The Rotary Club of Coral Gables is looking ahead to another exciting year under the leadership of Felix Pardo, who is serving as club president for a second time.
Bringing renewed energy and enthusiasm, Pardo is building on the club’s long tradition of “Service Above Self” by placing a greater emphasis on member engagement and hands-on volunteerism.
In addition to an outstanding lineup of weekly speakers coordinated by past president Ana Fournaris-Gallagher, Pardo has introduced brief presentations highlighting the club’s many community service projects.
These updates allow members to better appreciate the real impact Rotary is making both locally and internationally while inspiring even greater participation. The club has a long history of supporting scholarships, youth programs, local charities, environmental projects, veterans, and international humanitarian efforts.
The club celebrated its annual Installation Luncheon in June with the always entertaining past president Frank Sexton serving as master of ceremonies. Outgoing president Sally Baumgartner recognized several outstanding members for their dedication and service during the past year.
Among the evening’s honorees, Carol Brock received the prestigious Rotarian of the Year Award. Yolanda Woodbridge, often described as the heart and soul of the club, was presented with the Rotary Star Award. Dr. Phil Boswell, who has faithfully led the club’s youth services since 2002, was surprised with the Quiet Rotarian Award, while Frank Sexton received the Distinguished Rotarian Award in recognition of his years of outstanding service and leadership.
Adding to the excitement, Rotarians Terry Long and Charlie Gomes presented the club with a generous $10,000 donation to support scholarships for deserving local students during the coming year.
Joining Pardo on this year’s leadership team are Lloyd Miller, sergeant-at-arms; Bill Quesenberry, treasurer, and Sally Baumgartner, secretary.
The club also has continued its tradition of bringing informative and inspiring speakers to its weekly meetings. During the past month, members heard presentations from Ryan and Sonia Veliz of 4KIDS, along with Carlos Arce of the Honor Statuettes Foundation. Arce shared plans for the foundation’s new 3,600-square-foot manufacturing studio in Margate, where veterans transitioning to civilian life will be trained using The Arce Method, a proprietary 21-step restorative framework. The program teaches participants to transform raw copper wire into world-class corporate recognition awards, creating a pathway toward economic independence, healing, and renewed purpose.
Looking ahead, program chair Ana Fournaris-Gallagher once again has arranged another outstanding speaker. Members will hear from Eduardo Zayas-Bazán, president of the Bay of Pigs Brigade 2506 Museum and one of the Cuban Freedom Fighters who participated in the historic Bay of Pigs invasion.
For more information about the Rotary Club of Coral Gables, membership opportunities, or weekly luncheon meetings held Thursdays at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, visit Rotary Club of Coral Gables.
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