Kinston Elks Lodge sponsors local T-ball team
The Banks Bobcats received their uniforms Monday from the Kinston Elks Lodge to prepare for the upcoming T-ball season. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News
By Junious Smith III
The Banks Bobcats’ T-ball team is ready for the upcoming season, albeit with assistance from the local Elks Lodge.
Kinston Elks Lodge No. 740 sponsored the team, which consists of children ages 4-6 who are learning how to play the game. Bobcats’ head coach Bobby Brinkley said he took the position to ensure the group had the ability to participate.
“There were 16 kids who wanted to play the game, and they were looking for someone to coach, so I took over,” Brinkley said. “This is a great way to teach the kids the basics of the game, help them develop their skills and take on responsibilities.
“We’re definitely thankful for the Elks Lodge, who sponsored the team, and helped us with uniforms and caps. We couldn’t have done this without them.”
The Elks Lodge is a non-profit organization with a network of approximately 2,000 lodges nationwide with nearly 1 million members. The organization, created in 1868, is founded on charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity, promoting the welfare and enhancing the happiness of its members, volunteering in a myriad of ways, including veterans programs.
Raymond Murphy, the Kinston chapter’s Exalted Ruler, said there’s more of a focus toward assisting vets, but children also receive plenty of attention.
“The main purpose of the Elks Lodge is to help the veterans, but we come in and help the kids stay out of trouble,” Murphy said. “We’re looking to get out in the forefront to assist.”
Celeste Murphy, Elks Lodge Membership Chairman said the organization will continue to do its part for the community.
“We’ve been able to help out organizations such as the Veteran’s Home, SPCA, Mary’s Kitchen, Safe Kids and Homeless Veterans,” she said. “We’re always happy to help someone in need and glad to sponsor the Banks Bobcats.”
For more information about the Kinston Elks Lodge, or if you would like to become a member, call 252-560-4091.
