In February and March, Bradenton Lodge sponsored three fishing trips for veterans in the Gulf of Mexico — two inshore and one offshore. This project included more than 12 charter captains and more than 50 local veterans. More than 100 pounds of fish were caught and about 35 pounds were legally kept. The catch was taken to Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez, Florida, where Bob Slicker and his staff prepared and served the meal, including appetizers. These events were funded by the Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant and the Florida State Elks Association matching grant. The lodge has organized annual veterans’ fishing trips for more than 10 years with funds from various grant programs.
Pictured are a gathering of veterans at Slicker's Eatery and Mike Dinius, PER, project manager; Terri Dinius, volunteer server; and Bob Slicker.