On Dec. 11, Lakeland Lodge held a special Christmas celebration for the children from James J. Musso Boys and Girls Club of Lakeland, Florida. There were crafts, pony rides, a bounce house, balloon artist and games for the children. Each child received clothes and multiple gifts as well. Pizza was served for lunch along with punch and dessert. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Elroy the Elk joined in the festivities and helped make it a memorable Christmas celebration for these children. For the lodge members, it was a heartwarming experience and seeing the smiles on the children's faces and the excitement in their voices was priceless. There was also a giving tree with suggestions for gifts for the kids who could not attend the party. These gifts were later taken to the Boys & Girls Club to be distributed to other children in need from the club and to supply the club's store for the year. Lodge member Sandy Bates had hosted his birthday party at the lodge and unselfishly requested donations to the Boys & Girls Club in lieu of birthday gifts, which is how more than $5,700 was collected to help make this event possible. The lodge also held a wrapping party Dec. 8 with 25 lodge members and 10 non-member guests.
Pictured with the children are Elroy the Elk, Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus.