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Florida Elks News Editor:
Rachael King
 
Entire contents copyright 2023 by the
Florida State Elks Association Inc.
P.O. Box 49
Umatilla, FL 32784-0049
352-669-9443

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1291 pink

1291 pink ck

On Oct. 8, Lakeland Lodge went totally pink for their annual cancer fundraiser, from their street sign lit with pink lights to everything inside. The 2019 event raised a record amount of more than $12,000 for Hollis Cancer Center and they never thought they could surpass that. The pandemic didn’t allow for an event in 2020 but they still raised more than $3,000. Then came 2021 with a new record of more than $20,000.00. Many new members joined the event team this year, which is a yearlong process led by Sher Thrush. Also helping were Shannon Benzel and Penny Deig, who handled the raffle of more than 40 baskets. Cindy Ayers took on the silent auction, overseeing an enormous list of donated items donated. With so many great items, including an antique Elks ring, an autographed baseball jersey, and a plane trip and picnic, Arcadia Lodge member Ricky Mercer agreed to auctioneer a live auction. Cindy Green headed the tub of cheer. Centerpieces and decorating were done and donated by Jan and Britt Watson and Jan’s mother. Bob Max and his team provided a prime rib dinner. AnnMarie Wendel made and donated all the desserts, which were all pink. Each year emotions run high as survivors stand and are celebrated and those currently fighting this disease are supported. Those who have lost the fight are remembered; as Elks say, “never forgotten, never forsaken.” Always a highlight is the Brotherhood of Pinkness fashion show, Puttin’ on the Pink. Pictured are the shows volunteers: Carl Hutchcraft, Alex Miller, Bob Fuschetti, Jeff Morse, Gerry Deig, Ricky Mercer, Joey Santos, Jamie Cook, Rick Littlejohn, Dave Waller and Ricky Ayers.

Also pictured are those at the check presentation — Tim Dench, Hollis Cancer Center; John Mathison, Exalted Ruler; Stephanie Butler, LPN; Thiera Hargrove, RN; Sher Thrush, lodge member and event organizer; and Jodi Ridley, director of Lakeland Regional Health Care Foundation.