We are dedicated to supporting our local community in a variety of ways. Contact us on how to become a member. We were established in 1903 as a group from the San Jose Elks Lodge decided to start a new Lodge in sunny Santa Cruz. Our Lodge features a large dining room and bar, along with a separate bar area, swimming pool and gym. Lodge rental is available for private parties, gathering and events up to 300. Please contact the Lodge office at 831-423-8240 for more information. About the Elks
Founded on February 16, 1868, the Elks are a Charitable Organization dedicated to helping veterans, giving scholarships, and all around bettering our communities. Elks rarely seek recognition, and do not rely on any government assistance. In fact, the Elks created the first veterans’ hospital and gave it to the US government. It is also the largest private provider of college scholarships in the United States. Under the national umbrella, there are 49 state organizations, each divided into several districts. The Santa Cruz Elks Lodge belongs to the West Central District, which in turn belongs to the California-Hawaii Elks Association.
2026-2027 Officers
Exalted Ruler - Ron Schmidt, PER
Leading Knight- Kyle York, PDDGER
Loyal Knight - Maren Peduto
Lecturing Knight - Ann Mekis
Esquire - Jill Ainscow
Chaplain - Mark Senesac
Inner Guard - Joel Busa
Tiler - Sheri Busa
Secretary- John Scally, PER
Treasurer - Les Yeffa, PDDGER
1 Year Trustee Pat McDonald
2 Year Trustee Georgann Scally, PER
3 Year Trustee David Pease
4 Year Trustee Steve Tedesco
5 Year Trustee Michael Ainscow
Greeters: Valerie Wells, Deb Neal, Dannette Shoemaker, Jill Simmons, Marty Ackerman, Cathy Brennan, Suzanne Dowling, Jill Ainscow, Marsha Keeffer
Bulletin Editor - Michael Ainscow
Webmaster - Michael Ainscow, Amy Doherty, PER, Kyle York, PDDGER
2026-2027 Committee Chairs
Americanism - Amy Doherty, PER
Audit and Accounting - Mark Violante, PER
BLT - Kyle York, DDGER
Drug Awareness - Amy Doherty, PER
ENF - Maren Peduto, Lecturing Knight
Hoop Shoot - Wade Garza
Insurance & Safety - David Pease
Lodge Activities - Georgann Scally, PER
Major Projects - Kyle York, PDDGER, Leading Knight
Membership & Lapsation - Amy Doherty, PER
Public Relations - Jill Stone
Scholarships - Amy Doherty, PER
Veterans Affairs - Amy Doherty, PER
Youth Activities - Amy Doherty, PER
