Cape Fear Rotary - Jungle Rapids

07/23/2026

Last Friday, we welcomed Ernie Bovio, President of UNC Health Southeast Coastal Region, who shared an update on the proposed UNC Health hospital in Wilmington. Ernie discussed the community's growing healthcare needs, the vision for a new hospital and the extensive process required to gain approval for a facility. It was an insightful conversation about the future of healthcare in our region and what it could mean for southeastern North Carolina. Thank you, Ernie!

We also celebrated one of our own. Ann Willard surprised L.S. "Bo" Dean Jr. by donating her personal Paul Harris recognition points, allowing him to achieve Paul Harris Fellow +4—a distinction recognizing five levels of Paul Harris Fellow honors.

Since joining Cape Fear Rotary, Bo has brought incredible energy, enthusiasm and a remarkable network to our club. His commitment to service has made a lasting impact, and we're thankful for his efforts.

07/15/2026

Sometimes, "Service Above Self" looks like rushing into a dangerous rip current for people you've never met.

Last Friday, our Cape Fear Rotary Club had the privilege of honoring eight local heroes with the Paul Harris Fellow—Rotary International's highest recognition for individuals whose actions exemplify Service Above Self.

These civilians and first responders helped save the life of UNCW Women's Basketball Head Coach Nicole Woods and her nephew during a May 21 rescue at Wrightsville Beach. Their courage, selflessness and teamwork turned what could have been a tragedy into a story of heroism.

One of the most meaningful moments of our ceremony was hearing Coach Woods' heartfelt video message thanking the people who refused to give up on her.

🎥 Watch her message and ceremony highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49M1YD3w8Ew

If you're looking for an organization dedicated to serving our community, celebrating local heroes and making a difference together, we'd love to tell you more. Please message us for details!

07/10/2026

Today, we had the privilege of honoring eight local heroes with Rotary's highest recognition of service, the Paul Harris Fellow, for their extraordinary actions during a May 21 water rescue at Wrightsville Beach.

When UNCW Women's Basketball Head Coach Nicole Woods and her young nephew were caught in a dangerous rip current, these individuals acted without hesitation. Civilians called 911 and rushed in the water to help, first responders worked tirelessly to bring Coach Woods and her nephew safely to shore and performed lifesaving CPR on Coach Woods, and an officer cared for her family throughout the ordeal. Because of their courage, teamwork and selflessness, two lives were saved.

Their actions embody Rotary International’s motto: Service Above Self. We proudly recognize:
• Ryan Gillespie
• Giuseppe Marturano
• Dashaun Brown
• Captain Sam Proffitt
• Corporal Jamel Cooper
• Officer Elle Arnold
• Officer Eric Elder
• Sergeant Misty-Sierra Edwards

Congratulations to each new Paul Harris Fellow. Thank you for making our community stronger and safer.

06/26/2026

Today we inducted our new president Jason and the Board of Directors. Outgoing President Brandon share some parting thoughts and handed out some awards along the way with gifts from Kids Making It of Wilmington. New President Jason shared his vision for the upcoming year. Congratulations to Bo Dean for winning Rotarian of the Year.

04/09/2026

03/24/2026

We like to have fun at Cape Fear Rotary.https://youtu.be/oPMOdv-Zi-k