News and Updates
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Sometimes generosity begins with a simple conversation and turns into something truly extraordinary.
Following a recent Fountain Hills Elks meeting, where members discussed ways to support the Falcons scoreboard project through tax-deductible donations, two longtime community members quietly stepped forward. Without fanfare, Dick and Marlys Bedlington offered a $10,000 donation to help move the scoreboard effort forward, an act that reflects both their belief in youth athletics and their deep roots in the Fountain Hills community.
Meet Dick and Marlys Bedlington
Dick and Marlys Bedlington have been part of the Fountain Hills community for more than 30 years, consistently supporting initiatives that strengthen youth programs and community life. Their connection to athletics, mentorship, and giving back runs deep, particularly for Dick, whose lifelong involvement in track and field has touched countless young athletes.
Dick Bedlington was a standout javelin thrower at Central Washington University (CWU), where he set the school record in 1970 with a throw of 241 feet, 11 inches, a record that still stands today. During his collegiate career, he won the District 1 javelin title, placed at the NAIA National Championships, and earned invitations to Olympic training camps.
Going Beyond the Field
Athletics didn’t end with competition for Dick, it became a pathway to mentorship. After college, he became a respected coach in the Lynden, Washington area, guiding numerous athletes and helping young competitors develop both skill and confidence. Among those he mentored was Tessa Hollander of Lynden Christian High School, who went on to break her school’s women’s javelin record under his guidance.
While coaching and mentoring athletes, Dick and Marlys also operated a large potato farm and potato tissue culture lab, demonstrating a work ethic and commitment to community that carried through every aspect of their lives. Their lasting impact is honored through the Dick and Marlys Bedlington Throws Venue at CWU, a testament to their dedication to athletics and youth development.
Impact on Fountain Hills Students
Their $10,000 donation will significantly advance the Falcons scoreboard project, helping create a modern, engaging game-day environment for current and future student-athletes. More than an equipment upgrade, the scoreboard represents opportunity, encouraging student involvement, leadership, and pride in their programs.
What Impressed the Elks
“Dick and Marlys didn’t hesitate. They listened, they understood the impact, and they stepped up in a way that will benefit students for years to come.”— Rose Troller, Concession Stand Volunteer and Elks Member
Recognition and Thanks
Dick and Marlys Bedlington exemplify the very best of the Elks spirit, supporting youth, strengthening community, and giving generously without seeking recognition. Their contribution reflects a lifelong commitment to athletics, mentorship, and making a meaningful difference.
The Fountain Hills Elks are deeply grateful for their generosity and proud to recognize Dick and Marlys Bedlington for their extraordinary support of Fountain Hills student-athletes.
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Behind every game at Golden Eagle Park is a dedicated group making a lasting difference.
On weekends at Golden Eagle Park, the parking lots fill up and the cheers from the stands are easy to hear. What’s quieter, but just as powerful, is the steady rhythm behind the scenes: hotdogs turning on the rollers, coffee brewing, registers humming, and the volunteers who show up again and again to run the concession stand so visiting athletes, families, and fans can enjoy more than just the game.
These volunteers serve the community because they are proud of Fountain Hills and its beautiful park facilities. Just as importantly, their efforts provide a vital funding source for the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project, a nonprofit community foundation that awards grants to Fountain Hills Public Schools staff members, student clubs, and students. Grants are also awarded to local youth clubs, youth theater, and athletic programs.
The mission of the Fountain Hills Elks Youth Project is to support Fountain Hills youth and help inspire learning, leadership, and collaboration. (www.fhelksyouthproject.org)
The volunteers who staff the concession stand are parents, grandparents, and community members who believe in supporting students and schools. While they come from different backgrounds, they share a common commitment: stepping in where it matters. Beyond serving food and drinks, these same volunteers manage concession funds, review grant applications, and score them using established criteria to ensure funds are distributed fairly and thoughtfully.
Since September 2025, $11,171.52 in grant dollars has been distributed to a variety of Fountain Hills youth activities.
At first glance, their role may appear simple. In reality, their contribution plays a vital role in supporting school programs, athletics, and student opportunities. Funds raised help offset costs, improve facilities, and ensure opportunities remain available for current and future students.
Beyond the dollars raised, the impact is felt in morale. Athletes notice. Families notice. Visiting teams notice. The concession stand becomes a gathering place that reflects pride, teamwork, and community spirit.
“Watching how reliably the volunteers show up, even on the busiest days, reminds you how much people care,” said Rose Troller, Elks Concession Chair. “They don’t do it for recognition; they do it because they know it matters.”
Just as the opening moments of a game set the tone for what follows, the volunteers behind the concession stand set the tone for the entire community. Their efforts may not always be front and center, but their impact reaches far beyond the counter.
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Dear Members of the Elks Lodge,
I want to express our sincere gratitude for the generous $2,500 grant awarded to our new SkillsUSA Club. Your support means the world to us.
The students are incredibly excited about the new opportunities this funding will provide. It will go a long way toward establishing our club as a vibrant and lasting part of our school community. Thanks to your generosity, our members will be able to explore their photographic creativity, develop their skills, and participate in meaningful projects and competitions.
I am committed to making the SkillsUSA Photography Club a staple at Fountain Hills High School, and your investment in our future is a vital part of that vision.
Thank you once again for believing in our students and supporting their growth.
Sincerely,
George Zeliff
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