Moreno Valley Elks Veteran's Variety Show Raises $2,357 for Homeless and Disabled Veterans

Saturday, Oct. 18 and Sunday, Oct. 19, the Moreno Valley Elks presented a variety show honoring veterans from all branches of the service. Saturday night was a sell-out and homeless veterans ate free on Sunday. Approximately 40 volunteers from Moreno Valley Elks Lodge, neighboring Lodges and the community participated in the show. Volunteers contributed over 100 hours each and most paid for their own costumes. The show, “Silent Nights for America’s Stars of Liberty,” featured volunteers emulating famous people who entertained our troops through World War II, Vietnam and other wars. Christy Williams, portraying Kate Smith, helped open the show by singing “God Bless America.” Bob Hope as portrayed by Gerry Troxel and his Comedy Queens (Martha Raye as portrayed by Judy Smith, Lucille Ball as portrayed by Karen Fopiano, Marilyn Monroe as portrayed by Debbie Lentine, Phyllis Diller as portrayed by Rene Bender and Nancy Sinatra as portrayed by Cheryl Bustamonte) were just one act. Flags from all branches of the service were carried in and posted, ending with the posting of the American Flag, the Pledge of Allegiance as explained and led by Red Skelton portrayed by Dick Smith and a moving solo of the “Star Spangled Banner” sung by Kendra Hall. Other popular acts/numbers included Abraham Lincoln as portrayed by Joel Molcan, and the Patty Andrew Sisters singing and dancing “Boogie-Woogie-Bugle-Boy,” as portrayed by Darlene Tielsh and Lori Gracey and Karen Fopiano. Steve Brunkhorst portrayed the Bugle Boy. Rick Curtis sang “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire” as he emulated Nat King Cole. All flag carriers and cast members represented the Moreno Valley Elks Lodge, neighboring. The show ended with all cast members, to include behind-the-scene workers, appearing on stage singing “I’m Proud To Be An American.” The audience was moved from tears to laughter with this show directed by Sally Brown with assistance from Mary Brunkhorst. Moreno Valley Elks Lodge is proud of their hard work which raised $2,357 for the Homeless Vets on March Air Reserve Base. The timing of this donation is perfect since the Homeless Veterans are about to begin to build a new facility on the base. Also, food is needed to complete their 2014 year. Along with the $2,357 donation from Moreno Valley Elks Lodge #2697, show cast member donated food and tons of clothing to help these homeless veterans.