"The oldest continuously operating club in the world south of the Tropic of Cancer"
Last Tuesday, we swapped our usual meeting place for a special Fifth Tuesday luncheon at Jamón Jamón Wine & Grill on Avenida Ponce de León—and what a wonderful afternoon it was! Owner Sergio Bevilacqua shared the story of his journey from Argentina to Puerto Rico via Toronto and the inspiration behind Jamón Jamón. After once living across the street and imagining a restaurant in that space, he developed the concept during his travels following a visit to a wine bar and restaurant. He also recalled how his original logo led people to think he was opening a lechonera! Today, Jamón Jamón offers a distinctive fusion of Mediterranean and Italian influences. Most memorable, however, was Sergio’s dedication to people: training his employees, supporting their well-being, and creating a workplace they enjoy. At the heart of it all is his genuine love of serving others. Sergio graciously invited our Rotary Club to return to Jamón Jamón whenever we wish.
We also welcomed Dr. José Arce of Miramar Animal Hospital on his first Rotary visit. As we quickly learned, he already knew several members—through their dogs! We jokingly dubbed him the group’s “dog pediatrician.” Dr. Arce shared part of his story, and with his visit, Sergio’s remarks, a delicious meal, and a strong turnout, the afternoon was everything a Rotary social should be: good food, lively conversation, and a chance to know one another better.
Don’t miss next Tuesday, October 6! We’ll return to AFDA at 12:00 p.m. to hear Alexandria Harvey and her business partner, Joanne Tylka, discuss the exciting project they are developing near El Yunque. These young entrepreneurs will share their vision for an initiative rooted in agriculture, sustainability, and community, as well as their ideas about food sovereignty. We look forward to another wonderful Rotary gathering!
ENID
Monday, September 21, 2026, thanks to Jorge Gonzalez, Past club president, we celebrated International Peace Day at Muñoz Rivera Park in Puerta de Tierra. We had the opportunity to see the design for the Pablo Casals’ peace monument created by artist and master sculptor Nilda Comas. Lilly Garcia gave a very inspirational message on the topic giving special emphasis to the students present at the activity. There was representation of e-club, Carolina, UN club and Boys and Girls club. Here are some photos taken by DG Gerry Cumpiano and PDG Juanita Valentín Morris. We look forward to seeing the final sculpture in two years’ time.
Photos by:FR Juanita Valentin Morris P.D.G. & FR Gerry Cumpiano, DG.
Photos by: FR Juanita Valentin Morris
Dear Fellow Rotarians:
Last Tuesday we were invited to celebrate our social night at Atlantic University, located in Guaynabo, in what used to be the old City Hall (Alcaldia). The facade has been protected, and inside, they have done a terrific job of converting the building into new classrooms, labs and other facilities for their approximately 1,200 students. It was founded in 1983, it is a private, non-profit institution which specializes in digital arts, media and technology, including programs in digital design and computer animation.
Its President, attorney Alexandra Barquin, was an excellent host for the evening, explaining all about the University. She took us to one of the communications labs, with all the latest facilities for the students. She explained how the students use creative technology and other endeavors to serve the community.
They treated us to a delightful buffet, and all our members were very appreciative of their hospitality. Thanks also to Dr. Ramon Barquin, Alexandra's husband, who is a member of our Club but couldn't attend because he was in a commercial mission outside Puerto Rico.
Hope to see you next week at AFDA, with our then guest, Professor Cox Alomar.
Take good care of yourselves.
Delia Colorado
Vice President
🍀 Celebrate St. Patrick’s for a Cause 🍀
Join us on March 17 at Ocean Lab Brewing and raise a glass for education. 💚
This event supports our Student Scholarship Program, benefiting Fundación Estéfano and Hogar del Buen Pastor.
🎟️ Early Registration: $35 (through March 15)
🎟️ Late Registration or at the Door: $40
Includes 2 drinks, an assortment of appetizers, and 20% off additional purchases.
📅 March 17 | ⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Ocean Lab Brewing – Liberty Square at San Patricio Plaza
Reserve your spot and celebrate while making a difference! ⚙️💛
FR Juanita Valentín-Morris, P.P., P.D.G.
Hogar Buen Pastor more Information, click on the next line:We sadly announce that our oldest Rotary member Dr. Rafael Aponte, died at the age of 97. He was a Rotarian for over 60 years. His memorial service and viewing will be at Ehret funeral parlor, Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 2:00 PM on; with a mass at 6:00PM. Our condolences to his wife Margarita and family. He will be missed.
Yours in Rotary,
Juanita
Yours in Rotary,
Juanita
CONGRATULATIONS to JOSE "PEPITO" RIVERO OLMEDO, who was honored by District 7000 for his outstanding efforts as Editor of San Juan Rotary's e-Garita. The weekly newsletter delivers the Rotary message and our Club activities to members and island fellow Rotarians.
DISTRICT GOVERNOR Juanita Valentin Morris presented Rotary International's 100 YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP certificate to Club President José M.(Pepito) Rivero Olmedo, P.D.G. in recognition of San Juan Rotary's century of the Object of Rotary, Service Above Self.
Celebrating 107 Anniversary
San Juan, PR 00907
United States of America