Never underestimate the impact you make on others

FROM FACEBOOK:

The Operation Breakfast group Tony Brice started that gives local Vets a chance to make a difference in our Citrus County area continues to impact the community with hands-on community service projects like this.

"We went to the Sam Franklin Jr. Football Camp in Lecanto, to assist with the parking and drinks last weekend," Dunnellon Moose Lodge member Donald Short posted on his personal Facebook page.

"While i was watching the drills the coaches were putting the kids through, Sammy came up to me and said, ' It’s been a long time. You’re aging pretty good!!'

Short had no idea who he was, but quickly learned that he graduated from Citrus High School and is now a member of the Denver Broncos.

Franklin had come back home to give back to his hometown community through youth Football programs.

How are Short and Franklin connected?

"I was the mailman for central Inverness area, Short said. "He would have been a kid back then. I’m impressed he even recognized me!"

The impact you make on others can be ever-lasting. And here, years later, they both were serving their community in the same arena.

Thank you Donald Short for giving back to your community and making lasting impacts on others.

Moving Forward. Giving Back.

Valued Veterans Committee focuses on local veterans

Dunnellon Moose Lodge 2308's Valued Veterans Committee continues to impact local veterans throughout the local area and region. In the last month, they have donated to three non-profit organizations that are focused on assisting veterans in need and preventing veteran suicide.

Jose Becerra, president of the Valued Veterans Committee at Dunnellon Moose Lodge 2308, presented a $300 check to Richard Floyd, president of the Citrus County Veterans Coalition, in support local veterans and their families. The committee also donated food items for the Coalition’s food pantry.

Charlie Zittle, Vice President of DML Valued Veterans, Richard Floyd, President of Citrus County Veterans Coalition, and Jose Becerra, President of DML Valued Veterans, are pictured together in front of pantry items. PHOTO BY FLOYD BLODGETT. June 2025

Fostering Hope

Last week, K9 Partners for Patriots founder Mary Peters accepted a donation from Dunnellon Moose Lodge 2308 Valued Veterans committee members Jose Becerra and Charlie Zittle as shown in this photo. According to their website (k9partnersforpatriots.com), K9 Partners for Patriots is dedicated to preventing veteran suicide and fostering hope for those battling PTSD, TBI, and MST. Through the unique bond formed while training their service dogs, we guide veterans from self-doubt to renewed confidence, promoting mental wellness through in-house counseling and reconnection in a supportive community. PHOTO BY FLOYD BLODGETT. June 2025

Helping Veterans in Need

Valued Veterans committee members Jose Becarra, Charlie Zittle, and Don Short, presented a check for $300 to Joe's Restaurant owner Joanne Donnelly to help with expenses associated with meals that are cooked once a week for a Veterans Camp. Tom Brice, owner of Operation Breakfast, was included in the presentation. Meals are delivered by Faith Farms. More information about this project will be included in next week's email. PHOTO BY FLOYD BLODGETT. June 2025

Dunnellon Moose Family Center