Lake Butler Community Page News Tidbits

Ted Barber

Following another outstanding luncheon and fellowship, President-Elect Shane Collins opened the meeting. Shane welcomed Charlotte and Case Emerson. Paul Lewis introduced his guest speaker Mike Ridaught. Mike briefly covered Marty Pallman’s “Chinese Virus Effect On High School Athletics” (Marty unfortunately was exposed to the virus) and then talked about the many successful sports programs at UCHS. He mentioned Mahailya Reeve’s setting the state’s weightlifting record benching 375 pounds and her 225 pound clean and jerk. Mike said the video of this 16-year old’s world record went viral on You Tube bench pressing 375 pounds on February 26, 2020! Our new UCHS Football coach Andrew Thomas is the “Right Hire” and he gave credit to Coach Kepa Sarduy for stepping up earlier as head coach following a difficult situation. Ridaught also thanked Paul Lewis for his radio station and the working relationship he and Paul has had since 2003. Mike said that Florida teams were fortunate that the state championships were not interrupted by the pandemic. The last interruption was WWII.

Nancy Griffis’ guest UCHS Superintendent Chris Mecusker presented a project focused upon “Unity”. Chris wants all students to have a free t-shirt that shows their “Unity” as a student body. Local churches, individuals and local organizations are donating money to pay for the t-shirts. Rotarian Russ Wade suggested that the students be challenged to design, and furnish the appropriate color and wording for the t-shirts. This “Unity to Community” project Shane believes is timely and should help in uniting rather than adding to divisiveness we are now seeing in America.

Upcoming programs include: June 30- David Beatty (this program includes the installation of our Lake Butler Rotary Club elected and appointed officers and new members. Effective July 1, 2020 Shane Collins becomes the Club President, Garrett Milton becomes President–Elect, Brian Reagan becomes Club Secretary, Sara Owen becomes Treasurer, and Tyler Kelley becomes the Sergeant at Arms. Jack Schenck and transferring Rotarian Derick Thomas are our newest members). July 7- Tommy Spires. July 21- Garrett Milton and July 28- Brad Whitehead.

Garrett Milton’s “Did you know?” question asked what flower is the official flower for Father’s Day? The correct answer is the rose- white for deceased and red for living (the same is true for Mother’s Day).