Ocean City, MD 2645

Ocean City, MD Lodge News

May Message from ER Vernon Betkey

Dear Members,

As spring brings renewed energy to our Lodge, we come together to honor cherished traditions and recognize outstanding achievements within our Elks community. This month, we celebrate Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, the beginning of the Summer Season, and pay tribute to several distinguished members whose dedication continues to inspire us all.

Memorial Day invites us to pause in remembrance and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country, and this month the Lodge will host a special ceremony to pay tribute to our veterans and fallen heroes, reflecting our deep appreciation for their service and sacrifice; the ceremony will take place on Monday, May 25th at 4:00 PM, and we sincerely hope you will be able to join us.  

Mother’s Day is a special occasion to express gratitude to the remarkable mothers in our Lodge, our lives, and beyond. On this day, we reflect on the essentials provided by Mothers, often unseen support, encouragement, motivation, and allowing us to succeed or achieve goals. They are the Wind Beneath Our Wings. Please join us on May 10th at 10 a.m, as we honor Mothers, who enhance our lives every day, and those who have passed, with a special Elks Ceremony. If you plan to attend, please register here.

A special shoutout to the Lodge Officer of the Year – Lodge Secretary Cindy D’Alfonso; Lodge Elk of the Year – Bingo Manager Charles Nickoles; Grand Exalted Ruler Outstanding Service Awards – Food Manager Vivian Merritt and House Chairman Nelson Pyle.  Their commitment to service sets a shining example for us all, their consistent work hats go above and beyond, and they embody the values and principles of our Order. We are proud of you and congratulations from all of us!  

In April, we honored Bob Jordan as Elk of the Month. Bob’s enthusiasm and willingness to step in and lend a hand with critical administrative tasks were quite an asset to the Lodge.  His efforts truly reflect the spirit of Elkdom. 

Fourteen members of the Lodge attended the Southeast District Vice-President Caucus and the District Deputy Clinic at the Selbyville Lodge on Saturday, April 18th for business discussions and networking. Merry Moyer was elected to the Camp Barrett Executive Committee, our Hometown Heroes Program was highlighted, and the Lodge was recognized for its Elks National Foundation (ENF) contributions for the year 2025-2026, which amounted to $44,359.15, which was the highest in the District and the State. Our goals this year are to surpass that mark, and to increase the number of members contributing to ENF, which was less than 20 percent of our membership. Contributions may be made by mail, online, or at the Lodge.  Please make your contribution to this most worthwhile Elks’ charity. 

On a personal note, May 11th is a special day for the First Lady and me.  We will celebrate our 52nd wedding anniversary, and I am filled with gratitude and joy for the many wonderful years we’ve shared together. 

We appreciate each member's continued support and involvement. By working together, we are creating a Lodge where friendship, service, and community spirit flourish—and your contributions truly make the difference!

- Fraternally yours,

Vernon F. Betkey, Jr.
Exalted Ruler

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