After a six‐year hiatus, Rotary’s annual Paul Harris Gala returned on Saturday night with fresh energy and vision – reimagined by a dynamic group of young Rotarians who, for their debut in this new format, honored three stalwarts of community service in the Virgin Islands.
Held at Coral World Ocean Park on the eve of Rotary International’s 120th birthday, the event was also a heartfelt tribute to Paul Harris – the visionary founder who ignited the spirit of service in 1905. Guests arrived dressed in elegant shades of blue, greeted by fire performers and the rhythmic allure of local moko jumbies, whose artistry evoked the deep cultural heritage of the islands.
This stirring welcome paid homage to honoree Johnny McCleverty, a master moko whose commitment to restoring local heritage is matched by his passion for mentoring young talent through his traditional troupe. Although McCleverty, who was taking part in a regional jiu-jitsu competition, could not be present, his legacy was vividly felt as his son accepted his plaque and colleague Yisrael Petersen paid homage to years spent in his tutelage.
Equally celebrated were Carol Callwood and Jose “Tony” Rosario – two community trailblazers whose lifework has also supported young V.I. students. Callwood has been a trusted educator and adviser on local platforms like the teen talk show Graffiti Street, which empowered students to find their voices. Rosario, a local leader in both sports and innovation, has transformed community athletics through his roles with the USVI Boxing Federation and Softball Federation and has recently broken new ground within media and emergency communications. Their contributions, which speakers said embody Rotary’s principle of “service above self,” resonated deeply with the audience.
President Maurice Wells of the Rotary Club of Charlotte Amalie captured the essence of the evening by stressing that the gala was less about formal fundraising and more about celebrating community leadership. “We are proud to honor individuals who exemplify the highest standards of service,” he remarked, acknowledging the vital support from sponsors such as the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, Banco Popular, Merchants Commercial Bank, Mutiny Island Vodka, and others. The air was filled with lively conversation as award presentations, a silent auction, and a 50/50 raffle gave way to a sumptuous dinner and signature welcome cocktails artfully created by award-winning mixologist Frank Robinson.
Gala Committee Chair and President-elect Tricia Homer reflected on the event’s true spirit: “This night isn’t just a fundraiser – it’s a chance for us to connect and celebrate our collective work as community leaders.” Her words echoed amid the warm glow of island lanterns, as conversations mingled with the soulful sounds of jazz, R&B, and local beats from the band ‘From Broheem with Love’ and the dynamic energy of Powerhouse Entertainment.
As the festivities moved from the Coral World amphitheater to a beautifully set patio, heartfelt speeches and moments of recognition underscored the gala’s intimate, communal atmosphere. Callwood, visibly moved by the honor, expressed that being celebrated for her genuine commitment to youth mentorship was both humbling and inspiring. Meanwhile, Rosario shared that his lifelong service is simply “the right thing to do,” reflecting the humble spirit that unites all honorees.
Looking ahead, Wells also shared Saturday night his vision for the future of Rotary in the islands. With an aging membership and the vital need for fresh energy, he highlighted the recent addition of nine new members – a promising sign that Rotary’s legacy of service will continue to flourish under Homer’s leadership when she assumes the presidency on July 1.
