07/26/10

    “The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is an organization of American citizens who love their country and desire to
    preserve its cherished institutions; who love their fellow man, seek to promote his well being, who appreciate the joyousness
    of life and endeavor to contribute to it as well as to share it.” “It therefore seeks to draw into its fraternal circle those who delight
    in wholesome association and congenial companions; who are deeply imbued with the spirit of patriotic loyalty and devotion; who
    recognize the obligations of human brotherhood; and who desire to share with their associates in the endeavor to shelter the
    homeless, to relieve those in distress, and to prove themselves true friends to all in need.”