Sunrise Rotarians Celebrate Achievements and Install New Officers

Once again, the Historical Old Marco Inn and the iconic Bistro Soleil Restaurant in Old Marco hosted the Marco Island Sunrise Rotary Club’s Installation of Officers for 2023-2024 in addition to recognizing members’ individual accomplishments.

William Morris, who led the Club during the 2022-2023 Rotary Year, welcomed members, their spouses and guests to the annual event. He also thanked the owners and staff of the Bistro Soleil for their support over the many years it has hosted this and many other charitable organizations’ events.

Morris carried out dual duties during the year as both President of the Sunrise Rotary Club and Chairman of the Meals of Hope Annual Packaging Event, as well as spearheading the fundraising events that provided the necessary food for the Packaging Event.

In addition, during his year as President, the Club continued its efforts to maintain the Historic Otter Mound Clean Up and collaboratively supported Little Pink Houses of Hope by setting up a welcoming event at the Residents’ Beach for the kick-off of the week’s events for women dealing with breast cancer and the healing stages. Under Morris’ leadership, the Club continued its support of the Collier County Elections Department by adopting the polling place located at the Lutheran Church to ensure a smooth experience for residents during the voting process.

On Tuesday mornings, Morris related his weekend volunteer coaching stories. The humorous revelations of a parent doing their best to coach community kids playing baseball and basketball while keeping their spirits high kept the membership entertained.

Rotarians Debra Shanahan, John McGonigle and Wanda Day-Burson were presented with the “Always There Award” for always stepping up when asked.

The Rotarian of the Year award was presented to Wanda Burson for her many contributions to the Club, including that as Chair of the Fundraising Committee and her role as the Chairperson of the Christmas Island Style Committee.

Bob Thomas was recognized for his many years of tireless work as Rotary Foundation Chair, raising $24,000 for the battle to eradicate Polio worldwide.

Special recognition was bestowed upon Neil Snyder, the former President of the Sunrise Rotary Club, who has risen through the ranks of District Offices to the post of District Governor for 2022-2023. His assistance to the Sunrise Club was invaluable, providing guidance to help the Sunrise Club obtain grants to assist residents in our area striving to recover from the effects of Hurricane Ian. His motivational efforts were also instrumental in the Sunrise Club’s successes.

The highlight of the evening’s events came as the new Board of Directors were sworn in and the gavel was passed from Outgoing President Bill Morris to the new President, Denise A. Pancyrz, who will lead the Club during the 2023-2024 Rotary Year.

The Sunrise Rotary Club meets each Tuesday at 7:00 AM, and potential new members are always welcome. You may also check their Facebook page and website at www.marcoislandsunriserotary.org.