By Eric Horchy

 

The Suncoast News Published: June 20, 2009 NEW PORT RICHEY.

 

 

Do a good turn daily. Iona Clark, 75, has been faithfully living the Boy Scouts of America slogan for more than 45 years, providing her service for the betterment of tomorrow's youth.

Beginning June 22, her good turns will be recognized as New Port Richey honors the long-time Scouting volunteer with Iona Clark Appreciation Week.

Brought to the city's attention by Parks and Recreation Director Elaine Smith, Mayor Scott McPherson presented Clark the official proclamation at Tuesday night's council meeting.

"There are so many words that to use just one would not be able to describe it," Clark said of her gratitude after receiving her certificate. "Parks and Recreation has been a big help to us with what we do."

Clark began her service with the Scouts in California when her son joined and has been entrenched ever since. She relocated to the New Port Richey area in 1976.

The only time Clark did not help with the Boy Scouts was the five years she spent with the Girl Scouts, she said.

Clark is preparing for her role as Cub Scout Day Camp leader for the fifth straight year. The weeklong camp for 113 boys will begin with the start of Iona Clark Appreciation Week on Monday at the city's Frances Avenue Park, off Louisiana Avenue.

"Iona's fantastic," said John O'Neil, district executive for the BSA's Twin Rivers District that Clark serves. "Besides being the Day Camp director, she's also the district activities and civic service chairperson and helps with a lot of the activities we do around here for the boys."

For more information on the Boy and Cub Scouts of the Twin Rivers District, call 727-391-3800.

 

 

Eric Horchy can be reached at 727-815-1071 or ehorchy@suncoastnews.com.