Wednesday June 26 turned out to be a beautiful evening for the 80 plus Rotarians who gathered to thank Southampton Rotary president Sylvia Sheard for her tireless work and dedication this past year, and, also to welcome Tony Sheard as our new District Governor of 6330.  
  The sun shone and warm breezes carried off Lake Huron, very much in keeping with the Hawaiian luau theme. Grass skirts, loud shirts and leis were everywhere on the lawn of President Elect for 2020/21 Jenny Amy’s home as she and her husband Don graciously hosted us. Pier Donnini, Port Elgin Rotarian and owner of the Queens Bar and Grill created a buffet of Hawaiian inspired treats for us to enjoy. If you’ve never had coconut pudding, you really should try it. Preferably in Hawaii, next year, at the International Convention in Honolulu! 
With Rotarians from many local clubs in Grey and Bruce counties, and as from as far away as Petrolia, our district was well represented this evening. Also joining us was Ibrahim Yaouba from the Kumbo Rotary Club in Cameroon. Our guests really do reflect the theme for this year, “Rotary Connects the World”. 
Past Club President Ed Braun was on hand to thank Sylvia for her year of service and to welcome Rob Hughes as our incoming president. Sylvia has had a very busy year, because as well as performing her duties as president, sometimes from afar, she was also gearing up to be the main support and cheerleader for Tony as he prepared to take on the role of District Governor. We’re looking forward to welcoming Rob to the helm and helping him propel us forward into another exciting year!   
Past District Governor Diane Chantler introduced DG Jim Schlatman to say a few words on his year as Governor, and PDG Martin Ward thanked him for all his hard work. I think it’s safe to say these three people understand more than anyone the challenging and rewarding job Tony will be doing this year, as well as all the laughs, challenges and accomplishments, amazing memories and new friendships he and Sylvia will make along the way. 
After a few words from Tony, and this is someone who’s ready and excited to take on his new role as District Governor, he introduced our District Governor Elect for 2020/21, David Elliott. And then there was the presentation of pins. Perhaps you’ve noticed, a lot of pins get exchanged in Rotary. You’ve only to look at an incoming Rotary Exchange Student to understand how important they are. I bet the metal detectors at airports need maintenance at airports after a Rotarian passes through security! But seriously, I’m very proud to wear my Secretary pin, as I imagine everyone else is who’s been “pinned” for their role.  
To round off the evening’s events, DG Jim presented Rob with the Home of the District Governor banner, to be displayed proudly in our club for the year. Then Ibrahim presented Tony a few handmade gifts from Cameroon. Ibrahim was visiting a number of local Rotary clubs while he was in Canada, I hope you were fortunate enough to hear him speak at your local club, he is a very passionate and dedicated Rotarian.  
Here’s to a busy, rewarding and fun-filled year in District 6330. Aloha! 
YIR 
Trish Saunders 
Secretary, Southampton Rotary Club