Exalted Ruler Message

Greetings Brother and Sister Elks:

As Summer draws to an end, it is my hope that everyone enjoyed the company of family and friends. Long Island is a beautiful place to live and for that we should all be grateful. On July 4th, our great country celebrated a wonderful milestone in our rich history-our 250th Birthday. That same weekend the Grand Lodge National Convention took place in Chicago. Our Lodge was well represented at the Convention with six members in attendance. 

The Grand Lodge Convention had a total attendance of 7097 Elks from all over the country. The Convention featured hospitality rooms, workshops, reports of committees, the presentation of flags and the Installation of Grand Exalted Ruler Timothy Jaeger. Guillermo “Willie” Rodriguez was installed as District Deputy for the South District. The Convention was highlighted by our trip to the Elks National Memorial and Headquarters and ballgames at Wrigley Field and Rate Field. Please see the Elks National Memorial writeup and virtual link towards the end of this bulletin.  

Our country marks the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 which took place on September 11th, 2001. The 9/11 terror attack killed 2,977 people at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and on Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pa. Let us never forget the victims that lost their lives, the First Responders and citizens that gave all and the bravery that was exhibited on that day and all of the days that followed. Please remember that there are millions of Americans that were born after the terror attack and we need to help them learn of the significance of that time in our history. Never forget by educating those that were too young to remember or not yet born.

Upon your return to the Lodge, you will notice several improvements. The Catering Hall carpet and the parking lot fence have both been replaced. As all should already be aware, one of the two main HVAC units was in need of replacement. Due to the cost to replace this piece of equipment, our members needed to approve the cost of the work. At the August 12th meeting, our membership approved the cost and voted to replace the defective unit. Special thanks and gratitude to Building Chairman, Donald Rood, for securing bids, coordinating contractors and supervising the projects. 

With the arrival of Fall, please consider attending meetings and socials, joining a committee, or sponsoring a new member. 

May the cardinal virtues of our order Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity continue to guide each of us. God Bless America.

Fraternally,

Anthony Vitale

Exalted Ruler