NE District
Jacksonville Lodge #221
District Reporter: Phyllis Bonser news@opelks.comcastbiz.net 

Headline: Jacksonville Elks Lodge Reaches 125th Anniversary Milestone

Jacksonville Elks Lodge #221 held a 125th Anniversary Celebration on December 10, 2016. The Lodge is one of the six founding lodges of the Florida State Elks Association and is considered the “Mother Lodge” of Florida. In attendance, were many elected officials including City Councilman and Lodge member Scott Wilson, PER; North East District DD Paul Orvosh; North East District VP Glen Gardner; Past State President Jim Hurst; and Past Grand Exalted Ruler/National President, Val Bates. Lodge member and mural artist, Bob Morgan, created a detailed indoor mural depicting the history of the Lodge. The JSO Color Guard along with help from a local Boy Scout Troop opened the ceremony.

Presentations were made by various groups who regularly use the Lodge to host their meetings. Among those groups were Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1046 and Jacksonville Semper Fidelis Society. Exhibits for the Florida Elks Children Therapy Services, drug awareness and Veterans activities were widely visited during the celebration. Entertainment was provided by the Fascinating Rhythm Orchestra, a 15 piece orchestra that rehearses and practices at the Lodge.

Photo: Pictured L to R: Dick Maloney ER; PSP James Hurst. <NE-jacksonville #1>