Monthly Meeting
You won't want to miss this meeting. Our special guest for the evening will be William "Bill" Thompson.
William "Bill" Thompson is the Executive Director of Engagement Initiatives and Heritage Project at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. With over 30 years of experience in Alumni Relations, Enrollment Management, and Admissions, he has built enduring connections with more than 190,000 alumni globally. A passionate advocate for the Embry-Riddle community, Thompson has been honored with the 2010 Global Service Award and induction into the Chancellor’s Alumni Hall of Fame. In addition, he serves as an Honorary Commander for Air Force ROTC Detachment 157 and Assistant Coach for ERAU’s Division II Ice Hockey Team.
If asked about his achievements, Thompson would say he is most proud of the relationships he has built, the mentorship he has provided to individuals now in leadership roles, and the students who continue to reach out over the years, sharing holidays, birthdays, and personal milestones. He feels fortunate to have such a meaningful impact on those he has served and to have so many people in his life.
K-1 Indoor Go Kart
Calling all you adrenaline junkies! Indoor Go Kart Racing! Doesn’t get much better than this. Everyone is to meet at the K-1 Speedway in Daytona a 4:00pm. We will race first than enjoy some food and beverages together. This event is open to all members, residents, spouses, friends and neighbors. Let’s have a great turnout.
Monthly Meeting
Joan Tague
Joan walked through the doors of the Pittsburgh Aviary, an all bird zoo, in 1987 and never looked back. Looking for an interesting volunteer opportunity, she instead found her passion. Joan is an an “enthusiastic birder”. Her path through birding is like so many others that love hobby - studying, doing the field work, traveling, developing skills, giving back through volunteering for surveys and teaching both adults and children. She regularly guides field trips and walks for Halifax River Audubon, the Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, has guest lectured at the Daytona Museum of Art and Sciences and with other organizations and events while sharing her love for her adopted home of Central Florida.
Rochelle A. Hood - Executive Director - Merritt Island Wildlife Association
Rochelle serves as the Executive Director for Merritt Island Wildlife Association (MIWA), the Friends Group for the Merritt Island and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuges. Her role includes advocacy, fundraising, outreach, environmental education, and membership engagement in support of the Refuges’ wildlife conservation mission. Rochelle is responsible for program development to provide community members with education about wildlife protection and habitat preservation.
December Meeting
Come out and meet Dr. Debra “Rusty “ Pardee. Her foundation is in Eastern Medicine, including acupuncture and herbology. As always VGMC Meetings are open to all Gardens residents.
November Meeting - Remembering our Veterans
Come out and celebrate our brave veterans and hear about DeLand’s historical contributions to the United States war effort during WW II.
OKTOBERFEST
IT’S OKTOBERFEST!!
THE VICTORIA GARDENS MEN’S CLUB IS PROUD TO HOST THE 2025 OKTOBERFEST LIFESTLYLE EVENT!
October Meeting
Our guest for the evening will be Kevin Reid, DeLand City Commissioner. Come out to learn more about whats happening in our city.
Club Outing - "PopStroke Mini Golf Cost - $20 per person
Come out and enjoy an evening of miniature golf, food, fun and fellowship. this eventis open to all Victoria Gardens residents and their guests. Meet at PopStroke Daytona at $;00 pm. See you there.

