According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Labor Day celebrates and honors the greatest worker in the world – the American worker, by paying tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. And, the hard working Elks from Mission Viejo Saddleback Valley Lodge #2444 had no trouble in taking the day off from their busy schedule of charitable work to join in that celebration. Members and families came together at the lodge to enjoy an afternoon BBQ bash, complete with lots of food and live entertainment.
Labor day laborers: Elks Barbara King, Kevin Lindley, Steve Cagnacci, Event Chair Barbara Coppola, Lodge Secretary Laura Lumley, Lodge Esquire Rick Capotosta, and Kevin Hughes
More than 250 meals of BBQ chicken and mounds of pulled pork were served along with several different and tasty side dishes and a variety of yummy desserts. And of course, all that food was washed down by lots of liquid refreshments. Our health-conscious Elks knew enough to balance the intake of those calories by dancing for hours to the beat of the “Rock of Ages” band that came to help us celebrate!. Lots of laughter, camaraderie, and just plain old fun was had by everyone who attended. A beautiful handmade quilt along with other prizes was raffled. Proceeds of the event went to the Handicapped Children’s fund (Purple Pig) and to Elks charities.
Run A Ways Campers Chuck and Jean Chapman ready to raffle the quilt to benefit the Major Project
Chairperson Barbara Coppola thanked all of the members who put in their time and effort to make sure that everyone attending this fantastic event had a good time. “Thanks to all those who came early in the morning to help set up the event, and those who worked all through the day in the kitchen cooking, cleaning and serving food, and everyone who stayed to help clean up after the event. These are the folks that Labor Day really honors.”
Dancing to “Rock of Ages”
The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating 48 years of service to Saddleback Valley Communities. It is one of 8 lodges in the Orange Coast District of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) whose headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. The BPOE is a charitable organization with a 150-year history of giving. “Elks Care Elks Share” For information regarding Elks programs or membership, call 949 830-3557.
Submitted By: Andy Costello
