Emblem Club ushers in early fall

While there were still officially 43 days of summer to go, the Burbank Emblem Club ushered in an early autumn Saturday afternoon by presenting its annual luncheon and fashion show under the theme of “Autumn Attire.” The Burbank Elks Lodge served as the venue for the event that raised funds to benefit various local and regional charities.

The Burbank chapter of the Supreme Emblem Club of the United States of America was chartered in 1942 as a support arm of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Burbank Lodge. Its mission was, and continues to be, to perform charitable acts that benefit the community, and to bear allegiance to the flag and the Constitution of the United States.

The national organization from which they stemmed began in 1917, when a small group of Elks women in Providence, R.I., took on the task of preparing bandages to be used during World War I. As word spread of this small group’s accomplishments, other women wanted to join forces in assisting the war effort while enjoying community fellowship.

Realizing there was a need and a desire for more formal organization, the original 15 members of the group, who called themselves the Emblem Club, began work to develop similar groups in every part of the nation. On April 27, 1926, the organization obtained formal recognition when they were chartered as the Supreme Emblem Club of the United States of America. During the organization’s first year, nine Emblem Clubs were organized throughout New England, and since then, chapters have formed in communities all over the country. Today, the Emblem Club attracts individuals of many diverse talents, abilities and ages, all of whom share the desire to make positive contributions to their community.

Saturday’s event, which included a social hour and luncheon prior before the fashion show, was presided over by Burbank Emblem Club President Matilde Ramsey. The main event, which showcased fall fashions made available by Holiday Hats and Gowns of Montrose, was presented by Lee Addessi. Working the catwalk were Emblem Club members who served as models, including Andrea Allen, Arlene Bakke, Ramona Higgins, Bobbi Palmatary, Elaine Paonessa, Connie Rush and Joanne Vallone.

Enjoying the show were the next generation of Burbank Emblem Club members, Emily and Lindsay Hoffman, whose family has been involved in the organization’s Burbank chapter for longer than they have been alive.