On Jan. 9, 2015, JC Robert Lockhart advised the Club that his most memorable and emotional Rotary moment was on Christmas morning when he recognized each of his family members as Paul Harris Fellows. Pictured at left, back row- Robert, son Robb- Halifax; son Bradley Lockhart- Quispamsis; grandson Spencer Lockhart- Brad & Shelly’s son; Front Row- Carolyn Lockhart; granddaughter Katie Lockhart- Brad & Shelly’s daughter; Shelly Lockhart, Brad’s wife. Robert told the Club he wrote fellow Rotarian, friend, and Past District Governor, Gerald Barnett the following note in appreciation for starting him on this venture many years before...
“This was an adventure I set out on back in the late 1980’s thanks to the influence/impression you and Ross (Coates, PDG) made on me in your support of the PolioPlus program, and the Rotary Foundation. PolioPlus was initiated during my year as President in 1984-85. I always admired how you recognized your family as PHF’s while supporting such a worthwhile Rotary endeavour, and this was something I wanted to do as well. I reached my PHF +8 a few years ago, but could never decide how to actually present my family with the actual recognitions as it would be a complete surprise to all. This Christmas “I just did it”, and wanted you to know that you & Ross were recognized when I made the presentations for the influence you had, and for the Rotarians, you both have been. Thanks for planting the seed many years ago that made this one of the most memorable Christmas' for me and my family.”
Robert also mentioned that Saint John Rotarian Heinz Schaerer played an important part as well. Robert wrote Heinz to share the story and said “Your annual (and bi-annual) follow up calls seeking contributions toward the sustaining PHF program were also greatly appreciated and a contributing factor in me reaching this milestone and this exciting and emotional moment in my Rotary life. That personal touch does make a difference!”.