Eldreds recognized for service to Arc

Special to the News-Sun

AVON PARK -- The board of directors of Ridge Area Arc recognized Duane "Duke" and Marilyn Eldred for their many years of service to Arc boards. The Eldreds recently stepped down from their respective boards -- Duke from the Arc Foundation board of directors where he served since its inception in 1994, and Marilyn from the board of directors for Ridge Area Arc since prior to 1990. She held the position of president from 1995-998 and has served on the executive committee as the past president since that time.

The Eldreds by no means have retired from their volunteer work with the Arc as they can still be found working diligently at the Arc's Resale Store at 899 W. Main St. in Avon Park. The Eldreds are best known at the store as Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus due to their efforts in assembling and decorating Christmas trees for display.

Ridge Area Arc, located at 120 W. College Drive in Avon Park, is a non-profit charitable organization that provides opportunities for people with developmental and other disabilities. Arc is funded in part by The United Way of Central Florida.