The Mission Viejo-Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is proud to start the new year off by adding 20 new Members. These new Members reside in Mission Viejo, Dana Point, Foothill Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel and Ladera Ranch – all over the Saddleback Valley but coming together for one common goal.
Initiates were sworn in using a Ceremony that has been used since the inception of the Elks Lodge in 1858. Although the Ceremony is old, the four pillars it is based on are still valued and much needed in today’s modern world.
The Elks Fraternal Order was founded to promote and practice the four cardinal virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members. They strive to serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share.
The Mission Viejo-Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating over 50 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 152-year history of giving. For information regarding Elks programs or Elks membership, call 949 830-3557
Photo Credit: Rick Moscoso
From left to right – Standing
Kelly Van Dyke-Lecturing Knight, Jennie Buford-Esquire, Dave Alfaro, Gilbert Galvan, Tim Schmaltz, Matt Bechler, Ed Merk, Gina Van Der Thee, Len Holt-Loyal Knight, Tenisha Campanile-Exalted Ruler, David Wiskus, Mike Byrne, Dave Avalos, Jim McCenty, Rich Encinas-Leading Knight.
Sitting: Lynette Holmes – Tiler, Bonnie Cameron, Patricia Minnesang, Marika Guidotti, Lisa Larson, Cody Martin, Christine Byrne, Simon Smernoff, Michelle Haddad, Christy Smith, Ashely Bosman, Victoria Johnson-Stokes – Chaplain
