Five-Time Winner of theGrand Lodge 5-Star Award

NEWS

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDEly, Nevada

PERMIT NO. 1A

JUNE 2009

NEVADA

Reno Lodge #597 hostedthe Nevada State ElksConvention on April 16-19,2009. The convention chair-man was Alan Squailia PERwho with Exalted Ruler MaxShen and the tireless volun-teers of Reno Lodge #597and Reno Emblem Club #372did an outstanding job andgave us one of the best Stateconventions we have everhad. Bravo, Reno Lodge#597 for a job well done!!

The new officers of theNevada State ElksAssociation for 2009 - 2010are President Larry Rackleyof Carson City Lodge #2177,President-Elect GaryFerguson of Las Vegas Lodge#1468; Vice-President JimSmolenski of Carson CityLodge #2177; Secretary JimShirkey PSP/PGE of RenoLodge #597; Chaplain PamShirkey of Reno Lodge #597;Tiler Don Coleman of FallonLodge #2239; Sergeant AtArms Keith Martin of CarsonCity Lodge #2177; HistorianJohn Vore of North Las VegasLodge #2353; NSEA StateCoordinator WilliamWiseman of Henderson-Green Valley Lodge #2802;Treasurer Garth Phillips PSPof Boulder City Lodge #1682and Organist RogerBrotherton of Sparks Lodge#2397. The new Trustee AtLarge is Ken Curto PSP ofEly Lodge #1469.

The ritual finals were com-prised of Fallon #2239,Boulder City #1682,Mesquite #2811 and Reno#597. The winners of the

state ritual championship wasReno #597 with 96.5394;Mesquite #2811 with93.2011; Boulder City #1682with 92.2863 and Fallon#2239 with 91.2981. TheMost Impressive ExaltedRuler or Jack Bailey awardwent to Max Shen of Reno#597 and the MostImpressive Esquire awardwent to Bruce Rector of Reno#597.

Nevada is still number onein the Elks NationalFoundation with a per capitaof $11.87 per member. Theleading lodge in Nevada wasRed Rock #2835 with a percapita of $36.16 and LasVegas Lodge #1468 made thelargest donation to the ENF.

The 2009 NSEA Mid-Termmeeting will be held in NorthLas Vegas on November 19-22, 2009 and hosted by NorthLas Vegas Lodge #2353. TheGrand Exalted Ruler will bevisiting the Nevada ElksAssociation during that meet-ing. The 2010 StateConvention will be held inBoulder City and hosted byBoulder City Lodge #1682.

The Major Projects lunch-eon was held on Saturday andthe amount of money raisedfor Project "Safe Haven" was$56,341.00. The highestdonation came from RenoLodge #597 with $12,151.00and the per capita award wentto Red Rock Lodge #2835with $33.71 per member.

Nevada has a RegionalHoop Shoot winner who com-peted in Springfield, Mass. atthe National Hoop Shoot

finals. She is AlysaDominguez of Lovelock, NV.and she won the 8-9 Girlscompetition in Las Vegas atthe Regional Hoop Shoot.

Our honored guests at thisconvention were DaveDavidson, Calif-Haw RitualChairman; David Troseth,Utah Ritual Judge;Honorable Lee Karjola,CHEA First Vice-President;

Leland Schwein, ArizonaElks President-Elect; and wewere honored to have thevery first female StatePresident in Area 7 with usand she is JoAnn Aldridge,Utah Elks President-Elect.We were also honored tohave our NSEA StateSponsor, the Honorable DonDapelo PGER. The NSEAElk of the Year award went to

PSP/DL Larry O'Laughlin ofNorth Las Vegas Lodge#2353.

The Grand Lodge sessionwill be held in Portland,Oregon July 5-9, 2009 andthe Nevada Elks will be stay-ing at the Red Lion HotelVancouver at the Quay. Tedand Nancy Balash will be incharge of the NSEA hospital-ity room this year.

Reno #597 Hosts Outstanding State Convention

On behalf of Grand Exalted Ruler, Hon.Paul D. Helsel, and the Grand LodgeActivities/State Associations committee it ismy pleasure to inform you that the NevadaState Elks Association publication “NevadaElks News” has earned a 5 STAR award inContest “I”. We commend you for yourefforts and wish you continued success withyour publication.

Please make sure a representative of your

Association registers with the LodgeActivities/State Associations booth in theConvention Center in Portland, Oregon bySunday, July 5, 2009 where you will receiveinstructions for the presentation of youraward at the Grand Lodge Session.

Fraternally,Gary T. Schenk

G/L Committeeman

Congratulations!

First Ladies and former First Ladies at 50’s Night.

Page 2 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

Official Publication of the Nevada State Elks AssociationJUNE 2009

©Nevada State Elks AssociationThe Nevada Elks News is published four times annually —

Summer issue (June), Fall issue (September), Winter issue(December), and Spring issue (March) at 36 Connors Court,Ely, NV 89301 by the Nevada Elks Association Editorial staff.

Circulation is 7,000 per issue. The word “Elks” is a registeredtrademark of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks ofthe United States of America, a Fraternal Organization, mail-ing labels for this publication come from the ELKS MAGA-ZINE. If you are not receiving the Nevada Elks News, contactyour Lodge Secretary to insure your address is correct withthe ELKS MAGAZINE. Change of address cannot beprocessed by the Nevada Elks News.

EDITOR: Ken Curto, PDDGER PSPPRODUCTION: Shari Gilson

PRINTING: Las Vegas Review-JournalMAILING: Ely, Nevada

Ken Curto, PDDGER, Editor(775) 289-8487 or (775) 289-3543 (Home)

(775) 289-8808 (Office) Fax: (775) 289-1586Email: kencurto@hotmail.com

I would again like to thank eachand every one of you for entrustingme with the honor of being thePresident of the Nevada State ElksAssociation. I will do my best tomeet and exceed your expectations.

Since our April Convention,Barb and I have been on whatseems like a whirlwind tour. Westarted the month of May with avisit to Cedar City, Utah to attendthe Utah Elks AssociationConvention and were there for theinstallation of their new PresidentJoAnn Aldridge. JoAnn is the firstfemale President in Area 7 whichencompasses California, Arizona,Utah and Nevada. The next weekwe were in Tempe, Arizona toattend the Arizona Elks AnnualConvention for the installation oftheir new President LelandSchwein. The third week of Maywe traveled to Ontario, Californiafor the California-Hawaii AnnualConvention and the installation ofPresident Lee Karjola. Our GrandExalted Ruler Paul Helsel was withus for the last two conventions andwe got to know him and his FirstLady Jane very well. The GERindicated that he was sorry theycould not attend our Mid-TermConvention last November. Wewere told by our predecessors thatout of state guests are treated likeroyalty when attending these con-ventions. I now see what theymean. All of the conventions weregreat to attend and it was nice tosee old friends and meet new ones.This is something we will remem-ber forever. The four new Area 7Presidents have a fantastic relation-ship and this will prove to be anexceptional year.

We have some new CommitteeChairpersons and I know they willall do a fine job in reporting all ofthe good deeds we do as well askeeping the association going in astrong direction. One new pro-gram, or committee, isMembership Development.Wayne Leroy is the Chairman andhe will be working with all of thelodges to not only bring in newmembers, which we all strive to do,but to make a renewed push toretain our existing members. Weare losing a great number of ourmembers that just plain lose inter-est in what the lodge has to offer,do not renew and go on the lapsa-tion list to be dropped at a laterdate. We all need to keep thosemembers in the fold and keep theminterested in Elkdom. For a com-plete listing of committeeChairpersons you can find them inthe state directory or on the NSEAwebsite, www.nsea-elks.org. If

you have not done so, please lookat the website to see all of the infor-mation and the great job that BillWiseman has done to make it a firstclass site.

I would like to congratulate ournew President - Elect GaryFerguson and our new VicePresident Jim Smolenski on theirelections to office and I am confi-dent that they will both do a finejob in representing you, our mem-bers. I would also like to thank theReno Elks Lodge for a superb jobin holding the April AnnualConvention. The members of thatlodge really know how to put aconvention together and plan everydetail. Allan Squailia andConvention Chairman, ExaltedRuler Max Shen and the rest oftheir committee of workers and theReno Emblem Club deserve a bigTHANK YOU.

Larry RackleyNSEA President

NSEA President’s Letter

On behalf of Grand Exalted Ruler, Hon. Paul D. Helsel, andthe Grand Lodge Activities/State Associations Committee it ismy pleasure to inform you that the Nevada State ElksAssociation has earned a FIRST PLACE award in Contest "G"- Elks National Foundation Per Capita Donation. We commendyou for your efforts and wish you continued success with yourfund raising program in support of the "Great Heart of Elkdom."

The per capita for the top 5 winners are as follows:Nevada - $11.876 Texas - $10.102 South Carolina - $9.807 Mississippi - $9.142 Alaska - $8.820

Your award will be forwarded to your state Secretary forpresentation at a future state function.

Fraternally,Gary T. Schenk

GL/Committeeman

First PlaceCongratulations

It is now June; the first quarter of the 2009-10 ElksMembership year is almost over! However, I amconfident that every Membership Team at all 15Lodges in Nevada have their Membership Plan fullydeveloped and are now busy in its implementationphase. For your review, listed below are a few of the"Key Components" of a comprehensive membershipdevelopment strategy. Review the list and place acheck mark beside all those areas which have beencompleted or are scheduled during the remainder ofthe year:

____ Mailed a 2nd Dues Notice to all delinquentmembers; accompanied by a "friendly" letter remind-ing them they must have overlooked the 1st DuesNotice and that their membership is very importantfor continuing and improving Lodge programs andactivities.

____ Assigned Lodge members (Sponsors,Membership Committee, Lodge Officers, PER's andothers) to make personal contact with every delin-quent member and encourage them to renew theirmembership.

____ Develop a mailing list of all members in yourLodge who have been dropped from membershipduring the last 5 years and contact them with anencouraging letter that they have been "missed" andtheir membership is still needed to support Elkdom.

____ Designed a questionnaire to use for all per-sonal follow-up of the current delinquent membersand those members dropped during the last 5 years toascertain the primary reasons for their decision to notbe a member of the Benevolent and Protective Orderof Elks.

____ Updated the "Stray Elks" list for your Lodge(available upon request from Grand Lodge); this listshould be used to send a flyer or invitation for everymajor Lodge function or activity.

____ Initiated a comprehensive strategy for everyLodge member to be pro-active in asking their fellowworkers, friends, neighbors, and others to considerbecoming a member of the Lodge. Remember justone contact per week by every Lodge member will

produce Amazing Results!____ Reviewed the processes and procedures used

for Investigation, and Indoctrination of prospectivenew members. Is the investigation being done in aprofessional, courteous and timely manner? AtIndoctrination did all prospective new membersreceive a comprehensive overview of all Elks pro-grams and services? Was a commitment receivedfrom the new member to become actively involved ina committee, activity or function? Was the newmember duly impressed by their Initiation into theLodge?

We hope you checked ALL seven areas of yourMembership Development Plan. If you need help orassistance, do not hesitate to contact Jackie ormyself; together it is possible for every NevadaLodge to have a membership increase during 2009-10.

Keep up the good work.Wayne Leroy, Chairman

Membership Development702-275-6432

Jackie Edwards, ChairmanMembership

775-224-5242

Membership Development

To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice,Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize abelief in God; to promote the welfare andenhance the happiness of its Members; to quick-en the spirit of American partiotism; to cultivategood fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a frater-nal organization, and to provide for its govern-ment, the Benevolent and Protective Order ofElks of the United States of America will servethe people and communities through benevolentprograms, demonstrating that Elks Care andElks Share.

Mission Statement

NSEA PresidentLarry Rackley

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 3

In MemoriamCarol Irene Phillips

Former First LadyNevada State Elks Assoc.

Cards can be sent to: Garth Phillips PSP115 N. Bailey Street

Fallon, NV 89406-2720

George VandeverPER PDDGER PSP

North Las Vegas Lodge #2353

It is times like these that try men’s souls and men like ExaltedRuler Jeff Ricketts that make the Order of Elks what it is. My friendand Exalted Ruler of my lodge was only an Elk for two years and hewas so energetic and loyal to a fault. His year was just beginningwhen the Grand Exalted Rural in the heavens decided to take himfrom us and have him join the Grand Lodge in Heaven. We will carryon and make this his year, achieve his goals and we will never for-get the fun loving and hard working Exalted Ruler that died doingwhat he loved, riding motorcycles. Jeff, until we meet again beyondthe valley of the shadow of death …we will meet and we will missyou and we shall never forget you for your name will be written for-ever on our hearts and in our memories.

Ken Curto

Jeffery N. Ricketts,Exalted Ruler

We shall meet, but we shall miss him.There will be the vacant chair,But though we no more possess him,Still our hearts his memory bear.But a while ago we gathered,Friendship beaming in each eye,Now the golden cord is severed,He has passed to realms on high…And so we say, speaking for the surviving members in their

Lodges: “Good-bye, good-bye until the hour of eleven shall regular-ly return, to set the bells of memory a-chiming. Thou art I and I amthou for thy name we have as a talisman upon our hearts.” Good-bye,Brothers… we will miss you and never forget you. Rest in peace,your work is done.

The Vacant Chair

If I could pause and say good bye,I would talk of my love for youThe love of being a son, a brother and a friend,I would tell you, not to grieve, But to feel

gladnss and great joyFor with my passing I came home, Home to

such a wonderful placeA place of beauty beyond compare, where

peace and love abounds,A place of pure happiness, where everyone is

made whole,No more pain, no more suffering, Just peace

and love surounds me hereI would tell you of things to come, things which

would make you smile,Tell you of things to calm your fears, things that

would bring you great joyAll I ask of you this day, Is to please remember

me,Remember all the times we share, The good

times and the sad,When you close your eyes and dream at night,

dream of my ready smileDream of the brightness of my eyes,and the

Love I have for you all

As you live here on earth, you will see facesalong the way,

faces which will give your heart a start,A face in a crowd, who will make you stop, Stop and turn and suddenly think of meIn the darkness as you dream, sometimes I will

come to you,to bring some warmth to your heart, and glad-

ness to your soul,Do not grieve for my loss, for I am not lost you

knowFor I will be waiting here for you, waiting here

on that day,When your life too will pass, I will be for you,

with my hands out stretched,Waiting here to welcome you home again, and

take you in my armsTo once again, share with you my kind and

loving smile,If I could pause to say goodbye, I would tell

each one, I knewI love you all, my family and my friends. If I could just say goodbye.

Martin J. SorensonApril 15, 2000

If I Could Say Goodbye

On 25 January 1991, Staff Sergeant Michael R.Conner of Fremont died in Saudi Arabia, the firstrecorded death of a California Bay Area Soldier.The following poem was written by SergeantConner in the Saudi desert and sent to his family atChristmas:

MY SYMBOLI had a dream near 3 a.m.That crashed into my nightA multitude of warriorsStanding in full sight.

On their anguished facesWere grim and hateful glares;They wore Marine Corps blousesYet all they did was stare.

I saw wounds of Belleau Wood,I saw the scars of Guam,The dead were there of Heartbreak RidgeAnd a company from 'Nam.

Then, one spoke out and asked me

A question loud and strong;"Can they burn the flag we died for?How can it NOT be wrong?"

I did not have an answerTo ease their angry painI could only give excusesFor a country gone insane...

I saw the flag on twoJust before I diedI saw the lead pole liftedWhere the flag was safely tied.

I know it's just a symbolThat flies above our graves,But, let it be a symbolOf what these men and I gave.

With that, the dream was over,And I awoke with fear and shame.I think a FOOL can trampleThe flag that bears OUR names. . . .

A Fallen Solder’s Tribute to the Flag

This tribe to the flag was writ-ten by Shirley Bransford to begiven at the B.P.O. Does FlagDay services by Kelly Harrison,P.E.R. of Ely #1469.

June 14 is the birthday of theStars and Stripes, the flag of ourcountry. This flag which wehonor and under which we serveis the emblem of our unity, ourpower, and our purpose as anation.

It has no character other thanthat which we give it from gener-

ation to generation. The choice isours. It floats silently above thehosts that make that choice. Andyet though silent, it speaks to usof the past, of the myriads of menand women who went before us,who served under it and of therecords they wrote upon it.

From the crossing of theDelaware by Washington to PearlHarbor, from Gettysburg to theAlamo, from the LouisianaPurchase to the completion of theContinental Railroad, from the

time of its birth until now it haswitnessed the great historicalevents that this country haspassed through to bring and holdus together as a great nation, andto provide to the world the great-est example of freedom ever con-ceived by minds of men.

On this day we place our handsover our hearts and pay homageto Old Glory — the Red, Whiteand Blue — the symbol ofLiberty and Freedom to us and allthe world.

A Tribute To The Flag

Page 4 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

THE NEVADA ELKS NEWSThe Official Publication of

The Nevada State Elks AssociationA FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION

GRAND LODGE OFFICERS - AREA 7Donald D. Dapelo Past Grand Exalted RulerKenneth L. Moore Past Grand Exalted RulerLouis J. Grillo Past Grand Exalted RulerJoseph H. Riley, Jr. Member, Grand TrusteesCharles F. Serventi Grand Esteemed Leading KnightBrad Sikes District Deputy Nevada NorthLee Butts District Deputy Nevada South

Nevada State Elks Association2009 - 2010 Officers

PresidentLarry Rackley (Barbara) PDDGER4089 Capitol View, Carson City, NV 89701President-ElectGary Ferguson (Jackie) PDDGERPO Box 36177, Las Vegas, NV 89133-6177Vice-PresidentJim Smolenski (Pam) PDDGER1112 Ridgefield Dr., Carson City, NV 89706SecretaryJim Shirkey (Pam) PDDGER, PSP, PGE, DL6649 Magical Dr., Sparks, NV 89436

TreasurerGarth Phillips (Carol) PDDGER, PSP115 N. Bailey Street, Fallon, NV 89406-2720ChaplainPam Shirkey (Jim)6649 Magical Dr., Sparks, NV 89436TilerDonald Coleman (Barbara Ann) PER1955 Bafford Ln., Fallon, NV 89406Sergeant At ArmsKeith Martin (Linda) PER205 E. John St.Carson City, NV 89706

State CoordinatorWilliam Wiseman (Mela) PER9801 Biscayne Ln., Las Vegas, NV 89117-3546HistorianJohn Vore (Tella) PER1830 W. Irons Ave., Pahrump, NV 89048OrganistRoger Brotherton (Doris) PDDGER7750 W. 4th St. #105, Reno, NV 89523

One-Year-TrusteeKenneth Catlin, Jr. (Sue) PER6045 Westwind Way, Fallon, NV 89406Two-Year-TrusteeJack Henningan (Terri) PERPO Box 5319, Pahrump, NV 89401

Three-Year-TrusteeAlbert Bye (Sabina) PER1525 W. High Pointe Circle, Minden, NV 89423

Four-Year-TrusteeGeorge Montgomery PER5648 Bolton Valley, Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89122

Trustee-At-LargeKen Curto (Teresa) PDDGER, PSP36 Connors Court, Ely, NV 89301

Dear Friends:Those of you who have attend-

ed the State Association meetingsin the past years have frequentlyheard me say how proud I am tobe the Sponsor of the NevadaState Elks Association. For thoseof you who have not been able toattend for one reason or another, Iwant you to know a few of the rea-sons I feel as I do.

For example, I am privileged tosit on the Board of Trustees for ourgreat national benevolence, TheElks National Foundation, andhave taken great pride for a num-ber of years that the NSEA hasbeen FIRST in per capita dona-tions to that program for a numberof years and continues to hold thatposition. However, this is not aone way street. Do you know thatfor the coming year Nevada willreceive back from the NationalFoundation in cash nearly $90,000for their use in supporting charita-ble programs of their choice? Thisis in addition to the Most Valuable

Student and legacy scholarshipsavailable to the young students inour State.

The outstanding program con-ducted in this state in support ofthe pledge made many years agoby the Order of Elks that "As longas there are veterans in our

nation's hospitals, the Order ofElks will never forget them" bythe NSEA Veterans ServiceCommimttee continues to be ashining light for all theAssociations in our Order and myhat is off to it. But this program isalso funded by the NationalFoundation.

There are many other reasons Icould cite for my pride as Sponsorfor the NSEA. The ones I havementioned here are only a few, butI'm sure from what I have men-tioned you will get what I mean.

For those of you who will betraveling this summer, I wish youGod Speed and may you enjoy apleasant and restful vacation. Forthose of you who will be inPortland for our NationalConvention I look forward to see-ing you there and to one and all avery Happy 4th of July.

Sincerely and fraternally,DONALD D. DAPELOPast Grand Exalted Ruler

NSEA Sponsor’s Summer Message

Donald D. DapeloPast Grand Exalted Ruler

I thought it might be of interestto those Elk members that are notyet PERS (Past Exalted Rulers),just what this State Association isall about. Our primary purpose isto provide Scholarships forNursing Students in the State ofNevada. Each year, we try toaward two to five scholarshipsdepending on our funding. Wealso try to share Lodge issues &solutions with each other so thatthe PERS can take this informa-tion back to their respectiveLodges.

We obtain our funding for thischarity by asking each Lodge'sPER Association to sale Raffle

Tickets which sell for $5.00 forsix tickets with the drawing beingheld at the April's NSEAConvention. I am not going tomention the amounts given outbecause these amounts maychange in the future but I will saythat we pay three places. So if aPER approaches you to purchaseraffle tickets, we appreciate yoursupport.

Any PER in good standing iswelcome to join this Associationfor a nominal amount ($15.00)which permits them to vote on anymatter discussed at our twice ayear business meeting (April andNovember). This fee is for vari-

ous administrative expenses i.e.,printing tickets, mailing, membercards, etc....

Information about applying forthese Nursing Scholarships can beobtained from Ross Dryer at 702-476-0694 in Southern Nevadaand/or Roger Lund at 775-626-4207 in Northern Nevada.

We appreciate all the supportthat most of you Elk brothers andsisters have given us in the pastand in the future.

Fraternally yours,Al Bye

NSEA PER Assoc. President

NSEA Per Association

To all Distdrict Deputies, EaltedRulers, Officers and Members:

Soon a quarter of the 2009-10Lodge year will be behind us and thequestion is, are you and your Lodgeahead, behind or on schedule for asuccessful year. As I mentioned lastmonth, now is the time to assesswhere you are and make any adjust-ments. If you haven't done that yet,don't wait any longer! Do it now toensure that everything is being done tooffer our programs to our community,as well as achieving growth and oper-ational stability in your Lodge.

June is busy with many StateConventions, with everyone gettingready for the National Convention inPortland, and, of course, every Lodgeconducting the mandatory Flag DayCelebration and hopefully a Father'sDay tribute.

Flag Day and Father's Day are per-fect for involving the community inwhat your Lodge does as a patriotic

and commu-nity-orientedorganization.It is the per-fect time toshow yourinterest anddevotion toyour commu-nity, countryand family.Seize theseopportunitiesto build astronger rela-tionship with your community andMembers.

Your Lodge remains in a uniqueposition to help your community, aswell as your own membership.Lodges generally are well establishedand staffed with caring Elks. They areperfectly positioned to be of great sup-port to their communities andMembers. This is particularly true

with today's uncertainty we are expe-riencing nationwide.

Reach out to your memership andcommunity and determine what yourLodge can do to help. You certainlycan continue to provide economicalsocial opportunities for yourMembers, as well as a friendly facilityto gather for support, discussion andpossible examination of opportunities.Show your memership your concernfor their well being and your Lodge'swillingness to be there for them.

Do the same thing for your com-muinity and use your membership tohelp. Make your facilities and theexpertise of your membership avail-able to your community. Reach outand make your Lodge a leader in com-munity support. Be a rallying pointfor your Members and community.

Thank you for your continuingefforts to Grow Elkdom and make ourOrder shine during these difficulttimes.

June Actvities Perfect for Involving Community

Hon. Paul D. Helsel

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 5

Red Rock Elks Lodge # 2835 along with Cub Scout Pack 182 wentout to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City on SaturdayMay 23, 2009 and placed flags in remembrance of the veterans thatdied for our country. The whole experience was very touching foreveryone. Everyone arrived at 7:00 am and began placing the flagsabove every grave. By 8:00 am the entire cemetery was filled withflags. It was quite the site to see. This was a very memorable eventfor the Elks as well as the scouts.

Red Rock Elks Lodge #2385 and Cub Scout Pack#182 Place Flags of Remembrance To Our Veterans

Red Rock Elks member Debbie VanAlstyne and Cub Scout Pack 182 scout Brian Josephson.

Left to right: Cub Scout Pack 182 scouts Jonah VanGordon andBrian Josephson.

Red Rock Elks Lodge #2835 and Cub Scout Pack 182.

Page 6 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

RENO #597Howard J. EnosNeil RomeroLionel Boskie

LAS VEGAS #1468Byron UnderhillEdward Kraynock

ELY #1469Jeffrey N, Ricketts ER

BOULDER CITY #1682Elmer Marshall LMJerry Simpson LMWalter Johnson

HAWTHORNE#1704Benjamin F. Bennington

NORTH LAS VEGAS #2353William G. SchottGeorge Vanderever PDDGER, PSPAdele Montgomery

MINDEN-DOUGLAS #2670Dr. Fred KrauelDavid C. Trueblood PERLon Curtis

PAHRUMP #2796Claude (Whitey) SherwoodJeannine Hall

HENDERSON-GREENVALLEY #2802Jeanie young

“In Vain We Call”

Now is the hour when Elkdom’s toweris darkened by the shroud of night,and Father time on his silver chimeToll off each moment’s flight.

In Cloistered halls each Elk recallsHis Brothers where’er they be,And traces their faces to well-known placesIn the annals of memory.

Whether they stand on a foreign landOr lie in an earthen bed,Whether they be on the boundless sea

With the breakers of death ahead.

What’er their plight on this eerie nightWhat’er their fate may beWhere ever they are be it near or farThey are thinking of you and me.

So drink from the fountain of fellowshipTo the Brother who clasped your handAnd wrote your worth in the rock of EarthAnd your faults upon the sand.

“TO OUR ABSENT BROTHERS”

The Original Jolly Corks Toast

As summer draws near, theState Americanism Committee iscalling on all Elks of Nevada toproudly display our Flag at ourLodge and all Lodge functions.Flag Day is coming next week-end. All Lodges should remem-ber that the activities that makeup Flag Day are a mandatoryprogram. Several Lodges haveindicated special programs inassociation with their formalFlag Day service. Reno Lodge#597 has the privilege of hostinga naturalization ceremony inconjunction with their Flag Dayceremony and Flag retirementservices. In partnership with theDepartment of HomelandSecurity, 48 people will becomenaturalized citizens of theUnited States at the Lodge priorto the Flag Day program.

Throughout the fraternal year,a number of activities can beenjoyed that promoteAmericanism. Some of theseactivities include holding a Lawand Order Night at your Lodge.We can observe NationalPatriotism Week in Februaryeach year. The Committee islooking forward to all NevadaLodges submitting LodgeAmericanism Brochures. Youcan review the criteria for thosebrochures in the AmericanismManual that should be in allLodges.

The State AmericanismCommittee is promoting astatewide Americanism EssayContest. The theme for this

year’s contest will be announcedat the Grand Lodge session inPortland, Oregon. The contest isgeared toward all 5th, 6th, 7thand 8th graders in your Lodge’sjurisdiction. Lodges shouldaward prizes for the winners ofeach division. Forward thoselocal winners to the StateAmericanism Committee forjudging. $100 savings bonds willbe awarded to the First PlaceBoy and Girl winners in Nevada.Those winners will be sent on tothe Grand Lodge for nationalreview.

The State AmericanismCommittee will have a supply ofLapel pins and “Honor OurFlag” decals available for mem-bers upon request. IndividualLodges should also considerplacing orders with the GrandLodge for patriotic items fortheir members and the public.The goal of this committee is tofoster a genuine feeling ofrespect and pride toward patriot-ism. If you need any informationabout Americanism, please con-tact Ted Lipka of Red RockLodge #2835 or myself, RogerLund of Reno Lodge #597. I amusing a sign off from my friendand Brother Elk Frank ReynoldsIII to close …Until we meetagain, MAY YOUR FLAGBLOW IN A GENTLEBREEZE.

Fraternally yours,Roger Lund, PER

State Americanism Chairman,NSEA

Americanism: NevadaState Elks Association

Having fun at the Annual Convention in Reno.

By Dennius C. ClarkeCommittee Chairman

As you read this article:Only a little over nine

months remain for the Lodge tosign up new Members andexpect to have them initiatedbefore March 31, 2010.

Members who have not paidtheir 2009-10 dues areapproaching 60 days past due.

Is the Lodge implementingactions to have at least a +1membership increase duringthe 2009-10 SubordinateLodge year? To assessprogress toward a +1, use thecheck list below to evaluatemembership program activityto date and identify areas thatneed to be addressed.

1. Membership goal estab-lished

2. Formation of the mem-bership team, which includes

the Membership, Lapsationand Interview/IndoctrinationChairpersons andRepresentatives from theLodge and communityActivities, and PublicRelations Committees

3. Lodge membership plandeveloped

4. Membership plan sharedwith Lodge Members on theLodge floor and in the Lodgebulletin

5. Membership ProgressChart posted in prominentplace in the Lodge

6. Second dues billing sentand personal contact madewith Members not dues current(Once 90 days past due thelikelihood of collectiondecreases rapidly)

7. Candidates reported asawaiting initiation on the annu-al report initiated and assigned

a mentor8. Applicants awaiting bal-

loting and applications on handApril 1 are moving through themembership process in a time-ly manner

9. Applications receivedsince March 31 have been readon the Lodge floor and referredto the Investigating Committee

10. Requests for GER Pinsand Elks watches and clockscurrent (Awards for 2008-09Grand lodge year ends June 15.Each awards also earns entry inthe cruise/trip contest.)

If the answer to any of theabove was no, the time to takeaction is now. Refer to the +1Membership Program brochurefor more information or con-tact a Member of your StateAssociation or the GrandLodge membership team forassistance.

Membership Plan on Schedule?

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 7

You are welcome here! Visit a Lodge or activity or your choice!RENO LODGE #597597 Kumle Lane - Reno, NV(775) 825-0597Lodge Meetings on 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 8:00 pm

TONOPAH LODGE #1062241 Central St. - Tonopah, NV(775) 482-6850Lodge Meetings 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:30 pm

LAS VEGAS LODGE #14684100 W. Charleston Blvd. - Las Vegas, NV(702) 258-3557Lodge Meetings 1st, 2nd, 4th Thursdays at 7:30 pm

ELY LODGE #1469694 Campton St. - Ely, NV(775) 289-4904Lodge Meetings 2nd, 4th & 5th Thursdays at 7:00 pmSocial Nights 1st & 3rd Thursdays

BOULDER CITY LODGE #16821217 Nevada Way - Boulder City, NV(702) 293-2457Lodge Meetings 1st & 3rd Wednesdays at 7:00 pm

HAWTHORNE LODGE #1704595 W. 5th St. - Hawthorne, NV(775) 945-1704Lodge Meetings 1st, 2nd & 4th Thursdays at 7:00 pm

CARSON CITY LODGE #2177515 N. Nevada St. - Carson City, NV(775) 882-2177Lodge Meetings 1st, 3rd & 4th Tuesdays at 7:30 pm

FALLON LODGE #223993 W. Center St. - Fallon, NV(775) 423-2239Lodge Meetings 2nd & 4th Thursdays at 7:30 pm

NORTH LAS VEGAS LODGE #23532339 Van Der Meer St. - N. Las Vegas, NV(702) 642-9431Lodge Meetings 2nd & 4th Wednesdays at 7:00 pm

SPARKS LODGE #2397517 S. Rock Blvd. - Sparks, NV(775) 358-2397Lodge Meetings 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00 pm

MINDEN-DOUGLAS LODGE #26701276 Pit Road #1 - Gardnerville, NV(775) 264-4523Lodge Meetings 1st four Wednesdays except July & August 2nd &4th Wednesday at 8:00 pm

PAHRUMP LODGE #27962220 East Basin Ave. - Pahrump, NV(775) 751-2796Lodge Meetings 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 7:300 pm

HENDERSON GREEN VALLEY LODGE #2802631 E. Lake Mead Pkwy. - Henderson, NV(702) 565-9959Lodge Meetings 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 7:30 pm except July &August 1st Tuesday only

MESQUITE LODGE #2811545 Riverside Rd. - Mesquite, NV(702) 345-2811Lodge Meetings 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 6:30 pm, No 2nd MeetingJuly, No 1st Meeting August

RED ROCK LODGE #2835Bowling Alley meeting rooms2nd Floor Suncoast Casino9090 Alta Dr. - Las Vegas, NV(702) 254-7075Lodge Meetings 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 7:00 pm, except July &August 4th Tuesday

Stray Elks in Nevada

Sixty-two children participated in “Tommy’sAnnual Fishing Derby” on Saturday, May 16thwhich was hosted by the Carson City ElksLodge #2177. Davis Creek in Washoe Valley

provided a beautiful setting and a freshlystocked lake. After the contest, the children andtheir parents were treated to barbecued ham-burgers and hot dogs.

Fishing Derby

Winners of this years Fishing Derby pose by their winning catches.

Several people have been con-sidering the possibility of estab-lishing a new Elks Lodge in yourcommunity.

In order to proceed further, Iwould like your input. I will besetting up a meeting in your

community around September orOctober of 2009.

The benefit of your thinkingis needed and I sincerely hopeyou will contact me. If you areinterested please contact Janiceor Paul Petery at (775)826-9222,

(775)233-2395 or e-mail at jan-icegraypetery@yahoo.com.

Sincerely Yours,Janice Gray-Petery PER

New Lodges ChairmanNevada State Elks Assoc.

Dear Stray Elks in Elko, Wells and Carlin Area

Once again Nevada Elksanswered the call to help theabused and neglected children inNevada by supporting our StateMajor Project - Safe Haven.This project supports emergencyshelter care for children whomust be removed from their par-ents' care. The "shelter" fosterparents have to be caring andnurturing to the child and at thesame time explain why the childcannot go home. They are someof the first steps in making surethe child will grow up in a safehome. Through the generosityof the Nevada Elks the Divisionof Child and Family Services isable to support Safe Havens forchildren. Not one penny goes toany salaries or administrativecosts - the sole purpose of thefunds we donate each year is toprovide for statewide emergencyshelter care program for abusedand neglected children.

At our recent Convention inReno, the SMP Trustees voted toincrease our donations to Child& Family Services from$52,000.00 to $60,000.00 peryear. During the Major ProjectLuncheon, we raised a total of$56,341.89. Reno Lodge tookhome the plaque for LargestDonation and Largest Per CapitaDonation went to Red RockLodge, but the competition isgetting more intense every year.It is apparent that the "BluePiggy Bank Program" is a defi-

nite positive addition to theLodge fundraising efforts. Keepup the good work. Remember -our unique partnership of a fra-ternal organization and statechild welfare agency is anexceptional response to the prob-lem of child abuse and neglect.A coin a day makes a safe placeto stay - so take up the challengeand fill those Blue Piggy Banks -turn them in - then fill themagain. Together, we have theopportunity to make a differencein the lives of the youngest andmost vulnerable members of ourcommunity. And, a specialthank you comes from theAdministrator of the NevadaDivision of Child and FamilyServices - "On behalf of allNevada's foster children, wethank the Nevada Elks ongoingefforts in the Safe Haven - StateMajor Project"

Ted Balash

State Major Project ~ Safe Haven

Page 8 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

COOL APRIL NIGHTS - RENO CONVENTION

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 9

Page 10 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

Taco Friday andBirthday Cake

Carson City Lodge #2177 - Well wishers gatheredaround Elk sister, Faye Chesley, as she got ready toblow out the candles on her 95th Birthday cake. Elks,friends and family gathered to help celebrate duringthe "Taco Friday" night dinner.

Dear Barbara,It is with great pride that I am able to congratulate you for having

been selected as the Area 7 Elks Youth Activity OutstandingVolunteer for 2008-2009. Your dedication and enthusiasm for theYouth Activities at both the Fallon Lodge and Nevada State ElksAssociation levels has been exemplary. Our youth need the guid-ance, inspiration and encouragement which we alone can give inorder to help develop those qualities of character essential for futureleadership. And toward this end, your efforts associated with theElks Youth Activities, along with your understanding of their hopesand aspirations and a sincere willingness to help prepare them inevery way for the responsibilities and opportunities of citizenshiphave been demonstrated time and time again.

A plaque with your name on it will be on display at the GrandLodge Convention Youth Activity Booth in Portland - your namewill be mentioned during the Grand Lodge Convention YouthActivity proceedings. The Plaque will be brought back from GrandLodge by me as the Area 7 Grand Lodge Youth Activities Committeemember. I plan to have it presented to you at an appropriate func-tion.

Sincerely,Ted Balash,

GLYAC Member

OutstandingVolunteer Award

Scholarship Lodge Sponsors Annual AwardWinner Award YearAnthony Jacobsmeyer Lodge #2811-NV $1,000 2009

Nia Jennings Lodge #1682-NV $1,000 2009

Jonathan Oglesby Lodge #2811-NV $1,000 2009

Clara Ritger Lodge #2670-NV $1,000 2009

MVS Scholarship Recipients Contest Winners

June 19, 2009 Sparks #2397 Lodge Telephone: 775-358-2397Email: sparkselks2398@yahoo.com

July 11, 2009 Reno #597 Lodge Telephone: 775-825-0597Email: renoelks@charterinternet.com

July 25, 2009 N. Las Vegas #2353 Lodge Telephone: 702-642-9431Email: nlvelks@elks2353.lvcoxmail.com

August 15, 2009 Red Rock #2835 Lodge Telephone: 702-233-0778Email: redrockelkslodge2835@yahoo.com

August 21, 2009 Carson City #2177 Lodge Telephone: 775-882-2177Email: elkslodge2177@sbcglobal.net

August 29, 2009 Fallon #2239 Lodge Telephone: 775-423-2239Email: fallonelks2239@cccomm.net

October 9, 2009 Pahrump #2796 Lodge Telephone: 775-751-2796Email: bpoe2796@gmail.com

October 10, 2009 Las Vegas #1468 Lodge Telephone: 702-258-3557Email: lvbpoe@lvcoxmail.com

October 23, 2009 Henderson/Gr. Valley Lodge Telephone: 702-565-9959#2802 Email: elks2802@lvcoxmail.com

October 24, 2009 Boulder City #1682 Lodge Telephone: 702-293-2457Email: bcelks1682@hotmail.com

October 29, 2009 Ely #1469 Lodge Telephone: 775-289-4904Email: elyelks1469@yahoo.com

October 31, 2009 Mesquite #2811 Lodge Telephone: 702-345-2811Email: elks2811@yahoo.com

January 29, 2010 Minden/Douglas #2670 Lodge Telephone: 775-265-4523Email: elks2670@clearwire.net

February 5, 2010 Hawthorne #1704 Lodge Telephone: 775-945-1704Email: bpoe1704@att.net

February 27, 2010 Tonopah #1062 Lodge Telephone: 775-482-6850Email: bpoe1062@inbox.com

NEVADA STATE ELKS ASSOCIATIONSTATE VISITATIONS

LARRY RACKLEY, PDDGER, STATE PRESIDENT, CARSON CITY LODGE #2177BARBARA RACKLEY, PER, STATE FIRST LADY, CARSON CITY LODGE #2177

First Ladies Luncheon, NSEA Annual Convention in Reno.

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 11

The son of a RevolutionaryWar officer, Francis Scott Keylived in turbulent times, althoughhe was born after the war.Forging a nation bred some ofour most devout patriots whoknew-and paid dearly-the cost offreedom. Trained as a lawyer,Key was 33 years old whenAmerica went to war withEngland in the War of 1812.President Madison authorizedKey to negotiate the release of apersonal friend, Dr. Beanes, whothe British had imprisoned.

Because the British planned toattack Fort McHenry, Key wasdetained on the truce boat allnight during the heavy bombard-ment. The night of September13, 1813, was undoubtedly thelongest of Key's life as he and hisparty anxiously awaited the out-come of the battle. Aboard thecraft, they listened intently

through the night As long asthey continued to hear firereturned from the shore, theyknew victory was within grasp.As the darkness began to wane,however, the shore seemed togrow silent.

With heavy hearts, the othersin the party succumbed to theirweariness for a brief rest. Keycould not rest. He stayed ondeck, pacing, knowing that free-dom itself was at stake. Finally,

"at dawn's early light," Keypeered through the midst ofBaltimore Harbor and saw theStars and Stripes still wavingover the fort. Overwhelmed andinspired by the vision, he imme-diately pulled a letter from hisjacket and on the back hastilypenned the words of his nowfamous poem. It was printedlater in handbill form, and theAmerican people heartilyembraced it. Joseph Carr pub-lished the poem, setting it to tuneknown as "Anacron in Heaven,"an old hunting tune. JohnStafford Smith is usually credit-ed with composing the music,although this is uncertain. Sinceits first use with Key's poem, ithas been the accepted tune for"The Star Spangled Banner." Itwasn't until March 3, 1931, how-ever, that it was officially adopt-ed as our national anthem.

The Star Spangled Banner

Show the flag and let it waveAs a symbol of the brave;Let it float upon the breezeAs a sign for each who seesThat beneath it, where it rides,Loyalty to-day abides

Show the flag and signifyThat it wasn't born to die;Let its colors speak for youThat you still are standing true,True in sight of God and manTo the work that flag began.

Show the flag that all may seeThat you serve humanity.Let it whisper to the breeze

That comes singing through thetreesThat whatever storms descentYou'll be faithful to the end.

Show the flag and let it fly,Cheering every passer-by.Men that may have steppedaside,May have lost their old-timepride,May behold it there, and then,Consecrate themselves again.

Show the flag! The day is goneWhen men blindly hurry onServing only gods of gold;

Now the spirit that was coldWarms again to courage fine.Show the flag and fall in line!

Show The Flag

The followingspecial toast to theFlag was presentedby Carl J. Lino,Chairman of the GLA m e r i c a n i s mCommittee at theopening on Sundayevening. It is

reprinted here by popular demand.Remember me America for I was once your son,I fought and died at Valley Forge with General

Washington.I was there at Gettysburg on the tragic, tragic day

when brother fought his brother, the blue against thegray...

And I rode with Teddy Roosevelt in the charge at SanJuan Hill.

Some came back to fight again, but I just lay therestill.

I went to France during WWI to bring peace home toyou .

I was 21 and so full of fun. I'll not see 22.

I'm still here at Pearl Harbor since that infamousDecember Day.

I stand watch on the Arizona at the bottom of the bay.And I served on a US SumbarineWe were the Bravest of the brave.Untill a Japanese depth charge sent us to a watery

grave.We bombed the Poesti oil fields until they blew with

a trememdous roar.In the attack, we took some flack. Now I'll fly no

more.In Korea I heard the C.O. shout, "We'll make it, I

know we will."But I lost my life to try to take a place called Port

Chop Hill.And Vietnam, Vietnam, when will we ever learn,I am still there with 50,000 more who never will

return.And so on through eternity my thoughts are all of

thee.I remember my America, I pray she remembers me.

To Our Absent Heroes. . .

A Salute to the Flag

Grandpa’s PrideAs I saw him standing there my heart grew with prideFor there he stood, with his small back stiff at attentionHis face stern and serious, with his eyes fixed forwardHis cowboy hat held firmly across his heartAs he stood staring at the flag as it went byAs he watched each of the stars and stripesWatching as the sunlight reflected from each starMy strong young grandson standing there for all to seeFor he has been taught what each stripe and star meansTold of the price it has cost, for this flag to waive proudly soTrained from birth, of the love of our country and it's flagThere he stood, straight and proud, making a tear come to my eyeDid he know of the invisible stains it bearsStained with the invisible bloodThe blood of those patriotic souls who gave their allOh he has made me realize, just what it meansTo be a free American, free to honor and respectRespect of country and of it's flag, and for all the symbols meanMay we all understand his pride, and live to the example he setThe example of a five year old standing proudlyAs the symbol of our Nation went by.

Martin J. Sorenson

Composed by Francis Scott Key on September 20, 1814Congress proclaimed it the U. S. National Anthem in 1931

Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light,What so proudly we hail'd at the twililght's last gleaming?Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous fight,O'er the ramparts we watch'd, were so gallantly streaming?And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,Gave proof thro' the night that our flag was still there,O say, does that star-spangled banner yet waveO're the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen thro' the mists of the deep,Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream:'T is the star-spangled banner:O, long may it waveO're the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly sworeThat the havoc of war and the battle's confusionA home and a country should leave us no more?Their blood has wash'd out their foul footsteps' pollution.No refuge could save the hireling and slaveFrom the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave.And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.O, thus be it ever when freemen shall stand,Between their love'd home and the war's desolation,Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n-rescued landPraise the Pow'r that hath made and preserv'd us as a nation!Then conquer we must, when our cause is just,And this be our motto: "In God is our trust"And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

In Defense of Fort McHenry

Page 12 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

Molly Black, (center) a 7th Grade Student at Churchill CountyJunior High School, shows off her winning trophy and certifi-cate for second place in Nevada State Elks Association“Americanism Essay Contest.” Black placed first in FallonElks Lodge competition and received $50 for her efforts. WithBlack is Ann Coleman, (left) Americanism Chairman and GaryButori, (right) Exalted Ruler of the Fallon Elks Lodge. Blackplaced first among 80 junior high students.

Essay Winner

The following five received $2000.00 each;•Melissa Foxx-Spring Valley High School•Morgan Lowe-Shadow High School•Nicole Schwartz-Bonanza High School•Rebecca Slaughter-Western High School•Courtney Triggs-Cimarron Memorial high School

Physically Challenaged StudentsThese Students received $5000.00 each

•Taylor Hassman-Centennial High School•Jonathan Oglesby-Moapa Valley High School•Caitlin Smith-Arbor View Hih SchoolThey were awarded these scholarships at a dinner given to them by

the Eks Lodge with around 50 people attending.

Las Vegas Scholarship winners

Jim Smolenski, PDDGER,PER, ER and Carol Park,Trustee, were honored toreceive an autographed photoof the Carson City MiddleSchool Band. Will Blankeship,Band Leader, presented thephoto of the Band in full uni-form as a “thank-you” for the$675 check they receivedfrom Lodge No. 2177. Thefunds to help defray the costof new band uniforms wereraised during a specialspaghetti dinner prepared byCarol Park and hosted by theCarson City Lodge.

Smolenski and Park receive autographed photo

Mesquite Elks Lodge # 2811held their Annual Law and OrderNight on May 23, 2009 honoringthe silent heroes of our communi-ty. An over flowing crowd of 150Mesquite residents,Elks Brothers,Sisters Fireman and PoliceOfficers and their families cele-brated and enjoyed one of thefinest dutch oven dinners onecould find any where in this land.The Lady Elks of Lodge # 2811again were instrumental in servingthe celebrants. The Past ExaltedRulers(PER's) Association out didthemselves this year.

During the festivities ExaltedRuler Bill Inman announcedthat our own Virgin Valley High

School Bulldogs had just wonthe Nevada Baseball StateTournament . The crowd wentwild. He also announced thatfire and police personnel wouldbe escorting the team andcoaches over the Bunkervillebridge past the Lodge. Most allof the celebrants then went outand lined the street and gave around of applause as the buswent buy with escort sirens blar-ing.

After those festivities com-pleted ER Bill Inman presentedplaques to this years recipientsof Officers of the year.

Police Officer Sgt. ScottTaylor was awarded a beautiful

plaque and his name went on theperpetual trophy. Police Capt.Tanner accepted on his behalf.

Fireman/Medic John Gatelywas then announced as thisyears recipient of the Fireman ofthe year and received his plaque.

Special guests of the eveningwere Mayor Susan and ElksState District Leader LarryO'Laughlin.

We the PER's and members ofMesquite Lodge # 2811 wouldlike to thank the Community ofMesquite for there support ofthis most worthy event.

Lou Martin, PER PublicRelations Mesquite Lodge #2811.

Annual Law and Order Night in Mesquite

In 2005, Christina Brownfrom Incline Village wasawarded the Elk's MostValuable Student Scholarship.

Since receiving this awardshe has attended Point LomaNazarene University. Shetransferred to University ofNevada Reno where shemajored in Animal Sciencewith a 3.99 grade point aver-age and been on the Dean'sList for the past year.

April 10,2009 she returnedto the Sparks Elk's Lodge#2397 to speak about her edu-cation that was supported

with the Elk's Scholarship.She talked about her futureplans to complete VeterinaryScience at Colorado StateCollege and thanked the Elk'sfor their support.

Christina Brown's appear-ance at the Sparks Lodge#2397 at a Friday NightDinner is part of Grand LodgeProgram to have scholarshipwinners return to talk abouttheir higher education experi-ence. The Scholarship pro-gram encourages students to"come full circle" and tell thelocal lodges what they haveaccomplished with the award.

Elks Most ValuableStudent Scholarship

Annual NSEA Convention - Reno.

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 13

Ten Washoe County High School students and their families werehonored at the annual Reno Elks Lodge #597 Scholarship Dinner.

Three high school seniors each received a $1,500 scholarship. The winners were chosen based upon applications, academic tran-

scripts, letters of recommendation, and their answer to the essayquestion, "What the American Flag means to me."

All three winners are planning on attending UNR next year.Additional honorees were 11 JROTC Cadets, one from every high

school having an JROTC Program. In Washoe County there are 11high schools – every one of them having an active program. Eachcadet receives a $100 savings bond to be used for his/her futureeducation. Seven of the 11 cadets were able to attend the dinner.

Honorees at the RenoElks Lodge #597 AnnualScholarship Dinner

Submitted by Sharon K. JohnsonReno Elks Lodge #597

The Reno Elks Lodge # 597 is very proud of J. Thomas Jutte, a PastExalted Ruler of the Lodge, who has been their spokesman atNaturalization ceremonies since 1978 and has presented hundreds ofAmerican flags to new citizens.

Tom begins his presentations with comments regarding general citi-zenship and the responsibilities of being a good citizen, such as voting,serving on juries, and becoming involved in the political process andnot becoming complacent. He talks about being active in the communi-ty, like joining churches, PTA, other organizations (like the Elks), help-ing neighbors, and anything else that contributes to a better city, state,or nation. Tom also says a few words about fulfilling any dreams of whythey came to the United States. Then he talks about the Elks, patriotism,and waving our flag.

Tom ends the presentation with the poem recital:I am your flag.I was born June 14, 1777.I am more than just cloth shaped into a design.I am the refuge of the World's oppressed people.I am the silent sentinel of freedom.I am the emblem of the greatest sovereign nation on earth.I am the inspiration for which American Patriots gave their lives and

fortunes.I have led your families into battle from Valley Forge to all far off

regions on earth.I walk in silence with each of your honored dead to their final resting

place beneath the silent white crosses row upon row.I have flown through peace and war; strife and prosperity; and amidst

it all, I have been respected.My red stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of this glorious

nation.My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who

have lost their loved ones. My blue field is indicative of God's heaven, under which I fly.My stars, clustered together, unify all states as one, for God and

Country. "Old Glory" is my nickname, and I proudly wave on high.Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and your fortunes.Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I

never return.Keep alight the fires of patriotism; strive earnestly for the spirit of

Democracy. Worship Eternal God, and keep his commandments; and I shall

remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for all mankind.Tom’s presentation gives a memorable beginning to all new

Americans and a reminder to all who were lucky enough to be born anAmerican.

J. Thomas JutteProudly Recognized

This is to advise you that I have taken overthe Nevada State Association's PublicRelations of the May reporting period. In addi-tion to sending me the name, address and emailaddrerss of your current PR chairperson, I willalso need the following information from eachlodge by the 10th of each month, for reportingto Grand Lodge:

Your monthly Lodge BulletinYour Lodge PR ReprtCopies of any newspper or magazine noticesDocumentation of any radio announcementsAny changes/additions to your Lodge web-

site

This information may be sent to me asattachments to an email message, or by regularU.S. mail. My email address is: asbye@char-ter.net; my home address is stated above.

I will send report forms and other news bul-letins to your lodge email address which youwill have received by the time you receive thisnotice.

If you have any questions, please feel free tocall me .

Fraternally,Sabina Bye

NSEA Publicity Chairman

Letter to Lodge Secretaries

Join the Rackley’s on the 7th Annual NevadaState Elks’ Cruise, October 12, 2009, 11 nightWine Cruise - Vancouver to San Diego.

Oct. 12: Vancouver, Depart midnightOct. 13: Nanaimo, British Columbia, 7:00 am -

depart 5:00 pmOct. 14: Victoria, British Columbia, 7:00 am -

depart 5:00 pmOct. 15: Seattle, Washington, 7:00 am - depart

5:00 pmOct. 16: Astoria, Oregon, 10:30 am - depart 6:00

pmOct. 17: At Sea

Oct. 18: San Francisco, CA, 7:00 amOct. 19: San Franciso, CA, depart 7:00 pmOct. 20: Monterey, CA, 7:00 am - depart 5:00

pmOct. 21: At SeaOct. 22: Catalina Island, CA7:00 am - depart

5:00 pmOct. 23: San Diego, 7:00 amDeposit: $900 per stateroom. Book now.Cruise Holidays, 4350 E. Sunset Rd. #101,

Henderson, NV 89014. Phone 702-898-6999, TollFree 800-760-7447, Fax 702-898-6991, emailBonnie@call2cruise.com.

Join the Rackley’s on the 7thAnnual Nevada State Elks’ Cruise

(This was actually reported by ateacher)

After Christmas, a teacher asked heryoung pupils how they spent their holidayaway from school.

One child wrote the following:We always used to spend the holidays

with Grandma and Grandpa.They used to live in a big brick house

but Grandpa got retarded and they movedto Florida.

Now they live in a tin box and haverocks painted green to look like grass.

They ride around on their bicycles andwear name tags because they don't knowwho they are anymore.

They go to a building called a wreckcenter, but they must have got it fixedbecause it is all okay now, they do exer-cises there, but they don't do them verywell. There is a swimming pool pool, butthey all jump up and down in it with hatson.

At their gate, there is a doll house witha little old man sitting in it. He watchesall day so nobody can escape. Sometimes

they sneakout, and gocruising intheir golfcarts.

N o b o d ythere cooks,they just eatout.

And, theyeat the samething everynight---early birds.

Some of the people can't get out pastthe man in the doll house.

The ones who do get out bring foodback to the wrecked center for pot luck.

My Grandma says that Grandpaworked all his life to earn his retardmentand says I should work hard so I can beretarded someday to.

When I earn my retardment, I want tobe the man in the doll house. Then I willlet people out, so they can visit theirgrandchildren.

Retarded Grandparents

Page 14 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

"THEY'RE OFF!" This famil-iar cry will be heard, once again,this August 22nd & 23rd as livehorse racing returns to Nevada'sWhite Pine County. Operated bythe Ely Elks Lodge #1469 inconjunction with the Ag District13, this will be the fourth seasonin their efforts to re-establish along time tradition which began75 years ago in Ely.

Originally organized in 1934,the races were formed by localranchers and business people inan effort to overcome the depres-sion blues. Some of the peopleinvolved in the formation of theraces were Bill Goodman, FrankCalloway and Stan Draper. Thisgroup ran the races until 1937when the county helped by form-ing a Fair Board. The first chair-man was Tom Bath, a local busi-ness owner. A year later, theybuilt a new race track and grand-stand which is still in use. Thisyear's pari-mutual manager isJim Bath, Tom's son. Tom wasinstrumental in making the fairgrounds an attractive place to runthe races, and now his son has ahand in the history of the WhitePine Horse Races as well.

In 1950, the races were rainedout, hurting the event financially.Subsequently, a group composedof various social clubs wasformed under the "Pony ExpressCommittee". This group ran theevent until 1954 when the localElks Lodge took over. The Elkshad been heavily involved in theraces and had a large member-ship. The lodge would run theraces for the next 40 years until1993 when they could no longeroperate profitably. However,during that time, the lodge con-tributed nearly $250,000 fromthe race proceeds to makeimprovements at the fairgrounds. Some of the improve-ments included new restrooms, apari-mutual building, paddock,jockey room and several newhorse barns.

Shortly, another group of vol-unteers in cooperation with thelocal Ag District 13 picked upthe challenge and managed torun race meets until 2000 when itwas no longer practical or prof-itable to operate the event andthey were discontinued.

During its history, the raceswere run in conjunction withother events including the White

Pine County Fair, 4-H livestockshow and auction and a barbe-cue/dance by the localCattlewomen's Association. Onthese weekends, the fairgroundswere a favorite social eventpacking the fairgrounds withpeople. The loss of the races hada significant impact on theseevents and the community atlarge.

In 2006, the Elks felt that itwould be a good idea to revivethe races in order to give torevive the local economy. Atthat time, there was only onelive race meet operating in Elkoand the mule races inWinnemucca. State legislationmade funds available for purses,seemed to make the effort morepractical and the "White PineHorse Races" were officiallyorganized. Support from thelocal community and surround-ing areas was even greater thananticipated and the 2006 meetwas a success, gathering thelargest crowd ever at the fair-grounds, according to onespokesperson. "We ran out ofbeer and food items and had toget more in a hurry," he added.

Bouyed by that success, theEly Elks organized the second &third race events in August 2007and 2008 in cooperation with theAgriculture District #13. In2006 & 2007 bull riding was runon the Saturday after the race. In2008 bull riding was moved toSeptember & replaced by theteam roping.

Although much smaller thanthe Elko race event, the Ely raceattracts as many as 150-200 thor-oughbreds and quarter horsesalong with their owners, trainers,jockeys and other racing enthusi-asts. The participants mainlycome from Nevada, Utah, Idaho,California, Arizona, Oregon andas far away as Oklahoma. Thisnot only provides a fun weekend,but contributes significantly tothe local economy.

2009 marks the 75th anniver-sary of the first running of theraces and the 70th running of theWhite Pine Horse Races. Withthe communities aid both finan-cially and by volunteering serv-ices, the races have re-estab-lished themselves as a viablesource of entertainment to thou-sands of people in central andnorthern Utah, central and south-

ern Idaho and all of Nevada.This year we have gained the

sponsorship of the AQHA(American Quarter HorseAssociation) for two White PineJohn Deere Bonus Challengeraces & White Pine John DeereMaiden Challenge Final, whichshould increase our attendancesubstantially. These races are co-sponsored by the AQHA in con-junction with John Deere &Bank of America & our lodge#1469 in Ely.

In the past 3 years, we havehad to compete for rooms withthe UNLV football team holdingpractice in Ely at the time of theraces. This tied up most of therooms in town, but this year, theywill be leaving on the Thursdaybefore the races. This will allowus to become more aggressive inadvertising in the Las Vegas andSalt Lake City markets. Lastyear our attendance was approx-imately 1,000 per day, but we areanticipating up to a 30% increasethis year.

Horse owners that we havecontacted and the state racingcommission have beenimpressed with the improve-ments made at the track so farthis year by both the AgricultureDistrict #13 and the Elks lodge.These improvements include anew roof on the grandstand, newhorse stalls, a new crow's nest foruse of the state steward, a horsewalker and washing station.

The "Governor's Allowance"of past races is being changed tothe "Goeringer Allowance" raceto honor one of White PineHorse Races longtime support-ers. Another change to thisyears race was brought to ourattention by both the AQHA andthe state racing association,which is the adding of 4 Spanishspeaking pari-mutual operatorsand an interpreter to assist lan-guage challenged customers. Inresponse to suggestions by thestate racing association, we arepursuing enough pari-mutualoperators to open all 20 windowsin order to lessen the timebetween races.

We are confident that thesephysical and procedural changeswill enhance the White PineHorse Races image in the eyes ofboth the participants and audi-ence providing a fun time for all.

'See you at the Races'

White Pine Horse Races75th Anniversary

Elks have a great heritage ofservice to our community and ourfellowman. We have humblyworked to make our communitiesa better place to live, provide pro-grams and scholarships for ouryouth and enhance the level ofcomfort for our nation's Veterans.

This is especially true as itrelates to the committees that carefor many deserving Veterans.Spending quality time visitingVeterans is probably one of themost important things that weElks can do to fulfill our motto:"So Long As There Are Veterans,The Benevolent And ProtectiveOrder Of Elks Will Never ForgetThem". Playing cards forVeterans is a program that goeshand in hand with our motto.

The Playing Cards for Veteransprogram provides playing cards, atno cost to Veterans. Card gamesare a great method of providingsocial interaction, mental stimula-tion and improved dexterity.

Tom Jamison, began this pro-gram 10 years ago. Tom gathersnearly new decks of cards fromriverboats and casinos, which gen-

erously donate them to our cause.Elk volunteers make sure thateach deck is in immaculate condi-tion and sealed. They also place asticker with the Elks NationalVeterans Service commission logoon each pack. Over 40,000 deckswere distributed last year alone!

The Playing Cards for VeteransProgram is an easy way to getyour Lodge involved in helpingour nation's heroes. If your Lodgeis planning an event for Veterans,you could make a deck of cardspart of a gift package. Playingcards in continuous use have ashort lifespan, so give decks ofcards to our Veterans often, lettingthem know that Elks Care andElks Share.

It's easy to get free playingcards for our Veterans. Send yourrequest to:

Tom Jamison ChairmanPlaying Cards for Veterans

Progam12102 Chandlerville Road

Beardstown, IL 62618-7679Fraternally,

Dwayne E. Rumney, PGERPast Chairman

Playing Cards for Veterans

The Oregon State ElksAssociation, Sponsor James W.Damon PGER and localChairman Lowell E. Hootman,invite you and your state of Elks,spouses and families, to attend the145th Grand Lodge Session July5-9, 2009, in Portland, OR.

Set against the backdrop ofmajestic Mount Hood, Portlandcombines a sophisticated, cosmo-politan atmosphere with friendly,small-town warmth that makes ita natural for tours of all types.Whether in groups or individual-ly, Elks and families can cruise

scenic rivers, stroll through gar-dens and parks, and shop tax-freein an array of stores and bou-tiques, then wrap up the day withworld-class dining and entertain-ment.

The Host Committee of OregonElks is working to make the con-vention an unforgetable adven-ture. Twenty area Elks Lodgeswill ensure that fun and fellow-ship will be had by all!

Many suggested tours and tid-bits about Portland are availableon the Web site http://www.ore-gonelks-gl2009.com

Adventure Awaits in Portland

“Patsy Cline” at Reno Convention.

NEVADA ELKS NEWS • June 2009 • Page 15

This Proclamation must be readat the First Lodge Session After itsReceipt and then Posted on theLodge BulletinBoard.

To All Subordinate Lodges andMembers of the Grand Lodge ofthe Benovolent and ProtectiveOrder of Elks of the United Statesof America

GREETINGS:The Grand Exalted Ruler, by

and with the approval of the Boardof Grand Trustees of theBenevolent and Protective Orderof Elks of the Unied States ofAmerica, acting upon authoritygiven him under Article 3,Section 6, Grand LodgeConstitution, does hereby pro-claim that the next session of themembership of the Grand Lodgeof the Benevolent and ProtectiveOrder of Elks will convene inPortland, Oregon, with the open-ing ceremonies and public meet-ings held at the OregonConvention Center, 777 NEMartin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,Portland, Oregon 97232 onSunday, July 5, 2009 at 8:00 p.m.

The opening business sessionwill convene inn the OregonConvention Center at 8:30Monday morning, July 6, 2009, atwhich session the election ofOfficers for the ensuing year willbe held. Business sessions willcontinue thereafter at 8:30 a.m. onJuly 7, 8 and 9, 2009, until thebusiness to come before thesesions is finished.

The Hilton Portland &Executive Tower Hotel on 921S.W. 6th Avenue, Portland,Oregon 97204, has been selectedas the headquarters hotel for the145th Grand Lodge Session. A

room reservation form with letteroutlining the procedure will besent to Past Grand Exalted Rulers,Grand Lodge Officers andCommitteemen from the GrandLodge Convention Office inChicago, 2750 N. LakeviewAvenue, Chicago, IL 60614-1889.District Deputies-Designate needto make their room reservationsthrough their State AssociationCoordinators. All Grand LodgeOfficers, Committeemen, andDistrict Deputies-Designate needto make all airline travel arrange-ments through the Grand LodgeConvention Office.

Room reservations not outlinedin the preceding paragraph mustbe made through each StateAssociation coordinator. Thoseplanning to attend the GrandLodge Convention are urged tomake the fact known to their StateAssociation Coordinators imme-diately. Neither the Grand LodgeConvention Office nor the officialPortland hotels will accept reser-vations directly from Lodges,individual Elks, or travel agen-cies.

Registration will be required ofall Members and their Guestsattending the Convention. Thisincludes the Sunday NightOpening Session, the LadiesEntertainment Program, and theBusiness Sessions for Members.State Ritualistic Teams arerequired to register before com-peting in the Grand Lodge contest.

Bryan R. KlattGrand Secretary

Paul D. HelselGrand Exalted Ruler

Dated: March 1, 2009

ProclamationIf you've ever been hospitalized, you know the

loneliness and depression you can experience.Think how tough it must be for hospitalized vet-erans, especially those who are far from home orhave no family. With that thought in mind,George Schwarz of Clawson-Troy, Michigan,Lodge devised a simple yet effective solution in1980: the Adopt-a-Veteran program.

His idea proved so successful that it waspicked up by the National Veterans ServiceCommission in 1983. Last year, Lodges acrossthe nation adopted 103,000 veterans, up 16,000from the previous year. The Elks visited withthem on their birthdays and holidays and show-ered them with gifts and attention. They tookthose who could leave the medical centers out todinner, and brought dinner to those who couldn't.The Elks provided these men and women withcomfort, companionship, cheer and understand-ing, and in the process helped lift some of theirloneliness.

There is no program that better illustrates ourpatriotism. The Adopt-a-Veteran Program is onein which every Lodge can, and should, partici-pate. So, how can your Lodge get involved? Thisis how the program usually works:

1. The VAVS Representative (or chairman at a

state facility) secures the names of veteranswithout family or friends nearby and forwardsthe list to the state National Veterans Servicechairman.

2. The state chairman will divide the listamong the Lodges in close proximity to the facil-ity and forward the names to the appropriate dis-trict chairman.

3. The district chairman will determine howmany veterans each Lodge wishes to adopt. Hewill then provide the Lodges with a like amountof names.

4. The Lodge should publish the names andbirthdays of its adopted veterans in its bulletineach month and encourage members and theirfamilies to schedule visits. Gifts for the veteranshould consist of personal-care items, readingmaterial, games and similar items of nominalcost. Luncheons and dinners at a restaurant or theLodge are also recommended.

The object of the Adopt-a-Veteran program isto take the place of family, to replace lonelinesswith hope and to let the veterans know we willnever forget them. The state associations, dis-tricts and Lodges should use the means best suit-ed to their particular situations to meet theseobjectives.

Adopt-A-Vet Program

In February, 2003, the ElksNational Veterans ServiceCommission announced a pro-gram of mobilizing an "Army ofHope" to assist the families ofMilitary Reservists and theNational guard who have beencalled to active duty during thistime of crisis.

The news media have calledsome of our Lodge and nationalleaders to obtain a local perspec-tive on our program. Theresponse from our members andnon-Elks has been overwhelm-ing. Our elected governmentofficials at the local, state andnational level are greatlyimpressed, and have respondedfavorably to our initiative.

The "Army of Hope" hasmany facets and literally anyactivity that supports our troopsand their family falls under thisvital program. Lodges are alsopartnering with local and stateorganizations to adopt units andfamilies to help them throughthese trying times.

Here is just how easy it can beto contribute to this vital pro-gram:

The first step in setting upyour local program is to identifya Lodge chairperson. This posi-tion may be especially attractiveto a Veteran; however any volun-teer can chair your program.The first priority of that chair-person is to establish a list ofvolunteer members who are will-ing to provide their individualexpertise. In addition a subse-

quent list identifying the specificskills of each volunteer will alsobe helpful in matching the needsof the families with the skills ofthe volunteers. (For example:Volunteer John Doe - minorautomobile repairs, VolunteerJane Doe - painting & "back up"child care support).

After you have estalished yourArmy of Hope volunteers youwill need to make contact withyour local Reserve and/orNational Guard units. Whencontacting them explain what theprogram is and how your Lodgecan help the families. (It isunderstood that not every Lodgewill be able to handle everyrequest). You can provide thelist of volunteers along with theirexpertise directly to the localReserve or Guard units. Themilitary units may then contactthe Lodge or the volunteersdirectly, depending on how youset up your local program.

You still might be thinkingwhat can my small Lodge orState Association specifically doto help? The following areexamples of how easy it can befor your lodge or State

For All Photos:No matter what technology you use, 35mm or

digital, a photo is only as good as the photogra-pher makes it. Before you submit a photo to TheElks Magazine, ask yourself the followingquestions: Does the subject matter fit the maga-zine’s guidelines? Is the lighting adequate? Isthe focus sharp and clear? If the answers tothese questions are “yes”, then you can restassured hat the magazine will probably use thephotos you submit.

Digital Photos:Use at least a 3 megabyte camera, set for

higher-quality photographs. Digital photosmust have a minimum resolution of 1,500 x 900pixels per image (the equivalent of a 3” x 5”35mm print). Photos submitted at lower resolu-tions cannot be accepted.

Send photographs in .jpg file format. If yourcamera produces a file format other than .jpg,

you can use the software that came with yourcamera to convert our photos to .jpg format.Select only the best photo of each event, or amaximum of two or three.

To submit digital photos, attach them to an e-mail message with a write up describing theevent, a list of who is pictured from left to right,your telephone number or the best way to con-tact you, and send it to: magnews@elks.org.

Print Photos:Glossy prints from 35mm cameras are still

very welcome, and those Lodges that have beensuccessful in having photos accepted may wantto stick with what works for them.

To submit print photos, send a glossy printfrom a 35mm camera, a list of who is picturedfrom left to right, a write up describing theevent, and your phone number or the best wayto reach you to: Editorial/The Elks Magazine,425 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614.

Submitting Photos to the Elks Magazine

How easy it can be to startyour “Army of Hope” program

Cont. on Page 16

Page 16 • June 2009 • NEVADA ELKS NEWS

Association to make a differencein the lives of our service menand women and their families.

Have a "family oriented" din-ner at the Lodge in honor of ourtroops and host the familiesand Guard/Reserve representa-tives. This is a great way tointroduce the families andReserve or Guard representa-tives to the Elk volunteers theywill be working with.

Supply the families withphone cards.

Provide lawn mowing, land-scaping or sprinkler service.

Perform automombile repairs,or transportation when needed.

Complete minor home repairs,such as plumbing, or painting,etc.

Provide either full time or"back up" babysitting service.

Send comfort care packages toour troops - (check with localmilitary bases for requirementsand regulations.).

Send copies of the service per-son's daily hometown newspa-per.

Have a photography buff inyour volunteer listing? Takesome pictures of the soldiere'sfamily and possibly some localsights to send to he troop mem-ber.

Host a welcome home partyat your Lodge, or for the troopsthat return home and thank themand their families for their serv-ice.

Hold some fundraising activi-ties at the Lodge to provide mon-etary support to specific familiesif identified.

Now that you have seen whatsome of the other Lodges aredoing in their programs, I knowwith the initiative and creativityof our members and supportorganizations you will be able tothink of hundreds of more waysto help.

STILL don't think your Lodgeis large enough to establish itsown Army of Hope program,then team or volunteere withanother local organization(V.F.W., etc.) to help them with aprogram. Even if your Lodgejust does one of the tasks listedabove you can make a differ-ence!

The final responsibility of theArmy of Hope chairperson is totake a few minutes to write up ashort report and mail it to theoffice of the Grand Secretaryactivities on behalf of these fam-ilies. This will be of immeasur-able help as we continue to tellour story of service to theseAmerican patriots.

Please send your letters (pic-tures) and reports to:

"Army of Hope"Robert Hennings, DirectorNational Veterans Service

Commission2750 North Lakeview Avenue

Chicago, IL 60614-1889Fraternally,

Robert R. True, PGERPast Chairman

Army of Hope…Cont. from Page 15

First Lady gift.

Installment of officers.

By Charles Trinowski Jr.Committee Member

When we think of PublicRelations we think of newspa-pers, magazines, television,radio, posters and photographs.These forms of media still doexist and have provided much ofthe Public Relations in the past.

However, a new age of com-munications is rapidlyapproaching, and will probablyeliminate some of our oldstandbys.

Newspapers are cutting backon their staff and copy. Somenewspapers have gone all digitalcopy. There are many papersthat are ceasing to exist in thesetroubled economic times.

The world is now technologi-cally different, and we are in anera of new methods of commu-nicating with one another. Theworld is leaving those unwillingto accept change sliding backinto isolation.

The future of Public Relationsand the future of securing newMembers both need a reorienta-tion. The people who are poten-tial Members read newspapersless and less. They go on lineand get their news from theircomputers. The Postal Serviceis cutting back on employeesand contemplating delivery onlyfive days a week. Email cansend the same letters and otherdocuments much faster and at

less cost. Fewer homes havewired phones. Many peopleonly have cell phones thatreceive email and other news.Our potential Members use textmessages, email, visit Facebookand Twitter and do not use themore traditional methods tocommunicate or investigateideas or potential interests.

We as an Order need toembrace these new forms ofcommunication and reviewwhether or not some of our tra-ditional methods need to beminimized. If we wait too longwe may end up like thedinosaurs in the museum--oncemighty and powerful, nowextinct.

The New Tools of Public Relations

Most Improved EsquireNew President