[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 35 (Tuesday, February 27, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER OF THE ELKS OF THE 
                        UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 27, 2018

  Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Benevolent and 
Protective Order of the Elks of the United States of America on their 
One-hundred fiftieth Anniversary for their outstanding and unparalleled 
service to the United States.
  The Elks started their charitable organization on February 16th, 
1868. Since then they have grown nationwide creating and advocating for 
different services to our communities by advocating their mission to 
include the principles of charity, justice, brotherly love and 
fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and 
enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American 
patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a 
fraternal organization, and to provide for its government.
  The Elks are committed to America's Promise, an alliance of 
organizations building a better future for our youth through our 
Scholarship Program, the Hoop Shoot free throw program, and our Drug 
Awareness Program.
  The Elks have pledged NOT to forget our nation's veterans . Each year 
we visit VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics and State Veterans 
Homes providing companionship and enhancing their level of comfort.
  The Elks also adopt by state its own charitable project. These 
include summer camps for children with disabilities or who are 
financially disadvantaged; in-home treatment for people with 
disabilities; children's hospitals; cancer research; and providing 
safe, temporary heavens for abused families.
  Mr. Speaker, The Order of the Elks have become cornerstones in their 
individual communities all throughout the United States. These lodges 
are a source of knowledge, expertise and leadership for our 
communities, and I once again congratulate them on their momentous 
milestone.

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