MISSION VIEJO, SADDLEBACK VALLEY ELKS HONOR MEMBERS FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
In a special meeting marking the end of the current Elks year in March, the local Mission Viejo Elks Lodge paid tribute to individual members for outstanding service to the Lodge, the community, and for exemplary performances in the charitable works of the Lodge. Certificates of Achievement were presented by Exalted Ruler Jamie Camunas to members of the Lodge who excelled during the past year. Among the over 300 members receiving awards were House Committee members, Kitchen workers, Veterans, Youth, Membership, Charity, Scouting, Third-grade Dictionary team members, and Bingo committee members.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lodge’s three biggest awards of the year. “The Citizen of the Year” award was given to Lodge Assistant Exquire Tenisha Campanile for her service to the country and her outstanding work in the community chairing the Elks ENF Grants program. Tenisha also received awards for her participation in numerous Lodge fundraising events. “Officer of the Year” was awarded to Lodge Leading Knight Greg Morgan for his dedication to the Lodge charity programs, fundraisers for special needs children and adults, and his outstanding performance in fulfilling the many responsibilities of the Leading Knights Chair. The most prestigious Elks Lodge award, “Elk of the Year” went to Lodge member Kevin Lindley for his tireless efforts volunteering on numerous kitchen cooking crews and his service on many Lodge committees throughout the year.
Additionally, the Lodge received awards from Elks National Headquarters and the Elks National President for meritorious achievements in fulfilling the responsibilities of the Order. Exalted Ruler Jamie Camunas received a National Presidents award commending her for her outstanding management of the Lodge during her one-year term and for successfully completing all the nationally mandated programs of the Order. Also receiving two very special Grand Exalted Rulers Awards were members Nina McCann and Barbara King for their outstanding volunteerism throughout the year.
The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating 49 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
Members of the Third Grade Dictionary distribution team and helpers
Elk of the Year Kevin Lindley receiving multiple awards from Exalted Ruler Jamie Camunas
Photos by Dave Safley
Submitted By: Andy Costello
Elks Grand Lodge Area 7 Membership
& Marketing Committee
