Lions Club of Grand Cayman Installation of 2016-2017 Board of Directors

The Lions Club of Grand Cayman is pleased to announce the newly appointed president, Lion Tannya Mortimer and the 2016-2017 Board of Directors who were installed during a ceremony held on Saturday, July 2, 2016. Lion Tannya Mortimer is the second female President of the Lions Club Of Grand Cayman to be appointed in 43 years, the first being Lion Deborah Ebanks in 2009.

The ceremony took place at Lighthouse Restaurant and Past President, Lion Leonard Hew, installed the incoming officers. Incoming Lion President Tannya Mortimer accepted the position stating, “As I look upon both the opportunities and challenges we will face serving our club over the next year, I am convicted that our journey will be one full of resolve, dedication, passion and fulfillment while making a difference within our community.”

In speaking of the year ahead, Lion President declared, “I can assure you that our board will work tirelessly to enhance and build upon the excellent track record laid for us by previous club leaders, who have inspired us with their success in the tremendous initiatives undertaken. Indeed, their efforts are an inspiration which provides both a challenge and an avenue for us to continue doing the great work, Lions are known for.” Furthermore, aligning with this year’s theme, One Passion, One Goal, Serving Humanity, efforts will be focused on establishing school-based Leos Clubs, establishing a restoration committee, building on the work of the Food Pantry, new initiatives in the Sight Programme, continuing to beautify the Lions Community Centre, and partnering with other service clubs in hands-on community projects.

Highlighted at this ceremony were the achievements of Immediate Past President Lion Ewan Jacques and his board for leading the club over the past Lionistic Year. Lion Ewan spoke of the club’s work in men’s health initiative such as PACCE (Prostate and Colon Cancer Event) including cancer screenings, participation in Movember, and spreading awareness through a variety of events. Also noted, was heavy involvement with the youth in the community through Sight Screening for 1,282 children, Secondary Schools Spelling Bee, Youth Choir Competition, Cub Reading Hour, and the start of an Alpha Leo Club. The club was congratulated on their work during the Christmas holidays through hosting Lighthouse School, Sunrise Adult Training Centre, and the All-Island Christmas parties along with Christmas morning deliveries.

Significant changes were made to Lions Community Centre, including a new roof, remodeled changing rooms, and the creation of a community Food Pantry. This Food Pantry would go on to support some of the goals of the Geriatrics Committee, including monthly district food deliveries. Also noted was a strong fundraising year, including projects such as Lions Breakfast, street collections, donations received from Kirk Market to aid the development of the Food Pantry, and Benzarama 2016.

At the event, Lion Ewan Jacques stated, “The club’s Board of Directors have done a fantastic job this year. I have enjoyed their support and valued their work with the committees and their wise counsel.” He went on to express the value of the members of the club – their skills, attributes, personalities, and camaraderie, all of which help to build a strong service club. Other participants in the ceremony include the Honourable Premier and Past President, Lion Alden McLaughlin, who noted that the occasion was quite special to him as the incoming President was inducted as a member of the club under his presidency, and Mr. Austin Harris who brought a twist to the afternoon by conducting an auction.

The new Board of Directors is comprised of President Tannya Mortimer, Immediate Past
President Ewan Jacques, 1st Vice President Ian Yearwood, 2nd Vice President Stephen Best,
3rd Vice President Cordella Chollette, Secretary Anthony Ritch, Treasurer Andrew Hulse,
Assistant Secretary Albert Anderson, Tamer Lynval Watkins, Tail Twister Johann Moxam,
1 Year Directors Carmin Godfrey and Ronnie Rankin, 2 Year Directors Letitia Lawrence and
Janelle Tibbetts and Membership Director Lion Rayle Roberts.