In the spring of 1990, representatives of the three existing Rotary clubs on Staten Island formed an extension committee. Staten Island Rotary, South Shore Rotary, and North Shore Rotary recognized the need for an additional club and joined together to fulfill this need. In the past, they had to turn away potential members that could otherwise benefit the community.

This newly formed club known as Mid Island Rotary would afford an opportunity to individuals to join under already fulfilled business classifications in other clubs. Mid Island Rotary was chartered in July of 1990 with 27 members who had expressed prior interest in joining a club or who were recommended by existing Rotary members. The new members were taught all the Rotary traditions, rules and guidelines for running a Rotary meeting by the extension committee over the next 3 months.

Founding member, Gary Applebaum recalls, “I personally had an introduction to Rotary through my father, Herbert Applebaum, who was a member of the North Shore Rotary. I saw firsthand the fellowship and goodwill that comes with being part of this great organization. In 1992, I became the third president of the Mid Island Rotary Club and have never missed a meeting, having obtained the distinguished recognition of perfect attendance from the club’s inception.”

Gary adds, “By joining this club, I have been able to contribute to helping the Staten Island community on a grander scale, much more than I could have ever done by myself.”