DISTRICT GOVERNOR KIM WEISS

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER - May 2026

May is Youth Service Month

Investing in the Future by Believing in Young People

Fellow Rotarians of District 6650,

May is Youth Service Month, a time when Rotary invites us to pause and reflect on one of our most powerful commitments: empowering young people to lead, serve, and shape a better world.

Across our district, I am continually inspired by how Rotary opens doors for
youth—not just to participate, but to belong, lead, and dream forward. Youth Service is not a single program or project. It is a mindset. It is our belief that when we invest in young people today, we strengthen our communities for generations to come.

Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are leaders right now. Through Rotary, we give them opportunities to:
 
  • Build confidence and leadership skills
  • Serve alongside caring adults who model Service Above Self
  • Experience the power of teamwork, inclusion, and community impact
  • Discover their voice, passions, and potential
 
When Rotary shows up for youth, we show them that their ideas matter and that they are capable of making a real difference.

Rotary District 6650 is proud to support youth through a variety of programs that create meaningful, life-changing experiences, including:
 
  • Interact Clubs that engage middle and high school students in service and leadership
  • Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), cultivating confident, values-driven leaders
  • Youth Exchange, promoting cultural understanding and global citizenship
  • Scholarships and mentoring opportunities that help students pursue 
    education and career goals
These programs are more than activities they are pathways to purpose. They allow
young people to grow while giving back, and they remind us why Rotary’s mission
matters.

Whether you are actively involved in a youth program or simply encouraging the next generation, every Rotarian plays a role in Youth Service. This month, I encourage clubs to:
 
  • Partner with schools, teachers, and community organizations
  • Explore starting or strengthening Interact or Rotaract clubs
  • Invite youth to meetings, service projects, and leadership conversations
  • Mentor, encourage, and listen—sometimes the most impactful service begins with believing in someone
 
Small actions can spark lifelong confidence.

   A Call to Action

As we focus on Youth Service this May, let us ask ourselves:
 
  • How are we creating space for young voices in our clubs and communities?
  • Are we modeling the values we hope they will carry forward?
  • What legacy are we building through the lives we impact today?
 
Rotary’s story is one of hope, and youth are at the heart of that story.

Thank you for your commitment, your compassion, and your belief in the future.
Together, we unite for good and we are not just shaping leaders, we are changing lives to create lasting impact.

A special thank you to all of you who serve our youth-

Our district youth chair leaders are:

Gina Dermatto, Interact and RYLA Chair
Brent Rice and Bill Wood, Youth Exchange Program
David Yeagley and Nils Johnson, Inbound Students
Cathy McConnell, Outbound Students
Elwood Walker, 4 Way Speech Contest Consultant
 

In Rotary Service,

Kimberly Weiss

District Governor, Rotary District 6650

________________________________________________________________________

We have exciting news for district 6650!  It is my honor to announce that Ryan Boyce has been named the 2025-2026 District Governor Elect.

 

Ryan has been a member of the Rotary Club of Salem, OH since 2016. He has served on as Sergeant at Arms, Club Public Relations Chair, in 2021-2022 as Past President of the club, and held the Assistant Governor role for the 2022-2025 term.

In April 2024, Ryan travelled to Ethiopia where he worked with CGWE and the Rotary Club of Nekempte on local projects. He received the 2024 Rotarian ‘Service Above Self’ Award and a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his work and support.

From 2018-2020, Ryan served as a member of the Board of Directors for the local Salem Area Chamber of Commerce. Ryan was a member of the NEO Veterinary Managers’ Group and helped facilitate it from 2016-2017.

Ryan is an alumna of The University of Akron. His hospitality career focused on hotel restaurants and private country clubs proceeded to grow as he became a part of the food and beverage management team at the Renaissance Downtown Columbus Hotel.

Upon relocating to Northeastern Ohio, Ryan took on the responsibility of Practice Manager at Adamson Veterinary Services. He created Real Surrounding Beauty, LLC during the time he was a stay-at-home parent for his and his wife’s two children until he returned to his Practice Manager role at Adamson Veterinary Services.

 
Join our causes as we group together to make a difference in our district with all clubs participating in our (5) Focus Projects:  Environment, Membership, PeaceBuilder District at 100%,  Rotary Leadership Institute, and the Rotary Foundation.

MAY is:  Youth Services Month

Rotary believes in developing the next generation of leaders. Our programs help younger leaders build leadership skills, expand education and learn the value of service. Our District 6650 is passionate about our youth and our clubs support our youth through Interact, RYLA, and Rotary Youth Exchange. 

Rotary District 6650 - District Wide Service Project - Promoting Kindness and Peace

DG Kimberly Weiss is pleased to announce our district wide service project promoting kindness and peace.  It is simple- report an act of kindness every day at the website www.usokindness.org and list Rotary District 6650 as the organization you are associated with.  Post pictures or text on Facebook and tag Rotary District 6650, so the district sees all the impactful things we do every day.  Let's show the country what Rotary is all about! 

2026 DISTRICT 6650 CONFERENCE 

Here all that has happened for the 2025 - 2026 term under DG Kim Weiss's leadership.  We will have keynote speakers Jason Browne and Dureti "Mimi" Tadesse

Join the Race!

What happens when local Rotary Clubs join forces? Real change happens. It’s Easy to Get Involved! We’ve formed the Heart & Sole Rotarians team to support the Soles4Souls Race4EveryKid fundraiser. As Rotarians, we believe in taking collective action to solve our communities' most pressing challenges. Every step we take and every dollar we raise helps provide brand-new shoes to children, giving them the confidence and dignity they deserve to succeed in school and in life. We know that a pair of shoes is more than just footwear—it’s a path to opportunity. Will you join us?   

Rotarians - Sign Up Now - Volunteers Need to help at the Soles4Souls shoe giving event. 

 
Rotary Zones 30 & 31

SUMMER LEADERSHIP SEMINARS - SECURE YOUR SEAT AND SIGN UP! 

Together, we will create a customized action plan that:

  • Enhances Visibility and Appeal
  • Engages and Retains Members
  • Leverages the Power of our Foundation
Register Now - only $70 per person.  Follow this link to register and find out more information: https://www.rizones30-31.org/events/leadership-seminars/

Operation Pollination Shares Special Offer!  

All Rotarians are encouraged to visit the MyHomePark and save on their pre-order of native plants for their home garden

Give Online Now! 

All Rotarians can make a difference by supporting Reading with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library! 

ROTARY DISTRICT 6650 CHALLENGE

                     LET'S CREATE LASTING IMPACT!

Ohio’s District Governors have selected Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio as this year’s nonprofit to support. Rotarians and Rotary Clubs can support the Rotary for Reading campaign anytime between now and Saturday, March 14. The winning District and Club will be announced at the All Ohio P.E.T.s Conference, along with the total amount fundraised by Rotarians. CLICK ON IMAGE for more information.
As we begin the second half of our Rotary year, remember that our District Peace Chair Mgr. Robert Siffrin, one of the most popular members of the “District Speakers Bureau”, is available to speak or answer any questions you have. His email address is: rsiffrin@youngstowndiocese.org
BUILDING PEACE THROUGH SERVICE PROGRAM & CRUISE
On October 9th, 2025 Rotarians were invited to attend in the "Building Peace Through Service" Program & Cruise Follow-Up Informational Meeting. This is an important opportunity for all Rotarians, Rotaractors, Rotary Peace Fellows, Rotary Positive Peace Activators, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) Trainers & Practitioners, and Friends & Family. 
More information is located in the "Read More".  For additional information or questions, please reach out to:
Tom Carlisi, MA, Rotarian, CNVC Trainer at: info.carlisiandassociates@gmail.com
Rotary Seeks Peace Fellow Candidates
 
Open to all District 6650 Clubs 
Click on Image to find out more information on how to apply
District 6650 Club Presidents - Take the Challenge - 8 in 8
 
We are challenged to get 8 new members in 8 weeks - Why 8? 
 
Eight new members will:
 
● Bring fresh energy and perspectives
 
● Share leadership and service responsibilities
 
● Expand community reach and impact
 
● Strengthen long-term club sustainability
 
Eight weeks provides a clear, focused window to build momentum and try new approaches.
 
Clubs that successfully add 8 new members during the challenge period will be entered into a drawing for $1,000 to host a member social event in May or June. The social event must include members bringing guests, reinforcing Rotary’s culture of invitation and fellowship.
 
I am forwarding all the impactful information on the challenge and the summit to help engage and impact your membership. 
 
Let's go District 6650 and engage our membership!!
 
DG Kimberly R. Weiss  
Rotary Member Michael McGovern selected Chair of Global Polio Eradication Initiative's Oversight Board
ZONES 30 & 31 OPERATION FULL PLATE
Operation Full Plate - Clubs Encouraged to Help
 
Rotary Zones 30 & 31 encouraging Districts to take on hunger and make a difference in their communities with Operation Full Plate.  Click on the link for more details and learn how to pull the project into your club. 
 

CYCLONE DITWAH RESPONSE FUND

The Rotary Foundation has established a temporary Cyclone Ditwah Response Fund.

This fund will support disaster response grants in communities in Sri Lanka, where the cyclone has caused flooding and landslides, killed hundreds of people, and left many without safe places to stay, clean water, and electricity. Rotary members across the region are mobilizing to provide assistance, and your leadership can help make these efforts possible.

The Cyclone Ditwah Response Fund will accept contributions, including District Designated Funds (DDF), from now through 31 March 2026. Districts affected by the cyclone can apply for grants until 3 December 2026 or until all funds are spent. These grants can be used to supply people with necessities such as water, food, medicine, shelter, and clothing.
To help the communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah, you and your members can:
 
After 4 December 2026, any unused money in the Cyclone Ditwah Response Fund will be transferred to the Disaster Response Fund to support relief efforts for other disasters.

If you have questions about the Cyclone Ditwah Response Fund, write to disaster.responsefund@rotary.org. If you have questions about disaster response grants, write to grants@rotary.org.
 
For More Information  Visit:  Disaster-Response 
 
ISTANBUL ROTARY CLUB: ESSAY COMPETITION
 

FIND OUT MORE ON HOW TO DEVELOP PEACEBUILDING IN YOUR CLUB! 

 

ROTARY DISTRICT 6650 PUBLIC IMAGE 
 
Why Your Rotary Club Should Care About Public Image
 
Your club can benefit in many ways from a stronger public image of Rotary. Raising awareness and understanding of Rotary helps attract prospective members, instills a sense of pride among members, encourages community members to donate their time and money, and helps your club stand out from other volunteer opportunities.
 
Sign up at my.rotary.org for your brand center marketing kit and all the resources Rotary International has for your club to be successful! 
TIME TO TAKE THE 4-WAY TEST TO SCHOOLS!
 
Every year we bring the 4-Way test to our local high schools to ask students to argue a topic up against this test of the things we think, do and say. Introducing the 4-Way Test to young people will help more and more people to apply its important principles to their own lives with the ultimate goal being to make the world a better place.
Click on the Rotary picture to download the package from our District 4-Way Chairs Carrie Spina and Manuel Halkias.

Nominations are open for the 2025-26 People of Action Honors: Champions of Tomorrow!

ROTARY DISTRICT 6650 - STOCK THE BOX 2025 | ShelterBox USA
 
Rotary International Needs Our Support in Times of Disaster
We are challenging all clubs in District 6650 to:
  • Challenge clubs to sponsor at least 1 box ($1,000 each)
  • Share their story - Use ShelterBox videos and survivor stories to inspire giving
  • Celebrate the Impact - Recognize clubs and donors who step up - make it visible and meaningful. 
 
Connect with a ShelterBox Ambassador to learn more about the work of ShelterBox and its partnership with Rotary.
 
When disasters leave families without homes or basic necessities, ShelterBox provides emergency shelter and essential supplies to help them begin rebuilding their lives.
 

Hear how this global organization supports communities in crisis and how Rotary plays a role in delivering aid to those who need it most.

 
Important Membership Development Updates from Rotary International

Letter from Membership:

   
 

Across our district, clubs are making an impact through scholarships, mentoring, literacy programs, community projects, Interact, Rotaract, and so many other opportunities for young people to grow and lead. Even small moments of encouragement can make a lasting difference.

Youth Service Month also connects closely with membership and Rotary’s continued growth. When communities see Rotary supporting young leaders and giving back in meaningful ways, it helps show who we are and why Rotary matters. It strengthens our reach, builds relationships, and keeps Rotary visible in a positive way.

One of the best things about Rotary is that our impact doesn’t stop with us. By supporting youth today, we are helping inspire future leaders, volunteers, and maybe even future Rotarians.

Thank you to all the clubs and members who continue to encourage, support, and believe in the young people in our communities. Your efforts truly make a difference.

 

Anita Brennan
abrennan.howlandrotaryclub@gmail.com / (234) 830-5784
Howland Rotary Club - Secretary / Public Image
District 6650 Public Image - Newsletter / Membership Chair
 
Gary Lehman
lehmantenor@aol.com / (330) 553-4796
Howland Rotary Club - President
District 6650 - Membership Team
 
If you’d like to be part of our Membership Team and help make a difference, we’d be thrilled to have you join us.
"OPERATION POLLINATION" PROGRAM CHALLENGE!
The Operation Pollination Challenge continues! 
 
For a refresh on the updated Point Earning Chart, the Mini-Grant Application, Plant Resources, Reading Lists and more please visit: 
 
 
For a deeper dive into Monarch Conservation education heres a FREE offering from Monarch Joint Venture!

Stay connected with the latest monarch conservation topics by attending our free monthly webinars. The Monarch Conservation Webinar Series is a unique opportunity to hear from experts across various interdisciplinary fields related to monarchs, other pollinators, their habitats, and the threats and pressures that make conservation urgent. Bring your questions and get ready to discover how you can get involved to protect monarchs.

All webinars are one hour long and start at 1:00 PM Central Time. Please note that scheduled webinars are subject to change.

Sign up once (with only 1 ticket) and attend the webinars that you are interested in. No need to sign up each month. Donations are not expected but very appreciated.

All webinars are recorded and available to view on the MJV webinar archive page.

2026 Webinars: 

  • May 19: Stories That Move Monarchs: Journeys of Action, Hope, and Conservation
  • June 23: Mapping and Maximizing Monarch Habitat Outcomes on Federal Conservation Lands
  • July 28: Earth, Wind, and Fire: Impacts of Prescribed Burning and Extreme Weather events on Butterfly Populations in South Texas
  • Aug 25: Soil - The Foundation for Thriving Habitat
  • Sept 22: Seeds of Change: How Volunteers Power Prairie Restoration
  • Oct 27: Pollinator Habitat Conservation and the Energy Sector: NiSource Case Study
  • Nov 17: Coming Soon
  • Dec 15: Fighting Invasives at Home
ROTARY DISTRICT 6650 - DOING GOOD IN THE WORLD!
Dear Rotarians in District 6650 - 
 
Our PolioPlus Subcommittee Chair is announcing a monumental achievement for END POLIO NOW 
 
Peter Apicella submitted 20% DDF to End Polio Now
Up to $14,000.00 will be matched by 50% by the Rotary Foundation's World Fund and matched 2 to 1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.  
What does that mean for our District 6650? - 
 
Our $14,000 DDF donation turns into $63,000.00 towards END POLIO NOW. 
 
Congratulations to Everyone!

PSA CAMPAIGNS - Rotarians Encouraged to Reach Out to Local Media & Radio Stations

 
 
Eight Inbound Students are now midway through their 2025-2026 exchange in Rotary District 6650. A big thank you to our host clubs Alliance, Jackson Township, Louisville, Millersburg, North Canton, and Wooster.
Boardman, East Canton, Malvern, Minerva, and Wooster clubs have all been so generous as to host overnighters in the current Rotary year.
The weekend of January 16 – 19 our 25/26 Inbound students and 26/27 Outbound students attended the O-E Multidistrict Winter Conference at Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, NC. A total of 65 students, 25 parents, and 70 Rotarians gathered for training and fellowship. Outbound students began their orientation, and will be preparing over the next eight months to serve as young ambassadors on their own exchanges.
The Winter Conference also featured a night of service, packing pencil pouches, art kits, homework kits, flashcards, and encouragement cards for school kids served by Classroom Central. Altogether, 1000 kits with a $5000 value were built with our combined efforts. (Details on Classroom Central may be found at www.classroomcentral.org.
District 6650 Public Image

ROTARY DISTRICT 6650

RECEIVES BRAND AMBASSADOR AWARD

 

District 6650 attended Zone 30 and 31 Conference in Columbus last week and on Friday, September 5th, 2025 - PDG Elayne Bozick and District PI Chair Wanda Angel were awarded the Brand Ambassador Award.

The Brand Ambassador Award was given to District 6650 for their Public Image Team member's hard work on redesigning district website, education on public image awareness, redesigned newsletter and continuous social media presence. The criteria to be considered includes all clubs district wide who contribute to district programs, social media, and brand awareness following the public image criteria from Rotary International. 

 Congratulations to the Public Image Team!  

Wanda Angel, PI Chair  (website)

Aundrea Cika Heschmeyer, Social Media

Anita Brennan, Newsletter 

 
Our team of Rotarians are here to help you at your club level.  We can publish your club news from our District newsletter that is linked back to your club's homepage.  If you have news to share or need help finding information on our website, please reach out to our team for assistance.
________________________________________________________________
     
     Wanda Angel joined the Rotary Club of Sugarcreek   in   2004 and has served as President for five terms   and   continues to serve as Pancake Day chairperson   along with   Public Image Chair.
     Wanda grew up in New Philadelphia, graduating as   a   New Philadelphia Quaker and moved to Sugarcreek   almost   34 years ago. She is married to Justin and   they have three   children – Stephanie (Aaron)   Viscounte, Taylor (Drexel)   Weber II, and their soon-   to-be 18 yr old son, Christopher   (who is working on   his Eagle Scout Merit redesigning the   community bulletin board for the Village of Sugarcreek).  
She also celebrates her granddaughters – Gianna, Olivia, and Eleanor.
     Wanda holds two degrees from Kent State University – An Associates of Art degree and a Bachelor of Integrated Studies in Marketing and Leadership. She has over 35 years’ experience in sales and marketing. She has been involved in major new product development launches, ENERGY STAR educational programs, and growing her business relationships. Wanda is currently employed by Superb Sealing Solutions as their Brand Marketing Manager. Her role changes daily but most importantly, she is the brand and marketing contact at Superb reporting directly to the owner, John Miller. She also is a key volunteer for the annual Seed to Spoon Summit held every June celebrating homesteading, canning, health and wellness, and environmental topics.
     She is currently Rotary District 6650 Public Image Chair and Rotary District 6650 Assistant Governor for Tuscarawas County Rotary Clubs.
Wanda also volunteers her time with the Ohio Swiss Festival as their Grand Parade Registration Chairperson and helps when she can for the Sugarcreek Business Association.
     Ask Wanda what she thinks about Rotary, and she will reply “Rotary to me is something much bigger than myself. Rotary gives me the outlet to be effective with like-minded people. I raised my children in Rotary, and they have followed me and have become excellent leaders in their own sales and marketing fields. Most importantly, I want people to know that I am a servant leader with a “service-above-self” attitude, and this is an important legacy I want to leave with my children and grandchildren for many years.”
________________________________________________________________________
     
     Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer is the president and founder of MARQUEE, a strategic communications and special events consultancy. She is a native of the Youngstown area and a graduate of the former Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, PA. Additionally, she has done graduate-level work in magazine publishing at Stanford University and nonprofit management at Kent State University. 

     Heschmeyer began her career as a journalist, working in television, newspapers, and as a magazine editor in Ohio, South Dakota, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C. She later worked in public and media relations at agencies for firms in Washington, D.C., and Ohio. She is the former director of the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley and currently serves as the representative for the Board of the Autism Society of Ohio. 

     Upon returning to the Youngstown area, she felt compelled to revitalize the Polish-American community in the Mahoning Valley, sharing some of her childhood experiences with her children. To this end, she founded the nonprofit PolishYoungstown in 2008. As director of this active nonprofit, she has developed, promoted, and supported a wide variety of classes, workshops, and events that have raised awareness of the culture throughout the region. Simply Slavic, another 501 (c) (3) organization and festival for the larger Slavic community, was also created with her impetus. 

     In addition to her Polish and Slavic activities, Heschmeyer is active with the Rotary Club of Youngstown, the Youngstown Press Club, and the Trumbull County Tourism Bureau. She has been married to her husband, Mark, for 30+ years and together they have five children, five Exchange Student daughters, and a multitude of pets – all of whom she says have participated, supported, and sacrificed to make her achievements possible. 

________________________________________________________________________
 
Please congratulate Anita Brennan who has been named the Membership Committee Chair.  Anita is also on the Public Image Supporting Committee for the newsletter and holds several positions in the Howland Club.  
If you have any Rotary Club news to share, please share with Anita.  Anita is also seeking committee members for: Member Attraction, Member Engagement, and New Club Development.  If you have a heart for Rotary and want to expand the good you do this is an excellent opportunity!
 

  I was born and raised in the eastern suburbs of Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. During my junior year of high school, my family relocated to Florida, and after graduation, we returned to Pennsylvania to be closer to my brothers.

My husband and I have been married for 26 years and are proud parents to two wonderful children, Jeremy and Alexandra. In search of a fresh start, we moved to Ohio about nine years ago—and it’s been home ever since.

In 2018, I earned my real estate license and in 2019, began my journey with Howard Hanna. Over the past six years, I’ve worked with incredible agents and clients, and for the last five years, I’ve served as an Administrative Assistant in the Howland office, providing training and support to fellow agents.

Community involvement is important to me. I joined the Howland Rotary Club about two years ago and have taken on several leadership roles, including Public Image Chair - managing our social media, website, and started a newsletter, Club Secretary, Membership Committee Chair for our Club, District 6650 Public Image Newsletter, and now, Membership Chair.

I’m passionate about helping others, building strong relationships, and giving back to the community I now call home. 

How do we grow our Public Image in our communities? 

 
One of the fastest and easiest ways is to connect with friends on social media platforms and continuously share information on what your club is doing in your community. 
If you do not know how to do this, please feel free to contact our District Public Image Team and we will be more than happy to assist.  
However, if you have someone that has a background in marketing, social media, or journalism - they would be a perfect Rotary Club member and perfect for the role to spread
our Rotary International brand across your local media connections - TV Stations, Radio Stations, and writers who share information on social media sites. 
 
Your club is always active making a difference in your community - share what you do with your connections in TV and Radio!!! 
 
Most of us have received this email a couple of days ago, please be encouraged to follow Rotary International Marketing Manager, Nancy Davidson, and get started today! 
Here are links to 2 radio ads that is available on our Brand Center at myrotary.org:
 
Yours Truly, 
 
Wanda Angel, 
Rotary District 6650 Public Image Chair 
Dear Rotary member:  

Whether you’re already using Rotary’s Service Project Center or are hearing about it for the first time, this dynamic resource hub supports you at every stage of your service project journey.

In the Service Project Center, you’ll find tools and resources all in one place to help strengthen the impact of your projects. There are documents, links, and guidance to design and manage measurable and sustainable projects, locate partners, exchange stories, share best practices, and more.

And now the Service Project Center is even more valuable and exciting to use with the addition of these new features:
  • A Resources page with links to project planning materials. 
  • A refreshed, mobile-friendly Grant Center page and dashboard integrated into the Service Project Center, giving you seamless access to project resources and grant information.  
  • An Impact page dedicated to supporting Rotary’s Action Plan that will debut with a fun game designed to test your knowledge of impact.
We encourage you to visit the Service Project Center for all your project planning needs and to check back regularly for new features and enhancements.

Sincerely,  
The Service Project Center team

What Have Our Rotary Clubs Been Up To?

Our Rotary Clubs have been SUPER busy making a real difference—both close to home and around the world! From lending a hand in local projects to stepping up when disaster strikes, our members are always finding new ways to serve with heart. Whether it’s supporting families in need, helping rebuild communities, or spreading hope across borders, there’s always something exciting happening in Rotary.

HOWLAND ROTARY CLUB
 
The Howland Rotary Club and Shepherd of the Valley are supporting Dr. Sheryl Figliano of Howland and the Hearing Missions Foundation by collecting used Hearing Aids. 
2027 Rotary Club of Youngstown Cultural Trip to Croatia & Slovenia
Hello Fellow Rotarians!
 
We are delighted to share with you the 2027 private group tour to Croatia and Slovenia: The Old-World Adriatic! Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Youngstown through EF Go Ahead Tours. 
 
Experience Dubrovnik’s storied city walls overlooking the pristine blue waters of the Adriatic. Step back in time as you explore the impressive Diocletian’s Palace complex in seaside Split. Wander past emerald scenery and tranquil waterscapes in the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. And experience “Europe in miniature” in Ljubljana, the stunningly green (and endlessly cultural) capital of Slovenia. 
 

Want to see mountains overlooking a castle and a glacial lake, all surrounded by an emerald forest? Extend your stay to explore Lake Bled and more of Slovenia’s northwest corner with a local guide, and find out why aristocrats have been vacationing in this romantic spot for centuries.

 

Important information:

  1. Main Tour dates (Croatia & Slovenia): 4/22/27 - 5/3/27
  2. Extension dates (

    Ljubljana & Lake Bled): 

    5/3/27 – 5/6/27
  3. Deposit: $300 per person at the time of reservation or $99 with the Automatic Payment Plan (auto pay plan is 30 days risk free! - $300 deposit is only 72 hours risk free)
  4. Final payment date:  2/11/27 (if not on auto pay)
  5. September promotion:  $75 off 
  6. Discounts available: Go Ahead loyalty discounts starting at $100
  7. Physical Activity & Mobility: This is a high physical activity-level tour that involves walking 2-3 miles per day (city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills). You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour. You should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
Booking Information: It is very important that you use one of these 2 options to enroll rather than on Go Ahead's public website. This will ensure that you register with our group for this private tour and that you travel with us:
  1. Book conveniently online, via my website: https://groups.goaheadtours.com/tours/croatiasloveniaana.  
  2. If you prefer to do it over the phone, call Go Ahead's group reservation at 800-438-7672 and ask to be registered in the Ana Torres private group tour (reference my cell number 330-207-9127). 
Our preferred airport is Pittsburgh. If you would like to depart with us, choose the Pittsburgh airport at time of enrollment. If you depart from a different city or state, we will meet upon arrival in Croatia. If you opt for the airfare package, Go Ahead takes care of the flight logistics and transfers from/to the airport while on tour. 
 
Insurance:  We strongly recommend carrying travel coverage to ensure that your well-being and trip investment are protected before and during the tour. You can shop for travel insurance on your own (i.e., Allianz, Faye, Travelex) or select one of the two insurance plans offered through Go Ahead:
  1. Basic Trip Protection: $349
  2. Trip Protection (with Pre-existing Condition Coverage): $449
    • Any Reason Protection included for free at the time of booking.
  3. Any Reason Protection: $75 (to add onto basic package or comprehensive package if after time of booking). 
Additional insurance details available at https://www.goaheadtours.com/about/travel-protection.
 
Payment PlansYou have 3 easy ways to pay. For details visit https://www.goaheadtours.com/about/payment-plans
  • Autopay: $99 DOWN & NO INITIAL PAYMENTS. Make your first payment up to 60 days after booking. Then pay off your trip 30 days before departure. No interest or fees. 30 days to cancel. 
  • Pay As You Go:  $300 DOWN AT BOOKING. This goes to your non-refundable reservation fee. Then you pay your trip off monthly on a date you pick.  Balance due by the tour finalization date. 72 hours to cancel. 
  • Pay In Full: BALANCE DUE AT BOOKING.  Make a single payment up front, then relax until it's time to go on tour. 30 days to cancel. 
Our group tours are also about making special connections and this will be a limited-capacity private tour.  Enroll soon to secure your spot at the lowest price. Please reach out to me with any questions at grouptravelyrc@gmail.com or cell 330-207-9127.
 
We hope to explore with you the historical medieval cities, tranquil lakes, stunning coastlines, and quaint villages of Croatia and Slovenia! 
 
 

Scott R. Schulick

Past President, 2003-04 and 2013-14

Past District Governor, Rotary District 6650, 2018-19

330-727-8507

Day 12: Free day in Ljubljana Included meals: breakfast Enjoy a full free day in Ljubljana or add an excursion. + Piran: Slovenia's Adriatic Gem Lake Bled → 2 nights
 
Day 13: Lake Bled & Lake Bohinj Included meals: breakfast Travel to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj to discover why Europeans have come to this resort area for decades. • Drive around Lake Bled and enter Bled Castle • Continue on to Lake Bohinj, enjoying views of Slovenian villages along the way • Enjoy free time for lunch in the small, lakeside village of Ribcev Laz
 
Day 14: Free day in the Lake Bled Region Included meals: breakfast Spend a full free day in the Lake Bled region or add an excursion. This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members. + The Julian Alps: Triglav National Park Flight Home
 
Day 15: Departure Included meals: breakfast (excluding early morning departures) Transfer to the Ljubljana airport for your flight home.
 
Customize your experience Customize your tour by adding excursion options.
 
Excursions offered on the same day will occur at different times, so there’s no need to choose. Save $10 when you book your excursion up to three days before your tour departs.* Excursions requiring advance reservation only list this discounted price. Call or go online to customize your tour:
 
https://groups.goaheadtours.com/tours/croatiasloveniaana | 330-207-9127
 
Day 3: Scenic Dubrovnik Coast Cruise & Dinner From $99.00 . Visit the link above for pricing info. (4 hours, departs in the evening, dinner included) This excursion begins with a cruise along the shoreline of one of Europe’s most romantic cities. Arriving on the beach, you’ll dine at a local restaurant before setting out on a stroll through Dubrovnik’s medieval streets. Please note: Travelers prone to seasickness should take the proper precautions.
 
Day 4: Montenegro From $95.00 . Visit the link above for pricing info. (10 hours, departs in the morning, lunch included) Set out to explore the small Republic of Montenegro, which is home to stunning backdrops that range from serene beaches to rugged mountain canyons. Begin in Perast, a Venetian town on the Bay of Kotor, where you’ll take to the water to admire the surrounding scenery. Set sail and visit the famed islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. Then, enjoy lunch as you head to the UNESCO-protected town of Kotor, where you’ll view medieval walls and churches nestled between the hills and the sea.
 
Day 11: Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle From $135.00 . Visit the link above for pricing info. (6.5 hours, departs in the morning) Journey to two of Slovenia’s most memorable sites. Your first stop is the legendary Postojna Caves, a 12.5-mile-long system of caverns. Later, you’ll visit Predjama Castle, a Renaissance fort built into the mouth of a cave. A natural tunnel connects the castle to the top of the mountain; in the Middle Ages, this tunnel served as a secret supply line for the castle during times of siege. While you’re here, you’ll learn about the legend of Erazem Lueger, a robber baron who called this castle home. Extension excursion options Day 12: Piran: Slovenia's Adriatic Gem From $129.00 . Visit the link above for pricing info. (7 hours, departs in the morning) Famous for its Venetian architecture, Piran sits on the Mediterranean coast of Slovenia. Join a local guide and explore the town’s narrow streets, passing by the medieval city walls as you go. Stop by the Church of St. George and Tartini Square, the beautiful main plaza dominated by a massive bronze statue of composer and violinist Giuseppe Tartini. Then, enjoy free time for lunch and take a dip in the Adriatic if the weather allows.
 
Day 14: The Julian Alps: Triglav National Park From $129.00 . Visit the link above for pricing info. (8 hours, departs in the morning) Pass through lakeside scenery to the ski resort town of Kranjska Gora, close to the Italian and Austrian borders. Then, continue on to Triglav National Park. You'll drive through Vršič Pass, the highest pass in Slovenia and the Eastern Julian Alps. Stop along the way at the Soca River for a scenic walk full of photo opportunities of the surrounding Alpine landscape. Continue to Bovec, a small town in the Littoral region, which was devastated during the First World War. Learn about the small town’s history on a tour of the WWI trenches and landmarks before taking free time for lunch. *Optional excursions may be purchased up to three days prior to departure or while on tour.
 
Pre-purchased optional excursions cannot be canceled within three days prior to departure or while on tour. Select optional excursions require advance booking and cannot be purchased or canceled after the advanced reservation deadline. Go Ahead Tours accepts payment by cash, Visa or MasterCard for optional excursions purchased on tour. Additional fees may apply for optional excursions purchased on tour. Excursions require a minimum number of participants to operate. Details and prices are subject to change. Due to seasonal hours of operation and availability, some excursions may not operate. If this occurs, you will be refunded any payments made for that excursion post-tour.
 
Learn more at https://www.goaheadtours.com/about/terms
ROTARY CLUB OF WARREN

Partnering to conserve the monarch butterfly migration

PLEASE continue to help keep the point-earning docs and the mini-grant application in front of our clubs. Also, for participating clubs, we will be awarding the attached sign as a thank-you gift with the most point-earning club being awarded $500 as well.
 
Take pictures and share stories and please send to both: ccope@unitedwaytrumbull.org and emsbozick@gmail.com
Smuckers Pollinator Gardens / Orrville Ohio
 
For nearly ten years, our beloved pollinator garden at The J.M. Smucker Co. Store has helped us provide habitat support for local pollinators and educational opportunities for our employees and the community in Orrville, OH. To showcase the incredible impact of the garden, our Company’s Corporate Sustainability Team, along with our good friends at Pollinator Partnership, commissioned Akron-based sculptural artist Michael Marras to create a sculpture for the garden. The beautiful piece features a mix of local species that frequent our garden. Thank you to Michael for his creativity and hard work and thank you to all the employees and colleagues who continue to support the garden!

See the sculpture for yourself at The J.M. Smucker Company Store in Orrville, OH
 
 

Native Plant and Garden Resources

 

Ohio Native Habitat Nursery              Leaves for Wildlife Native Plant Nursery

30628 Detroit Rd. Suite 280                  1655 County Rd 605

Westlake, OH 44145                             Sunbury, OH 43074

440 487-8318                                      (614) 881-5550

https://ohio-nhn.com/                          https://www.leavesforwildlife.com/

 

Ohio Prairie Nursery                           American Meadows

PO Box 174,                                         https://www.americanmeadows.com/ 

Hiram, Ohio 44234

Tel: 330/569-3380 Fax: 330/569-7090

https://www.opnseed.com/

 

Native Bee-Ginnings                           Explantia

4435 E. Patterson Road,                        Partnered with Homegrown National 

Beavercreek, OH 45430                         Park to bring you Roll-Out Gardens.

https://www.nativebeeginnings.com/      They are pre-designed AFFORDABLE

                                                            native plant kits tailored to your   

Plant it Native                                      ecoregion: https://www.ecoplantia.com/

Willowbee, Ohio

LLC josh@plantitnativeohio.com

https://plantitnativeohio.com

 

Scioto Gardens Nursery                           Shop Pre-Designed Gardens

folks@sciotogardens.com                         https://www.myhomepark.com/

https://sciotogardens.com

 

Ohio Native Habitat Nursery                 Ernst Seeds

4645 Jaycox Road, Suite 103                    https://www.ernstseed.com/

Avon, Ohio 44011

Cell: (440) 487-8318

jmckenney@ohio-nhn.com

https://ohio-nhn.com/

 

Wintergreen Tree Farm

Has become one of the largest

Chestnut producers in USA

3898 Winchell Rd.

Mantua, OH 44255

Last winter, Liz Myers-Chamberlin gathered her neighbors, a stack of recycled jugs, and native seeds for a Winter Sowing Party. Not only was it a joyful way to connect, but everyone went home with native plants for a fraction of what they would cost at a nursery.

We’re sharing her story, plus a simple how-to so you can try winter sowing yourself or host a gathering in your own community. It’s one of the most affordable and beginner-friendly ways to start or expand a native garden—no grow lights, no special equipment, and no big budget required.

“I want to shout to the world that my daughter deserves a healthy climate, she deserves to see fireflies in June, she deserves to see a caterpillar turn into a butterfly.”
Don't forget to CHECK OUT out WhatsApp Channel.  
Check it out!!!
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Why is Social Media Important?
 
Social Media is a major part of our world today. Since nearly everyone active on Social Media platforms, this gives us a chance to share our Brand and increase awareness of all the amazing things that we, as Rotarians do everyday. 
 
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“WHATEVER ROTARY MAY MEAN TO US, TO THE WORLD IT WILL BE KNOWN BY THE RESULTS IT ACHIEVES.”

—PAUL P. HARRIS

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From the Editor
 

One of my goals as your District Editor is to help bring our Rotary Clubs closer together by shining a spotlight on the incredible work happening across District 6650. Each month, clubs host amazing events, lead inspiring service projects, and create memorable moments of fellowship and these accomplishments deserve to be seen and celebrated.

I encourage every club to share a glimpse of what you’ve been up to. It can be as simple as a photo and a few sentences about a recent or upcoming event. By sharing your stories, you inspire other clubs, spark new ideas, and remind us all that we are part of something much bigger than our individual meetings.

 

Let’s keep the conversation going, stay connected, and continue learning from one another. I can’t wait to see and share your stories!

 

Share your club’s stories!

Submit by the 1st of each month to be featured in the newsletter.

 

Anita Brennan

District Newsletter Editor

abrennan.howlandrotaryclub@gmail.com  / (234) 830-5784