Orioles to hold annual membership drive, benefit
There will be three bands, food, vendors and more at the Annual Membership Drive and benefit at the North Fort Myers-based Fraternal Order of the Orioles Nest 301 on Saturday, Jan. 28.
It is an effort by the Orioles’ Men’s Club, Ladies Auxiliary and a group called Rock’n Throttle, an organization of motorcyclists who promote local musicians.
“This is our annual membership drive to support our charity functions throughout the year,” said Kenny Cox, secretary/treasurer for the club.
They do many charitable events throughout the year – this one, a festival including the three local bands, a variety of vendors, bike events and more will be held both inside and outside of the club.
Bands include key participating musicians of Straight From The Tap, Rockhouse and Guilty Conscience.
No reservations are needed for this free event, which is open to the public.
The club pulls a diverse group from the area, from both North Fort Myers and Cape Coral. Many are motorcycle enthusiasts.
“This is the third year of raising funds to send local kids to local summer camps,” said Cox.
President and owner of the club Doug Pedigo said, “Come help and join the good people at the North Fort Myers Orioles to help us support the kids in the community.”
“We surpassed our goal last year on this kids for camp fund raiser,” said Sandi Walts, who is president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary. “We hope to surpass that this year.”
Another big charity event they do each year is at Christmas.
“That is a big one, a drive for local families and this past year it was a big success,” said Walts.
“It (Send Kids To Camp fund raiser and Annual Membership Drive) has been a lot of fun each year, and will begin at 4 p.m. and run to whenever.”
Anyone interested in being a vendor at the event can call the club.”
Annual membership dues are $15, for new and old members,” said Ladies Auxiliary Vice President Cheryl Lucas. “It is a free event, with our annual membership drive. There will also be food, raffles, a variety of vendors including jewelry and leather vendors, and bike events.”
Last year, The Orioles contributed to numerous events for charitable work, including sponsoring local families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas time and supporting Cape Coral soldier Corey Kent, as well as their yearly support of the summer camps.
The Fraternal Order of the Orioles is a non-profit social organization that was organized in August of 1910, she said. It is compromised of men and women who want to make a difference in their communities. Their mission is “to provide support to our members and our community.”
They are also reaching out to local businesses that can support the camp cause in any way.
The North Fort Myers Fraternal Order of the Orioles Nest 301 is located near Hancock Bridge Parkway off U.S. 41, at 13290 N. Cleveland Ave.
For information, call 656-6440.