President Ellen reflects on the occasion of our club's 40th anniversary.
As our fortieth anniversary approaches, I can’t help but marvel at how the world has changed and Rotary’s role in it. We have provided access to those to those in need, from wheel chairs to emotional support at the numerous afterschool and community programs to water projects and sustainability skills throughout the world. WE have provided joy and smiles through parades, floats, festivals and gardens that we have created and shared with our local community. And many in our chapter have had the opportunity to bring better health to people in Santa Barbara and around the world through dental and eye clinics and participation in polio vaccinations.
The changes in technology and the various means of communication over the last 40 years are amazing. I remember when a long distance phone call was big deal! Now we set up zoom calls on a whim to talk to friends, family and colleagues around the world. Who knows what it will look like 40 years from now.
Of this I am certain, there will be Rotary and Rotarians, looking out for others and finding ways to make the world a better place. Thank you to everyone for your contributions of time, treasure and talent through the years in making Santa Barbara Sunrise what it is today and creating the firm foundation of what it will become.
Cheers to the next 40 years!
Ellen
Photo: In honor of our club's 40th anniversary, a photo from the archives of Ellen's induction day, shown with David Velarde, Membership Chair; Frank Tabar, returning member; Ellen Chase, new member; Sandra O'Meara, Ellen's sponsor; and Chris Baxter, club president; on June 7, 2017.