Bartlesville, OK Lodge News
Parting ER message
As I sit here contemplating the end of representing you as exalted ruler, I want to reminisce. My values in life are often based on good role models. During this year, as I tackled a task that I was not very well prepared for, I have time after time depended on others for guidance. 
Many people stepped forward and made a difference. I need to thank them for their contributions. Jim Franks showed me what a real friend is, acting as a ounding board and tirelessly working to make the lodge better at every opportunity. Gretchen Fugett taught me how to enjoy Karaoke, at the same time others taught me not to be embarrassed that I couldn’t sing. From John Miller I learned the value of a mentor who has seen it all before. He was my constant advisor and helped me understand Elk
tradition. He was patient, knowledgeable, and tolerant of my many mistakes. From Kent Brewer I learned actions speak louder than words. No one who has ever met Kent would describe him as anything but a “Gentleman”. He was the perfect Elk for orienting new members. Kent did an
outstanding job at that and also as Esquire on the many occasions when our hard work paid off with new members
to initiate. Bill Griffin showed confidence in me and provided me a workable budget in these difficult economic times. Bill does an excellent job at the difficult task of providing member’s services without sacrificing fiscal responsibility. He also spends a lot of time at the lodge dealing with a thousand issues the rest of us thankfully never know about. Larry Glass showed me true commitment, whenever and wherever needed. In addition his wonderful sense of humor cut through the tension that sometimes comes from long hours serving elkdom. His wife Theresa Glass showed me that spouses of Elks are special people indeed. Without Theresa I am sure my wife would have divorced me right after she got back from her long rest at the sanitarium. Theresa was a very special friend and coach for Janie and showed up at nearly every Pancake Breakfast and Spaghetti Dinner. From Alan
Beckworth I learned that somebody was paying attention. Every time he commented on one of my ER messages or
patted me on the back or encouraged me to keep trying, it was a shot of pure adrenaline that kept me going. One of
the proudest days I had during the year was when Alan told me I played a small part in his decision to become a lodge
officer. Les Watson taught me how to sell elkdom. He told me not to be shy about pushing a good product. That I
needed to put aside my natural reserve and ask for what I wanted. Leo and Sandy Heidorn like the tortoise in that
famous race aren’t flashy but are always effective. Finally I express my sincere thanks to all the rest of you, each and everyone in some way played a part in our excellent lodge year. Don’t stop now, we have a complete officer core for the first time in a while. This group of leaders is going to
need us all to step forward and do our share. Together we can do anything, remember Elks Care-Elks Share.