The Rotary Club of Key West is celebrating a milestone: 110 years of service to the community. Founded in 1916, the club is one of the oldest in the United States and has spent more than a century advancing the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.”
For generations, Rotary Club of Key West members have supported scholarships, youth programs, community initiatives and humanitarian efforts that strengthen the fabric of the island community. The club’s members — business leaders, professionals and civic volunteers — have played a vital role in improving the quality of life in Key West while supporting Rotary International’s global humanitarian mission.
At its 110th anniversary celebration on April 1 at the Opal Key Resort from 6 to 9 p.m., the club will induct several members into its ranks of “Rotary Legends.” The designation honors individuals whose leadership, dedication and generosity have had a lasting effect on the Rotary Club and the Key West community.
The 2026 Rotary Legends honorees are: David Freeman, Elizabeth Freeman, Bascom Grooms Sr., Bascom Grooms IV, Albert Gonzalez, Andy Griffiths, Sandy Higgs, Ronnie Leonard and Rachel Oropeza.
“Rotary has been part of the heartbeat of Key West for more than a century,” said Joe Caso, president of the Rotary Club of Key West. “The Legends we are honoring this year represent generations of dedication to service, generosity and leadership that have helped shape our community.”
Among those recognized is Bascom Grooms IV, the great-grandson of Bascom Grooms, reflecting a multigenerational commitment to Rotary and community service as club president and more.
Guest tickets for the anniversary event are $110. More information is at keywestrotary.com.
