Bradenton resident Jack King returns from first visit to D-Day beaches in 70 years

Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr.  Jack King of Heritage Harbour returned recently from the 70th anniversary of the Invasion of Normandy with a whole new set of  memories.

Jack King

"The thing that impressed me most was the gratitude and hospitality of the people in Normandy," he told the Herald.

But it wasn't just the French who said thank you.

"Some of the German visitors came over and said thank you for saving their country," Lt. Cmdr. King said.

"Like my wife said, it's not like I didn't have an ego before," he said.

So much had changed since King was a young Navy radioman at Normandy during World War II, he had difficulty recognizing the place. It was the first time he had visited Normandy since D-Day.

King also visited the cemetery where thousands of U.S. fighters who lost their lives on Omaha and Utah beaches are buried.

"It was stirring, and it was emotional," said the 90-year-old.

While at Normandy for the observance that attracted many world leaders, King shook hands with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.

For more on Jack King's memories of Normandy, visit http://www.bradenton.com/2014/06/05/5189450/manatee-countys-normandy-veterans.html

LWR Women's Club helps give 2-year-old a special birthday

The LWR Women's Club was recently thanked for its contributions in making a local 2-year-old boy's birthday special.

A view of the boy's birthday surprise. PHOTO PROVIDED

Members of the club contributed "Birthday Party Bags" as part of a charity effort to help Hope Family Services, which provides services to survivors of domestic violence.

The boy's mother made cupcakes and used the party bags as she decorated the room to surprise the boy when he awoke from his nap. A thank you note from Hope Family Services said "we/she could not have done it without the dedicated Women's Club members who made the bags. Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

The LWR Women's Club is supporting Hope Family Services and two other selected charities, SMART Riding Therapy and Solve Maternity Homes, this year. The club's philanthropy committee meets with each charity to determine its needs, then works toward filling those requests through fundraising events.

For information on the club's fall fundraisers or to find out how to join, visit LWRWC.org

Colony Cove Riders Golf Cart Club commemorated Memorial Day in their own unique way

Colony Cover's own Uncle Sam waved Old Glory on Memorial Day. Provided photo

While it is true that members of the Golf Cart Club at Colony Cove, Ellenton, like to enjoy life and have fun, they do have a sense of community as well, says Vickie Cochran.

Here's her report on the way the Colony Cove community observed Memorial Day:

Over  60 people lined U.S. 301 at 8 a.m., waving their flags to passersby. Carts were decorated in red, white and blue and the golf carts paraded around the community for the residents to enjoy as well.

The parade was led by Sherri and Tony Stamper who escorted Grand Marshals Bob and Marie Overgaard.

More than 70 carts participated in the parade. Patriotic music was provided by a sound system on the golf cart owned by Vickie Cochran.

The parade lasted about an hour and was followed by a memorial ceremony led by Russ Uboldi, with a reading of Flanders Fields read by Captain Robert Kain and patriotic songs.

 A luncheon was provided by Equity Lifestyles and served by members of the Friendly Social club. A good time was had by all. Thank you everyone involved in helping to make the holiday a true remembrance of our fallen heroes.

Keep reading to see what the Colony Cove Riders golf cart club will be up to in the coming months. Some great and fun events will be taking place. Just a teaser: '50's parade and sock hop this month.  Get out those poodle skirts and saddle oxfords and slick back that hair and chew lots of bubble gum.

For more on Colony Cove,  http://www.bradenton.com/2014/04/20/5112259/our-neighborhoods-colony-cove.html

Colony Cove golf carts line up for parade, Provided photo

Colony Cove golf cart club members show their patriotism. Provided photo

Colony Cove golf cart club members show their patriotism. Provided photo

Enjoying a friendly social at Colony Cove. Provided photo