Palm Coast, FL (6/8/2022) What’s it like to be a famous fuzzy bear with your own special day? Members of the TAG V. BEAR Foundation found out as they were on hand Tuesday evening for the official proclamation, presented by Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin on behalf of the Palm Coast City Council during their business meeting.
Deeming June 9th as TAG V. BEAR Recognition Day for the work done by the foundation to support children facing adversity through some of the county’s most beloved charitable organizations such as the Flagler County Education Foundation’s STUFF Bus, Stewart-Marchman’s Project WARM, Abundant Life Ministries, Hope House, Inc., and Teens-In-Flight, with more than $50,000 in contributions, co-founder Kathy Austrino was humbled by the honor.
“I am super appreciative that they’re recognizing all of the work that my team does,” shared Austrino, who co-founded the organization with her husband nearly a decade ago. “It’s a lot and they’re so dedicated. It’s nice to be acknowledged.”
TAG V. BEAR and his partner Rita, married on June 9, 2016, have become the public symbols of the foundation’s tag line – Together Achieving Greatness. The cuddly couple mark their anniversary each year with a dinner and dance event as the foundation’s major fundraiser.
“We always plan it around the theme of the anniversary. This year’s theme was wood and iron, so that’s why we’re going to the Florida Agricultural Museum, and the favors are super cute,” said Austrino, excitedly.
This year guests will be treated to a country-themed event including barbecue dinners catered by Cool Beans Barbecue and Catering, and an array of activities including desserts by Fire in the Hole, a photo booth with the evening’s special couple – TAG and Rita, and take home snuggly bears.
“We do lottery tree raffle that’s so much fun,” said Austrino, giddy as a school girl. “There’s actually $200 worth of tickets on there, so the value is, who knows? There are all kinds of different baskets for raffle and auction.”
There’s even a donated gift certificate for $750 off a luxury mattress purchase being auctioned off with pillows from BEDTOP Mattress Store.
Sponsors of the fundraiser include Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen, Flagler County School Board member Jill Woolbright, Aqua Pools and Construction, Mike Akialis with American Mortgage.
The community is invited to join the celebration of TAG V. BEAR Recognition Day on Thursday, June 9th at the Florida Agricultural Museum from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Tickets are $40, and may be reserved by calling Kathy Austrino at (386) 931-9476.