Punta Gorda Elks Lodge #2606 participated in the South Southwest District Army of Hope picnic held Feb. 19 at Bonita Springs-Estero Elks Lodge #2753, where a total of $23,659.39 was raised to provide assistance to the families of deceased, disabled and deployed members of the military. The lodge was represented by Tom Shoecraft, Exalted Ruler; Diana Beamenderfer, Esquire; Walter LaCombe, PER; Eric Rolston, PER; and Daleen Hendrickson, PER. The lodge made a $5,000 donation, donated six items for the silent auction, and provided and served 100 sausage with peppers and onions meals.