Ocean City, MD 2645

Ocean City, MD Lodge News

April News from ER Vernon Betkey

   I am privileged, humbled, and overwhelmed by the support bestowed upon me during my election as the Ocean City Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Exalted Ruler. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all for your continued support and vote of confidence. With more than 2.000 Lodge members, there are members that I have yet to meet; but I certainly look forward to meeting all of you during my tenure as ER.
   For this first column, I thought it appropriate to share a little background information about me. In June 1998, I retired from the Maryland State Police after 25½ years of service. After retirement, I served as the Chief of Staff for the Maryland Transportation Authority Police. I went on to work as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Region 3 Law Enforcement Liaison Officer. I led the Maryland Highway Safety Office for more than 9 years; and during that tenure, I had the privilege of serving four consecutive terms as the elected Chair of the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). From there, I worked for GHSA as the National Law Enforcement Liaison Program Manager until my second retirement in April 2019.
   I have been a Lodge member for 14 years. My wife, Debbie, is the Vice-President of the Auxiliary; and we will celebrate 51 years of marriage in May. We have three children and five grandchildren. Our daughter, Danielle is a member of the Lodge, as is Jessica's husband, Mitch Linzey. We moved to Ocean City in 2015 from Bel Air, MD, and now live in the Montego Bay Community. I graduated from Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore, and I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from the University of Maryland University College.

   At the start of each leadership role, I shared what my team could expect from me. I plan to continue this tradition as I begin my tenure as ER.

Elks Obligation: I will adhere to the Elks Obligation pledged 14 years ago and the ER oath made on March 29, 2025; thereby, ensuring respect and preservation of our values, principles, and traditions.
Responsibility: I will fulfill the goals and tasks required of the ER by the Grand Lodge, the State Association, and our Lodge by collaborating with the Officers, Trustees, Staff, and members.
Professionalism and Ethics: I will uphold a professional, ethical, and honest approach in all my activities.
Respect and Treatment: I will foster a harmonious environment and ensure that all Lodge members, their families, friends, and guests receive the respect and courtesy they rightfully deserve and expect.
Communication: I will communicate clearly and openly about our successes, challenges, and decisions with clarity and transparency, and use the communication tools at our disposal to disseminate information.
Feedback and Updates: I will provide feedback and updates in a timely manner, keeping everyone informed and engaged.
Empathy and Support: I will strive to empathize with and understand the needs of our members and employees, providing support and change, as necessary.
Facilities Management: I will support continuous quality improvements of our facility, services, equipment, and products.
Lodge Activities: I will promote Lodge community activities, special projects, and social activities and encourage everyone to participate, meet new friends, and enjoy themselves.

I am committed to meeting these expectations and appreciate your trust and support. I look forward to serving as the Exalted Ruler and working together to uphold the legacy of the Ocean City Elks Lodge.

- Vernon Betkey

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