On April 23, the Zephyrhills Elks Lodge Veterans Committee members attended the Zephyrhills High School JROTC graduation ceremony for seniors. This event marked a milestone for the young cadets, who had dedicated their time and effort to the rigorous training and values of the JROTC program. The program motivates young people to be better citizens by instilling values such as citizenship, service, personal responsibility, a sense of accomplishment and leadership. The Veterans Committee donated $1,500 to the JROTC.
Pictured are Bill Morehouse, Esquire and Antlers Advisor; Ken Fabiani, PER, Veterans Chair; Barbara Conklin, Exalted Ruler; and First Sargeant McCauley from ZHS JROTC.
On April 21, the Zephyrhills Elks Antlers awarded their president, Emily Mohler, a $2,000 scholarship. This award recognizes her exemplary leadership and dedication to her community. The scholarship, funded by the Antlers account, signifies the organization's commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of its members. Emily Mohler, who has demonstrated remarkable skills and strong leadership throughout her tenure as president, will be attending Florida Southern College.
Pictured are Linnea Fonslet, Antlers secretary; Betty McElroy, Antlers Advisor; Barabara Conklin, Exalted Ruler; Emily Mohler, Antlers president and scholarship recipient; Anne McDonald, Chaplain and Antlers Advisor; and Bill Morehouse, Esquire and Antlers Advisor.
On March 27, Zephyrhills Lodge presented a check for $500 from the lodge’s bingo account to the Academy of Spectrum Diversity, a private Christian school for children who have developmental disabilities, including high- or low- functioning autism, ADHD or dyslexia.
Lodge members who are bingo staff members look on as the check is presented to Chris Dester, founder, center, by member Kathy Honkala and Karl Finnimore, Exalted Ruler.
Gwen Klamer and Cindy Pinto hosted an island luau party at Zephyrhills Lodge and raised $500 from ticket sales, basket raffles, games and Jello shots. Another $500 was added from the bingo account for a total donation of $1,000 for the ABC Program, which supplies food, clothing, gift cards, money and hygiene products to students experiencing homelessness.
Gwen Klamer, Lodge Activities Chair, right, presents the donation to Judy Williams, parent involvement and volunteer coordinator, March 27 at the annual volunteer appreciation dinner.
On March 13, Zephyrhills Elks Lodge #2731 sponsored the East Pasco Chamber of Commerce business breakfast. The chamber encourages partnerships, participation, input and involvement in the community. Bill Moorehouse, Antlers Advisor, gave a presentation about the Antlers and Jay Klamer, PER gave a presentation about the Honor Flight. The 50/50 raffle of $46 was donated to the Elks scholarship fund.
Pictured are the attendees listening to Dr. Randall Stovall, chamber board member.