Wausau Elks Lodge #248

Dear Fellow Elk 248 Members,

I just returned from a week at the Grand Lodge in Orlando during our normal summer shut down. The convention was an eye opener with over 6900 enthusiastic Elks attending. The Wisconsin Elks were well represented and many congratulated you on our May convention; in fact, our State President Bob Bohnsack said it was the best he had attended. The Grand Lodge convention reaffirmed the dedication of many Elks to our great order and offered some exciting news. First, our PER and PEY Mike Rebhahn was appointed to District Deputy for the next year; he will do a terrific job and wish him well when you see him at the Lodge. Next, Michael F Smith from Plant City FL lodge 1727 was elected as Grand Exalted Ruler; he has spent many years advancing Elkdom. Finally, recognition was given to the need of reversing declining membership by emphasizing local lodge recruitment and retention. National Elk membership has declined by 6% over the last two years and is now at about 900 thousand members down from the peak of 1.6 million several years ago. Membership growth has been our emphasis this year.

It does start with a good lodge like Wausau 248; unfortunately we have about 60 members who are delinquent in paying 2010 dues. It has been my experience that the sooner we address an issue, the better the final outcome. So we will be reaching out to these members to see if we can lend any assistance. After all a “saved” Elk is the same as a new one in the final count. Look for notices on the board regarding this activity. If you know any of these members, ask if you can help. Charity (if needed) begins at home. When economic times are tough, the best rise to the call.

It is with sadness that I accepted Secretary Garry Puariea’s resignation. He has been ill and under treatment. I mentioned to him that getting better is more important right now. Thank you for your service, Garry. Fortunately, we are blessed with a very capable replacement and I have appointed Ray Dabler PER, PDDGER, PEY to fill the Secretary position until the August election; Ray has also been nominated. Thanks for being a great Elk, Ray!

Speaking of August, look for our second Spaghetti dinner, the first one was a great success and we are building on that encouraging launch. We are also trying a new $6.95 Friday fish basket. I think we have winners with these new items. Try them and see. The new outdoor patio is exceeding our expectations; many are relaxing in the fresh Wausau summer air. Hope to see you there!

Fraternally

Marty Sullivan

Exalted Ruler

P.S. Our Facebook page has many pictures of the Orlando convention.  Log in at: www.facebook.com/wausauelks We are now over 170 fans strong. Join Facebook to get the latest news.