Elks install officers

SUSSEX — Sussex Elks Lodge 2288 recently held their installation of officers for the 2016-2017 upcoming fraternal year. Installed this year are, from left, Andrew Larese, Sr., head trustee, two year term; James Adams, trustee, three year term; Steven Clark, esteemed leading knight; Patricia Daly, esquire; Ashley Green, esteemed loyal knight; Patricia Green, exalted ruler; Richard Green, treasurer; Carol Lee Spages, secretary; Deborah Colombraro, inner Guard; Joseph Colombraro, tiler; and Nicholas Luciano, chaplin. Not pictured are Ambrose Verrone, esteemed lecturing knight and Richard Boydston, trustee, one year term.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is a nationwide community service organization which began in the late 1800s. Each area has its own local lodges, with two being located in Sussex County: Sparta and Sussex.
The Sussex Elks Lodge 2288 received its charter in October, 1963, and has been assisting the community since. The B.P.O.E. aids the community through multiple programs and activities, including scholarships, drug awareness, veterans services, youth activities, Americanism and programs for special needs children, to name just a few.
The New Jersey Elks Association also has a state special project called Camp Moore, a special children's camp which can be described as nothing more than its nickname, the "Miracle on the Mountain," and is funded entirely by donations.
The Elks also sponsor a youth group, holding the same ideals and assisting the community in the same way, called the Antlers.
The Elks is a program open to any interested American citizen, age 21 or over, in good standing, who completes the application process.
For more information about the Sussex Elks or any of its programs, email sussexelks2288@gmail.com.