Local Elks Lodge continues its community philanthropic work

Organization more than just the building and the park

The Bishop Elks Lodge No. 1603 continued its decades-long support of the community during the week of Christmas when it brought holiday cheer to the residents of the Bishop Care Center and Lone Pine Skilled Nursing Facility.

Elks member Craig London said the local organization has been giving Christmas gifts to the Bishop Care Center and Lone Pine Skilled Nursing facility for more than a decade.

He said this year, members bought and wrapped sweat suits for individuals residing in the care facilities. As a special gift, the Elks are providing pictures for residents to send to family or have as a personal keepsake.

London said this Christmas season, the local Elks Lodge will donate $5,000 for gifts and to provide a $3,000 donation for the IMACA food program.

He said the local Elks organization gives out nine scholarships for high school graduates from Coleville to Lone Pine. This contribution of $4,000 per year has been ongoing for many decades.

London said that throughout the year, Elks provides the facilities for youth activities and dinner events at no charge. The Elks Lodge also is glad to donate the hall for blood drives several times a year and it also hosts the American Legion for that organization’s meetings at the Elks Lodge monthly.

London stated how the Elks brings much more to the community than the Elks Lodge on Line Street or Elks Park in West Bishop.

“These places are where neighbors come together, families share meals and children grow up,” London stated in an emial “The major charity is helping children with disabilities. The fundraising arm is the Purple Pig. Elks started Flag Day and promotes supporting veterans.”

London said the Bishop Lodge 1603 invites those that would like to join or know more about Elks to attend an event. Membership is $130 a year. Elks members are not required to attend meetings or take on responsibilities. Those wishing to volunteer step up when they have the time and interest to help.

He said many of the Eastern Sierra’s leading citizens join to support the ongoing charitable activities.

For information on becoming a member or learning more about Elks contact the Lodge Secretary, Carmen London, at (760) 873-3221 or email bishopelks1603@verizon. net.

Photos by Gayla Wolf/The Honey Bee The local Elks Lodge brought gifts to the Bishop Care Center during the week of Christmas, which the organization has done for more than a decade. Pictured here are, from left, front row, residents Kelly and Mike; back row, from left, Wayne Ball, Elks exalted ruler, Carmen London, Elks secretary, Ida Enger, activities director, and Shawn Shultz, care center administrator.

Earlier this year, the Elks Lodge hosted a a chicken fried steak dinner in honor of the Bishop Union High School junior varsity basketball team. Helping out in the kitchen are Elks members Chad Cathey, Mike Barlow, Jessica Cathey, Bonnie and Don Binns.