Thank you to those of you who have already registered.
This is the final reminder to register for our District 7870 Changing of the Gavel on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in Wallingford, Vermont. The agenda for the event is listed below.
Please join us as we celebrate the close of one Rotary year and the beginning of another, when our new district team and new club officers ceremonially take over their roles from their predecessors. At this special event, District Governor Elect Ruth Clough will officially take over from outgoing District Governor Donna Deos.
The celebration will take place at the Wallingford Memorial Rotary Club in Wallingford, Vermont, at the Little Red School House. This is a place of special meaning in Rotary history. Wallingford was the childhood home of Rotary founder Paul Harris, where he was raised by his grandparents. Paul said he learned his ABCs in the building that is now the Paul Harris Testimonial Building, a structure built by his great-grandfather. Today, that building is owned by Rotary District 7870, making it the cultural home of our district.
The day will begin at 12:00 noon with a BBQ, with the Gavel Ceremony commencing at approximately 1:00 p.m.
We are pleased to share that the Master of Ceremonies for the Gavel will be Past District Governor John Bob Siemienowicz.
Our ceremony agenda will include:
1. Opening of Gavel Ceremony — PDG John Bob Siemienowicz
2. Pledge of Allegiance — DGN Lou Botta
3. Greetings to Guests — Wallingford President Heather Johnson
4. Introduction of DG Track, Officers, and Guests — PDG Randell Barclay
5. Changing of the District Governor’s Gavel
6. Remarks from DG Donna Deos
7. Introduction of Ruth Clough — PDG David Saturley
8. Remarks from incoming DG Ruth Clough
9. Induction of District Governor,Club Presidents and Assistant Governors — Past Rotary International Director Ken Grabeau
10. The 4-Way Test — DGND Diane McCormick
11. Thanks, and Adjournment — PDG John Bob Siemienowicz
Registration will close Wednesday, June 24, 2026 and space is limited.
Yours in Rotary,
Randell Barclay, Wallingford Memorial Rotary Club
