Life in the Keys presents unique opportunities and challenges. The eight Rotary clubs spread from Key Largo to Key West share a tourist economy along with the perils of U.S. 1 and high insurance rates.
There are nearly 445 active Rotarians in the Keys and about an equal number of people who passed through Rotary on their way to other phases in life. Members of the various Rotary clubs will gather at Marathon City Hall on Saturday, Aug. 26 to discuss Rotary in the Keys.
“Rotary is divided into districts and the membership of our clubs in the Keys makes up about 22% of the district, which include clubs from southeast Florida and Grand Bahama Island,” said event organizer Frank Derfler, of the Upper Keys Rotary Club. “Per-capita, Rotary is very strong in the Keys. Our clubs share unique challenges of transportation, economics and environment. This meeting is an opportunity to build synergy among the Rotarians in the Keys.”
Sam Williams, Marathon Rotary Club president, said the gathering brings opportunities for networking among Rotarians and the chance to learn how other clubs operate.
“The goal is bringing Keys people closer so we are all familiar with each other,” he said. “I think this will get us reaching out more often to other Keys clubs and inviting others to events we have.”
Yvette Talbott, Key West Rotary Club president, said she’s excited for the opportunity to meet other Rotarians from various sections of the Keys.
“All Keys clubs share common problems because of our geographic location,” she said. “I think it’s important our district governor will be there and will hear our concerns and suggestions. I think it will benefit everyone. I’m excited about it.”
The agenda includes a visit from Rotary 6990 District Governor Barbara Gobbi and District Membership Chair Joe Roth. The group will look at the image of Rotary in the Keys, cooperation after weather events and opportunities for community service. Interested Rotarians should go to www.keysrotary.club to register for the meeting.
Rotary Clubs in the Keys give back in many ways, through projects and fundraisers for students and groups on the island chain. The Key Largo Rotary Club’s annual Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge is set for Sept. 22-24, while the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club is gearing up to put on the annual Lighted Boat Parade on Dec. 9. The Upper Keys Rotary Club holds its Gigantic Nautical Market in late February at Founders Park. Further south, the Marathon Rotary Club opened the Children’s Rotary Park with a new playground last year. The Lower Keys Rotary Club organizes 4th of July festivities in Big Pine Key. The Key West Rotary Club annually produces a 4th of July celebration and golf tournament, while the Key West Sunset Rotary Club holds a wine tasting in November and a domino tournament.
