Rotary Club of Sarasota Keys celebrates 50 years

The Rotary Club of Sarasota Keys celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala dinner March 11, at the Longboat Key Club’s Harbourside Dining Room. During the event, club President Klaus Lang presented a history of club activities.

Each year, the club holds a food-basket drive and participates in the Walk to Cure Diabetes. He spoke about the open-heart surgery for children in underdeveloped countries that was started by late member Abe Shames. Club members also ring the bell at the Salvation Army’s red kettles at Christmas; each year continues to generate more revenue.

Last month, members contributed $10,000 to send shelter boxes to Haitian earthquake victims.

Bruce Ives, of Rotary International, spoke about the worldwide organization’s involvement in the campaign against polio.

“We are so close to eradicating it,” he said.

A tribute was paid to all past presidents of the club and to Dr. Rudy Garber, a charter member.

Liliane Sealy-Schrock was event chairwoman and is also incoming club president.

Contact Dora Walters a [email protected].