First Officers of the Punta Gorda Elks Lodge 2606 – 1980
Back Row
Trustees: Jim Murello, Bob Miller, Ken Haymans, Willard Biehl, Charles Borgstrom Organist: Elmer George, Inner Guard: Don Abbott, Chaplain: Tony Maresca, Esquire: Lindsey Harrington
Front Row:
Treasurer: Jim Christman, Lecturing Knight: Harry Custer, Leading Knight: Nick Balacky, Exalted Ruler: Don Roll, Loyal Knight: Gordon Keller, Secretary: Jack Liddle, Tiler: John Schibler
A little history about Eagles Nest
Prior to becoming Elks 2606, the place was famously recognized as the Eagles Nest, featuring a stunning eagle’s nest within a pine tree for several years until a hurricane destroyed it.
in 1980, the inaugural board of the newly established Elks 2606 was established, and they opted to retain the names Main Lodge and Restaurant, naming them Eagles Nest.
September 2025
The September 2025 Elks Lodge calendar is filled with entertainment, meetings, and community activities. Entertainment is scheduled Fridays and Saturdays from 6–9 PM and Sundays from 2–5 PM, featuring performers like Mark Dupuy, Stevie B., Mike Yeager, Clive Live, Ron Lorenzo, Rudy Cox, and others, along with acts such as Taylor & Taylor, Hot Mix Duo, and Pop Rox Duo. Dining highlights include La Maison des Gourmands, Cousins Main Lobster, and Unami Twist, with food trucks also to be announced. Weekly games include Flamingo Bingo on Thursdays (6:30–8:30 PM), 50/50 raffles, and Queen of Hearts drawings on Saturdays at 7 PM. Meetings this month include the Board, Lodge, PER, Orientation, Initiation, and Elkettes, offering both organizational and social engagement. The Business Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and the Membership Office is open Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and Friday 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Lodge 2606
Over the years, Punta Gorda Elks Lodge 2606 has grown into the largest Elks organization in Florida, with nearly 5,000 proud members. This incredible growth reflects not only our size but, more importantly, the generosity, kindness, and community spirit of our members. Our beautiful location on the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor has become a gathering place that continues to welcome new friends who share our passion for fellowship and service.
We are especially grateful for the way our members came together after Hurricane Ian. The storm left behind tremendous devastation, but through strength, creativity, and determination, we reopened in just 10 days. With a “Big Top” tent, an outdoor kitchen, and the tireless efforts of our members, we kept our doors open and our community connected. The road to full recovery was long, but it proved what we already knew—together, there is nothing we cannot overcome.
Today, we are proud to celebrate the completion of our beautiful 5,000-square-foot Tiki. More than just a building, it has become the heart of our Lodge—a place to gather with friends, share laughter, enjoy good food and music, and create lasting memories along the Peace River.
Donations play a vital role in supporting the Elks’ mission of giving back to the community. Every contribution, big or small, helps fund programs for veterans, scholarships for students, assistance for families in need, and the upkeep of our lodge. By donating, you are not only strengthening our charitable efforts but also making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Our veterans are the true guardians of freedom, having dedicated their lives and service to protect our country and its people. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment stand as a lasting reminder of the cost of liberty. At the Elks, we honor and support our veterans in every way we can, ensuring they know their service will never be forgotten and their contributions will always be cherished.
