New executive of the Vernon Elks Lodge: L-R Dave Hoyte, Cindy Nadeau Palazzo, Phil Southward, Ruth Hoyte, Lorna Robb, Dan Irvine, Terry Black and Bill McDonald. (Photo credit: Richelle Kendall Photography)

By Pete McIntyre

New executive

New leadership for Vernon Elks Lodge

Feb 23, 2022 | 1:30 PM

A local non-profit group is paying tribute to its past and building for the future.

The Vernon Elks Lodge #45 has announced a new executive headed by Lorna Robb, the founder of the popular Dancing with the Vernon Stars fundraiser.

Robb is joined by Ruth Hoyte as first vice-president, Phil Southward as second vice-president and Terry Black as third vice-president.

The charity’s new treasurer is Dave Hoyte and Dan Irvine is the secretary.

Robb is excited to lead the group.

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“I am thrilled to be on the new executive of the Elks, ecstatic that we are part of the arts and cultural district in beautiful downtown Vernon and happy to know that we live in a city that values our past as we build for the future,” said Robb. “The historical hall that has a historical mural by local artist Michele Loughery, sitting adjacent to the gleaming [proposed] new cultural centre will be a testament to these values as the Elks continue on another 100 years of service to the community.”

Vernon Elks Lodge in 3400 block of 30th Avenue. (Photo credit: Facebook/Elks Lodge)

The Elks Lodge got its start in Vernon in 1920 and has been an active member of the community over the years, fundraising and providing grants to groups for various projects.

“The Elks vision is to become the most progressive organization, meeting community and member needs,” a news release said.

The new board gave its sincere thanks to past president Bill McDonald and his team for their years of service.

“Having a group of people to get together with to have a good time just makes all the difference,” McDonald said.

As a way to show its gratitude, a sign called ‘Bill’s Bar’ was presented and installed on the wall inside the lodge on 30th Avenue.

“If you’ve been to Elks and had a drink, there is no doubt it would have been served by Bill,” the news release stated.

The public can join Elks members for a guest night and fundraiser for the Upper Room Mission Coldest Night of the Year Burger & Beer night this Friday, Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m.

Contact membership director Cindy Nadeau Palazzo for tickets via email: cblatnyt@shaw.ca or president Lorna Robb (email vernonelks45@gmail.com), phone (250) 549-1883 or text (250) 503-8311).