in this country, many communities are not so fortunate. Rotary works to address these needs by increasing the number of teachers, providing professional development and educational supplies, and supporting students through mentoring. It also works with other organizations, such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

I am continually impressed by Rotarians’ commitment to strengthening their communities through their willingness to roll up their sleeves and make a difference. While many of us support local and international education fundraisers, school supply drives, and service projects, it is easy to overlook the tremendous need for student mentors.

Given the life experiences, professional knowledge, and vocational skills Rotarians can bring to the classroom, who better to create an incredible tapestry of knowledge and skills to share with future generations?

This month, I ask every Rotarian to consider becoming a mentor through programs such as EarlyAct, Interact, and Rotaract. If your club does not have a mentoring program, why not start one? What better way to follow Rotary’s Second Object than to regularly meet with students of all ages to read together, talk, share a meal, listen, and learn from one another?

You may never know the full impact of the time spent with a student, but it could change a young person’s life—and perhaps your own.

Yours in Rotary Service,

Bo Norton
District Governor

Rotary District 6970 was honored to join the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise, fellow Rotarians, first responders, community leaders, and residents for the annual Flags for Heroes event in Green Cove Springs, Florida.

This year’s gathering held special significance as our community marked 25 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It was a beautiful but somber morning dedicated to remembering the lives lost, honoring those who answered the call to serve, and recognizing the heroes who continue to make a difference in our communities.

Representing District 6970 and Rotary leadership were Rotary International Zones 33/34 Director Marshall Butler, District Governor Bo Norton, District Governor Nominee Eric Sherman, and other district representatives and Rotary club leaders.

Read more and view the full gallery here: https://www.rotarydistrict6970.org/

Thank you to Orange Park Sunrise Public Image Chair Jenielle Holderfield for the photography.

Downtown DeLand Achieves 100% Paul Harris

Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Downtown DeLand on becoming a 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club!

This special recognition means that every active, dues-paying member of the club has become a Paul Harris Fellow by receiving at least $1,000 in recognition credit through contributions to The Rotary Foundation.

A special thank-you to club members Rich, Harland, and Monica, whose generosity helped the club’s newest Paul Harris Fellows receive their recognition and brought the club to this exciting milestone.

How can your club become a 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club?

Appoint a Club Foundation Chair that can work toward having every active, dues-paying member reach Paul Harris Fellow recognition. Members can contribute the full amount at once, break their contributions into quarterly payments through club dues, or tenured members with available Foundation recognition points can transfer those points to newer members to help them reach the $1,000 recognition level.

If you have questions about becoming a 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club, reach out to our District Foundation Chair, John Tabor, for more information at john.rotaryd6970@gmail.com.

What Is the Rotary Learning Center?

The Rotary Learning Center offers more than 1,000 courses in over 20 languages! It’s an incredible training resource available to Rotarians and Rotaractors.

Are you new to your club’s Board of Directors? Not quite sure what’s expected of you in your new role? Simply search the course directory for your position and find courses and learning plans designed to help guide you.

And don’t worry about finishing everything in one sitting! You can stop, come back later, and continue where you left off. You can even keep track of your in progress and completed courses.

Read more about the Rotary Learning Center and how to get started:

https://www.rotaryzones3334.org/the-rotary-learning.../