On Oct. 10, members of the Southwest District and Elroy the Elk attended a Manatee County school board meeting to kick of Red Ribbon Week/Month. School board member Mary Foreman read their Red Ribbon proclamation, which was presented to PDD Jack Cantwell of Bradenton Lodge #1511. He thanked the board for their continued support of the program. During Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31, Manatee County teachers and district staff wore red ribbons donated by the Florida State Elks Association and the schools had numerous activities to promote this year’s theme, “Be Kind to Your Mind – Live Drug Free.” Manasota Lodge #2734 was also recognized for their continued partnership with the Manatee County School District throughout the year.
Pictured are Elroy the Elk (Dawn Gilchrist, Lakewood Ranch- Sarasota #2855); Diane Davis, trustee, Manasota #2734; Jack Cantwell, PDD, Bradenton #1511; and Deborah Perry-Gambino, School District of Manatee County community engagement specialist.