A Life Worth Binge Watching: Series Finale

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April 1, 2022

S1 E3: Series Finale

My loving readers, I regret to inform you that this is my last article. It has been a great experience, but I really just want to go back to watching Netflix on my couch. A fun, adventurous life is just not for me. So if you are believing this, you have just taken part in a mass hoax on this very special, unofficial holiday.

Today is one of my favorite days of the year; the day that I can bestow my mischievous antics on the people in my life and get away with it. I would say they are unsuspecting, but anyone who knows me well is bound to be expecting some elaborate, highly-planned shenanigans from me. I am the queen of the April Fool’s prank.

I get the gift of jest honestly; it all started when I was a kid. My Mamaw and I would plot for days to see who could trick the other first and best. In the beginning, the jokes were just a “made you look” or “you have something on your shirt” small attempts to fool. Over the years, they became more involved and believable. I can remember the year that I had my dad buy some fake poop so I could strategically place it out in the pool area where I knew Mamaw was bound to see it. I can remember hiding in the screened in room that led out to the pool after I saw her head outside. I could hardly hold in the giggles as I peeked in between some pool floats as she stumbled upon what she thought was a big pile of dog droppings. “BARNEY!” she screamed. “GET YOUR BUTT OUT HERE” (along with some other choice words). Poor Barney ran off, completely unaware of why he was in trouble. She stormed into the house and grabbed some paper towels, grumbling to herself the whole time. When she reached down to pick up the pile, I jumped out and shouted ”APRILS FOOLS” and ran back in the house. After that year, it was on. Year after year we upped our game, even when I moved out on my own, got married and had my daughter.

After Mamaw passed away, my Mom became the target of my practical jokes. At this point, my daughter was old enough to become my partner in crime. My all time favorite prank was the year that we took a plastic snake through the McDonalds drive through and had the employee stick the snake inside a big sundae cup, covering it with vanilla ice cream. We took it to my Mom’s store and surprised her with a yummy treat. Sidenote: Mom is terrified of snakes and very easy to fool! She dug the long spoon into the cup and out came a big dollop of ice cream covered in snake! My daughter squealed with glee and jumped up and down as she chanted “April Fools!” We actually got Mom’s reaction on camera, but if I posted it on here I may not live to write another article! The snake made two other guest appearances over the next few years, once on her driveway and another time inside her toilet. I’m surprised she hasn’t disowned me yet, but honestly I think she enjoys it. The best part is that I know she anticipates it every year, but somehow we still seem to catch her off guard. Her sense of humor is one of the many things we love about her and these are the moments we will remember forever.

Now that my daughter is grown and off to college, we have continued the pranks long distance. As a matter of fact, she will have received a little care package in the mail today with some snacks and perhaps a fake bug or two hidden in the box. I can’t wait to get the call after she opens it. I even enlisted the help of her roommate to send me a video of her reaction!

I share my silly stories because I think we all need more fun and laughter in our lives, especially these days. The world has become so tarnished and jaded that we have forgotten joy in the simplest form. We need to get back to the days when harmless jokes and pranks were not only accepted, but welcome! Laughter truly is the best medicine. Clearly, I am not saying we should do anything that could harm a person mentally or physically, but what’s wrong with some innocent fun? A sticky-note covered mirror or saran wrap covered toilet never hurt anyone!

So if you happen to see me around today, I welcome your attempts at fooling me–unless I get you first!!!

Melodye Lewis is a Friday columnist for Flagler News Weekly giving you something to talk about over lunch.

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First Responders Will Receive $1,000 Bonuses for Second Year in a Row

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Flagler News Weekly

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April 1, 2022

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis in Ponte Vedra Beach and West Palm Beach to announce that Florida first responders employed by local governments will receive $1,000 bonuses this year. This is the second consecutive year of bonuses for first responders including police officers, sheriff’s deputies, paramedics, EMTs and firefighters throughout the state. The bonuses are included in the 2022-23 budget passed by the Florida Legislature during the 2022 Legislative Session.

“Our first responders work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “While other states turned their backs on law enforcement and first responders, Florida has continued to support them. These bonuses are a well-deserved recognition to our law enforcement and first responders for all they do for Florida.”

“Florida’s first responders are the tip of the spear when protecting our communities,” said Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. “Whether it’s policing our streets or responding to devastating hurricanes, tornadoes or tragedies like the Surfside condo collapse, I’ve seen firsthand the daily sacrifices they make to keep us safe. What our law enforcement and firefighters do is not just a job – it’s a calling – and thank God they answer that call. While other states turn a blind eye to the badge, we are proud to support these heroes. Thank you to Governor DeSantis for your nonstop support of Florida’s first responders.”

The Governor proposed the bonuses for first responders at an event in November 2021 ahead of the 2022 Legislative Session. This is the second year in a row that first responders across Florida cities and counties will receive $1,000 bonuses from the state.

The 2022-23 budget recently passed by the Legislature includes $125 million for these bonuses. This year was another banner year in support of our law enforcement officers and first responders. In addition to these bonuses for local government first responders, state law enforcement officers will be receiving a pay increase across the board. Further, Governor DeSantis proposed and the Legislature passed HB 3, a sweeping law enforcement recruitment and retention bill which will help bring the best and most talented officers to Florida.

Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, March 31, 2022

Northeast Florida Regional Airport Celebrates the Arrival of Elite Airways New Nonstop Jet Service to/from Portland, Maine

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Flagler News Weekly

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April 1, 2022

St. Augustine, FL – Elite Airways LLC began scheduled operations this past weekend between Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST) and Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Maine—marking the expansion of commercial air service at NFRA in St. Augustine, Florida. After a three-hour nonstop flight, inbound passengers were greeted by airport staff and treated to NFRA goodie bags. The new nonstop jet service operates on Saturdays traveling southbound and Sundays going northbound, and compliments Elite Airways existing twice-weekly service between St. Augustine and Newark Liberty International Airport, serving the New York City and tri-state area.

“Elite Airways is proud to expand commercial air service in St. Augustine with new nonstop service to and from our hometown of Portland Maine,” said John Pearsall, President of Elite Airways. “Not only will Mainers enjoy having a new Florida coastal destination to explore, we also believe this route serves the needs of seasonal residents with homes in both areas. We’d like to thank airport and city officials for their continued support of Elite Airways’ expansion in St. Augustine.”

“The Airport Authority celebrates the launch of Elite’s new flights between Northeast Florida Regional Airport and Portland International Jetport in Maine,” said Bruce Maguire, Chairman of the St. Johns County Airport Authority. “The addition of nonstop service to Portland and Newark provides air service to two highly sought after and historic destinations, while giving visitors close and convenient access to St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches.”

Elite Airways operates a fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200, CRJ-700 and CRJ-900 jet airliners with 50, 70 and 90 seats respectively, known for comfort and efficiency, and maintains an impeccable safety record. All Elite Airways passengers receive free onboard snacks and beverages, advance seat assignments, free first-checked bag up to 50lbs and 62 inches in length (including travel golf bags), and no ticketing change fees; see website for details. Elite Airways is also pet friendly.

All scheduled flights are available for purchase at www.eliteairways.com or at 877-393-2510.

Media Release: NFRA, Photo: ActionJax.com

Green Roof Café Launching in Flagler County, Inmates to Prepare Donuts and Coffee for Community

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Flagler News Weekly

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April 1, 2022

Flagler County, FL – (April 1, 2022) The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is excited to announce the opening of the Green Roof Café, funded by local poison peddlers and allowing the community to get a top-notch casual-dining experience.

Our newest addition to the Green Roof Inn extends into the service-industry sector, where inmates are excited to bake donuts and pastries while serving a variety of lattes and specialty coffee beverages.

Sheriff Staly has been working closely with the Green Roof Inn management to bring the newest and most innovative ideas to the agency. Expanding the programs to help inmates learn valuable life skills and provide a service to the community is the initiative that fueled the launch of the Green Roof Café.

As many know, donuts and coffee are a prime staple for law enforcement, and the FCSO Green Roof Inn team is excited for what’s to come! Welcoming the community to our establishment will eventually enable a daily Coffee with a Cop program, tours of our bakery operations, and bring more opportunities for relationship-building with law enforcement and the community. This initiative is expected to be finalized and ready for business on April 1, 2023.

Donut worry, we want full community involvement in this creation! We will soon be asking the community for some featured donut flavors that they’d like to see available and baked fresh, daily.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Green Roof Café, as we are the first agency to implement this new strategy to help build relationships with the community more casually,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “The FCSO Green Roof Inn management has been working tirelessly to create a way for the community to get involved, enjoy coffee and donuts all while inmates are able to take advantage of jail-house offerings. This new venture within our county will allow us to do exactly that!”

For more information on the FCSO Green Roof Café, please visit www.flaglersheriff.com/weprankedyou to get a sneak peek at our newest Café floor plans.

Flagler County Village Serving Needs and Welcoming Expansion

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Danielle Anderson

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March 31, 2022

Flagler Village — The Open Door of welcome for those in need, led by Flagler Cares' Carrie Baird in City Marketplace is moving beyond barriers to address the root causes of problems and issues across the region, starting in Flagler County at the Flagler County Village.

Palm Coast, FL – Sitting down with CEO Carrie Baird at 8 am, it’s quiet in the Flagler County Village, but not for long. Her phone starts buzzing just minutes into the meeting but she stays laser focused describing how Flagler Cares’ mission has evolved over the years.

Starting small, the organization has continued to expand the services within it’s network. As a resources connector, Flagler Cares brings something to the table through the Flagler County Village that’s been missing in the past – a true continuum of care made possible through a linked network of health care, mental health and wellness providers in tandem with social services organizations and agencies.

With two decades in the healthcare and wellness field, it’s about having the expertise at your fingertips to identify resources at the local, state and federal levels. It’s a version of no wrong door but on a grander scale from the administrative side, and Baird has taken a lead on navigating what is a complex system.

“We are trying to create a real safety net of services in Flagler County,” she said. “It’s been wonderful. There are so many examples of just connecting with another organization about a specific client issue where you can just solve the issues and make those connections really quickly.”

Since leasing space on the third floor of City Marketplace and open the doors just after Thanksgiving in 2021, Flagler Cares, along with their partners in the Flagler Village find themselves rapidly filling their office complex. Additional space is being refurbished with new partners joining the efforts.

“I think everybody likes our space. It’s a nice environment to work in, and collaborate with others,” said Baird.

“We are already full and so we are doubled up, some of us sharing offices, so we’re starting renovations of additional suites that we’ve leased. We should have six offices over there and we’re excited to say we’ve already rented two of them out.”

Already housed under the Flagler County Village umbrella, Flagler Cares, The House Next Door, Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia, and the Health Start Coalition of Flagler and Volusia Counties, another high profile agency is joining the roster – Easterseals Northeast Central Florida.

“Easterseals will be moving in with us. They’re going to be offering a variety of programs including their Early Steps program where they do a lot of intervention and therapies with young ones so we’re excited to have them as a partner as well,” said Baird.

“We’re growing and I’m not sure what we’re going to do next because all the space in this building is leased out now,” she said with appreciation.

One office within the Flagler County Village is set aside as a ‘flex space’ for organizations who include Flagler in their service areas and need an office or meeting space.

“If there are organizations that provide services once or twice a month in Flagler, we have availability to do that,” she said.

Bringing together service organizations under a collaborative umbrella has been a mission of Baird’s for a number of years, and she’s pleased to see the community’s response to the Flagler County Village.

“We have so many calls that come in with people we’ve helped before who are now coming back for help, and people who are really new to us and found us from another partner or just heard about us,” she said.

“We also are seeing an increase in people who just need a computer and are coming and sitting in our lobby and completing applications or doing their recertification for food stamps or something like that. I’m encouraged that we’re providing a resource that meets a variety of people’s needs.”

Flagler Cares sponsors the weekly radio show Lifeline on WNZF NewsRadio, Saturday mornings at 9 am featuring guests from the Flagler County Village and other social service, healthcare and mental health organizations to connect residents of Flagler County to resources. Lifeline podcast previous episodes can be heard here at: www.flaglercares.org/lifeline.

First Lady Casey DeSantis Announces Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity Milestone: More Than 25,000 Floridians Served

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Flagler News Weekly

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March 30, 2022

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis announced Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity has now provided family-centered assistance to more than 25,000 Floridians to help them achieve economic sufficiency. The program, spearheaded by First Lady DeSantis and operated by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), utilizes Care Navigators to assist Floridians in need by identifying goals and removing barriers to economic self-sufficiency through local, community-based partners, including the private sector, faith-based institutions, and nonprofit organizations.

“I am delighted to hit this milestone. The Governor and I know that Florida’s communities are full of organizations and businesses that want to lift up their neighbors in need, and this program has given them the outlet to do so,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “I’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the families impacted by the program, and I am so proud of the work our state is doing to help them find resiliency and hope.”

Individuals and families can use the service to resolve immediate, dire needs, like housing and food assistance, or to work on long-term goals, like stable employment and education. The initiative also assists exiting and former foster youth to be connected to resources in their local area to support their independence. To opt in, individuals can call 850-300-HOPE or may be referred by social service providers.

“Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity empowers Floridians with opportunities that support and strengthen resiliency and well-being. We know that if families have robust supports on the front end, they often won’t end up in crisis situations later,” said Department of Children and Families’ Secretary Shevaun Harris. “The initiative blends support from multiple sources to ensure we are serving families holistically.”

The program began as a DCF pilot project in August of 2020 to help public benefit recipients locate employment, housing, and childcare resources on their road to economic self-sufficiency. In 2021, under First Lady DeSantis’ leadership, the initiative was expanded to additional populations and re-launched as Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity with added emphasis on recruiting private sector and faith-based partners to support more families throughout the state.

If you or your organization would like to get involved and help, visit HopeFlorida.com.

Health Care University Earns Prestigious Federal Designation as Hispanic Serving Institution

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Flagler News Weekly

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March 30, 2022

ORLANDO, Fla., and DENVER, Colo., March 29, 2022 — AdventHealth University is pleased to share it earned prestigious designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), one of only 29 colleges and universities in Florida recognized with this distinction by the U.S. Department of Education.

HSIs are defined as institutions with 25 percent or more Hispanic undergraduate full-time enrollment. 268 Hispanic students (or 35 percent of undergraduates) make AdventHealth University their home for higher education.

“This national recognition is, in large part, due to the outstanding ways our faculty and team foster an environment that welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and viewpoints as well as inspires first-generation college students,” said Ruben Martinez, senior vice president of finance for AdventHealth University, whose finance and financial aid teams were integral in pursuing this designation. “As a highly diverse campus, we are committed to understanding each other’s cultures and backgrounds, removing financial and social barriers, and discovering each student’s talents and dreams.”

This designation makes AdventHealth University eligible for additional funding to expand educational opportunities for Hispanic students and other underrepresented populations. It also provides support for programs that enhance enrollment, retention, and graduation rates. According to the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equality, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics, one of its goals is “breaking down barriers that impede the access of higher education institutions that serve Hispanic and Latino students, such as HSIs, to Federal funding, and strengthening the capacity of those institutions to participate in Federal programs and partnerships.”

“AdventHealth University’s designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution is especially noteworthy, as it comes at a time when college enrollment is down throughout the U.S. and the number of HSIs decreased for the first time in two decades,” said U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL), who represents the 9^th Congressional District, which includes part of Orlando and Osceola County. “Federal funding will allow institutions like AdventHealth University to enhance their approaches to making health care degrees more accessible, creating a diverse workforce and a more robust pipeline of professionals and leaders of tomorrow.”

About AdventHealth University

AdventHealth University (AHU) is a leader in health care education, transforming the science and practice of whole-person care and developing professionals with uncommon compassion. The University, marking 30 years of academic excellence, seeks to develop skilled professionals who live the healing values of Christ and works in collaboration with AdventHealth to effectively extend His healing ministry.

AHU has campuses in Orlando, Fla. and Denver, Colo., and offers undergraduate, graduate, and online programs, including Biomedical Sciences, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Health Sciences, Healthcare Administration, Medical Lab Science, Nurse Anesthesia, Nuclear Medicine, Nursing (BSN), Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, Radiologic Technology, and Spiritual Care.

Together Achieving Greatness, TAG V. BEAR Foundation Helps Teens-In-Flight

By

Danielle Anderson

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March 30, 2022

TIF 2 — TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Ana Fajardo, Teens-In-Flight Executive Director Ric Lehman, TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Kathy Austrino, TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Dominic Austrino, Teens-In-Flight Founder and President (Ret) Col. Jack Howell and TAG V. BEAR Foundation Board Member Beth Graham take part in the check presentation at TAG Ventures office in Palm Coast on March 24, 2022. Not pictured: TAG V. BEAR Foundation Board Members Richard Fay and Robyn Cottrell.

Palm Coast, FL – As the price of goods continues to rise, so does the demand on the resources of nonprofit organizations.

Giving Teens-In-Flight a helping hand, Kathy Austrino was proud to present the Flagler-based organization with a $5,000 donation on Thursday, March 24.

Offering youth an opportunity to earn their private pilot’s license, Teens-In-Flight operates on a $350,000 – $400,000 annual budget that includes instructors, air plane maintenance and upkeep, storage and more. With the rising cost of fuel, executive director Ric Lehman said it’s taking more funding to carry on the same operations, and he was grateful for the donation from the TAG V. BEAR Foundation.

TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Ana Fajardo, Teens-In-Flight Executive Director Ric Lehman, TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Kathy Austrino, TAG V. Bear Foundation Board Member Dominic Austrino, Teens-In-Flight Founder and President (Ret) Col. Jack Howell and TAG V. BEAR Foundation Board Member Beth Graham take part in the check presentation at TAG Ventures office in Palm Coast on March 24, 2022. Not pictured: TAG V. BEAR Foundation Board Members Richard Fay and Robyn Cottrell.

“It means a lot. What it means is that we’ll be able to reach even more local kids and help them get their pilot’s license. I think there’s a lot of confusion about what that really means. It’s not really about them getting the pilot’s license, believe it or not. It’s about what they learn and what they gain in the process,” said Lehman.

“Learning how to think, learning how to problem solve, learning how to plan, learning how to be accountable. Learning how to do all the things our grandparents taught us to do in previous generations, that aren’t being taught anymore and helps them to face what we call ‘life’,” he said.

After learning about the Teens-In-Flight program, Austrino, a real estate broker for TAG Ventures Real Estate Services, fell in love with the concept of providing a unique opportunity to teens struggling with the loss of a parent or loved one or in an at-risk situation.

“Our whole mission at the foundation is to assist children within families facing adversities,” shared Austrino. “The Teens-In-Flight program works hand-in-hand with that very mission. We know of folks personally who have had experience with (Teens-In-Flight), spoke about it. It’s run well and I think it’s just a great cause. I did fall in love with what they’re doing, but I’ve also had my eye on them for years anyway,” she said.

Started with children whose parent or sibling was lost on active duty in mind, retired Colonel Jack Howell, founder of the program, expanded it to include first responders and children in need.

He’s proudly watched as Teens-In-Flight graduates have gone on to serve in the nation’s armed forces and in the cockpit of global airlines.

“I got one girl flying F-18’s off a carrier right now,” he said with pride. “For me, just the joy in their face, is what it’s all about.”

For Kathy Austrino and her husband Dominic, it’s a natural extension of the work done by the TAG V. BEAR Foundation over the past six years. Supporting a number of charitable causes since 2016, beneficiaries like A Christmas to Remember, Flagler Volunteer Services’ Giving Store, Project WARM and the Flagler County Education Foundation are just a few of the beneficiaries of more than $50,000 in contributions from the foundation according to Austrino.

Not only does the foundation accept private donations to disburse among Flagler’s neediest and active charities, the Austrinos’ business, TAG Ventures Real Estate Services donates 10% of the house money – or money paid to the brokerage from real estate sales, to the foundation.

Set to host their TAG V. BEAR Foundation 7^th Annual Dance/Dinner Fundraiser on June 9^th at the Florida Agricultural Museum, Austrino has the business mascots front and center for the community to meet and help support.

“They got married June 9, and 2022 will be their 6^th wedding anniversary and fundraiser. We will be hosting it at the Florida Agricultural Museum and the traditional sixth year anniversary gift is iron so we’re having a hoedown,” she said.

The TAG V. BEAR Foundation has a history of supporting children’s causes, and it’s an issue that deeply affects Kathy and Dominic Austrino.

“We just want to help. We have a heavy concern with mental health, substance abuse – which they go hand in hand, and children don’t always understand what’s happening around them and they have zero idea of what mental health is. If their mom and dad are struggling, that’s their norm. People need help. Life is hard. We all need help sometimes. So this is our part.”

To find out more about the TAG V. BEAR Foundation visit www.tagventuresrealestate.com.

One big family, the TAG V. BEAR Foundation supports programs geared toward helping children.

65th Annual Cracker Day Honors Longstanding Family Tradition in Flagler County

By

Danielle Anderson

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March 29, 2022

Flagler County, FL – It’s a longstanding tradition in Flagler County – 65 years as a matter of fact, and it’s something Elbert Tucker has rarely missed in his more than 70 years in Flagler County.

On hand for barrel racing, bull riding and some of the best sliced beef barbecue lunch this side of the Mississippi River, the line heading into the Flagler County Fairgrounds was clear out to US 1 on Saturday as families headed out to the rodeo.

“It’s a throwback to how things used to be,” said Tucker. “They’ve held rodeos and Cracker Days since I was 9 or 10 and I’m 74 now. It’s been a long run. The only time I wasn’t here was when I was in college and in the Army.”

Watching the crowds flock to the stands, he could see the excitement in the faces of those headed out from the city to experience Florida’s agricultural community.

“It’s an eye opener for them,” he said with a smile.

In addition to crowing the Cracker Day Queen, an honor bestowed on Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly this year, the 65^th Annual Cracker Day celebrations were dedicated to Randy Buckles.

Randy Buckles was honored that the 65th annual Cracker Day festivities were dedicated to him on March 26, 2022.

As the head of generations of Flagler County residents who’ve been serving up the Cracker Day lunch for decades, he was serenaded with applause from the stands as he was paraded through the arena to start the festivities.

Penny Buckles helped serve up the lunch.

Penny Buckles helped serve up countless lunches created from the more than 4,000 pounds of beef cooked by men from the Flagler County Cattlemen’s Association overnight. She was proud to see her husband honored for his dedication to a Flagler County tradition.

“It’s been a real honor for them to dedicate this Cracker Day to him,” she said.

“He’s been doing this for almost 45 years and like the dedication said they started out with 150 pounds of beef and are up to 4,000 pounds today. It’s a passion. Every year it’s a challenge for them to get the meat cooked just right because they use this Blackjack Oak and the coals from it, so it is challenge and he just loves doing it,” said Buckles proudly.

2019 and 2022 Cracker Day Queens take a lap before passing the crown.

Near speechless, Randy stepped away from the massive grilling stations at Cattleman’s Hall to share his thoughts.

“It’s a great honor. We’ve been doing it for over 40 years. My family, my dad – my dad’s gone now so it’s me and my son, and it’s an honor,” said Randy, starting to tear up. “It’s not really work, it’s more of a tradition for all of us to hang out and cook all night long, and try to make a good meal for the people that like to come out and eat it.”

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly crowns the 2022 Cracker Day Queen.

“They come mostly for the food and that’s humbling,” he said. “Everybody comes in from around the towns, the city of Palm Coast and enjoy it and that really makes us feel good that they want to come out and enjoy something like this.”

Next up for the Flagler County Fairgrounds is the annual Flagler County Fair and Youth Show, with the 4H and FFA Livestock Show & Sale set for April 6-8, 2022. Details at www.flaglercountyfair.com.

Bull riders bring their all to the arena.

Bob Williams Named Exalted Ruler at Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709

By

Danielle Anderson

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March 28, 2022

elks georgia — Ladies' Auxiliary President Georgia Hall presents outgoing Exalted Ruler John Clouser with a donation check during the 2022 Installation Dinner for the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709 on Saturday evening.

The changing of the guard can be something as simple as a voice vote but for members of the Elks Club, it a much more formalized ceremony.

Arriving in tuxedos and cocktail attire, members of the Palm Coast Elks Lodge hosted the installation dinner on Saturday evening with great fanfare.

Bob and Theresa Williams become the Exalted Ruler and First Lady during the ceremony Saturday evening at the Palm Coast Elks Lodge on March 26, 2022.

On hand to take part in the evening’s ceremony as Bob Williams was elevated to Exalted Ruler, Erika Barger was one of the youngest Exalted Rulers at her own lodge in Ormond Beach before becoming District Deputy Grand Exalter Ruler, East Central District of Florida.

“I’ve been an Elk for 14 years and I’m actually a fourth generation Elk, so it’s been in my family for over 100 years,” said Barger. “I would say the most important thing in Elkdom is the people that you meet and the charitable work that we do.”

A member of the club for the past six years, Williams was connected to the Elks through business associates and was also attracted to the philanthropic component of the organization. Joining with his wife Theresa Williams, the pair gradually became more involved.

“It’s very exciting. I really didn’t plan on this. We’ve been very involved with the community in the past. When this opportunity came up we realized there’s more opportunity than just going to the bar or eating at the restaurant, so we started getting more involved. She’s very involved and she’s the one who took care of all this tonight,” he said looking around at the room’s décor proudly.

Williams has already set goals for his term including boosting membership and helping the youth programs.

Citizen of the Year Jamie Bourdeau attends the 2022 Installation Dinner for the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709 on Saturday evening, catching up with friend Heather Thompson.

“We’re very interested in the youth organizations that the Elks support,” he said. “That’s really what it is – the scholarships and the camps getting the youth involved, being mentors for them. Theresa during COVID, was very active helping the elderly make sure they got their shots. When it was very difficult for them to do it, so she had youths come and help. This was just another opportunity to get more involved.”

Supported by Danielle Pierro, Brad Lake and Ken Pento, in leadership roles, they anticipate an active year ahead.

Cori and Kevin Kane attend the 2022 Installation Dinner for the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709 on Saturday evening.

“I am honored to be the Leading Knight at the Palm Coast Elks Lodge. I look forward to the year ahead and know it will be filled with lots of great activities and charitable events. It’s very fulfilling to do for others as Elks do,” said Pierro.

Stepping up to lead the Elks’ Ladies’ Auxiliary Roe Barletta follows Georgia Hall.

“I am honored to be Elks Lodge 2709 Ladies Auxiliary President,” she said. “We are following an amazing Board led by Past President Georgia Hall, who was met with many obstacles and still came out ahead. We have some big shoes to fill. Myself and the 2022-2023 Ladies Auxiliary Board are so excited about our upcoming events and can’t wait to see what awaits us.

The evening honored Jamie Bourdeau as the 2021 Citizen of the Year, Brad Lake as Officer of the Year 2021 and Elk of the Year 2021 James Boyd.

Palm Coast Elks Lodge Officers
Exalted Ruler – Bob Williams

Leading Knight – Danielle Pierro

Loyal Knight – Brad Lake

Lecturing Knight – Ken Pento

Secretary – Gail Williams

Treasurer – Wendy Hazen

Esquire – Ralph Dodge

Chaplain – Mike Ferenz

Inner Guard – Charlie Kolaitis

Tiler – Bob Thoubborron

Organist – Peter Trubek

Trustee – John Clouser

Trustee – Jack Lyons

Trustee – Bill Hall

Trustee – Pete Lehnertz

Trustee – Rob Kronen

Melodye Lewis is a Friday columnist for Flagler News Weekly giving you something to talk about over lunch.

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