Dear Fellow Rotarians,
 
November ushers in a season of gratitude and reflection.
 
As Thanksgiving approaches, I reflect on who we are as Rotarians. We may think of ourselves as ordinary people, but in actuality, we are quite extraordinary! As Rotarians, we have made the choice to devote time, treasure and talent to making a difference in the lives of others in communities near and far. Wherever I visit clubs I meet the kind of people who open up their homes, give up their leisure time, spend hours planning and hosting events—and more, so that others can benefit. I hear people saying, “I can do that!” “We can help” and “Let me show you.” I am grateful to be a part of that kind of positive energy and impact.
This is Rotary Foundation Month and we will be celebrating the generosity of our own D5495 members on the evening of November 4. I hope you’ll be able to join in the fun as we celebrate the part we all play in doing good around the world!
 
Many clubs are hosting programs and giving special salutes of gratitude to our Veterans. In case you’d like to honor a Vet with lunch, the clubs in the West Valley’s Area 4 are hosting their annual Veteran’s Day Luncheon at the Wigwam Resort on November 8.  (A Tribute to Our Military)
 
A special shout-out is due to our Club Resource & Support leaders and team members. This group of extraordinary Rotarians is working invisibly behind the scenes, making sure we clubs and members have the resources, support and opportunities to do what we love. Thank you for your generous sharing of time and talent. Your volunteerism benefits all of us as a district!  
 
Finally, I will confess to having the habit of mentally noting and appreciating wonderful things about others, but then failing to actually articulate those thoughts. I am committed to leading an effort for all of us to remember to say more often, those two-word phrases that mean so much to others: ‘Thank You’ and ‘I noticed!’
 
“Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.”  – Margaret Cousins