Happy 5th Anniversary, Rotary Club Sunrise

I would like to thank all of those in my Club who have been a part of my team this year.  However, we could not have gotten here before those who lead before us, starting with Past President Monica, whose vision is largely responsible for the formation of our club.  Together with her team, she laid the foundation for Rotary Club Sunrise of Road Town.    We thank you.  To the Rotary Club of Road Town, our sponsor, we thank you.  To the Rotary Club of Tortola, we thank you.  I’d also like to thank and recognize the remainder of our Past Presidents (Ken, Donna, and Allison), for their commitment, hard work, and for everything they have done to strengthen our club.  We would not be here without them.  As for me, it has been an honor and privilege to serve as your President. 

 

5 years ago, little did I know how many friendships would deepen and how many new ones would be created as a result of being a part of this great organization.  Little did I know how much I would learn and grow as an individual.  I could not possibly have done any of it without my team, our members, our guests, and the leadership who preceded me, and I thank all of you. 

During our history, Rotacy Club Sunrise participated in activities in Anegada, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Tortola, from community service to fellowship.  We have painted homes and schools, provided for the handicapped, helped the autistic, promoted literacy, supported disaster relief efforts in Haiti, The Philippines, and St. Vincent, donated recycled computers, and co-sponsored a new Rotaract club, among many other accomplishments.  We hope to continue to play an important role in our community, our District, Rotary International and the world as a whole.  We have attracted new members from all walks of life, and I am confident that we have a winning formula.

 

While performing good work in the community and the world, I hope that we can continue some of our fellowship traditions, such as games night at Rtn Heskith’s house (and sometimes PE Jean’s house), bowling night, and I will never forget our first sunset sail.  We surely know how to have fun!   

 

Where will we be in 5 years?  10?  Will President Antonio become a future president of Rotary Club Sunrise of Road Town?  What about our newest members Robert, Karl, or Kendall?  What about our prospective members?  We have come a long way in 5 years, but our story is just beginning.  I look forward to our many future accomplishments in advance.

 

Friends, Fellow Rotarians, and guests, it has been a wonderful 5 years as a Charter member of this club, and I thank you very much for celebrating this important milestone with us.  Please rise and join me as I give a toast to The Queen, and To Rotary Club Sunrise.