Dear Members,
On February 12th , in the midst of a week-long power outage due to the
earlier storms, we held our regular meeting at the lodge amidst
flashlights and candles. Thanks to the “gas men”, Charlie and Dan, who
had the foresight to install gas wall heaters several years ago, our
27 member attendees kept warm. A quick meeting produced the
following nominations for the officers: E.R. - Lou Sottnick, Leading
Knight – Ed Garton, Loyal Knight – Floss Matteo, Lecturing Knight -
Bill Mullen, Secretary - Bonnie O'Kane, Treasurer – Tom Eisiminger,
and Tiler - Harry Hession. All appointed officers will be announced
prior to the formal Installation of Officers on April 10th at 2PM.
Later that evening we will hold our annual Elk of the Year
Banquet. All members and guests are invited and encouraged to
attend this evening of music, food and dancing as we recognize
the past year’s contributions of this special member.
Charlie Johnson will be leaving the Board of Trustees and I would
like to personally thank him for his 5 years of service. Charlie has
been instrumental in moving our lodge forward, most recently
with our newest project--the acquisition of the lot across the
street. He has assured me that he intends to stay active in the
lodge. I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome Carol Clark as
our new 5 Year Trustee. Congratulations Carol!
On another note, I want every one of our members to know that
our call to any one of you wishing to volunteer is still very much
the main priority. I sometimes hear that members are told we
have enough people working on a particular project and are not in
need of their help. Please see me or call me if this happens to
you. We are always in need of volunteers and I will personally
ensure that you find a place to be a part of our efforts.
Finally, I would like to inform you that our fiscal Elk Year ends on
March 31st. There will be an Initiation ceremony on March 27,
2010. This will complete the year as the lodge with the largest
membership in the New Jersey State Elks Association. If you are
considering sponsoring someone for membership, I encourage you
to do so now. Our committee chair, Tresa Allendorf has assured me
all applications received will be processed in time for the Initiation.
As a result of the hard work of our Membership Committee and
members, our lodge will continue as the number one contributor
in the National Elks Organization and Elks National Foundation.
Your generosity enables us to continue to support local charity
drives during the coming year, most recently, the Children's Fresh
Air Home in North Wildwood.
Fraternally,
Lou Sottnick
Exalted Ruler
March 2010