Sonoma Moose Lodge benefit on May 20

The Sonoma Moose Lodge has been the scene of many a benefit for others over the years. This Saturday, May 20, it will be the Moose Lodge that is the beneficiary of the third annual California Luau. Funds raised from the event will be used to help pay for upgrades to the lodge’s kitchen. Dinner will be prepared by Moose member Roger Declercq of Sonoma Gourmet, and will feature whole roasted crispy pig with three salsas, smoked chicken thighs with pineapple-soy glaze, slow-smoked brisket with horseradish barbecue sauce, side dishes and all followed up by homemade desserts by the “Women of the Moose.”

Providing the musical entertainment for the evening will be Showcase the Band. Showcase is one of the most versatile acts in Sonoma Valley, with the ability to play dance songs ranging from swing, Cajun, rock and blues, and Louie and Patti Perez have been heading up the act for more than 20 years. In addition to the band, the dancers of Hula Mai will be in attendance for a dance performance. There will also be a raffle and silent auction. Tickets for the Luau will be available at the door and include the show, dinner and a drink. The event kicks off at ?4 p.m. The Sonoma Moose Lodge is at 20580 Broadway, in Sonoma.

Many wonder what exactly the Moose Lodge does, as lodges and social clubs are becoming a thing of the past. A social club, like the Moose and Elks, are dedicated to serving the community and the Moose Lodge gives money to local schools, the Sonoma Valley High School culinary program, 4-H clubs, the Lions Club, and local families facing hardships. It is also the place to play bingo, also a thing of the past, every Tuesday night, as well as Sunday polka dancing. The lodge is always looking for new members to join the organization, with the hopes of keeping the long tradition of social clubs alive. For more info about the Moose Lodge, point your browser to sonomamoose.org.