The commemoration brought together representatives from four Lions Clubs in Belize, including San Estevan, Belize, Belmopan, and Caye Caulker. The official commencement of the ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies, Lion Angel Nuñez, after which everyone joined voices for a melodic rendition of the National Anthem.

   The special invited guests for the evening included the Zone Chairman, Libi Vega, Lions’ President, Pilar Martinez, both of San Estevan, Lion Brother Leo Cuellar, First Lions’ President Pete Salazar, Past District Governor Beto Marin, Past district Governor of Belize Lions Chris Bennett, Chartered President in Caye Caulker Lester Marin, Miss Lions Idolly Staines, and the Lions of San Pedro all united to make the night a memorable one. President of the SP Lions Club, Isela Graniel , gave an inspiring welcome speech. She spoke of the achievements that the Lions Club have attained in the past year and the good work they have accomplished during their 30 years of service. “It gives me great pleasure to welcome everyone and celebrate 30 years of Lionism in San Pedro.”

   The program continued with MC Nuñez addressing the crowd with a heartfelt speech on the past years of service and how they have grown as an organization. Nuñez stated “30 years prior to our San Pedro Lions installation […] we have grown in our club and our club has grown with us.” Indeed the club has grown over the years. in fact, this year in Hong Kong, the club was recognized for being the “International Club of the Year” and the trophy was proudly displayed in an enclosed case at the ceremony.

   Following that moment, past president, Ruben Gonzalez took to the podium and made a moving speech on the Lions achieved goals. He highlighted some major accomplishments that the club has achieved over the past year. The club’s outstanding achievements included the building of the San Pedro Lions Clinic; assisting the San Pedro High School financially ($50,000); the completion of the San Pedro Poly Clinic II provision of financial assistance to those less fortunate, plus aiding hurricane victims with $14,000, just to name few. Mr. Gonzalez took the time to make mention of some chartered members who still serve in the club presently. He expressed his admiration of the San Pedro Lions Club, saying this was the leading club of the district.

   Following the speeches, the San Pedro Dance Company changed the pace with two well executed dances to delight all present. These were followed by a raffle whereby the winner walked away with a brand new blender. Lions President, Isela Graniel then took the opportunity to present the “International Presidents’ Certification of Appreciation Award” to Nita Marin and Bill Forton for sponsoring new Lions 2003-2005. This award was one of the highest awards given by Lions International to hard working Lion for their outstanding service to the club. Then, Zone Chairman, Carlos Santos was called upon to make a toast. Mr. Santos congratulated the club for a job well done over the years and encouraged them to keep up the good work. The vote of thanks was given by none other than Miss San Pedro Lions, the lovely Idolly Staines. The club and crowd then joined voices to sing in perfect harmony the official Lions song signaling the closing of the ceremony. Following the ceremony, the club enjoyed a delicious home cooked dinner and listened to the cool music of the Rompe Raja band.