SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Elks Lodge 6 hosted its first luau since COVID-19 on Aug. 9, celebrating community, culture and ʻOhana: the Hawaiian concept of family that extends beyond blood ties to encompass care and responsibility for others.

Co-hosts Susie Riddell and Yvonne York welcomed guests to a festive evening of Hawaiian cuisine, music and dance. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue provided the island-inspired meal, while the Ohana Dance Group wowed attendees with vibrant performances.

During intermission, York encouraged the audience to enjoy more food.

The evening was filled with a strong sense of community spirit. Guests browsed the Silent Auction, which featured 11 items donated by sponsors like the San Francisco Giants and Costco. The auction raised $1,095 for the Lodge. Meanwhile, the Purple Pig Raffle brought in $1,260 to support the Elks’ charitable programs for children.

Elks District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Steve Dale highlighted the cause earlier in the evening, sharing that over $5 million was raised last year to help children “Walk, Talk, See, and Play.”

York said, “I was really impressed with the JFK Wrestling Team and Coach David Aleman: Not only did they assist our diners, but they also served food and worked in the kitchen alongside their team mom, Eden Rosales, and many parents.”

Each guest had a dessert card at their place setting that listed six options. The JFK wrestlers collected those specialized number cards with each guest’s choice. The team served dessert efficiently during the intermission. They also placed glass tip jars on each table to receive financial support for their program.

The next morning, they continued their fundraising efforts with a car wash at the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

York added, “My list of thanks could go on and on, but personally, there is absolutely no way I could have done this by myself without the fabulous team spirit I found in working with my fellow compadre, Sue Riddell.”

Elks Exalted Ruler Rob Moore reflected, “ʻOhana is about community, responsibility and caring for one another.”

 The luau embodied those values, leaving attendees uplifted and impressed by both the performances and the strong sense of unity.