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Our club welcomed two new members recently! Amy Heavilin is the Budget Director for the Monroe County Sheriff's Department and John Lukas is the owner of JDL's Big Ten Pub (the former PT's). We know they will both be excellent hard-working additions to the club! Pictured: President Stan Rzad, Amy Heavilin, sponsor Rosemary Enright, sponsor Chuck Fortier, John Lukas, sponsor Vicki Gordon, membership chair Billy Davis. |
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Colonel Rick Ramsey spoke to club members about the Monroe County Sheriff Department's agency practices. MCSO is an accredited law enforcement agency and takes great pride in its partnerships within our community. Crime is down in the county and MCSO has had nine perfect audits thanks to the hard work of Budget Director, Amy Heavelin, and her MCSO staff. Pictured: Captain Thompson, President Stan Rzad, and Colonel Ramsey.
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Congratulations to Ron Demes and Matt Babich! District 6990 Governor Todd Dayton awarded Ron and Matt with Rotary's Distinguished Citation Award for their outstanding efforts on behalf of Rotary. They have both shown that the Four Way Test is more about action than words! Pictured: Ron Demes, President Stan Rzad, Matt Babich.
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Patricia and Jaime Abell, from the Kissimmee Bay Rotary Club, exchanged club banners with President Stan Rzad. We hope they enjoyed our meeting! |
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Dan Dombrowski, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club, and CeCe Williams, Director of the Big Pine Boys and Girls Club, gave an interesting program on the history and current status of the Boys and Girls Clubs locally and nationally. Don't forget the Boys and Girls Club is holding their 10th Anniversary "One Particular Harbor" fundraiser at Margaritaville Cafe on 5/13 from 5-8pm. For information call 296-2258. Lots of good food, music, and silent auction items! Pictured: CeCe Williams, Dan Dombrowski, and President Stan Rzad. |
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Lenny Salazar, President of the Navy League Key West Council, attended our morning meeting to thank Sunrise Rotary for buying a table at the Military Member of the Year Awards Banquet. Pictured: Lenny Salazar and President Stan Rzad. |
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Come on out and join all the local Rotary Clubs! Rotary Family Social, Marathon Community Park, 5/12, 12-4pm!
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Please support ACS and local cancer survivors. Club member Carrie Helliesen, Director of the American Cancer Society, encourages people to sign up for the ACS' Cancer Prevention Study 3. ACS will track volunteers and all you have to do is fill out a survey every few years. Pictured: Club member Carrie Helliesen and President Stan Rzad.
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Officer Penny Phelps, Monroe County Sheriff's Office, and Officer Diane Lipinski, Key West Police Department, gave an interesting program on the Police Unity Tour. Every year, over 1200 riders bicycle in support of the National Law Enforcement museum in Washington, D.C. Eight local officers are participating in the ride this year. Club members passed the hat and donated $283.00 to support their efforts. Pictured: Officer Penny Phelps, President Stan Rzad, and Officer Diane Lipinski. |
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President Stan Rzad presents a check to Mark Moss, Director of Habitat for Humanity, from club members.
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Orville Brown, Range Systems Manager at Boca Chica Navy Base, explained to club members the dynamics behind the combat tactical training system. The P5TCTS is the standard for combat training since it allows the planes to make use of a much larger area up to 25,000 square miles. Personnel can track up to 100 planes at a time through the use of airborne pod instrumentation which includes the use of GPS and computers. Training officers positioned at ground stations can communicate with the pilots during flight and can review and correct the pilots via data links. Pictured: Range Systems Manager Orville Brown and President Stan Rzad.
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Commander Pat DeQuattro presented an interesting program on the US Coast Guard Sector Key West. He explained that their mission is to protect the public, the environment, and US interests in support of homeland security. There are 853 active Coast Guard members in the sector as well as a strong core of Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers. The Coast Guard maintains 850 aids to navigation, provides security to the area, helps with search and rescue, and is involved in migrant interdiction. Pictured: USCG Sector Key West Commander Pat DeQuattro and President Stan Rzad. |
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SunriseRotarians welcomed our newest member, Joyce Griffin! Joyce works at the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections and was sponsored by MikeHorne. Pictured: Billy Davis, Carrie Helliesen, President Stan Rzad,Mike Horne, Joyce Griffin, Trice Denney, and Mark Moss. |
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Congratulations to everyone for a successful 19th Annual Sunrise Rotary Golf Tournament! We had a full field of golfers and a great turnout of Sunrise Rotarians! |
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Club members welcomed another new member at our last meeting. Kelly Marshall is the General Manager of Hard Rock Cafe and was sponsored by member Vicki Gordon. Kelly has already volunteered at a number of events and we know that she will be a great member! Pictured: President Stan Rzad, Membership Chair Carrie Helliesen, Kelly Marshall, and Vicki Gordon.
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Our February Programs have been dedicated to Florida Keys history. Club members former Key West Commissioner Percy Curry and artist extraordinaire Sparky Carbonell were born and raised in Key West. They are true conchs whose families settled the island. Each spoke of the history of their families and how their families were involved in the growth of the town. Club members were treated stories of what it was like to grow up in the time when Key West was a sponging, cigar, pirate (drugs) town! Pictured: President Stan Rzad, Percy Curry, Sparky Carbonell.
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Club members were happy to welcome our newest members at a recent meeting! Tony Boza works for the City of Key West and was sponsored by member Greg Veliz. Chuck Fortier is employed with Iberia Bank and was sponsored by Matt Babich. Welcome to both new members and we will put you to work soon! Pictured: President Stan Rzad, Membership Chair Carrie Helliesen, Greg Veliz, Tony Boza, Matt Babich, and Chuck Fortier.
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Sunrise Rotarians were out in full force to assist with the Key West Half Marathon on Saturday and Sunday January 21-22. Over 1000 people signed up to participate in the half-marathon, the 5K, or the walk. Sunrise Rotarians helped with every stage of the race from the registration in the beginning to handing out the medals at the end. It was an excellent event and we all look forward to helping again next year! Pictured: Sue Hyde, Jim Smith, Catherine Vogel, Sue Fowler, and the official photographer from Houston. |
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The Key West Sunrise Rotary 19th Annual Golf Classic is set for 2/26/12 at the Key West Golf Course! We have great prizes including 3 flights of winners for the golfers, a million dollar shoot-out, and prizes on every hole. We need sponsors and players so come on out and join us. For information contact: Bart Smith 305-495-1549 |
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School Board Chair John Dick spoke to club members about the upcoming referendum which will allow the Monroe County School District to continue the flexibility it has had in transferring funding from capital accounts to operating accounts. He assured members that a "Yes" vote will not increase taxes but will help the school system recover from budget reductions. Pictured: School Board Chair John Dick and President Stan Rzad.
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Club members were thrilled to welcome our newest member, Suzanne Campbell. Suzanne is a member of the Porter family which is a well-known and historic family in the Keys. Pictured: Membership Co-Chair Billy Davis, President Stan Rzad, Suzanne Campbell, Sponsor Denny Howley.
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Sunrise Rotary welcomed the Navy Commander and petty officers of the USS Key West submarine on Veteran's Day! Commander Duncan explained that visiting crew members were kept very busy. They had VIP tickets to the boat races, worked at Sigsbee charter school, took a sunset cruise, and attended numerous meetings while here. They also helped build a replica of the USS Key West as a float for the Veteran's Day parade. Pictured: Ron Demes, Collin Hedges (ship's electrical assistant), Terrence Fields (ship's electrical technician), Commander Duncan, Richard Thompson (ship's machinist), David Sushon (ship's culinary specialist), Chief Andy Patrone, and President-elect Jim Reynolds.
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It was especially nice to meet the visiting Group Study Exchange team from Australia at our recent Friday meeting. Transported by Carl Lanky, a Rotarian with the Miramar/Pembroke Pines Rotary club, the GSE team attended Rotary meetings throughout the Keys as well as a reception with all three lower Keys clubs.Thank you to Matt Babich and the Southernmost Hotel Collection for hosting the team. GSE team member Joanne McLane is an animal lover (horses in particular), the managing director of a consultancy business, and plays polocrosse. Joanne is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Inverell. GSE team member George Truman, is an outdoorsman who raises cattle, acts, and golfs. George is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Gunnedah West. GSE team member Jack Woods is an electrical linesman, loves sports, and can't wait to meet an alligator. Jack is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tuncurry Forster. GSE team member Michelle Cameron is a primary school teacher, active in local sports, and her local choir. Michelle is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Guyra. GSE team leader Vicki Kembery is a journalist, tour guide, and runs a travel goods store. Vicki is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Armidale. GSE team member Helen Schmidt is a high school teacher, active in local sports, and is an umpire and a coach. Helen is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie. Welcome to our new friends who were dinky-di and ridgie didge! Pictured: Jack Woods, Carl Lanky, Helen Schmidt, Joanne McLane, Past president Matt Babich, Vicki Kembery, President Stan Rzad, George Truman, and Michelle Cameron.
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Debra Yates, Landscape Designer, presented an informative program on the availability of varying designs for homeowners and commercial businesses. The New York Times recently featured an article on Debra and her work. Debra was accompanied by her son Ben Burley, an interior designer. Pictured: Debra Yates and President Stan Rzad. |
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We had a great turnout at the MARC Pumpkin Patch! Thank you to: member to be Susanne Campbell and members Ron Demes, Kerry Highsmith, Sue Hyde, Sue Fowler, Dan Dombrowski, Billy Davis, Julio Avael, Bob Eadie, Bill Lezotte, Cris Waite-Morgan, Jedd Regante, Catherine Vogel, Mark Moss, Denny Howley, Billy Davis, Janie Rodriguez, Tom Sawyer, Dave Chesnet, Teri Narlock, Joel Narlock, Rosemary Enright, Tegan Slaton, Teri Johnson, and Vicki Gordon for volunteering! A fun time was had by all!
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Thank you to the representatives of NORAD (North American Air Defense) for their excellent presentation on the 263rd Army and Air Missile Defense Command Vigilant Shield 12 homeland defense exercise which will take place November 1-November 10 in Key West. This is a joint theater level command operation which will bring in advanced weapon systems to participate in a national level exercise directed by the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Pictured: Major Ben Francis, Ron Demes, Lt. Colonel Donny Wilson, Colonel Tim Sheriff, Major Michael Gibson, PAO Trice Denney, President Stan Rzad, Lt. Colonel Bill Lewis.
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Sunrise Rotarians were happy to welcome two new members this past Friday. Pictured: Membership Chair Carrie Helliesen, sponsor Ron Demes,new member Trice Denney, President Stan Rzad, new member Andrew Smyth, member Roy Coley(filling in for sponsor Jim Reynolds). |
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Sunrise Rotarian Nick Wright lost his house in a fire recently. Club members generously passed the hat and also presented Nick with a check at our recent meeting. Pictured: Nick Wright and President Stan Rzad
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President Stan Rzad presented Gary Hernandez, Key West High School Band Director, with a check at our recent meeting. Sunrise Rotary is helping the KWHS Band cover expenses for a competition in Orlando. Pictured: President Stan Rzad and Gary Hernandez.
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Josie Koler, member and owner of the Key West Weekly newspaper, gave a very informative program about controlling the media. As Josie explained, the media can decide your reputation and it is up to you to control what they write about you! Pictured: Josie Koler and President-elect Jim Reynolds.
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Congratulations to everyone for making Poker Run such a successful event! It was obvious that Jerry Sanders, Greg Barnes, and the entire committee worked very hard because things ran smoothly and with no hitches along the way. Thank you to all the volunteers including club members, spouses, and friends who helped out. Once again, Sunrise Rotarians showed that we practice what we preach: Service Above Self!
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The Second Annual Southernmost Hotel and Sunrise Rotary Brewfest is September 3, 2011, at the end of Duval Street on the beach at the Southernmost Cafe. The event runs from 4-? and will feature over 100 brews as well as food and music! Come on out and support Sunrise Rotary! All proceeds go to our Scholarship fund. This is a great event!
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Sunrise Rotary is happy to welcome our newest members Key West City Commissioner Teri Johnson and Key West City Dockmaster Jonathan Blum. They are great additions to our club and have already participated in a number of club events! Welcome! Pictured: President Stan Rzad, City Dockmaster Jonathan Blum, Sponsor Bob Eadie, Sponsor Vicki Gordon, Sponsor Rosemary Enright (in spirit), Commissioner Teri Johnson.
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We had a treat at our Friday meeting when the Gents Band showed up and played two songs for our members. Jim Smith was hot on the drums and Fred and Sue danced up a storm! You had to be there!
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Sunrise Rotarians were treated to a very interesting program on Key West History at our recent meeting. Tom Hambright, local historical expert and Key West librarian, explained to the club the circumstances behind the constuction of the railway to Key West. Henry Flagler hoped to build a railway from St. Augustine to Key West since Key West was one of the major ports in the state. After the Spanish American War and the building of the Panama Canal, Key West was the nearest U.S. port and was considered to be a port of strategic value. The Key West library has a collection of over 1000 historical photos at keyslibraries.org. Pictured: President Stan Rzad and Tom Hambright.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
A big Thanks to Barbara Anderson for chairing our Magazine Program. Barbara collects magazines from club members and hands them out at the hospital. Pictured: Past President Matt Babich and Barbara Anderson.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Scholarship Committee member Douglas Helkenn presented Melinda Bailey with a scholarship check. Melinda is the recipient of the Mike and Debbie Horne Vocational Scholarship. Melinda received all A's on her final report card and she will be attending the FKCC Nursing Program in the fall. Pictured: Douglas Helkenn adn Melinda Bailey.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
At this Friday's meeting, Candy Pablis accepted a check from Key West Sunrise for the Metropolitan Community Church Cooking with Love Program. Pictured: President Stan Rzad, Vicki Gordon, and Candy Pablis.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Charter member Steve Henson presented an exciting program on the events that transpired during his year as Key West Sunrise Rotary President in 1992-1993. 1992 was the year of Hurricane Andrew and, while the Keys were not directly hit, Hurricane Andrew had a devastating effect on South Florida. Sunrise Rotary was very generous in its support of the rebuilding efforts after the Hurricane and we all remember the rolling blackouts throughout the Keys. Sunrise Rotary started the first Career Fair at KWHS and 45 businesses participated in the first Key West Sunrise Seafood Festival at Bayview Park. Poker Run was just getting started and membership rose from 41 members to 51. There were two international projects that year. The first was headed up by member and past District Governor Roy Anderson. The club purchased and delivered insulin to three clinics in the Dominican Republic. Mayor Tom Sawyer presented a key from the city of Key West to the governor of the province. Steve Henson gave his first and only speech in Spanish. The second project took place in Spanish Wells in the Bahamas where club members helped rebuild a quiltmaking shack. All and all it was an amazing year! Pictured: Senor Steve Henson and President Stan Rzad. |
| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Sunrise Rotarians were fortunate to have the Rotary District Governor 6990 Todd Dayton at our Installation meeting to assist us with the swearing in of our new President, Stan Rzad. Karon Rzad, Stan's wife, and Katherine Rzad, Stan's daughter, were on hand for this momentous occasion! Congratulations to Matt Babich for an excellent year as our President! We now welcome Stan Rzad to the helm-we know he will do an excellent job and we look forward to another exciting year! Pictured: Rotary 6990 District Governor Todd Dayton and Sunrise Rotary President Stan Rzad.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
We did indeed have an amazing year under Matt Babich's leadership. Thank you, Matt!
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Club member Doug Helkenn, an interior designer with D'Asign Source & Co., gave a great presentation on the latest trends in design. Doug grew up on a farm in South Dakota and became interested in design by raking his mother's shag carpet and rearranging her furniture after his chores were done. Doug attended South Dakota State and is still a Jackrabbit at heart! Doug explained how he and the staff at D'Asign Source can assist with customer's needs utilizing the latest trends such as going toward more natural tones as well as green products. If you have any questions, you can contact Doug at www.dasignsource.com. Pictured: Doug Helkenn and President-elect Stan Rzad.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
The club was happy to welcome Peralt Annulyssee, a Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship recipient, to our latest meeting. Peralt is a student at Mercy College in New York and has a 3.0 GPA. He saw snow for the first time this year and says he saw "too much of it." Peralt says that working with the community has made him realize that he wants to be extraordinary rather than ordinary. He has five brothers and sisters and is the first person in his family to attend college. We wish Peralt well and look forward to his visit next year. Pictured: President Matt Babich, Peralt Annulysse, and Scholarship Committee representative Doug Helkenn.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Joel Narlock, member and representative of Royal Furniture, gave a mini seminar on flooring available in the Keys. Royal Furniture has three installation crews and works throughout the Keys. Joel showed us samples of tile, carpet, and wood flooring and said that engineered flooring is best for our climate because it floats and will not warp. He also showed us a sample of Mohawk's Smart Strand carpet which is the next generation of carpets and bascially indestructible. Pictured; Joel Narlock and Vanna Chesnet.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Enid Torrogrosso, on behalf ot the Historic Preservation Board (HARC), spoke to the club about Key West's unique history and architecture. Being old does pay and authenticity is most important when it comes to historic preservation. Historic buildings hold their own against the elements; they hold their property values; and they hold the interest and attention of tourists. Historic preservation is a tangible art that helps us connect to the past. Pictured: Enid Torrogrosso, President Matt Babich, writer and former HARC Board member Barabara Bowers.
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| Posted by Carrie Helliesen on Jun 10, 2011
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| Posted by Carrie Helliesen on Jun 10, 2011
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| Posted by Carrie Helliesen on May 27, 2011
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright
Sunrise Rotarians were thrilled to welcome a group of visiting Rotarians from Italy. A group of 28 Rotarians all from Italy were on their way to the Rotary International Convention in New Orleans and decided to make a trip to visit our club. Not all members of the group managed to rise and shine for our early meeting but it was quite a treat to meet those who did! Since President Matt Babich will be in Italy next month, he promised to visit their clubs while there! Pictured: Gianfranco Caparello (RC Piombino), Luciano Fiaschi (RC Rosignano), President Matt Babich, Claudio Castellari (RC Bologna Est), and Renzo Zatelli (RC Firenze).
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright on May 13, 2011
Circuit Judge Mark Jones gave a very informative presentation on non-traditional sentencing in the judicial system at our meeting today. The topic was very timely as the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit (Florida Keys) is hosting the Statewide Drug Court graduation at the Freeman Justice Center. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Charles Canady will be the special guest of honor and Judge Jones assured everyone that it would be a very exciting event. Judge Jones also discussed the difference between misdemeanor and felony cases. He explained that most cases are resolved by a plea agreed upon by representatives of the State Attorney's Office, the defense attorney, and the Court. The judicial system would come to a standstill without these agreements since the court system in Monroe County handles approximately 8000-9000 criminal cases a year. Pictured: President Matt Babich and Circuit Judge Mark H. Jones
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright on May 11, 2011
Sunrise Rotarians were treated to a spirted rendition of God Bless America performed by Jim Carter, Director of the KWHS Choir, and student choir members Amber Streath and Greg Barroso at our last meeting. Club members joined in and were moved to tears by the singing of Sue Hyde. The Key West High School Choir is comprised of 130 students who learn student leadership and self sufficiency through participation in the program. The students compete on a statewide level against other high schools and performing arts schools. Congratulations to the students in the Mixed Women's Choir on their first place finish! The full Choir performs at KWHS on May 18th at 7pm with a dress rehearsal on May 17th at 4pm. Pictured: President Matt Babich, Jim Carter, Amber Streath, and Greg Barroso.
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| Posted by Rosemary Enright on May 03, 2011
Welcome to Mark Moss, our newest member! Mark is the Director of Habitat for Humanity and his sponsor is Warren Leamard. Pictured: Scott Duszynski, Stan Rzad, Warren Leamard, Mark Moss, and President Matt Babich.
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| Posted on Apr 20, 2011
Sunrise Rotarians were out in full force at Bayview Park this past weekend helping the American Cancer Society at their latest fundraiser for Relay for Life. Pictured: Ron Demes, Jeanette Lopez, Sue Hyde, Scott Duszynski, Stan Rzad, Sean Morton.
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President Matt Babich was happy to present a check to United Way Director Margie Smith on behalf of the club. Margie is the daughter of Past president Jim Smith.
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Perry Johnston spoke to the club about the City of Key West's strategic plan. Pictured: Perry Johnston and President Matt Babich.
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Sunrise Rotarians were out in full force to assist the Special Olympics staff and athletes during their recent bocce tournament. Thanks to Ron Demes for organizing everyone! Pictured: KW City Manager Jim Scholl, Barbara Anderson, Bill Lezotte, Vicki Gordon, Scott Duszynski, and Sue Fowler.
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Club members and Al Pollard from the Richland (Michigan) Rotary club learned about the US Coast Guard and its mission from Command Duty Officer Anna Dixon. Officer Dixon has been in the Keys for 2 1/2 years and is the public relations, government liaison, and contingency planner for the US Coast Guard. She explained that the US Coast Guard, District 7, is a multi-mission agency, involved in drug interdiction, migrant operations,search and rescue, investigations, enforcement of the marine sanctuary, as well as maritime and homeland security. Officer Dixon was honored to work alongside Assistant Commandant Admiral Thad Allen during the gulf oil spill. Pictured: Commander Coast Guard Sector Key West Pat DeQuattro, Command Duty Officer Anna Dixon, President Matt Babich, and Rotarian Al Pollard.
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| Posted on Mar 24, 2011
Club members and visiting Rotarians Retired Judge Dan Phillips from the Port Orchard club in Washington and Nick Estes from the Macomb club in Illinois were treated to an interesting program on the Army Special Forces underwater dive teams. Commanding Officer Army Major Trevor Hill explained the training and duties of the Special Forces teams. The teams have trained on Fleming Key since 1964 and they use the large silo that can be seen on the base. for some of their dive training. The Special Forces mission is to assist and train troops in their effort to change oppressive governments. The Special Forces go in, give supplies, train the troops,and perform underwater dive operations. The job can be very stressful and the Special Forces teams are trained to deal with the addtional stress. There are three courses: basic scuba, diving supervsor, and medical technician. The Special Forces training is like PADI on steroids. Pictured: Ron Demes, Special Forces Executive Officer Army Major Craig Milliron, Special Forces Army Sgt. Major Senior Enlisted Advisor Roberto Oqueno, President Matt Babich, and Special Forces Commanding Officer Army Major Trevor Hill.
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| Posted on Mar 11, 2011
Thank you to Captain Pat Lefere, Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station in Key West, for his informative program on the celebration of the Centennial of Navy Aviation. The celebration is to honor a century of mission ready men and women who have valiantly represented our country and who bring humanitarian aid to others in their time of need. The Navy is excited about this anniversary and is inviting the public to an open house at NAS Key West on April 16, 2011. It will be a fun filled day with static displays, fly-overs, food booths, tours and many other activities. Pictured: Ron Demes, Commanding Officer NAS Key West Pat Lefere, President Matt Babich.
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| Posted on Mar 02, 2011
Our Golf Tournament was a huge success! We had a full field of golfers and lots of Sunrise Rotary volunteers making sure that everything ran smoothly. A big thank you to Bart Smith and the Golf Tournament Committee for all of their hard work and to Club members for getting sponsors and prizes. Check out the pictures under Photo Albums! Pictured at the start of the tournament: GT Committee member Stephanie Griffiths and President Matt Babich.
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| Posted on Feb 23, 2011
February Programs have focused on environmental issues and our most recent program was presented by John Albert of Waste Management who talked to us about our garbage! John explained how individuals can make a difference by recycling and reusing their waste products. He also told members how Waste Management is acting green by introducing a household hazardous waste program and by switching to new environmentally friendly trucks. Guidelines call for a 75% waste diversion from landfills by 2020. Pictured: John Albert and President Matt Babich |
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A big "Thank You" to Keys Federal Credit Union for their generous donation to our Sunrise Rotary Golf Tournament set for February 27, 2011. FKCU (KeysFCU.org) has always been a big supporter of local events and, as a local credit union, been very helpful to residents in need of banking services. Pictured: FKCU VP and Rotarian Sue Fowler, Jedde Regante, FKCU Marketing Director Renee Travis, President Matt Babich, Joel Narlock, and Stephanie Griffiths.
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| Posted on Feb 11, 2011
Health Department Director Bob Eadie gave a very informative program on all aspects of dengue fever. In 2009, there were 27 cases of dengue fever in the Florida Keys. In 2010, there were 65 cases. The disease is spread by a specific mosquito which can breed in a small amount of water. The disease can be controlled by eliminating breeding sites such as standing water in garden containers, recycling bins, etc. Pictured: Bob Eadie and President Matt Babich.
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| Posted on Feb 09, 2011
Club members enthusiastically inducted our newest member, Tom Sawyer, Jr., at our recent morning meeting. In joining Sunrise Rotary, Tom, Jr., becomes a second generation Sunrise Rotarian. His father Tom Sawyer was a founding member and past President of our club as well as long time Board member and Mayor of the city of Key West. We know that Tom, Jr., will be an excellent Rotarian! Pictured: Carrie Helliesen, Stan Rzad, Tom Sawyer, Jr., Ron Demes, Sponsor Janie Rodriguez, Kerrie Highsmith, Steve Henson.
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| Posted on Jan 11, 2011
Thank you to Sarah Cizmas, financial advisor from Edward Jones, for an informative program at our last meeting. Sarah advised members on the investment perspective outlook for 2011 for the economy. If you have any questions for Sarah, you can reach her at 305-743-6121. Pictured: President Matt Babich and Sarah Cizmas. |
| Posted on Jan 18, 2011
Welcome to new member, Sue Fowler! Sue is an employee of Keys Federal Credit Union and was sponsored by Scott Duszynski. Sue has already volunteered for a number of events and is on her way to being the best Rotarian ever! Pictured: President Matt Babich, Carrie Helliesen, Sue Fowler, Scott Duszynski, Jim Smith, Cris Waite-Morgan.
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Billy Davis, Sunrise Rotarian and Director of a Positive Step, accepted a check from President Matt Babich at a recent morning meeting. Pictured: President Matt and Billy.
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Thank you to everyone for making our Holiday Brunch such a huge success! Once again, we collected toys for the children of Wesley House and Executive Director Doug Blomberg was on hand to thank club members for their generosity. The Key West Yacht Club is always a great venue and the food was excellent (as were the mimosas). Happy Holidays everyone! Pictured: President Matt Babich and Doug Blomberg
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We had a great turnout at the Monroe Association of Remarcable Citizens tree sale! Thank you to everyone, especially Ron Demes who rounded up the troops. We sawed, cut, wrapped, carried and sold those trees in huge numbers. People were swarming into the lot once word got out that we were there. Happy Holidays, everyone! Pictured: Santa Demes and his elves!
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| Posted on Feb 15, 2011
Sunrise Rotary is pleased to welcome two new members to our club! Bill Lezotte was sponsored by Vicki Gordon and Jedde Regante was sponsored by Ty Symroski! We welcome them to the club and know they will be excellent Rotarians! Pictured: Jedde Regante, Ty Symroski, President Matt Babich, Membership Chair Carrie Helliesen, Vicki Gordon, and Bill Lezotte.
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Sunrise Rotarians were treated to an interesting presentation on the Take Stock in Children program. Cory Connity, Key West High School student, addressed club members about his participation in the program. He has been in the program since seventh grade and expects to graduate in two years. He will then attend college on a full scholarship provided by the Take Stock in Children program. Take Stock in Children provides a prepaid scholarship to seventh grade students who sign a contract requiring them to meet certain scholastic and community obligations. Pictured: Mentor Larry Plummer, Cory Connity, Foundation Chair John Padgett, President Matt Babich, Take Stock Director Jim Hall.
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Key West Sunrise Rotary members were treated to a very informative program this past week presented by the Rotary Group Study Exchange Team from Sweden and Latvia: Pictured: Team Leader Agija Ozolina-Kozlovska (Latvia), Ilze Kalnina (Latvia), Asa Nilsson ( Sweden), President Matt Babich (Mars), Susanne Johansson (Sweden), Martins Raudzins (Latvia).
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The Key West and Lower Keys Habitat for Humanity has partnered with Coach Scott Paul and students from Key West High School to paint homes for lower income residents in the Florida Keys. Pictured: Scott Paul, Rachel Quad, President Matt Babich, Brandon Masiello, and Bob Calhoun.
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Key West Sunrise Rotary has been a sponsor of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Survivors' Luminaria Ceremony for many years. Pictured: President Matt Babich presenting a check to Pam Kessler, Relay For Life Event Chair 2011. Relay for Life will be held on 5/14-5/15 at Bayview Park in Key West with the opening ceremony at 1pm on May 14th. Contact Carrie Helliesen at carrie.helliesen@cancer.org for information.
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The Monroe Association for Remarcable Citizen's Pumpkin Patch was once again the site of a huge turnout of Sunrise Rotary volunteers. Every year MARC opens up its nursery on Seminary Street to the community in the form of an interactive Pumpkin Patch. Families can carve pumpkins, play in the straw fort, get their faces painted and participate in many other activities. Thanks to Ron Demes for organizing such a great volunteer effort. Pictured: Outlaw Matt Babich and his gang.
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Key West Police Officer Deglys Chavarria was the speaker at our most recent meeting. Officer Chavarria is in charge of the Police Athletic League programs in Key West. PAL teaches children to be disciplined, trustworthy, and respectful to residents of the community. There are over 500 children involved in the PAL programs including the PAL summer program. Pictured: President Matt Babich and Officer Chavarria.
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District 6990 Governor Douglas Maymon and his wife, Debbie, visited Rotary Clubs throughout the Keys last week. The lower Keys clubs held a joint social at the Southernmost Beach Hotel to welcome the Maymons. The Governor and Debbie attended our Friday meeting. A member of the Weston Rotary Club and Rotarian of the Year three times, Governor Maymon spoke of the ongoing Rotary projects/programs around the world including those in Haiti, India, Kenya, and South America as well as the Rotary Youth Exchange and the Group Study Exchange. Pictured: President Matt Babich and District Governor Doug Maymon.
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We want to welcome our newest Sunrise Rotarians: Joel and Terri Norlock. Joel and Terri of Royal Furniture in Key West have been great volunteers for the Club! Pictured: President Matt Babich, Sponsor Robin Robinson, Joel and Terri Norlock, and Membership Chair Carrie Helliesen.
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Scott Paul, Key West High School coach, spoke to the club about the growing "I Have a Dream" movement which hopes to preserve green space in the Florida Keys. Scott and other residents of the Keys hope to convince officials that our children need more available green space including areas which use fashion field turf which requires little or no maintenance. They believe that we need playing fields at Truman Waterfront as promised and that we need to preserve the Poinciana School/Wicker fields since they are the only available green space in New Town. Pictured: KWHS Coach Scott Paul and President Matt Babich
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Key West Sunrise Rotary is proud to adopt Christina Boza's classroom at Horace O'Bryant Middle School in Key West. Teachers pay for many supplies out of their own pockets. Donations from organizations like Sunrise Rotary and private individuals help the teachers pay for these additional costs. You can adopt a classroom through the Monroe County Schools website. Pictured: President Matt Babich and Christina Boza.
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Key West Sunrise Rotary is very happy to adopt Erica Gates' classroom at Poinciana Elementary School in Key West. Erica will use the money to supplement supplies for her students! Pictured: Erica Gates and President Matt Babich.
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The 2010 Key West Poker Run was a huge success! A big thanks to the Poker Run Committee for all of their hard work and to our Sunrise Rotarian members who volunteered countless hours. As always, our Sunrise Rotarians showed that we follow the motto, "Service above Self," by supporting this event which benefits our Scholarship Fund. Pictured: Vince Taporowski and President Matt Babich.
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Byron Gronvold from Porter Allen Insurance was installed today, Friday, Aug. 13th, into the club. Byron was a Rotarian in 2002, but excited to join the KW Sunrise Rotary Club. Seen here with Byron, President Matt Babich, Byron's sponsor, Ty Symroski, and Membership Chair, Carrie Helliesen. Welcome Byron! |
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Amy Spielberg of Stay Fit Studio presents the triathlon program to the club. Amy Spielberg, Co-Owner, Trainer, and Massage Therapist,Stay Fit Studio, was the speaker on Friday morning, Aug. 6th. She presented the unique benefits and opportunities of the triathlon in Key West. She explained anyone can participate in a triathlon and the staff at Stay Fit take each person through a 16 week training in the unique and perfect environment in the Keys for such a sport. Pictured: Amy Spielberg and President Matt Babich. |
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Nicole Mongelli receives a scholarship from the KW Sunrise Rotary Club. Nicole Mongelli receives another portion of her scholarship, as she spoke to the club about the benefits of receiving the scholarship for her programs at the University of Central Florida, where she is majoring in Psychology. She was very thankful for the scholarship, and is maintaining a 3.74 grade point average! Pictured: President Matt and Nicole. |
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Jeannette Rosario installed Aug. 6, 2010. Friday morning, Aug. 6th, Jeannette Rosario was installed in the KW Sunrise Rotary Club! Her fiance joined the meeting for the celebration. Jeannette is the Market Development Manager for Coca-Cola. In this photo is Jeannette's sponsor, Scott Duszynski, and President Matt Babich. Welcome Jeannette! |
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Sunrise Rotarian Sandeep Singh spoke to club members about the meaning and content of new member orientation. Sandeep walked club members through an orientation session describing the length, meaning and content of a new member orientation. Although the video part of the presentation did not cooperate, it was explained and pointed out that the video can be viewed at the Rotary International website, You Tube, and even here on the Home page of ClubRunner.Typically lasting three sessions, new member orientation begins as soon as the member is installed into the club. The new member orientation program covers such topics as Rotary policies and procedures, opportunities for service, and Rotary history. Pictured: Sandeep Singh
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Charter member, Steve Henson, gave members a very informative historical perspective on the founding of the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club. In 1988, the Rotary Club of Key West was the only Rotary club in the lower Keys. Since the Rotary Club of Key West did not allow women members, a group of individuals got together and decided to start a morning club which would allow women to join. Key West Sunrise Rotary Club in the conch Republic was chartered in 1988. Past President and Past District Governor Roy Anderson was one of the driving forces behind this movement. Charter members were: Roy Anderson (Charter President), Sparky Carbonell, Percy Curry, Steve Henson, Mike Horne, Rich Welter, and Kim Works (we miss you). We can thank these visionaries for the club we have today! Tune in next week for part two of Steve's presentation. Pictured: Steve Henson and President Matt Babich.
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Reva Labbe, Sunrise Rotary Scholarship recipient, spoke to club members and thanked them for her scholarship. Reva attended the meeting with her proud mother, Donna Hume. Reva attends the University of Florida and is majoring in Public Relations. She will be starting her second year of studies in the fall. This year she worked with the America Reads project while a student and also traveled to Atlanta to participate in Florida Alternative Break. Pictured: President Matt Babich, Reva, Stephanie Griffiths.
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Thank you to all the Sunrise Rotary members who turned out to help upgrade the Sigsbee Charter School on Sigsbee Navy Base. Ron Demes had a great turnout for this event which took place on a very hot, smoldering day! Everyone lost a few pounds except for Commander Pat DeQuattro who hid out in the air conditioning! Pictured: Greg Sullivan driving some big machine.
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Congratulations to our new President!! With a tear in his eye, Matt Babich was installed as President of Key West Sunrise Rotary for 2010-2011. Matt is replacing Steve Robbins who retired with a huge smile on his face. Pictured: Past President Steve Robbins and President Matt Babich. |
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Congratulations to Ron Demes who was chosen as Key West Sunrise Rotary's Rotarian of the Year! Ron has performed an exemplary job as chair of our service projects and definitely has kept us busy at all community events. Pictured: President Steve Robbins and Ron Demes. |
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Kate Sampson, a Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship winner, receives her check from President Matt Babich. Kate is studying nursing at the University of Central Florida. |
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A great time was had by all at our recent Rotary Family Day! Members of our Sunrise Club, the Sunset Club, and Rotary Club of Key West shared an afternoon of fellowship and softball at beautiful Bayview Park. We all hope this will become an annual event! Pictured: Jim Zack and Sue Hyde. |
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We had a very informative program presented by Robin Robinson, member of Sunrise Rotary and the Key West Garden Club, about plants in paradise and assessing damage and restoring trees after a hurricane. Remember- always plant native when you can! Pictured: Robin and President-elect Matt Babich.
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It was great to see retired club member Sally O'Boyle attending our meeting last Friday. Sally and her clan have been living in Costa Rica the past few years and we have really missed her! Pictured: Sally and Janie Rodriguez.
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Joe Easterwood from the Hertford (North Carolina) Sunrise Rotary Club exchanges club banners with Key West Sunrise Rotary President-elect Matt Babich at our recent meeting.
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Congratulations to our Key West Sunrise 2010 scholarship recipients! |
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Bridget McDonald, Program Coordinator for GLEE, spoke to the club about the goals of the GLEE program (Green Living & Energy Education). GLEE encourages all individuals and businesses to lower their carbon footprint because going green means saving money. Pictured: Bridget McDonald and President Steve Robbins. |
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Samantha Robbins thanked the membership for her scholarship check this past Friday. Samantha, a grateful recipient of the Key West Sunrise Rotary Scholarship, is entering her last year of college and will be graduating with a degree in Graphic Design. Pictured: Samantha Robbins and her proud father, President Steve Robbins |
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Welcome to new member, George Ivanov! George is the General Manager of the Holiday Inn Key West. He is our newest Sunrise Rotarian and is very enthusiastic about joining our club. Pictured: Membership Chair Stephanie Griffiths, George Ivanov, Cris Waite-Morgan (sponsor), and President Steve Robbins. |
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Sunrise Rotarians were treated to an interesting program presented by Paul Schultz, Coast Guard investigator. Paul joined the Coast Guard in 1994 and was involved in search and rescue missions in Michigan. After retiring in 2000, he worked with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office for seven years until being coaxed back to the Coast Guard Investigative Services as the resident agent in charge. Pictured: Paul Schultz with President Steve Robbins |
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Monroe County Sheriff and Marathon Rotarian Bob Peryam updated club members on the priorities and new programs implemented at the MCSO in the past year. In addition, Sheriff Peryam instructed a certain club member on how and where to pull his car over when a police car with flashing lights is following him. We all learned that it is not standard procedure to pull into a gas station and to begin pumping gas! Pictured: Monroe County Sheriff Bob Peryam and President Steve Robbins |
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Commanding Officer Coast Guard Key West Pat DeQuattro gave the club an update on the explosion and subsequent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico this past week. The oil spill continues to threaten the coast of the Southern states as well as Florida. Pictured: President Steve Robbins and Commander DeQuattro. |
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Membership Chair Stephanie Griffiths is shown with new member Key West City Manager Jim Scholl! Welcome, Jim, and thanks for doing such an excellent job. |
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Congratulations to the Navy and Ron Demes for a very exciting Naval Air Station Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular! The Blue Angels were amazing; the Hornets and Vipers, and that really big plane were incredible; Freddy Cabanas and all the flyers and wing walkers kept us on our feet; the crowds were thrilled; and the Sunrise Rotarian volunteers worked very hard and got very sunburned but loved every minute of it! Thank you Captain Holmes, Ron, and all 23 Sunrise volunteers! Pictured: the early crew of volunteers Ron Demes, Mary Demes, Mary Maxwell, Tegan Slaton, Rosemary Enright, Janie Rodriguez, Fred Hildebrandt, Denny Howley, and Sue Hyde. |
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Last week, Julio Avael gave a very interesting presentation on the history of Key West and its development as a city. This week Julio had Corey Malcolm, an archeologist with the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, speak to us about the last slave ships that came to Key West. In 1859, President Buchanan had Navy ships circle Cuba and intercept ships transporting slaves to work in the Cuban sugar plantations. The slaves were brought to Key West in 1860 and housed near Fort Zachary in Barracoons, which was a fenced-in living quarters and yard. Many of these slaves were very ill and and those that died were buried at the African cemetery near Higgs Beach. The remaining slaves were transported to Liberia by the U.S. government in 1863. Pictured: Corey Malcolm and President Steve Robbins. |
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Captain Julie Miavez, Naval officer in charge of the Naval Branch Health Clinic, spoke to the club at our recent breakfast meeting. Captain Miavez, an optometrist, is the officer in charge of the Naval clinic. The clinic was originally built in 1941 and renovated in 2000 as a primary care facility. The clinic, in a joint venture with the attached VA clinic, offers support for all areas of command as well as search and rescue support, prevention services, flight physicals, and a health career program for high school students. Pictured: Captain Julie Miavez, President Steve Robbins, Ron Demes. |
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NAVFAC LCDR Ana Franco presented an informative program on her job as a civil engineer corps officer in charge of facilties for all branches of the military in Key West. A Naval officer for twelve years, her department runs a one stop shop for facilites engineering with a focus on Naval Air Station Key West. Officer Franco's next assignment will be as Executive Officer at Camp David. Pictured: President Steve Robbins, Ron Demes, Officer Ana Franco. |
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Kim Livingston, Head of Montessori Children's School of Key West, spoke to club members about the Montessori School and its educational goals for children. Kim is pictured thanking President Steve Robbins and Stephanie Griffiths for a donation Sunrise Rotary made to the school. |
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Bob Hendricks, Commander of the Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk, presented a very interesting program on the Coast Guard's relief efforts in Haiti. Commander Hendricks offered his insight as part of a slide presentation which showed the extensive damage in Haiti from the recent earthquake. Commander Hendricks and his crewmen were on the scene immediately after the earthquake hit and were instrumental in bringing food and medical supplies to those in need. Pictured: Head Honcho Ron Demes, Commanding Officer Coast Guard Key West Pat DeQuattro, Commander Bob Hendricks, President Steve Robbins. |
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The Seventeenth Annual Sunrise Rotary Golf Tournament was a huge success! Thank you to everyone for volunteering and for getting us such great hole and raffle prizes. As always, the tournament was well attended and lots of fun. A special thanks to Bruce Woodard for all of his hard work and for chairing this event! Pictured hard at work: Kerry Highsmith, Bruce, and Ken Mann. |
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Tim Campbell, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Director at NAS, gave us an update on the upcoming Blue Angels show at Boca Chica Air Station. The Blue Angels will be here April 10-11 at NAS. The air show will start at 10:30am and the Blue Angels will begin at 2:30pm. Admission and parking are free and they also have VIP tickets (admits 4) for $125.00 which give you a private viewing area, private parking, food, and drinks. With the VIP tickets you are practically on the runway! For further information contact wingsoverkeywest.net. Pictured is Ron Demes(NAS), Tim Campbell, Jolene Scholl (NAS), President Steve Robbins. |
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It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Sunrise Rotarian Henry Woods. Henry was an enthusiastic member who was involved in many organizations throughout the Keys. Henry was a good and kind man who will be greatly missed. RIP, amigo. Pictured: President Cris Waite-Morgan, Membership Chair Stephanie Griffiths, and sponsor Tom Lavender with Henry at his installation as a new Rotarian. |
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Diana Sutton, Exceutive Director of CFFK, spoke to our members at a recent meeting. The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys is the go-to agency for many not-for-profit agencies from Key Largo to Key West. CFFK was instrumental in assisting with the Hurricane Wilma recovery efforts and is now the proud sponsor of Leadership Monnore and the Leadership Success Academy. Pictured: Diana Sutton and President Steve Robbins. |
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Key West Sunrise Rotary gave a sizable donation to the Women's Flag Football Tournament this year. The WFF Tournament attracts thousands of visitors and is a very successfull event. Pictured: Diane Beruldson presents a plaque to President Steve Robbins thanking him for our contribution. |
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J.B. Hunt gave a very interesting program on the American Red Cross and its efforts to help the people of earthquake damaged Haiti. The American Red Cross, known for its ability to step-in quickly in a disaster , is sending food and medical supplies to Haiti. Pictured: JB and President Steve Robbins |
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Trees were flying out of the MARC Tree lot on Saturday as Ron Demes kept everyone on their toes for the Monroe Association of Remarcable Citizens annual fundraiser. Sunrise Rotarians were out in full force with their gloves and saws. Thanks to everyone who showed up and to those who came to buy a tree (Judge Jones and family). Pictured: Bruce, Ron, Tegan, Max and his wife, Stuart, and Denny. |
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A big "Thank You" to everyone who came out to ring the bell for the Salvation Army during their annual holiday appeal. As always, Sunrise Rotarians made a great showing. Pictured hard at work: Susan Gouldy and Mike Horne |
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President Steve Robbins gives a donation to Billy Davis for a Positive Step. Billy has been a long time and very active member of Sunrise Rotary. |
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Key West Sunrise Rotary welcomed the Group Study Exchange team from Peru. The team gave an excellent presentation on living in Peru. The team cosisted of: Group Leader Raul Sanchez, Millagros Mesones, Carlos Lechuga, Elvira Gonzales, and Karla Nunez. |
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Thanks to all the Sunrise Rotarians who came out to help with the MARC Pumpkin Patch, showing that Service above Self is a principle that we Rotarians actively believe in. Pictured is the morning crew of: Jim Smith, Warren Leamard, Greg Sullivan, Scott Duszynski, chip off the old block James Reynolds, Henry Woods, Jim Reynolds, and Ron Demes. Thanks to the afternoon crew of: Carrie Helliesen, Janie Rodriguez, Billy Davis, Jim Scholl, Jim Smith (again), Chris Pare, Jose Koler, Matt Babich, and Matt Strahan! Ron Demes did a great job of organizing this event. |
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President Steve Robbins presents checks to Sunrise Rotary members Mary Maxwell and Debo Dingler. Sunrise Rotary adopted the classrooms of Mary, a teacher at Key West High School, and Debo, a teacher at Horace O"Bryant Middle School, to help them continue the excellent work they do! |
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Poker Run 2009 was a huge success! Thanks to everyone for volunteering and a special thanks to Chris Pare and Bruce Woodard for chairing the event. Chris, Bruce and their committees put in countless hours to make our biggest fundraiser run smoothly. The Poker Stroll is gaining in popularity every year and was lots of fun for the participants as well as the drink servers! Great job everyone! |
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Raymond Archer, Director of Port Operations for the City of Key West, was the speaker at our recent morning meeting. Raymond gave an informative program on all aspects of port operations including cruise ship, ferry, marina, bight, and outer mole. Port Operations contributes significantly to the City budget Pictured is Steve Robbins thanking Raymond for being our guest speaker. |
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President Steve Robbins is thanked by Sandy Higgs and Lesley Crabbs for the work Sunrise Rotarians did on the Sigsbee Beautification project. Sigsbee School is now a Charter School! In anticipation of the changeover, Navy League Key West Council recruited volunteers to paint,chop, and just generally renovate the school. Sunrise Rotary had a great turnout! Thank you to: Captain Pat DeQuattro, Jim Reynolds, Barbara Anderson, Percy Curry, Ty Symroski, Frank Toppino, Matt Babich, Ron Demes, Kerry Highsmith, Greg Sullivan,Steve Robbins, and Mary Maxwell! We especially want to thank Jim Scholl for chopping through the water line and Jim Reynolds for supervising Sandy Higgs as she turned the water off. Great project everyone! |
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At our Friday meeting, President Steve Robbins presented a scholarship check to Stephanie Carvajale, a recent Tom Sawyer Scholarship winner. Stephanie is a student at Columbia University, majoring in Economics. Congratulations, Stephanie! |
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We want to welcome our newest member, Doc Stager. Doc hails from New Hampshire, is retired, and has been visiting the Keys for over 22 years. Pictured is Club President Steve Robbins, Doc, and sponsor Chris Pare. |
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President Steve Robbins presented Ezra Jacobson with his final $1000.00 check as a Key West Sunrise Rotary Scholarship winner. Ezra is a senior at Dartmouth Unviversity with majors in Economics and Government. Congratulations, Ezra! |
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Thank you to everyone who came out on Saturday to help with the painting of the Rotary Compass Rose! We had over 40 Rotarians painting and supervising - it was a great turnout! This has been a long time in the making since we started to plan this after Hurricane Wilma but had to wait for the pier to be repaired. Thanks to Scott Duszynski for sticking with this project! Thanks to Terry Wood for volunteering to cover up Matt Strahan's footprints. If you want to see what Rotarians working together can accomplish, walk or ride your bike out to the end of White Street Pier. It is a beautiful sight! |
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Congratulations to Stephanie Griffiths on being named Key West Sunrise Rotarian of the year! Stephanie always puts service above self and is an excellent representative of our club! |
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Congratulations to Steve Robbins on his installation as Sunrise Rotary President! He is already hard at work making Sunrise Rotary the most fun club in the state. Kudos to Past-President Cris Waite-Morgan who did an excellent job last year and now gets to relax a little! Thank you to Southernmost Beach Cafe for a beautiful installation dinner- a great time was had by all! |
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President Cris Waite-Morgan presided over her final meeting as our head honcho. Sunrise Rotary has had an excellent year under her tutelage. Cris is pictured thanking member Carrie Helliesen, Director of the American Cancer Society, for her informative program on Castaways against Cancer. |
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The members of Sunrise Rotary congratulate our scholarship recipients this year! Students received $17,500.00 in scholarships. This money was raised by Rotarians through our Poker Run, Golf Tournament, etc! A big thanks to all members for your hard work and commitment in making these annual scholarships possible! Recipients are: Sunrise Rotary Scholarship ($2000 each year for 4 years) to Reve Labbe; Ecky Solomon/Glynn Archer Scholarship ($1000 each year for 4 years) to Kriszelda Menez; Mike and Debbie Horne Vocational Scholarship ($1250 each year for 2 years) to Seth Hopp; Tommy Roberts Scholarship ($500 each) to Olivia Kent and Frankie Ratcliff; Roy Anderson Memorial Scholarship ($500 each year for 2 years) to Sebastin Armentrout; Tom Sawyer Memorial Scholarship ($500 each year for 2 years) to Kate Sampson. We are very proud of these Key West High School graduates! |
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Foundation Chair Jim Reynolds congratulates first time Paul Harris Fellow Debo Dingler and fifth time Paul Harris Fellow Vicki Gordon. Debo is a teacher at Horace O'Bryant Middle School. Vicki is the owner of Barefoot Appraisals. Pictured; Foundation Chair Jim Reynolds, Debo Dingler, Vicki Gordon, President-Elect Steve Robbins. |
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It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to USCG Captain Scott Buschman, Commander of USCG Sector Key West. Scott has been a great member and will be dearly missed. We wish him well at his new post in Miami and hope that he plans to visit us often. We welcome aboard USCG Captain Pat DeQuattro, the new Commander at the USCG Sector Key West. Captain DeQuattro was recently stationed in California and now has the good fortune to receive Sector Key West as his next assignment. We are very appreciative of the excellent relationship Sunrise Rotary has with the US Coast Guard. |
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President-Elect Steve Robbins introduced Greg Marston, Key West Fire Department, as our speaker this past Friday. Greg updated the club on the latest techniques and priorities of KWFD. |
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Congratulations to our newest Paul Harris Fellows: Jim Reynolds, Ron Demes, Cris Waite-Morgan, Stephanie Griffiths, Stan Rzad, Matt Babich, Steve Gahan, Fred Hildebrandt, Sue Hildebrandt, Greg Sullivan, Judge Mark Jones, Catherine Vogel, Captain Scott Buschman, Tom Lavender, and Steve Henson! Check out the photos under "Photos" in the right hand column. |
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President Cris Waite-Morgan thanks Nat Moore for speaking to the club. Nat Moore, former NFL Pro Bowler and wide receiver for (the best team in football) the Miami Dolphins, spoke to club members at our recent breakfast meeting. Nat told the membership that the Miami Dolphin management hoped to be more involved in our local community and encouraged us to become Dolfans! |
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A big "Thank You" to everyone who helped out with our Annual Golf Tournament and especially to Brian Rector who chaired the event! This is one time where our club members really show their committment to the Rotary motto, "Service above Self." Pictured are the committee chairs with their awards: Bruce Woodard, Chair Brian Rector, Cris Waite-Morgan, Doug Helkenn, Billy Davis, Stephanie Griffiths, Doug Rudolph , Greg Sullivan, Rosemary Enright. |
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County Administrator Roman Gastesi spoke to members about Monroe County's Strategic Plan. Mr. Gastesi encouraged all residents to go online to fill out the survey that Monroe County is conducting. |
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Thank you to everyone who came out and helped clean up Smathers Beach! We had a great turn out and it was a nice way to participate in Earth Day activities! |
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We want to thank Chris Pare and his wonderful wine and cigar shop, Historic Cigar Alley at 1075 Duval Street, for hosting our golf tournament "thank you" party. Everyone had a great time! Check out the pics under "Photos!" |
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Naval Academy Midshipman 4th Class Caleb Genschorck addressed the club and explained to club members what life is like as a plebe at the U.S. Naval Academy. Caleb is a recipient of Sunrise Rotary's Roy Anderson Scholarship which is given yearly to a promising recruit. We are very proud of Caleb! Pictured: Rotarian Barbara Anderson, Caleb, President-Elect Steve Robbins. |
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Sunrise Rotary welcomed Ambassadorial Scholars Martina Hindsley and Christina Dombrowsky to our Friday meeting. |
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President Cris Waite-Morgan thanks Phil Sheldon from Hans Ebensten Alyson Adventures for his informative travel program focusing on China. |
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We want to welcome our newest Sunrise Rotarian, Sue Hyde! Sue has been very active in Club events for many years so it is especially nice to finally have her become a member! Now we can put her to work full time! Pictured are President Cris Waite-Morgan (Sue's sponsor), Sue, and Membership Chair Stephanie Griffiths. |
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Our tournament was a huge succes! We had 110 golfers and lots of volunteers. Thanks so much to everyone for all the sponsors, prizes, and hours put in at the golf course. Check out the pictures of everyone working hard and having fun! |
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Once again, Key West Sunrise Rotary participated in the Dictionary Project by giving every third grader in Monroe County their very own dictionary. This is the third year that we donated books to over 600 thrid graders throughout the county. The Dictionary Project is sponsored by Rotary International and is a worl-wide effort to promote literacy. Pictured are the 3rd graders from Glynn Archer school. |
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We had a very informative program from the folks at Crimestoppers. Board members Diane Gibson, First State Bank, and Dougie Morgan, Raymond Janes and Associates, explained the role that Crimestoppers plays in reducing crime and helping law enforcemnt track down individuals who are implicated in the commission of crimes. |
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Sunrise Rotary wants to welcome back former member Craig Cates! Craig has returned to Key West after living in Saint James City, Florida for a number of years. We are extremely happy to have Craig back with us! Pictured with Craig are Membership Chair Stephanie Griffiths, President Cris Waite-Morgan, Craig, and sponsor Steve Henson. |
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Sunrise Rotarians were treated to a very interesting program by Commander Orville Brown from the TCTS Range program at Boca Chica Navy base. TCTS stands for Tactical Air Combat Training System which provides offshore training for pilots from around the world. TCTS equals superiority for all pilots who train with this system! President Cris Waite-Morgan is pictured welcoming Commander Brown. |
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President Cris Waite-Morgan welcomes Sunrise member Reverend Randy Becker and LCDR Matthew L. Warnke, NAS Chaplain, who presented a program on diversity to club members at our Friday breakfast meeting. |
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Thank you to Barbara Fahey and the Youth Act students for hosting our meeting at HOB school! The students were very well prepared and the breakfast was delicious! |
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Congratulations to our International Committee! Through the efforts of KWSR and the Jelenia Gora, Poland Rotary Club, we were able to purchase a van for the Jelenia Gora County Home for the Retarded. |
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We had a great Poker Run this year! Congratulations to everyone for making this such a successful event! We started on 9/18 with the PokerStroll at the Bottlecap Lounge and ended on 9/21 with the Survivor's Party at the Southernmost Beach Cafe. Thank you to all of our members for making this the best Poker Run, yet! |
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Everyone had a wonderful time at our installation dinner which was held at Hurricane Joe's on beautiful downtown Stock Island. Congratulations to President Cris Waite-Morgan. We wish her well for the upcoming year! Check out the pics under Photos in the lower right hand column! |
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A Big welcome to Kevin Fox our newest member! President Matt Cochran, Sponsor Jim Reynolds, and Membership Co-Chair Steve Robbins welcome Kevin to the Club! |
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Congratulations to our Roy Anderson scholarship recipient! |
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Congratulations to our Sunrise Rotary scholarship recipients for 2008! |
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Congratulations to our new and new multiple Paul Harris Fellows: Matt Cochran, Jerry Sanders, Vicki Gordon, Stephanie Griffiths, Cheri Smith, Susan Gouldy, Warren Leamard, Barbara Anderson, Sue Hildebrandt, Fred Hildebrandt, Rosemary Enright, Tegan Slaton. and Ron Demes! Their donations allow Rotary International to continue its humanitarian efforts around the world! |
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We want to welcome a new addition to our Rotary family, Guy DeBoer. Guy is pictured with President Matt Cochran, Membership Co-Chair Stephanie Griffiths, and Sponsor Tom Lavender. Welocme Guy!welcome the latest addtion to our Rotary family, latest addition to our Rotary family. Guy DeBoer |
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President Matt Cochran and Membership Chair Steve Robbins welcome member Bart Smith sponsored by Stephanie Griffiths. Bart is a local attorney who previously worked at the Public Defender's office. |
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Our Be a Key Bee spelling bee for Literacy Volunteers was a great success. We raised $6000.00 for Literacy Volunteers and everyone had a wonderful time. Congrats to the Rookie Rotarians for planning and hosting this fun evening. The winners were the team from the Florida Keys Community Foundation who outspelled everyone! |
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It is over! The 15th Annual Sunrise Rotary Golf Tournament was a huge success and as usual we had a packed house! A big thanks to everyone who helped out especially Steve Robbins, Brian Rector, and Tegan Slaton. The profits from this tournament goes to our scholarship fund. Thanks to those Rotarians who donated prizes-you all really came through for us this year. Pictured: President-Elect Cris Waite is hard at work with the rest of the early am crew. |
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Tegan Slaton and friend celebrate Easter. Can anyone guess who the bunny is??Pink is his favorite color! |
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Kenseal Corp. and Sunrise Rotary worked together to renovate the playground at the Wesley House Child Services Center at Douglas School. Pictured are some Kenseal reps and Barbara Fahey and her Youth Act students. Thanks to Kenseal for contributing so much to the Key West community! |
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Key West Sunrise Rotary once again donated over 600 dictionaries to students in Monroe County. Sunrise Rotarians Tegan Slaton, Scott Duszynski are shown with Principal Barbara Wright and third grade students from Stanley Switlik School in Marathon. Sunrise Rotary gave a dictionary to every third grade student in the school system. |
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In December, Sunrise Rotarians enjoyed a beautuiful Holiday Brunch at the Key West Yacht Club. Vicki Gordon organized the event and, as always, she did an amazing job. We collected over 100 toys for Wesley House children. |
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We want to welcome our new Sunrisre Rotary Club members: Roy Coley, sponsored by Jim Reynolds, Jane Evans, sponsored by Ed Grantham, and John Brown, sponsored by Chris King. Roy is an employee of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority. Jane is our new Key West Postmaster. John is an officer with Florida Fish and Wildlife! Welcome to our new members! Please introduce yourself so they feel right at home! |
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Once again, members of Sunrise Rotary Club helped the Monroe Association of Remarcable Citizens sell holiday trees at the MARC Plant store on Seminary Street. |
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Jim Norton, District Governor Rotary 6990, visited our club this fall. |
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Fantasy Fest was a huge success this year. Check out the photos of our members unders the "Photos" tab! |
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Poker Run 2007 was a huge success! |
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Once again we are getting ready to distribute dictionaries to all third graders in Monroe County. The YouthAct Club members, teacher and Rotarian Barbara Fahey and several Sunrise Rotarians helped put labels in the dictionaries recently. |
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