On Feb. 20, Rotonda Elks Lodge #2710 took part in the annual South Southwest District Army of Hope Picnic hosted at Englewood Elks Lodge. The event had participation from the district lodges between Naples and Englewood. The Army of Hope supports Florida families of active deployed military in need. Lee Hale from Rotonda Lodge introduced the Rotonda West American Legion Post 113 Color Guard for the opening ceremonies. At midday, the event total had reached $19,000. Rotonda Elks cooked and served the donated hamburgers and hot dogs and other lodges served their donated food and desserts as well, with 100% of sales donated to the Army of Hope.
Pictured is the Rotonda West American Legion Color Guard with Rotonda Lodge members Jackie Palumbo; Cathy Redman; Roger Redman, PER; Kathy Dardis; Patricia Lagasse; Ed Lagasse; Tess Barstow; Manfred Friedrich; Kim Friedrich; Chris Dardis; and Annette Dardis. Not pictured because they were setting up are Jean Humphreys, Exalted Ruler; Bob Humpreys, PER; Sherry Toth, Lodge Secretary; Ed Toth, Leading Knight; and members John Blachette, Betty Blachette and Dave Ginther.