Southwest Central District

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Written by Ronna Mason

In mid-May, Ronna Mason from Sebring Elks Lodge #1529 presented a $1,200 check to Col. Mike Brown, undersheriff of the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office. This donation was earmarked for the sheriff’s youth camp located at Inglis near Crystal River which is for troubled youth ages 10-15. 

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Written by Marge Holbrook

Lake Placid Lodge members were involved in planning and presenting a mystery theater fundraiser which was well attended by the community. All proceeds were given to the Highlands County Sheriff Department K-9 Unit. Sheriff Blackman, the officers and their dogs were invited. They demonstrated the special training that goes into the obedience and drug-sniffing techniques of the dogs. The audience participated with many questions about these dogs. A check for $2,900 was presented to the K-9 Unit for the improvement of their training facility and supplies.

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Written by Ronna Mason

On May 3, the Air Force JR ROTC held its 26th annual awards ceremony and military ball. Sebring Elks Lodge members George and Darlene Quel and Jim and Ronna Mason were in attendance along with retired Senior Chief Petty Officer Doug Deierlein who was the guest speaker. Sebring Lodge sponsored a golf tournament Feb. 23 and raised $5,384. These monies were given to Sebring High School for the JR ROTC program in February but the formal presentation was made at the awards ceremony. Pictured is Camila Norona, Cadet Commander, and Sebring Elks Jim Mason and George Quel. 

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Written by Judy Wise

Plant City Elks Lodge #1727 used their Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant to pay off the lunch debts of students in 19 schools in East Hillsborough County. A child's report card or diploma can be held until those debts are paid. The unpaid lunch debt is not part of the free or reduced lunches. These debts are from lower middle-class families that are struggling.

Plant City Lodge member Shelly Lynch Carroll presents 19 checks to Hillsborough County Area Superintendent of Schools, Sharon Morrison, to pay off student lunch debts.

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Written by Ronna Mason

Special STARS (Sports Training and Recreational Services) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Sebring Elks Lodge #1529 has been a major sponsor of this organization for many years and continued by attending the softball classic at the Highlands County Sports Complex April 6. Lodge member Jan Funk presented a check for $650 to Robert Lengyel, a member of the Special STARS Recreation board. She also threw out the first pitch. The donation will benefit over 400 athletes, children and adults with mental and physical disabilities.