Bringing a ray of light whenever she walks into the room is Kelly Van Dyke, a Ladies and Elks seven year member.  When Kelly was our Ladies "Sunshine" chair, everyone started calling her “Sunshine” due to her bright smile and cheerful outlook (and some just couldn't remember her name). She currently holds the position of Sergeant-At-Arms.  As a member of the Elks Ladies, Kelly has modeled in our Fashion Show and worked in the kitchen for many of our events. There have been many occasions when I have gone behind Kelly’s back and signed her up to volunteer.  Being the great sport that she is, she actually showed up and worked every event. Kelly thanks the late Pat Ohman for encouraging her to become a member of our group and starting her out in volunteering.  As a Lodge member, she has held four officer positions; Assistant Tiler, Chaplain, Lecturing Knight and Loyal Knight.  She has worked in the kitchen cooking and serving on many occasions such as Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, July 4th and Veteran's Day.  Kelly is grateful for all the friends she has made along the way. 

          Our membership chair, Michelle Scaglione, was on hand to remind us that she was beginning to collect our yearly dues of $20.00 due by April 1. She also advised us that we had three new members, Nancy Peck and Natalie Gora who were in attendance and Kathryn Gunther who was not able to join us.  Please note that the cost of our dues has not changed in years and all men and women who are either Elks or spouses of Elks are welcome to join.  Being an Elk Lady is a great way of beginning your volunteerism and a wonderful way to make new friends.

Tracee McRane spoke about the Fashion Show, our first event of 2026 taking place March 7.  As of this meeting, there were only ten tickets left, so it’s safe to say it is once again a “sell out”.  We will again have a good meal, with additions being lots of shopping, raffles and beverages of all kinds. Our volunteer models are always fun to watch strutting their stuff down our runway. For some reason there were jars of Polenta passed out by our president, Laura Lumley, to those who wanted to indulge.  Laura also showed us the tiny antique coat rack that would be used for what in the past we have called the “money tree” and raffled off at the Fashion Show. She also made cupcake samples of the dessert to be served at the Fashion Show for our tasting pleasure.

The evening’s raffle recipients were: Barbara Jacobs, Terri Montemayor, Susie Caldwell, Michelle Scaglione, Paula Wild, Dinah Grosch, Diane Cannon, Kevin Lindley (2), Lori Cincotta, Nancy Peck. Nancy LeBlanc, Becki Wanger and Pam Simpson.  Our 50/50 of $30 was won by Barbara Copolla.  Alan Harkness donated 10 coupons for bacon sides to obtain for free when having a Sunday breakfast at the Lodge.  The winners were: Paula Wild, Carol Caputo, Nancy Peck, Nancy LeBlanc, Dana Hollenbeck, Gail Conaway, Terri Montemayor and Debby Lamb.  Carol Gray let us know that member Marsha Berman had a hiatal hernia operation and would be laid up for several weeks.  Let’s keep our prayers going for Marsha.  Cheryl Issacs read the names of February birthdays and told them they each owed $1 to the treasury. 

We voted on using high quality plastic ware for all our events with the exception of the Snowflake Ball thus saving on cleaning fees for our events.  We also voted to amend the By-Laws. Our membership booklets will only be available to print out on line by members whose membership is current.  Should you not have access to a printer, our membership chairperson will do it for you. Our uncontested officer nominess for the 2026-27 year are as follows:  Laura Lumley; President; Tracee McRane, Vice President; Jerline Dinnage, Treasurer; Diane Cannon, Recording Secretary and Sandy Jacobs, Correspoding Secretary. The Standing Committees for Membership, Hospitality, Sergeant-At-Arms, Auditor, Publicity, Ways & Means, Communications, Chaplain, Sunshine & Liaison to be appointed by our president. Thanks to Lisa Hart, Michelle Scaglione and Carol Bruns for the evening’s treats.  The gavel came down at 7:34p.m.  

Sheryn Howlett Publicity

         Tracee McRane has been a member of the Ladies group for 3 years and a Lodge member 6 years.  She is, and has been, our Ways and Means chairperson for the past two years.  Tracee is one of the most creative people I know. Her talents for making jewelry and craft creations are something to behold.  Her ideas make our events (example being the Fashion Show) amazing!  I first met Tracee at "Movie Night" at the Lodge where she was working in the kitchen and has continued to do so with ”Chicks In The Kitchen", "Nona's Italian Meatballs”, 4th Sunday breakfast crew, making cookies for 5thWednesday Bingo night, and many other events for the Lodge. She is always on hand to decorate for our events and at holiday time for the Lodge. And if that's not enough, Tracee is also on the House Committee and can be seen and heard singing at our yearly musicals.  Yes, the lady can sing as well.  You are truly amazing!

          Our meeting began at 6:46 p.m. with 28 members in attendance, followed with the Pledge, prayer and officer reports.  We were all delighted to learn that we had enough money in the bank to continue with our events, the next being the “Fashion Show” taking place on Saturday, March 7.  I am happy to report that 128 tickets ($40.00 each) are on sale now, so look for those Elk ladies with tickets or you will miss out on this special event. We look forward to once again having a day of shopping, fashion, food, raffles and fun. Cheryl Isaacs, Sunshine, advised that gift boxes from Amazon were sent to three of our members:  Toni McCormick who had a hip operation; Cookie Akesson who had stitches in her head; Michelle Scaglione who broke her femur all of whom are doing better. Our raffle was won by the following ladies:  50/50 Lori Cincotta-$20; Carol Caputo, Jean Chapman, Barbara Jacobs, Sandy Jacobs, and Judy Longi.  

In absentia for Alan Harkness, Barbara Coppola thanked Laura Lumley for stepping in to cook for Bingo on Wednesday nights until Michelle Scaglione was well enough to return.  Barbara, being Purple Pig Chairperson, brought up and explained the “Leading Knight Challenge”.  All purple pigs brought in by the end of January not only get matched, but Alan Harkness’s (Elk Leading Knight) added incentive was for every $20 given, that individual would receive a coupon for a side of bacon at a Lodge Sunday breakfast good up until October 2027.  It was unanimously decided we would take our ladies PP money and turn it in now. 

Laura informed us that all the past ladies presidents’ photos were taken down from the Bird Room and were going to be replaced with smaller frames making room for our future presidents. Thanks to Jean Chapman, Laura Lumley and Dana Hollenbech for the goodies.  Hope you all had a great holiday season.  

Sheryn Howlett Publicity  

January 2026 Elks' Ladies ChitChat

Our membership chair this year is Michelle Scaglione who previously assisted the Ladies with communications.  When membership grows, Michelle is ready to make sure our new members are knowledgeable about our group and how they can become volunteers for our many events.  As a past teacher for 31 years in the SVUSD working with Special Needs, she is also chairperson for all our Lodge Special Needs Events (at least 3 a year). As a 5 year Lodge member, she has been an officer serving as Chaplain and is currently Esquire.  Michelle has worked in the kitchen as chef and server for Bingo, Sunday Breakfast and Ladies events. She first volunteered as a Greeter for the Lodge where she made many friends.  Working with Michelle every week in the kitchen has shown me that besides being a fabulous cook, she is a sweet and caring person.  Michelle considers the Ladies and Lodge like a second home/family.

Having no Ladies December meeting, I thought this would be a great time to chat about all that our Ladies group does. We begin with the “Tea Party” taking place this summer, followed by Oktoberfest in the Fall, on to the SnowFlake Ball in Winter and culminating with the phenomenal “Appreciation” dinner.  With the exception of the “Appreciation” dinner (which is for Ladies members and their guests), the proceeds received from all these events goes to the Lodge for a variety of purposes.  These events are well received and are a lot of fun for us, our families and friends who attend. We decorate the Lodge for the holidays and give of our efforts towards decorating and cooking and serving in the kitchen for all Lodge events.  If there is a need for volunteers, the Ladies are always there to lend a helping hand. They say, “It takes a village”.  I say, “ It takes an Elks Lady”.

All of our members deserve a big “thanks” for all of their participation throughout the year. No matter who was in charge of what we had planned, it took all of us to make it successful. Looking forward to seeing all of you at the March Fashion Show. Wishing all of you a Happy Holiday Season and New Year!  Stay healthy and try not to eat too many goodies.  Sheryn Howlett Publicity

Sheryn Howlett, Elk Ladies Publicity

December 2025 Elks' Ladies ChitChat

We welcome Linda Cimmarusti back as Ladies Auditor this year which should be an easy assignment for her as she has previously served as Treasurer for 3-1/2 years.  Lots of respect to those who work with numbers (if you recall, I can't balance a checkbook).  She has also been our Sergeant-At-Arms and led us for two years as President.  Linda is a Lodge member where she has volunteered preparing and serving in the kitchen for Taco Tuesday, Bingo and Friday night dinners. She was First Lady to Tenisha Campanile and is currently a Lodge officer in the position of Tiler. On a personal note, when I had my first event, Linda was the first person to volunteer and has never let me down.  Linda has been a Lodge and Ladies member since April 2014.

The meeting began at 6:27 p.m. and after the formalities, we were pleased to hear from our treasurer, Jerlene Dinnage, that our treasury was healthy.  Cheryl Issac, Sunshine, reported that she had several greeting cards of all types and had sent out November birthday cards. Anyone having extra Christmas cards should give them to Bryan MacLean, Veterans Committee Chairman, by placing them the Veterans mailbox in the small office.  Jean Chapman announced that through the generosity of Sandy and Jack Jacobs, this holiday’s “Elk” quilt was purchased for the sum of $1,000.00. Laura Lumley, President, passed around a volunteer sheet for decorating the Lodge which will take place on Saturday, November 29 at 9:30a.m.  All hands on deck for this one. Tracee McRane, Ways and Means, and Jana Merk spoke about the upcoming “Snowflake Ball” (always a hit) taking place December 6.  It will consist of an Italian dinner with appetizers and dessert and the band, “This Side Up”, featuring our own Elk ,Patrick Osgood, all for $50.00 per person.  Volunteers were requested for decorating, kitchen and greeting. Our V.P., Cookie Akesson spoke of our Appreciation Dinner on December 8, members $5.00, guests $10.00 and passed out attendance forms. Dave Roberts’ El Toro High School Choir will be the entertainment. She gave us the good news that this night was for the relaxation and enjoyments of our “Ladies” and no one was needed to volunteer. Yeah! Once again, our webmaster, Jennifer Williams, told those of us who are not technically gifted, to contact her and she will get us connected to all things “Ladies Elks”.  Laura read a “Thank You” card from Alan Harkness for the Toy Box we donated to the Stud Auction.  The high bidders, Mr. & Mrs. Paul Polaski, after having their daughter take a few games, gave the balance of toys and games to the students at Mrs. Polaski’s elementary school.  He also reminded us that between December 1 and January 31, all Purple Pigs turned in would go to the “Leading Knight Challenge”.  We definitely want a good showing there. The Wheel of Fortune was won by Gail Patti for $15.00 and the 50/50 for $14.00 by Jerlene Dinnage.  All other prizes were won by Jenny Buford, Tracee McRane, Gail Conaway, Margaret Moore, Lori Cincotta, Sandy Jacobs, Eileen Reinoehl, Arlene Snyder, Nancy LeBlanc, Barbara Jacobs and Norma Harkness. Carol Gray thanked Jerlene Dinnage and Barbara Coppola for the goodies and reminded Laura Lumley and Dana Hollenbeck their turn would be in January.  Michele Scaglione, Membership, advised that the current membership is at 89 with 5 lifetime members.  Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!  Sheryn Howlett-Publicity    

Sheryn Howlett, Elk Ladies Publicity

November 2025 Elks' Ladies ChitChat

If you are not familiar with Barbara Copolla, then you haven't been participating in anything at the Elks Lodge or the Ladies group.  In the years that Barbara has been a Lodge member, she's been a "busy bee".  Along with her husband, Steve Cagnacci (also a Lodge and Ladies member), they have participated in and volunteered for so many events.  Some of her Lodge accomplishments are, serving on the Veterans Committee and participating at all veteran events; working in the kitchen every Wednesday for Bingo; working in the kitchen for Lodge barbeques and events, examples being the ER Ball and the yearly holiday play; working on the Community Activities Committee; currently in charge of the Purple Pig and was Elk Of The Month for September.  I have had the honor of working with Barbara at many of these events and have witnessed firsthand all the hard work and dedication she puts forth.  As a twelve year member of the Elk Ladies; she started out doing telephoning members for two-three years, Membership for nine and is currently our Parliamentarian. She is always there to lend a hand whether it be decorating the Lodge for holidays and events or giving a solid opinion on how things should be done. Barbara is the perfect example of volunteerism.

Twenty-seven witches and warlocks came together, stirring the pot and brewing up what was to come in the future for the Elks Ladies Group (currently six warlocks).  We remained respectful to the Pledge and prayer and then the head witch, Laura Lumley, gathered our covens together and the meeting began. After all the general reports (we loved hearing that our money pot was healthy), the result of Oktoberfest was discussed.  Agreeing with Laura, this was a fun event and for the first time there were no complaints, only praises for the food, band, service and games.  Way to go Tracee!  Although you had help, we all know you worked hard, making this day look effortless. 

Jean Chapman, our Corresponding Secretary advised us that “Thank You” notes were sent out to everyone who volunteered for the “Tea Party” and “Oktoberfest.”  Jean has once again put her talents towards donating a quilt to our group.  It was decided that tickets would go on sale November 3 ending December 19.  Who will be the lucky winner?  I am hoping it’s me.  Even though every quilt made by Jean or the Sassy Quilters is beautiful, this year’s is special as the center of the piece is an Elk.  This could be the first year for a sellout...still six tickets for $5.00. Jana Merk gave us a tentative report on the “Snow Flake Ball” coming your way on Saturday, December 6.  Tickets will go for $50.pp and the meal planned, although not finalized, will have an Italian theme.  Our band will be “This Side Up” featuring one of our Elk members, Patrick Osgood.  This is always a sellout and a great way to start the holiday festivities. Not under discussion, just as a reminder, don’t forget our Appreciation night for members who may bring up to two guests.  Members $5/each and guests $10/each.  Although we are many months away, mark your calendars for our next Fashion show, March 7, to be certain of getting your tickets as you don’t want to be the one to miss out.

Irene Romeo won the 50/50 of $10.00 and donated it back to Ladies.  Gifts were won by Diane C., Arlene S., Sheryn H. (2), Denise L. and Carol G.  The Wheel was won by Jeanne Frankenreiter who was not present making the next spin $15.00.  We sang “Happy Birthday” to Arlene Snyder and Barbara Coppolla who celebrated September and October birthdays and each had to donate $1.00 to the treasury for being born. Alan Harkness thanked all of us for our toy donations filling the box to capacity  and being auctioned off at the Stud Auction on October 18. A request for donations to “Wreaths Across America was made.  Welcome new members, Margaret Moore, Frank & Angela Saudea and Jonnie Ben.  Spooky treats by Carol Gray.  Happy Halloween Everyone!  Sheryn Howlett Publicity

October 2025 Elks' Ladies ChitChat

Just like in the song " Jean", Elks Lady, Jean Chapman, had a dream.  After being encouraged by an Elk member, Harvey Ohman, to bring her "Sassy Quilters" group to the Mission Viejo Lodge, she asked the group to start making and donating quilts to the Elks Ladies.  Jean has been a Ladies member for 15 years joining the Ladies group when she became part of the Monday Cook Crew. These quilt donations have resulted in raising over $16,000.  The quilts are very much appreciated and loved, helping with the purchasing of the countertop in the Lounge, the countertop in the Game Room, the front door awning and the remodel of the Ladies Restroom. The quilt winners are chosen twice a year at different Lodge events, one being the 4th of July.  I, myself, am still hoping to win one.  Well, I can dream as well.  Jean's husband, Chuck, has been an Elk member (25 years) starting out in Garden Grove.  They became involved with Mission Viejo Elks after meeting members from the RV group on a Panama Canal cruise.  Our friendliness won them over.  Jean would like to thank all the ladies who have sold raffles for her in the past as she feels she couldn't have done it without their help.  Our thanks goes out to Jean for all her contributions and becoming our Corresponding Secretary for 2025-2026.

The meeting began at 6:39 p.m. brought to order by Vice-President Cookie Akesson (who did a wonderful job) as Laura was not available this evening.  After all the preliminaries it was on to discussing the success of the Tea Party (thanks Tracee McRane and Dana Hollenbeck) then on to upcoming events.  October 4 will be Oktoberfest and tickets are currently on sale at the cost of $25.00/ea.  There will be a $3.00 charge for pretzels and must be preordered. This event will bring you fun (with games and prizes), food applicable to the event, music by “Ya Olivia!”, raffles for all sorts of items and a chance to prove who really is the strongest member of the Lodge. So get your tickets before they sell out.  We will be enjoying this event on the Patio.  

Jennifer Williams, our Webmaster, once again did her best to help those of us who are not tech savvy to place an Elk Lady app on their phone.  Our Leading Knight, Alan Harkness, was there to speak about the “Stud” Auction taking place in Garden Grove on October 18. Money and gifts were given to fill up our toy box and hopefully, it will be overflowing with games and puzzles.  All proceeds from this event go to defray some of the costs for our ERs for next year. Cookie informed us that this year our “Ladies Appreciation Night” will be on our regular meeting night, December 8.  As always, it will be $5.00 per member and $10.00 per guest to attend.  All members are allowed to bring two guests.  Tony Rogers is scheduled for the night’s entertainment and is one of my favorites.  Not to be missed!

The Wheel of Membership was spun and the winner was Bobby Werner who was not present so next month it will be worth $10.00.  50/50 of $16.00 was won by our Treasurer, Jerlene Dinage and other prize winners were as follows: Marsha Berman, Paula Wild, Kevin Lindley, Arlene Snyder, Lynette Holmes and Jennifer Williams.

There were a total of 29 members in attendance who indulged in treats brought by Linda Cimmarusti and Barbara Copolla.  Thank you ladies.  Until next time.....

Sheryn Howlett Publicity

September 202 Elks Ladies Chit Chat

Money, money, money...the song in "Cabaret" got it right.  It keeps us fed, clothed and a roof over our heads.  Some of us are very good with money and then, there are others like me, who can't even balance a checkbook.  My idea of keeping track of my money is to write it down in a register and let the bank do the rest.  Maybe not the best for everyone, but I was never good at math.  Therefore, I have the greatest respect for anyone who takes on the job of an accountant, auditor or treasurer as Jerlene Dinnage has done for our Ladies group.  Jerlene joined the Lodge in 2022 where she volunteered to serve meals and in 2023 became a member of the Elks Ladies.  She is definitely the kind of person we love as she volunteered in 2024 to be our Auditor and this year is our Treasurer.  Accountability is on her shoulders and I am sure everything will balance out.

The meeting began at 6:34 p.m. and ended at 7:06 p.m.  So, what went on during that time?  With the absence of some of our officers, Barbara Coppola led us in the Pledge and Michelle Scaglione who led us in the opening prayer, also read and took minutes for our Recording Secretary who was on vacation. Thank you ladies.  

Jerlene Dinnage, who always goes by the numbers, gave us the Treasurer’s report.  Due to the success of the “Western Night” are coffers are filling. Thanks again, of course, to all those who made it a success.  Speaking of money, Tracee McRane brought up our next two events beginning with the “Tea Party” on September 6 and Dana Hollenbeck passed out tickets to those ladies who will be sponsoring and decorating their table for the event. Oktoberfest, which will be held October 4, was next to be discussed. There will be food, games, baskets and music. Both of these events will each cost $25.00 to attend.  Our president, Laura Lumley, asked for volunteers and said she would like to see more of us helping at these events. 

Jean Chapman could not attend the meeting, so our President Laura, advised us that the “Quilt” brought in $1,000 which met with cheers from the room. 

Since there were no new members joining us this month our membership remains at 84. Cheryl Issac read the names of our August birthdays, all of whom had to give the Treasurer $1.00 just for being born. What a way to celebrate!  She also thanked all of us for bringing in greeting cards that are sent out to our members for all occasions. The lucky ladies of the night winning all kinds of items were; Debbie Woog, Diane Cannon, Carol Caputo, Debi Stuerer, Barbara Coppola, Pam Simpson and Lori Cincotta. 

The membership wheel spin for $5.00 was won by me. 

We were once again reminded to bring games and puzzles to our September meeting for the October Stud Auction. Should you wish to donate money, Laura will shop for more donations. 

Goodies for the evening were brought by Michelle Scaglione, Diane Cannon and Pam Simpson.  Looking forward to next month’s treats from Linda Cimmarusti and Barbara Copolla.

Sheryn Howlett Publicity

August 2025 Elk Ladies' Chit Chat

          When I was a kid, 21 was a special number.  Turning 21 meant I could vote, drink, gamble and, if lucky, win with 21 at blackjack.  But can you guess what connects 21 to our Elks Ladies?  Sandy Jacobs, our current Recording Secretary, joined our organization in 2004 and in 2005 took on the job of "Sunshine" for 2 years, followed by "Historian" for 1 year, "Recording Secreary" 2008-10, 20012-14, 2016-20, 2022-23, currently holding this position.  From 2010-2012 and 2000-22 "Correspoinding Secretary"; 2014-2016, "Treasurer"; 2018-19, "Vice President" and 2023-25 "Publicity". Prior to being computerized, she was on the "Telephone Committee".  Sandy has served meals for the Lodge and along with her husband, Jack, has volunteered to decorate for many of our functions.  If you have attended our Fashion Show, you have seen her stuttering her stuff on the runway. Now that's service!

          The summer is here and along with the warmer weather enjoyed by many, also comes the summer colds, flu and sinus conditions. I would love to say that I was immune to all of this, but I find myself at home, trying to ward off whatever has found a home in my body. Not being able to attend this month’s meeting, I can close my eyes and envision the meeting brought to order by our President, Laura Lumley, who will certainly make sure every voice is heard in a timely manner.  The Pledge will be recited, the prayer given, the officers reports made and then on to new business. Since our Western night, “Blue Jeans & Boots” was a sellout, the report from Tracee McRane will be glowing.  I, myself, am sorry to have missed the event and my chicken dinner.

         It’s never too late to welcome more members, or to bring toys, games, puzzles and stuffed animals for Alan Harkness’ toy box for the “Stud Auction” in October. If he looks good, we look better for all the support given.

Thanks to Norma Harkness and Cookie Akesson for the evening’s treats.

Sheryn Howlett, Elks' Ladies Publicity

Barbara Coppola advised us that we have 4 lifetime members (one of whom was among us). When presented with a certificate, the recipient, Judy Longi, was told she no longer had to pay her dues.  We all cheered for Judy and chuckled when Judy asked if she could get a refund for this year’s dues. 

JULY 2025 Elks Ladies Chit Chat

Our second in command this year is our Vice-President, Cookie (Helen, or as I like to call her, Michelle) Akesson, who has been an Elk Lady for 8 years and a Lodge member 6 years.  She may be new to her Vice Presidential duties, but is very experienced when it comes to being a Ladies’ officer.  Cookie was president of our group for two consecutive terms, 2019-20 and 2020-21 during which time she set up Zoom meetings during Covid so that we could stay connected. Prior to becoming our President, she took the job of Treasurer from 2017-18 and 2018-19.  Cookie has been brave enough to model in our March fashion show and participate in the Christmas play.  I have also had the pleasure of working alongside her serving meals. Her accomplishments don't end here as she has been Elk of the Month, is this year's Elk Of The Year and Lodge Treasurer 2021-22 and 2022-23 and stepped in the following year until a new Treasurer could be found.  We all appreciate her service as she continues in her dedication to the Ladies group and the Lodge.

The gavel came down at 641p.m. and after the preliminaries of the pledge and prayer, the minutes were read, the treasurer report given and the calendar of events read. 

 Jean Chapman, our “Queen of the Quilt”, thanked those of us who had sold raffles thus far and those of us who will continue to do so through our 4th of July barbeque when the winner will be announced. The quilt is handmade by several ladies with many hours of effort put into the beautiful outcome.  Six tickets for $5.00 and you’ll be making a charitable contribution and might be the lucky one. 

The wheel of membership was spun and our Lodge First Lady, Becki Wanger, was not available to win $5.00.  Next month the wheel winner will receive $10.00.  The lucky lady of the night, winning the big prize of $19.00 from our 50/50, was our Lecturing Knight, Arlene Snyder.  Lastly came the drawing for our fun prizes won by Debi Steurer, Barbara Cappola, Cheryl Issac, Jerlene Dinnage, Lori Cincotta, Jana Merck and Sheryn Howlett.  Congrats to all the evening winners.  

“Ok, now back to business” from our President, Laura Lumley with the first report coming from Tracee McRane, our event planner.  Our Western evening is still taking place July 12 with music, food and fun.  The menu will have a dish for everyone whether you are a lover of meat, chicken or a vegetarian, you will not be disappointed.  Tickets will be going for $30 per person and we hope to see all of you there.  Other events in the works by Tracee and Dana are a Tea Party, Oktoberfest, Snowflake Ball and the Fashion Show.  And, yes, they will need lots of volunteers. 

Cheryl Issac advised us that cards were sent to our members who were recuperating and all our May/June birthday ladies (all of whom owe $1 to our treasury for aging and you know who you are).                                 

Jennifer Williams once again gave a demonstration of how our website works for our new members and those of us who can never exactly remember how to access what we are looking for. 

Alan Harkness explained again about the “Stud Auction”, and how the need for toys, puzzles, dolls, stuffed animals, whatever goes into a toy box that he has in his possession, would be a much appreciated contribution from the ladies.  The auction takes place October 18.  All items are requested to be brought to the meeting in September (monetary contributions for purchases are also welcome). 

Dinah Grosch reminded us of the Father’s Day barbeque on June 15 and is looking for volunteers...please help.

Barbara Cappola advised us that we have 4 lifetime members (one of whom was among us). When presented with a certificate, recipient, Judy Longi, was told she no longer had to pay her dues.  We all cheered for Judy and chuckled when Judy asked if she could get a refund for this year’s dues. 

We had a total of 35 members in attendance (we’re growing) with our membership now at 82. Laura told us she made homemade pickles for us to try and just like everything she makes, were yummy.  The gavel came down at 738p.m. and it was off for treats brought to us by Sandy Jacobs and Claudia Mohler. “Believe & Achieve”

Sheryn Howlett Publicity

JUNE 2025 Elks’s Ladies Chit Chat

          It is my pleasure to introduce to you, Laura Lumley, our Elk Ladies President for the current year, 2025-2026.  Being president of the Elk Ladies is not new to Laura as she has held this position once before and knows exactly what it takes to lead our group to continuing success.  Did you know that when Laura (an 18 year Ladies member and 19 year Lodge member) was Chairperson for our Ways & Means Committee for 8 years, that for 3 of those years she was also Lodge Secretary?  As ladies members, we all know what it takes to run Ways & Means; a lot of work, planning and organizing. For those of us who are Lodge members, we know that being Secretary in, itself, is a full time and time consuming job. Adding to her accomplishments; Lodge Elk of the Month, Elk of the Year twice, served on the House Committee, cooked in the kitchen and still does on occasion, and I can personally attest to being a great mentor. And if that weren't enough, the lady can sing!  Well, we all can do what we call singing, but Laura does it well. So with that being said, best of luck to you, Laura, as you bring down the gavel.

          And so it begins....the meeting was brought to order at 6:30 p.m. followed by the reciting of the Pledge, led by Kelly Van Dyke and the prayer, led my Victoria Stokes-Johnson. Each chairperson was called upon to give a report. After Jean Chapman read a “thank you” from Lisa Hart for the orchid she received while recuperating, we began a discussion about keeping our current flower provider or looking for another one. It was decided that there will be no changes. Jean Chapman and her group, “The Sassy Quilters” once again have donated a beautiful quilt (winner to be drawn at the 4th of July barbecue) and asked for volunteers to help sell the tickets. Ways and Means, Tracee McRane, spoke on behalf of herself and Dana Hollenbeck, letting us know that on July 12 we are having an event “Blue Jeans & Boots”, with the musical talents of “Barbed Wire Boys Band” at a cost of $30.00 per person.  Other upcoming events will be the Snowflake Ball in December and the Fashion Show in March. They are making plans for October and have several ideas and asked that we contact them with our thoughts for the October event. Tracee brought up having one night a month, either a Monday or Thursday, when the Ladies would do the cooking and planning of the menu. When asked who would volunteer, more than half the room raised their hands. She will look into this idea and report back at the June meeting.

         Alan Harkness advised us of the Leading Knight Stud Auction to be held on October 18.  He told us he had a toy box and requested that the ladies donate games and toys, as one of the boxes to be taken to auction. It was decided that the ladies would bring all their items to the September meeting.  Tracee McRane said she would also make a wreath similar to the one she made for the auction last year. We voted on paying the bills, changing the officers' meeting start to 5:45 p.m., and donating $150.00 to the Leading Knight Stud Auction to fill the toy box. Jenny Buford, ER, let us know that Sunday, May 18 at the Lodge at 1:00 p.m., there was going to be a ceremony honoring the graduating kids from OC GRIPS, Orange County Gang Reduction and Intervention Partnership(an organization that helps kids turn their lives around). Everyone was welcome to join this celebration.

         Our first raffle of the night for a cash prize of $19 went to Victoria Stokes-Johnson.  Other lucky winners were Laura Lumley, Carol Gray, Becki Wanger, Irene Romero, Jenny Buford, and Carol Caputo, who won twice. Thanks to Michelle Scaglione and Irene Reinoehl for the edibles.

        A very happy Father’s Day to the men in our lives, but especially to our members Steve Cagnacci, Alan Harkness, Kevin Lindley, Rick Moscoso, and Bobby Werner.

I look forward to chatting with you next month, and I am leaving you with our new motto... “Believe and Achieve”

Sheryn Howlett Publicity