Ocean City, MD 2645

Ocean City, MD Lodge News

January Message from ER Vernon Betkey

Dear Members,

On behalf of the Lodge, my family and I extend our best wishes to all for a healthy, safe, and prosperous New Year. As we reflect on the swift passage of 2025, it is evident that the holiday season continues to be a highlight for many. We trust you found this time of year enjoyable. Our Lodge marked the beginning of the new year with a well-attended celebration in the Flaig-Wagner Banquet Hall, complemented by a more relaxed gathering in the Social Quarters – a good time for all!

On December 16th, our Lodge had the privilege of hosting President Ken Chapman from Broadneck Lodge #2608 and Vice President Joy Schreck from Cape Henlopen Lodge #2540 for their official visit on behalf of the MD DE DC Elks Association. Their visit was highly valued, and we enjoyed a pleasant dinner followed by a productive meeting. President Chapman said, “We truly enjoyed grasping the hand of friendship, reveling in good times, and celebrating the fantastic accomplishments of Ocean City Lodge 2645 that its officers and members have and are accomplishing.”

President Chapman advised members that the Lodge is leading the State Association in Elks National Foundation contributions. Ocean City Lodge ended 2025 with contributions of $32,386.45, which equates to $16.02 per member. You can be very proud of your effort, as it exceeds the GER goal of $5.15 per member, the State President’s goal of $10 per member, and the Lodge’s goal of $20,000 in total contributions. Please keep up the wonderful effort. Your generosity is commendable and we still have until March 31st to extend our year of giving. Elks Care...Elks Share!

We are happy to share that Jan Stambaugh is Elk of the Month for December. She is honored for her outstanding efforts organizing the Volunteer Appreciation Holiday Party. Jan invested significant time, energy, and personal resources into making it a wonderful event, and her diligence is admirable and valued.

The annual Hoop Shoot competition is set to begin on January 10th. Long-time coordinator John Belzner has organized the event and invited local youth to join in another fantastic community gathering. We invite everyone to either participate or come out and cheer on our skilled young boys and girls.

Debbie’s Sour Beef and Dumplings will once again be featured at the Sunday Supper on January 11th. We look forward to another delightful meal and cordially invite you to join us for this fine German cuisine.

Kindly mark your calendars for the Lodge meetings in February. Tuesday, February 10th will feature the nominations for officers, and Tuesday, February 24th will be the Lodge election. Your input and vote are important for the Lodge future.

My goals for the Lodge in 2026 include ensuring its financial stability, enhancing our participation within the community and increasing charitable contributions, as well as continuing to foster a lively, welcoming environment where members can come together for friendship, food, and entertainment.

A new year begins—enjoy!

- Fraternally,

Vernon F. Betkey, Jr.
Exalted Ruler

More News