Ocean City, MD 2645

Ocean City, MD Lodge News

November Message from ER Vernon Betkey

Dear Members,

It has been bustling times for the Lodge over the past few weeks starting with sixteen members joining 200 brother and sister Elks for a weekend conference hosted by the MD DE DC State Association at the Princess Royal to discuss the goals and business of the Order. Then, we completed the Annual District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler inspection with commendable success. My sincere gratitude to our officers for their diligent preparation of the required reports and supporting documentation.

Our long-serving Treasurer, Jim Flaig, celebrated his 90th birthday at the Lodge, surrounded by numerous family members and friends. We extend our best wishes to Jim on this significant and memorable occasion.

St. Patrick’s Day is five months away, but that did not stop us from having a practice round. The Lodge was packed on the 17th of October for Corned Beef and Cabbage along with delicious Reuben sandwiches, bar specials, good music, and camaraderie. It was a great St. Practice Day Party and a huge thanks to the staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make it a success. 

Our 12th Annual Hometown Heroes Ceremony honored 40 community military personnel, who had their banners displayed on the Boardwalk during the Summer Season, in appreciation for their selfless, dedicated service to our Country. Furthermore, for the first time in many years, the Lodge hosted a Bull & Oyster Roast providing an opportunity for members and guests to reconnect over conversation, dining, and music, and we look forward to making it an annual event.

The Lodge collaborated with the Ocean City Police Department to host our second Prescription Medication Take Back Day. The event resulted in the collection of more than 300 bottles of prescription medications, along with six pounds of loose pills, syringes, EpiPens, and some miscellaneous boxes and vials for safe and responsible disposal. 

The Sunday volunteer team cooked another delicious monthly breakfast, and we thank that dedicated crew for their service and for once again donating their tips to the Elks National Foundation. If you have not attended one, you're truly missing out on a great breakfast.  

What about the Halloween Party? The costumes were fantastic, making it a challenging choice for the voters, but certainly entertaining evening for members and guests. Except for meeting night, there was Taco Tuesday with MINGO.  A fun time for all and the tacos are fantastic!  

Finally, 21 new members took the Solemn and Binding Obligation of the Order during an orientation and initiation ceremony bringing our total membership to 2,051. As we continue to grow together as a Lodge, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the heart, spirit, and dedication you bring to our Elks family. Every hour volunteered, every event supported, and every act of kindness extended to a fellow member or someone in need is what makes our Lodge truly special. You are the hands that build, the voices that inspire, and the hearts that keep our Lodge strong. Together, we can create a lasting impact, not just within our walls, but throughout our community. Be the Difference!  

Have a great November and a Happy Thanksgiving.

- Fraternally,

Vernon F. Betkey, Jr.
Exalted Ruler

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