On April 9, Lakewood Ranch-Sarasota Elks Lodge #2855 held a Paws for Patriots benefit, which included dinner, guest speakers, prize baskets and a band. Guest speaker Sean Brown, who brought his guide dog, Nick, shared the experience of veterans returning from active duty. All proceeds and donations were given to Southeastern Guide Dogs to help pay for raising and educating dogs to become facility therapy dogs who are given to veterans to help with PTSD symptoms.
Pictured are Tom Sweeney, Lodge Veterans Committee Chair; Frank Iannello, Exalted Ruler; and Sean Brown, guest speaker, and Nick, his service dog.