FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:             Dean Henderson   729-5000

Subject:  Elks Lodge Roast of Frank Visco on June 21, 2001, 6pm

(PALMDALE) For years there have been those who have reveled in taking pot shots at a man revered for his business and political success.  The Palmdale Elks have figured out how to harness that pastime and use it to raise money for charity.  On June 21^st, at 6pm Palmdale Elks Lodge #2027 will be the venue and the beneficiary of a Roast of Frank Visco. 

The gloves have been removed and the tongues have been sent out for sharpening.  This event is expected to bust some stitches.  The Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening will be Sherry Lasagna, who currently serves as a field representative from Mike Antonovich’s office.  Sherry has known Frank for many years and has built up a significant treasure trove of little known secrets about Frank.

Other Roasters include: Attorney R.Rex Parris, AV Press Editor Dennis Anderson, Palmdale Councilmen Rick Norris and Mike Dispenza, Assemblyman George Runner, AV Hopsital Trustee Deborah Rice, and Businessman Johnny Zamrzla.

Palmdale Elks Lodge was one of the first organizations Frank Visco joined after moving to the Antelope Valley and he has attributed the lodge and the many relationships formed there to the beginning of his success as a businessman.  Frank joined The Palmdale Elks in the 1970s after serving four years in the United States Air Force stationed at Edwards Air Force Base.

Some of the other causes championed by Frank Visco have included helping raise funds for the YMCA, serving as Vice Chairman of the United Way from 1972-74, co-founding the North Los Angeles County Regional Center for Developmentally Disabled, serving as President of the Palmdale Rotary Club in 1978, 1979 and 1998, and co-chairing the building of the current facility for the Homeless Shelter.

The Elks Lodge uses the money raised by their fundraising efforts to help youth in many different programs.  They provide college scholarships; sponsor youth football, baseball, and softball; and provide funding for various local Scout troops.  The Elks major project is to provide in-home therapists for handicapped children throughout the State.

Palmdale Elks Lodge #2027 was established in 1957.  The current membership is in excess of 300.  Up until a few years ago, the Elks were a “men only” organization.  Spouses had their own organization called the Emblem Club.  Another Elks affiliated women’s club is the Elks Ladies.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (B.P.O.E.) was founded in 1868 and is America’s leading service organization.  While the organization may appear to be made up of ordinary citizens, their achievements are truly extra-ordinary.  The motivation for their actions can be summed up in the phrase, “If you cannot give a million, be one of a million who give.”  Since its inception the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks have donated over two billion dollars for charitable, educational, community and patriotic causes.

Seating for the Frank Visco Roast is limited.  Please reserve your seats immediately.  Tickets are $25 per person or $200 for a table of eight.  Dinner is included and will be served at 7pm. 
 
For more information please contact: Dean Henderson 729-5000 or Pat Sileo 942-3975.