President Sarah Johnston can be applauded for her dedication and leadership through 2023/24. As her tenure ends July 1st, the club paid tribute to her at the June 19th luncheon held in her honor.
Under her guidance Club Bylaws were updated. A donation policy was formulated; an online application form is now conveniently available on the club’s website. The Story book Walk was completed for local families to enjoy. Under Sarah’s watchful eye, Club fundraisers; Show n Shine, Art Crawl, Scotch Tasting, April Tools and May Day were extremely successful. Puzzle sales for Amarok - Mothers teaching others, in Bangladesh proved better than expected.
Sarah’s legacy as president is the reinstatement of the International student exchange program. This will see local PHSS student Noah Sieben, travel to Italy for his grade 11 school year. In exchange, incoming student Emma Valli from Turin, Italy, will broaden world perspectives for students and citizens in Pender Harbour.
Bill & Lyn Charlton presented Sarah with a necklace and earrings on behalf of the club; and additionally, presented a photo album of memorable moments throughout the year.
Following these heartfelt and meaningful tributes, Sarah's life-partner Ren presented her with a beautiful “Talking Stick” creatively crafted from materials indigenous to his home in the Cowichan Valley.
The Talking Stick,
Created by Ren Settle, for the Pender Harbour Rotary Club.
The top, created by removing the rot from a burl, was cut out to resemble a brain - to remind one to use it - before speaking. The stick is B.C. Yew. The fish speer was carved from the femur from an Elk. The Halibut vertebrae are for luck, the eagle feathers for their majesty, and a small Raven feather tucked away, to recognize the trickster!
Presented to President Sarah Johnston June 19th, 2024.
This talking stick will guide and empower future PH Rotary presidents.