UNITE FOR GOOD
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May 2026 Newsletter
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Count on us for monthly news and inspiration from around District 6600!
Count on us for monthly news and inspiration from around District 6600!
Message from DG Pam
Message from DG Pam
District Governor's Message
District Governor's Message
Celebrating the Past, Embracing What's Ahead
Celebrating the Past, Embracing What's Ahead
What a busy and rewarding month it has been across Rotary District 6600.
We recently completed a very successful District Conference filled with fellowship, inspiration, celebration, and a renewed commitment to service. It was energizing to see Rotarians from across the district come together to celebrate our accomplishments and look ahead to the future of Rotary.
This past month also provided the privilege of attending three club centennial celebrations – Tiffin, Fremont and Lorain. Reaching 100 years of service is an extraordinary achievement and a reminder of the lasting impact Rotary continues to have in our communities through generations of dedicated leaders and volunteers.
As we begin looking ahead, our next important event will be the Advisory Committee Meeting on June 6. This meeting marks an important transition for District 6600 as I prepare to hand the torch to incoming District Governor Katherine Eboch. The meeting is also a great opportunity for any Rotarian interested in learning more about the district, its leadership, and the work happening beyond the club level. Following the meeting, we invite everyone to stay for fellowship during Rotary on Tap.
As I begin to reflect on the past months, it is hard to believe this Rotary year is already winding down. Serving as your District Governor has been an incredible honor, and I continue to be inspired by the passion, commitment, and service demonstrated throughout our district every day.
Thank you for all you do as we continue to Unite for Good and create lasting impact in our communities.
Yours in Rotary Service,
Pam
District News
District News
▌HAPPENING NOW
District Conference Recap: District 6600 Unites for Good at Sawmill Creek
District Conference Recap: District 6600 Unites for Good at Sawmill Creek
Even the rain couldn't dampen the spirit of Rotary District 6600 as members gathered April 24–25 at Sawmill Creek in Huron, Ohio for the ROAR — Unite for Good District Conference. What followed was two days of inspiration, service, laughter, and lasting memories.
Friday afternoon brought some unwelcome clouds for those who had planned to hit the golf course or enjoy a birding excursion along Lake Erie's scenic shore. The rain had other ideas — but true to Rotarian form, spirits remained high and the camaraderie picked up right where the weather left off. And by Friday evening, the energy was fully restored as Casino Night took center stage. The room was alive with laughter, friendly competition, and the kind of fun that only happens when you put a room full of Rotarians together and hand them some chips. Whether you walked away a winner or not, everyone left smiling.
Saturday was where ROAR truly lived up to its name. Keynote speakers Mary Berge and Michael Angelo Caruso set the tone beautifully, delivering powerful, thought-provoking messages that resonated long after the applause faded. The breakout sessions that followed were called some of the best in recent memory — engaging topics, dynamic facilitators, and genuinely meaningful conversations left Rotarians energized and full of fresh ideas to bring back to their clubs.
Of course, ROAR wouldn't be a Rotary event without a chance to serve. In a remarkable show of hands-on giving, District 6600 members assembled 240 birthday cake kits to be delivered to families in need — because every child deserves to celebrate. The birthday cake kits went to Love & Luggage, West Ohio Food Bank in Lima, NW Ohio Food Bank in Toledo, Neighborhood Bridges Food Panty in Waterville and Giving Birthdays in Fremont. A special shoutout goes to Todd Cramer of the Bowling Green Club and Assistant Governor for Area 4, who personally delivered more than 100 of those boxes himself. That kind of quiet, generous leadership is what Rotary is all about.
The conference wrapped up on a perfect note with the Uncorked Wine Dinner Saturday evening — an evening with no agenda, no schedule, and no rush. Just Rotarians sharing delicious food, exceptional wine, and the easy joy of being among like-minded people who genuinely enjoy each other's company. It was the ideal send-off for a weekend that had given so much.
From Casino Night laughs to birthday cake kits headed to families who needed a reason to celebrate, ROAR 2026 was a testament to what District 6600 does best — coming together, lifting each other up, and making a difference in the world around us.
Thank you to every one of our attendees, and to every volunteer and organizer who poured your heart into this conference.
Our attendees shared photos from across the weekend — candid moments, proud smiles, and memories worth keeping. We've gathered them all in a shared Google Drive folder where you can browse, download, and relive the weekend.
— Check out the photo gallery link above to see the weekend through the eyes of your fellow Rotarians!
Harvest for Hunger: It's Been a Fruitful Month
Harvest for Hunger: It's Been a Fruitful Month
What a difference a month makes! Since our last update, District 6600 clubs have been busy finding creative and meaningful ways to support the Harvest for Hunger Campaign — and the results are truly impressive.
🛒 Celebrity Bagging Events — Growing Strong! The bagging event momentum has been incredible. Vermilion, Lorain, Oberlin, and North Coast clubs have all completed Celebrity Bagging Events at local Giant Eagle stores, and Elyria is up next — with their event happening this coming week. What a great way to get hands-on with hunger relief!
🎉 Clubs Get Creative — Hunger Relief Meets Community Events Some of our clubs have taken Harvest for Hunger beyond the bake sale, weaving it into their signature events in really creative ways:
Vermilion Rotary incorporated a food drive into their annual Derby Event, collecting an impressive 360 pounds of food!
Lorain Rotary invited Second Harvest to participate in their Centennial Celebration — a wonderful way to mark 100 years of service with a commitment to the community.
Vermilion Rotarian Stephanie Kingsboro partnered with her employer, Kingston Senior Living, to sell homemade peanut butter pies — raising $400 for Harvest for Hunger. Now that's a sweet idea!
🎓 District Conference Highlights The District Conference shone a bright spotlight on food insecurity, with Second Harvest hosting a panel discussion featuring Ohio food bank leaders. The district also held a special Harvest for Hunger fundraiser.
🍽️ Benefit Dinner at Chez Francois Several District 6600 members attended the Harvest for Hunger Benefit Dinner at the renowned Chez Francois in early May — and by all accounts, it was a delightful evening for a wonderful cause!
The campaign runs through the end of June — and it's clear that District 6600 clubs are finding every opportunity to make a difference. From peanut butter pies to centennial celebrations, this has truly been a fruitful partnership. Let's finish strong!
It's EPIC – Is Your Club Ready?
It's EPIC – Is Your Club Ready?
EPIC Day of Service is just a few days away! If your club or organization is participating, here are five key actions to make sure your project is ready to go:
✅ 1. Publish Your Project on the EPIC Website If your project isn't live, it doesn't exist to the public. Make sure it's published, accurate, and ready for volunteers to find and join.
✅ 2. Activate Community Volunteer Signups Use the EPIC platform to drive people to your project page. Share your link via email, social media, and local channels. The platform includes built-in tools to send emails, invite volunteers, and manage signups all in one place.
✅ 3. Show Up as a Community! When your volunteers show up in coordinated EPIC gear, something powerful happens — your project becomes instantly recognizable and your impact becomes visible, not just felt. Visibility leads to curiosity, curiosity leads to conversation, and conversation leads to membership.
✅ 4. Activate Your Fundraising Portal U.S.-based Rotary clubs can turn on their fundraising portal through EPIC and share it with their community. Don't leave this opportunity on the table!
✅ 5. Share Your Service with the World! After the event, upload photos and videos at epicdayofservice.org — scroll to the Earth image and click "2026 – Upload and View." Limit uploads to 5 photos to ensure room for clubs worldwide. The strongest images may be featured on next year's EPIC website, so consider appointing a club photographer for the day!
Publish. Promote. Activate. Let's make this one unforgettable!
▌TAKE ACTION
A Morning of Fellowship, Planning & Passing the Torch
A Morning of Fellowship, Planning & Passing the Torch
Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 6, 2026 and join us for the District Advisory Council (DAC) Meeting — a pivotal gathering as District Governor Pam Brumbaugh prepares to hand the torch to incoming District Governor Katherine Eboch. It's an important moment for District 6600 leadership to align and look ahead to the new Rotary year.
📍 Rotary Lodge at Don W. Miller Memorial Park 1329 Tiffin Street, Fremont, Ohio
9:00 AM — Coffee & Fellowship
12:00 PM — Program Conclusion
All Rotarians are welcome! RSVPs are appreciated so we can plan accordingly. RSVP at the link below. And don't forget — the fun continues afterward with Rotary on Tap Installment #2 at Wine-R-We and Brews 4 U (1430 W McPherson Highway, Clyde, Ohio). See the full story below!
Ride for MESA — Are You In?
Ride for MESA — Are You In?
June is almost here — and that means it's time to make your move for Ride for MESA! Running June 19–24, this exciting event offers something for everyone, whether you're clipping in for the full tour or cheering from the sidelines.
🚴 Rotary Tour for MESA — June 19–24 A five-day supported tour looping through the heart of District 6600, starting and ending in Findlay with stops in Ada, Lima, St. Marys, New Bremen/New Knoxville, Celina/Grand Lake, Van Wert, Delphos, and Ottawa-Glandorf. Ride the full circuit or just a portion — your call!
🚴 MESA 50 — Single Day Ride on June 20 Prefer a one-day adventure? The MESA 50 is part of Ride for MESA too — choose a 25 or 50-mile route, open to Rotarians and the community alike. A perfect entry point for newer riders or those short on time.
🤝 Sponsor a Rider or the Event Not a cyclist? No problem. Every dollar raised through Ride for MESA supports life-saving medical equipment deliveries worldwide — and this event funds roughly half of MESA's annual operating budget.
🏠 Host Along the Route Is your club near the tour route? Offer a meal, a rest stop, or overnight hospitality. It's fellowship at its finest!
Time is short. Contact Tour Coordinator Kurt Anderson at kanderson@cruglaw.com or visit the MESA website to sign up today.
Wild About Service: Join Us for the 2026 District Installation!
Wild About Service: Join Us for the 2026 District Installation!
The countdown is on! On Friday, June 26, we gather at the Toledo Zoo to officially install District Governor Katherine Eboch and launch our year of "Creating Lasting Impact."
This isn't just a ceremony—it’s a celebration of the people who make District 6600 move. We are thrilled to announce a full program of honors, including the recognition of:
Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) Graduates
Rotary Youth Exchange Outbound Students
Presidents-Elect
Assistant Governors & District Leaders
The District Governor Line
The Main Event
We’re trading the ballroom for the savanna! Your registration includes an unforgettable cocktail hour featuring giraffe feeding at the Africa! Overlook before we head into the Malawi Center for dinner and our program.
Attire: Safari Chic. Bring out the animal prints and denim—let’s have some fun with the theme!
Pricing: $65 for Adults | $20 for Children.
Saturday Safari: Want to stay through the weekend? Grab discounted Saturday Zoo tickets for just $21!
Create Lasting Impact: Support Our Foundation
We will be hosting a high-energy fundraiser featuring themed gift baskets to benefit the District 6600 Foundation. These funds directly fuel our service initiatives across Northwest Ohio.
Do you have a basket to contribute? We are looking for creative additions! If you or your club would like to donate a basket, please contact Kathy Winters at skeaj1@roadrunner.com
Registration & Travel
Deadline: Register by June 10.
Hotel: A block is available at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel($149/night). Link to Book Your Group Rate
Don’t miss the most unique night of the Rotary year. Let’s celebrate our leaders and start our journey toward lasting impact!
Three Districts. One Ballpark. One Big Cause.
Three Districts. One Ballpark. One Big Cause.
It's back — and bigger than ever. Rotary Districts 6630, 6650, and 6600 are heading to Progressive Field on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 for an End Polio Now night with the Cleveland Guardians taking on the San Francisco Giants. Last year: $7,000 raised, 300+ Rotarians. This year: let's walk the field!
Ticket Options:
Private Pennant District Event — $70/ticket | Dinner 5:30–7:30 PM, unlimited snacks through the 7th inning, exclusive raffles & auctions, Upper Box Outfield seating
Ticket Only — View Box, Section 454 — $46/ticket
Every ticket supports the End Polio Now Campaign. Gates open at 5:30 PM, first pitch at 6:40 PM. Reach 150 participants and we march the field in a pre-game parade!
Ticket deadline: July 31st — don't wait! Contact Stewart Buchanan at stewb1898@aol.com or 330-607-1442, or visit rotarydistrict6630.org.
Enjoy Our Newsletter? Share It or Subscribe!
Enjoy Our Newsletter? Share It or Subscribe!
Great news — the District 6600 Rotary Newsletter is no longer just for district members! We've opened up a free subscription service for anyone who wants to follow along with our clubs, service projects, and community stories.
Whether you're a Rotarian from another district, a community partner, or a friend or family member of one of our members — you're welcome here!
And hey — current District 6600 members, this one's for you too! If your inbox is already overflowing with PMAIL from your district and club, you can use our subscription form to have the newsletter delivered to a personal or alternate email address instead. Same great newsletter, right where you'll actually see it!
Subscribing takes less than a minute. Just click the link below, enter your name and email, and you'll receive each new issue right in your inbox.
Already subscribed? Help us grow by sharing this newsletter with someone who'd enjoy it!
▌GROW YOUR IMPACT
Summer Leadership Seminars: Plan Now, Lead Better in July & August
Summer Leadership Seminars: Plan Now, Lead Better in July & August
Summer may feel far away, but Rotary Zones 30 & 31's Summer Leadership Seminars are worth putting on your calendar now — registration is already open!
A long-standing tradition, the Summer Leadership Seminars bring Rotarians together at all levels to connect, exchange ideas, and plan for the new Rotary year. This year, every attendee will have access to three sessions covering membership recruiting and retention, public image, and the Rotary Foundation.
The seminars are offered at five locations this summer, so there's likely one near you:
July 11 — Springfield, Illinois
July 18 — West Chester/Liberty Township, Ohio ⬅️ Right here in Ohio, just north of Cincinnati!
July 25 — Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 1 — Franklin, Tennessee
August 8 — New Orleans, Louisiana
And it's not all business — each seminar location also features an optional Friday evening social event the night before, ranging from a minor league baseball game in Springfield to axe throwing in New Orleans. Yes, really.
For Ohio Rotarians looking for a convenient option close to home, the July 18th seminar in West Chester is a great opportunity to attend without the hassle of a long trip.
Talk to your club president or district officers about attending — and spread the word!
Ignite Your Rotary Experience: Introducing Our New Mobile App!
Ignite Your Rotary Experience: Introducing Our New Mobile App!
If you joined us for the District Assembly last month, you were among the first to see the future of how we connect in District 6600. We are thrilled to officially announce the rollout of IGNITE, a powerful new mobile communication tool purchased by the District to enhance your Rotary experience.
What is IGNITE? IGNITE is the next-generation mobile interface designed to work seamlessly with our existing DACdb database. It is more than just a directory; it is a hub for everything you do in Rotary. Whether you are a club leader or a dedicated member, IGNITE puts the power of the your Club and District in the palm of your hand.
Some features require additional modules including EZ-Pay, Finance and/or Engagement, but the DACdb sales team is available to get you inexpensive bundled pricing to add to the impact of using Ignite in your club.
Why You’ll Love It:
Enhanced Communication: Connect instantly with members in your club or District leaders. You can text groups, committees, or individuals directly through the app.
Seamless Events: View the District and Club calendars and RSVP for meetings and events with a single tap.
Mobile Payments & Giving: Securely pay club invoices and make donations to your local club Foundation or The Rotary Foundation—all from your phone.
Simplified Service: Log your service hours on the go and share "Service Selfies" to highlight the great work your club is doing.
Get Started Today Ready to jump in? We’ve made it easy to get connected. Watch the first training session hosted by DACdb expert Cliff to see the app in action. Click the link below to watch the recorded training session.
Questions? Need Help? Want a dedicated training opportunity? Please reach out to our District IGNITE Champions:
Sharon Trabbic, District Secretary
(419) 344-2881 or sharon@trabbic.comDianne Brehm, District Treasurer
(440) 320-8394 or dianne.brehm@uwloraincounty.org
Don’t miss out on this new way to Unite for Good and Create A Lasting Impact. Download IGNITE today and start connecting like never before!
Get Involved – Committee Spots are Open for 26-27!
Get Involved – Committee Spots are Open for 26-27!
As we look toward the 2026-2027 Rotary year, we are seeking passionate leaders to help us Create Lasting Impact across District 6600. Our district committees are the engine behind the resources and support your local clubs rely on. Whether you are a public relations pro, a champion for youth, or a master of event logistics, there is a place for your talents at the district level.
Below is a look at the committees currently looking for team members. Reach out to the chairs listed to learn how you can get involved!
Public Image
Chair: Jen Allred [jenallred@me.com]
Help us tell the Rotary story! This committee focuses on branding, social media, and media relations to ensure our communities know who we are and the good we do.
Membership
Chair: TBD. Contact DGE Katherine Eboch [keeboch@gmail.com]
Passionate about growing our family? This team develops strategies to attract new members and keep current Rotarians engaged and inspired.
The Rotary Foundation
Chair: Diana Savage [diana.savage.rotary6600@gmail.com]
Help manage the "engine" of Rotary. This committee educates clubs on Foundation giving and assists with the grants that fund our life-changing projects at home and abroad.
District Learning Facilitator
Chair: Rob Kuenning [rob.kuenning@gmail.com]
Do you enjoy coaching and professional development? Help lead district trainings, the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI), and other educational opportunities for our members.
STRIVE
Chair: Carol Sobczak [cas1958@sbcglobal.net]
STRIVE (Students Taking Renewed Interest in the Value of Education) is a mentorship and scholarship program for high school seniors. Help us guide students toward a brighter future.
Interact & Rotaract
Chair: Mark Urruita [murrutia@catholicforester.org]
Work with our young leaders! This committee supports our middle/high school (Interact) and university/young professional (Rotaract) clubs as they develop their own service projects.
Rotary Youth Exchange
Chair: Mary AufdenKampe [mary_aufdenkampe@hotmail.com]
Promote global peace and understanding one student at a time. This committee manages the logistics for inbound and outbound exchange students, including host family coordination.
District Event Planning
Contact DGE Katherine Eboch [keeboch@gmail.com]
If you love logistics and hospitality, this is for you. This team handles the "behind the scenes" magic for our district conferences and training seminars.
Peace Conference
Chair: Janine Donaldson [jpd@elyriaywca.org]
Help us plan a dedicated forum for peacebuilding. This committee focuses on conflict resolution initiatives and promoting Rotary’s mission of global understanding.
New Leadership Opportunities:
District Day of Service – Chair & Committee Members Needed!
We are looking for a visionary leader to chair our upcoming District Day of Service. This role involves coordinating a district-wide day of action where all clubs unite for a common cause. If you are organized, love community service, and enjoy bringing people together for a big goal, we need you! Interested? Please contact DGE Katherine Eboch [keeboch@gmail.com] to learn more about leading or joining this committee.
Ready to serve? Most committee roles are flexible and can work around your schedule. Contact a chair today to take your Rotary journey to the next level!
Rotary Fellowships Month is Here — Raise a Glass!
Rotary Fellowships Month is Here — Raise a Glass!
And in District 6600, that's not just a figure of speech...
And in District 6600, that's not just a figure of speech...
Whether you prefer a cold craft brew or a carefully chosen Cabernet, District 6600 has an informal fellowship for you — and both available to all members!
🍺 Rotary on Tap — Quarterly Craft Brew Tour Led by DG Nominee Lee Peters and Rich Fredrickson (Elyria Rotary), Rotary on Tap brings Rotarians together at craft breweries across the district each quarter. With Lee having personally visited over 375 Ohio breweries, you're in good hands. No speeches. No agenda. Just good conversation, great company, and outstanding local brews.
Installment #2 is coming up on June 6th! Following the District Advisory Council meeting in Fremont, the fellowship continues — join your Rotary colleagues for lunch and the next stop on the Rotary on Tap tour at Wine-R-We and Brews 4 U (1430 W McPherson Highway, Clyde, Ohio). It's a great opportunity to connect in a relaxed setting before heading into the new Rotary year!
For more information or to share ideas for future stops, contact Lee Peters at lee.peters.apo@gmail.com or Rich Fredrickson at rfredrickson@raftera.com.
🍷 D6600 Uncorked — Wine Fellowship Prefer something from the vine? D6600 Uncorked has been quietly bringing wine-loving Rotarians together for years. This informal group gathers occasionally to share great wine and even better fellowship. Find them on Facebook in the private "D6600 Uncorked" group — just request to join and raise your glass with fellow Rotarians who appreciate a good pour.
Both groups embody what Rotary fellowship is all about — connection, community, and a little fun along the way. Why choose? Join both! 🥂
District Calendar
District Calendar
May is Youth Services Month in Rotary. Around the world, Rotary invests in young people by supporting programs that develop leadership, expand educational opportunities, and build bridges across cultures. From STRIVE and Interact clubs to Rotary Youth Exchange and RYLA, Rotary believes that empowering young people today creates the engaged, compassionate leaders our communities need tomorrow.
When we invest in youth, we invest in the future of Service Above Self.
Learn more about Rotary's youth programs and how your club can get involved.
June is Rotary Fellowships Month — a time to celebrate the friendships and shared passions that connect Rotarians across the globe. Rotary Fellowships bring together people who share a common interest in recreational activities, hobbies, professions, or cultural identity, helping members expand skills, foster vocational development, and build lasting connections well beyond their own club, district, or country. With more than 100 active fellowships spanning 150+ countries and over 57,000 members worldwide, there truly is something for everyone — and the best part is that fellowships welcome any interested individual, regardless of Rotary affiliation. Two-thirds of fellowships also offer hybrid participation, making it easier than ever to get involved from anywhere. This June, take a moment to explore the full list of fellowships and find your community at the button below, or reach out at rotaryfellowships@rotary.org to learn more — or even start a new group of your own!
Next Year at a Glance
Plan ahead with this 2026-2027 District Calendar from incoming DG Katherine Eboch — your roadmap for a great Rotary year!
District Monthly Calendar
DG Pam & Club Presidents-Elect Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
D6600 Public Image Power Hour
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:00 PM [zoom link]
2026 EPIC Day of Service
Saturday May 16, 2026
DGE Katherine & Club Presidents-Elect Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM [zoom link]
Save the Date
Mark your calendars now for these District Events. More details to come closer to registration dates.
District Advisory Committee Meeting
Saturday June 6, 2026
Fremont, OH
26/27 Club Goals Due in Rotary Club Central
June 15, 2026
District Installation
Friday June 26, 2026
Toledo Zoo (Register Here)
26/27 District Grant Applications Due
Friday June 26, 2026
Summer Leadership Seminar - Zones 30 & 31
Register Today! [registration link]
July 11 — Springfield, Illinois
July 18 — West Chester/Liberty Township, Ohio
July 25 — Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 1 — Franklin, Tennessee
August 8 — New Orleans, Louisiana
To learn more about these events and to get instructions on connecting by zoom, visit the DACdb District Calendar.
Club Spotlights
Club Spotlights
Events & Opportunities
Events & Opportunities
Friday, June 5, 2026
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Friday, June 26, 2026
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
August 27-30, 2026
Have an event coming up? Add it to the DACdb Calendar as a Club Fundraiser or email your flyer to d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com to be featured here.
Put Your Club in Next Month's Issue!
Help us showcase your projects, events, and accomplishments in the District 6600 Monthly Newsletter and Video Podcasts.
Submission Deadlines:
Send us the great things your club is doing! We want your newsworthy items and/or photos with brief descriptions.
Info must be submitted by the 10th of each month to be considered for that month’s issue.
Remember that pictures that tell a story will be the most memorable.
Email Subject Line:
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION from [Your Club Name]
Send submissions to: d6600-public-image@googlegroups.com
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