At long last, the Rotary Club of Fonthill was able to meet in person to celebrate now past-president Hugh Graham’s year.  On Wednesday, July 28^th, 19 club members and 23 Guests attended the first non zoom meeting since March of 2020.  As this was a closing for the 2020-2021 Rotary year, Hugh Graham resumed his duties as President and ran the meeting.

Hugh called upon past District Governor, Frank Adamson to formally induct our newest members.  New members:  Michael Jacques, Keith McConkey, Kris McEvoy and Andy Glavac were able to attend while Jason Thompson, Kevin Vallier and Christian Baranowski  were not able to attend the event in person.  All new members received a package which included their Rotary pins with which they pinned themselves.

Hugh then had the opportunity to formally thank Frank Adamson for his efforts this past year as District Governor and presented him with a Paul Harris +8 pin.

Following a brief year end review of our accomplishments, Hugh transitioned to the awards section of the evening.  He began by thanking Madison and Abigail McConkey for their efforts in counting and rolling coins donated by Lyle Walker.

As the 2020-2021 year marked the 30^th anniversary of the Club, Hugh was pleased to present a Charter Member plaque to 30 year member member and club archivist, Gail Levay.

Following this, Hugh presented Annie Holtby with the President’s Award and recognized Don Thorpe of the Welland Club with a Service Award.  Annie and Don are both instrumental in so many areas of the club and collaborated to bring the Spring Garage Sale to life among so many other contributions all year.

Finally, Hugh acknowledged and celebrated the tremendous amount of work that Dave Schulz has done this past year in particular to raise the profile of the club and to support our media presence.  Dave volunteers at the district level as well as providing invaluable support to all members of the club.  Dave’s efforts to bring us into the digital age have been greatly appreciated by Hugh, the board and the club members.  As Rotarian of the Year for the Rotary Club of Fonthill, Dave expressed that he was humbled to be recognized – a true sign of a Rotarian who lives the motto “Service Above Self”.

Following the presentations, club members and guests enjoyed Hugh and Sandy’s home made treats and had a lovely evening in the sun of Peace Park.  Everyone had a wonderful time chatting, sharing stories and seeing each other in person at last.

Thanks to Hugh and Sandy for all of their efforts and for coordinating a lovely evening.  We look forward to more opportunities to meet as the new Rotary year progresses.

Click here for the full photo album.