Final Spirit Award Winners Announced

The Noontime Rotary Club of Marco Island has announced the names of the final 2025 Spirit of Marco Island Award winners. The honorees are the Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes, and Deb Henry. They will be formally recognized at an “Elegant Garden Gala” Awards Dinner to be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Island Country Club. 

The Knights of Columbus and the Columbiettes were taken by surprise by the announcement of their selection for the 2025 Spirit of Marco Island Award at a recent joint meeting held at the San Marco Catholic Church Parish Hall. Sue Haviland, President of the Noontime Rotary Club made the presentation along with other Spirit Committee members. Accepting the recognition on behalf of the Knights and Columbiettes were Ralph Peterman and Carol Stanczak. 

The Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes have a long and distinguished history over the years of working together to raise funds to support charities by organizing many events.  

These events include fish frys, spaghetti dinners, car shows, Treasures in the Trunk, concerts, and more. Funds raised over the years have been given to support such causes as the Our Daily Bread Food Pantry, along with many other local charities.  

Deb Henry was also taken by surprise by the announcement of her selection as a 2025 Spirit of Marco Island Honoree while volunteering at the Flags for Heroes setup day. Al Diaz, the co-chair of the Spirit Award Committee, made the presentation along with many other Rotary volunteers working that day which also included members of the Marco Patriots. 

Henry, who is a current Councilor with the City of Marco Island and a member of the Noontime Rotary Club, was recognized for her volunteer work over the years in the community. The person who nominated her commented, “Deb is not someone who delegates and sits back. She is someone who does, someone who sees needs and rushes to fill them with compassion and good humor. It is impossible to come away from an encounter with her without smiling as she lifts those around her.”  

An example of her community outreach occurred several years ago after Hurricane Ian devasted Isles of Capri and local areas.She helped families that were left homeless, provided appliances for several homes, and rounded up clothing, household goods, and toys along with bicycles. On Thanksgiving, she also organized and provided dinner for 100 people on the Isles. 

The Knights of Columbus, Columbiettes, and Henry, along with previously announced honorees Scot and Pat Kaufman and Stephen and Barbara Slaggie, will be presented with their 2025 Spirit of Marco Island Award at an“Elegant Garden Gala” Awards Dinner and Silent Auction to be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Island Country Club. 

In addition to attending the Gala, there are many sponsorship opportunities available, including the opportunity to sponsor one of the honorees including a VIP table at the event. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on tickets,please contact Al Diaz at  239-438-5285 or by email at manager@royalmarcoway.com  

The proceeds from the event and silent auction are used to support local charities and scholarships.