The Mission Viejo, Saddleback Valley Elks today announced plans for their annual Sock Hop to be held on July 18 at the Elks Lodge in Mission Viejo. “We call them youngsters,” said Lodge President Jim Humphrey, “but they are men, women and children of all ages, from six to sixty.” The day will be filled with fun, food, and music and dancing. Entertainment will again be provided by the High Hopes musical ensemble from Hope University in Santa Ana. The talented musical group made up entirely of developmentally challenged men and women is world renowned and has performed on national TV.
Elk’s volunteers will be on hand at the event to make certain that a good time is had by all. Sandie McClure, a regular Elk volunteer every year said of the event, “I wouldn’t miss it. Besides the singing and dancing, there’s always a lot of hugging that goes on. It’s wonderful to see how much they enjoy themselves.” Sandie added, “I’m not sure who has more fun…our guests or the Elks who are helping.” Most of the guests are repeat party goers who look forward to meeting up with old friends at the hop. Those old friends include many of the Elk volunteers.
The annual event is one of two parties held by the BPOE for the developmentally challenged men, women and children of the community. The second event is the Elks very popular Christmas Party. Funding for both events comes from the many social functions held throughout the year by the local Lodge and from the Elks Bingo Committee.
Reservations for this year’s event are required and may be obtained through area group homes or by calling the Elks at 949 830-3557. Event coordinator Gloria LeCouvre said, “We were at capacity last year and we had to turn people away.” LeCouvre asked that reservations be made early as the event is expected to fill up again this year.
How did the organization get the name “ELKS?” The Order of Elks was formally organized on February 16, 1868, in the City of New York. Its full corporate name is “Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America.” Its declared purposes are to practice it four cardinal virtues, Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; and to cultivate good fellowship.
The animal from which the Order took its name was chosen because a number of its attributes were deemed typical of those to be cultivated by members of the fraternity. The elk is distinctively an American animal. It habitually lives in herds. The largest of our native quadrupeds, it is yet fleet of foot and graceful in movement. It is quick and keen of perception; and while it is usually gentle and even timorous, it is strong and valiant in defense of its own. A representation of the majestic head of the male, with its spreading antlers, was adopted as the first badge of the Order and is still the most conspicuous element of its copyrighted fraternal emblem.
For additional information about the Elks please call (949) 830- ELKS
