In my final article as District Governor for 6250, I want to provide you with an update on my recent club visits, a sneak peek at my last club visits on my itinerary, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone.
On a nice mid-spring Monday, I was back on the road for a long trip down to our southernmost club, the Rotary Club of Beloit. I walked into the fantastic Rotary River Center, beautifully located in the Riverfront Area alongside the Rock River. I was greeted by some very friendly Rotarians and met by Past-President Erick, who was running the meeting for President Jerry.
I also had the pleasure of connecting with District 6420 Governor Melissa McCormick, a great friend whom I’ve gotten to know well over the past few years during our DG journey. Beloit has been incredibly active in local community restoration, executing impactful District and Global Grants, and collaborating seamlessly with other area clubs.
The next day, it was off to the DeForest Club to meet President Mary and her team. They are a small but dynamic and fun club! There, I met an up-and-coming Rotarian named Travis, an Eagle Scout who runs a local cheese shop. While the club discussed many exciting initiatives, one that stood out is their new outdoor pickleball event this summer. It sounds like a fantastic time, and I hope to get a chance to check it out.
The week’s visits concluded with the Janesville Morning Club. I met President Derek and a boisterous, fun-loving group of Rotarians at another spectacular venue, the Rotary Botanical Gardens. A visit to the gardens is well worth the trip on its own, not to mention the exceptional club itself, which is well-known for its annual Janesville Pie Ride and so much more.
My final club visit in May was to the Columbus/Fall River Club, located on a beautiful golf course. President Ilse and the members were wonderful to visit with as we caught up on all the great work they are doing. They are massive supporters of youth programs, including their dual Interact Clubs, RYLA, and Youth Exchange.
Looking ahead, my official club visits will officially conclude in June. I will head first to Stoughton, followed by a week-long stretch visiting Watertown and Waupun, before finally wrapping up my journey in Jefferson.
As this Rotary year comes to a close, a simple "thank you" feels entirely inadequate for the incredible journey we have shared. Serving as your District Governor has been the honor of a lifetime. Over the past twelve months, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of "Service Above Self" in every corner of our district.
To the club presidents, leadership teams, and committee chairs: thank you for your tireless dedication, your endless energy, and your willingness to say "yes" to new challenges. To every single Rotarian in District 6250: thank you for the warm hospitality, the inspiring conversations, and the unwavering kindness you showed me during my visits. You are the heartbeat of this organization.
Together, we have built up communities, changed lives through grants, empowered our youth, and fostered global goodwill. Thank you for allowing me to share in your passion and witness your success. As we transition into the new Rotary year, I know that the future of District 6250 is brighter than ever. I am incredibly proud to hand off the reins to such a worthy successor in Scott Ryan, and I wish him the absolute best.
Thank you for everything!
Unite for Good,
Michael Kloss
District Governor 2025-26
Rotary Club of Eau Claire WI