Perry Elks Lodge officers commemorated the observance of Flag Day June 14 in the large sanctuary of the Perry First Assembly of God. The event was open to the public. Performing officers were Richard Cruce, PDD, Leading Knight; Frank Hamby, Loyal Knight; Eric Hodge, Lecturing Knight; Clayton Huff, PER, Trustee; Kenny Carter; and Carol Cruce, PDD, Esquire. Flag bearers were RJ Willetts, Jenna Hodge, Chase Wallace and Seth Wallace. Huff presented the history of the nation’s flags and Hodge presented the response.
On the first weekend in March, Tallahassee Elks Lodge #937 once again was the food provider for a Civil War battle reenactment ceremony at Natural Bridge Battlefield Historical State Park. The menu included burgers, hot dogs, bratwurst and pulled pork sandwiches. This event provides community visibility for the lodge, and 25% of the proceeds from this fundraiser is shared with the Natural Bridge Historical Society (NBHS). NBHS is a nonprofit Citizen Support Organization established under the laws of Florida to preserve and promote the historical, cultural and recreational value of the Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park in cooperation with the Florida Park Service.
Perry Elks Lodge’s state Soccer Shoot winner in the under-16 category, Dominick Curfman, advanced to the southeastern state competition and won against the competitor from South Carolina. The lodge held a recognition dinner for him and his family Feb. 13.
Tallahassee Lodge participated in the annual visit from Santa at Gretchen Everhart School Dec. 17. Santa (chaplain, Danny McElroy) brought 150 presents for the children provided by Good Shepard Catholic Church. He was assisted by Tallahassee elves Christy Ervin and Ron Brown, PDD.
On Dec. 17, Perry Lodge gave an in-kind donation for the Special Olympics to hold their annual Christmas party. After enjoying a meal cooked and served by Elks volunteers, Santa came for a visit. There were over 100 in attendance.