What an incredible milestone, our 30th Annual Rotary Shrimp Fest truly reminded us what “Service Above Self” looks like in action. 🎉🍤
This event was never just about the shrimp. It is about bringing our communities in Harlingen and San Benito together with a shared purpose, lifting up causes that matter, and creating opportunities that impact lives. ❤️ This year, three clubs joined together alongside the Rotary Shrimp Fest of South Texas, Inc. to support FutureReady, Blue Sunday, and youth enrichment programs, and the result was something special.
None of this happens without people. Volunteers from all three clubs, along with non-Rotarians, friends, families, and of course our generous sponsors, gave their time, energy, and heart to make this event possible. 🙌 From planning to execution, countless hours were sacrificed behind the scenes to ensure its success.
A special thank you to our Shrimp Fest Commissioner, Jennifer Allen for helping track all of our tickets, with initial numbers showing 585 take-out/drive-thru meals and 331 dine-in guests. 📊👏 And we can’t forget the amazing music from Retro Rockers, who helped create such a fun and energetic atmosphere throughout the event. 🎶
I want to recognize the leadership and dedication of our board: Eddie Bartnesky, President, Chris Boswell, Vice President, our outstanding auction chairs Darla Richmond and Linda Noell, and our committee members at large Lucy Cadenas and Juju Stringfield. 👏 Alongside so many others, including those helping at registration (Roxy Shimotsu and Cynthia Worley), serving guests, working the bar (Jamie Barrientos, Joseph Albury and Mike Mezmar), managing logistics, capturing moments, and keeping everything moving, the effort was truly a team achievement.
To every volunteer who showed up early, stayed late, and gave their all without expecting recognition, thank you. 💙 Your commitment is what makes Rotary strong.
