Elks Lodge celebrates Flag Day

Hot Springs Elks Lodge No. 380 recently held its annual Flag Day Ceremony for members and guests.

The ceremony included the Elk Flag Day Ritual; Boy Scout Troop 10 performing a flag-raising ceremony; presentation of the history of the American flag, complete with a parade of flags by Emblem Club No. 194 Flag Team; a patriotic address by Bonnie Spencer Swayze, president of Alliance Rubber; patriotic music by Sharon Turrentine; and the playing of taps by Ross Rumore, U.S. Marine Corps, retired.

The program was followed by refreshments for the attendees provided by the Elks and the Emblem Club.

The Flag Day Ceremony has been held annually since 1908 by all Elk Lodges in the United States, to promote patriotism and honor the American flag, a news release said.

From left are Herb Carey, PER, PDDGER, Bonnie Spencer Swayze, president of Alliance Rubber, and Donnie Golden, PSP, Exalted Ruler. - Submitted photo

Members of Emblem Club No. 194 Flag Team are, from left, Brendee Marshall, Carole Harper, Sally Hatten, Diann Northern, Pam McDaniel, Donnie Golden, PSP, ER, Ginger Yates, president of Emblem Club No. 194, Beverly Goodridge, Pat Sitzenstock, Sharon Kelsay, Nancy Harris, and Jeanie Trunkenbolz. - Submitted photo

Nora Estright, left, and Faye Estright, daughters of member Jeffrey Estright. - Submitted photo

Brendee Marshall, left, organist, and granddaughter Avery Noggle. - Submitted photo

Ross Rumore, U.S. Marine Corps, retired, plays taps to conclude the program. - Submitted photo