The State - News from Sept. 13, 1989

The Lompoc Elks Lodge accepted its first two black applicants, ending a bitter dispute that had divided the community and prompted membership reforms in the national Elks organization. “I feel very gratified and personally relieved that it’s over,” said Joe Martin, accepted along with Ernest Hutchinson on their second attempt to become members. Both were rejected earlier this year before the national lodge, reacting to allegations of racism, accepted changes in the voting procedure.