On May 9, 2024, Pioneer Telephone Cooperative announced the appointment of Gerald Elcyzyn to the District 12 board seat, serving the Newcastle exchange. The decision was finalized during the board's regularly scheduled meeting.

The District 12 board seat had been vacant since the passing of Mary Petty in November 2023. Mary Petty served this district with distinction for 20 years, leaving a lasting legacy of dedication and service. Pioneer acknowledges her invaluable contributions and extends heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.

Gerald Elcyzyn graduated from Tuttle High School in 2002 and has lived in the Tri-City area for most of his life. Gerald and his family currently reside in Newcastle. Gerald brings an appreciation of the Newcastle community traditions to the District 12 board seat. His appointment reflects Pioneer's commitment to ensuring strong leadership and representation within the communities it serves.

"We are delighted to welcome Gerald Elcyzyn to the District 12 board seat," said Gail Parker, Pioneer Board President. "Gerald's expertise and passion for the community make him a valuable addition to our team. We look forward to working with him to continue advancing the interests of the Newcastle exchange and the District 12 community."

 New member of the board Gerald Elcyzyn and his family.

Gerald Elcyzyn Jr. wears the hats of many. His most vital role is in fact his role of DAD. During the year, you can find him volunteering his time at local football games, practices, fundraisers, etc. to be sure the players are well nourished, hydrated, and most of all, supported. He also serves as Newcastle's Quarterback Club President and the work to help manage the JV and Varsity Football teams is seemingly endless. He also volunteers his time with the Elementary School, helping coordinate things such as cookouts for the Super Kids Day and Literacy Night. In addition to this, he is an active member of The Lion's Club.

When Gerald isn't volunteering for the youth of Newcastle, he is working full time in Real Estate alongside his wife Tiffany. He made the decision to pivot to real estate full time during Covid after working as a Procurement Specialist for the Navy for over ten years. Gerald jokes, working for the Navy was definitely easier than working for his wife.

Gerald and Tiffany have two boys: Ayden, an incoming Senior at NHS, and Maverick, an incoming 5th Grader at NES. Gerald knows the overall growth of the community is imminent and wishes to help maintain traditions and that small-town-community-feel that he has known since his youth.