February 2003

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Vol. XIV, No. XI
Sheila Dowd, E.R.

Miami Elks Lodge 948

EXALTED RULERS MESSAGE
THREE WORDS WE CAN LIVE WITHOUT

As we look ahead into the New Year, we reminisce over the past year and wonder how we can approach the new one in a better position. Comes to mind three words we could well remove from our vocabulary:
a. Dissention
b. Resentment
c. Critic (self-appointed
Dissention is to disagree in opinion; to differ; to think in a contrary manner. True, we do not all think the same. If a disagreement or difference of opinion arises, be adult enough to go to the source and try to work it out. If a situation exists that could be improved, rather than tell everyone whom we encounter how bad it is, analyze it and make positive recommendations. Work together for the good of our Order.
Resentment is the feeling of displeasure or indignation at some act, some remark or some person that causes insult or injury. Resentment usually bothers or hinders ourselves more that it hurts the one for whom it is intended. Why? In most cases, that one doesnt even know about it.
Critic (self-made): It is easy to place ourselves in a high position and to see from up there all the wrong things that are done and see very few of those that are done positively and correctly. It is easy from up there to overlook the good that is accomplished. It is easy not to see all those who do and do and are paid nothing. These three words may still be around, but we dont hear them, or of them, as much as we once did. Trade in, put in storage, or eliminate entirely these three words and a new word, without your realization, is definitely coming into play. It is called self-satisfaction. Convert your energies into the doers column. A lot of hidden ability walks among us. The winner is going to be you.
Our Order of Elks consist of in excess of 1.1 million members and in excess of 2,100 lodges are located throughout our great nation. Since its origin, one hundred thirty four years ago, our Order of Elks has contributed in excess of $2 billion in cash, goods and service to our veterans, our nations youth and in support of drug awareness, scholarships and in support of civic programs. Thats awesome! In an Order of this magnitude, we have no place for the three subject words of this message, do we? And apart from these three words, after allour Elks basic principles are Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity.
Fraternally,
Sheila Dowd, Exalted Ruler

LODGE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE REPORT
The year 2002 is now history and 2003 is well under way. Looking back, we have had a busy and productive year and plans for the same this year.
The New Years bash in our ballroom was a near sellout, successful and enjoyed by all. The party in the Lounge was standing room only and was terrific. Thanks to Lena and Ross for organizing the lounge event. This was the usual Friday night crowd that has supported the Club all year, and they deserved to have a party. Thanks to Mary Ellen who managed the bar alone and to all that donated the delicious food. We need more parties like that one.
The Hangover Party was successful and there was plenty of food. Greatly missed was Larry Myers Pasta Fagoli.
This information goes to press before the Sock Hop on January 25th, but we look forward to a fine turn-out.
On Saturday, February 22nd, we will have a party in the Lounge honoring our Yard Crew, who has donated many hours to keeping our grounds in immaculate order. Everyone in invited. We will have music and we are asking everyone to bring a covered dish. Lets show our appreciation by attending the party. Food will be served at 6:00 pm and music will be from 7:00 to 11:00 pm. Please come!
Our next big event will be March 15th in the ballroom. Music will be by the Riverside Jazz Band. This is a terrific band that you will not want to miss.
Thank you again for making this year a success.
Ella Mae Shroyer
Activities Chairperson


ATTENTION LODGE 948 GOLFERS!
If you are looking for a fun three days (or two) on beautiful Key Biscayne, then this is your tee.
What: 2003 Royal Caribbean Senior Golf Classic
When: February 4th thru 9th
Why and where: Members of Lodge 948 are volunteering and sponsoring Hole
We need 10-12 members to volunteer ten to fifteen hours on any of the above dates.
Cost: Shirt and hat are $45.00. Free volunteer party will gather on February 7th after play.
For additional information, please call Dave Albl
Both men and women dont want to miss a great chance to help our Lodge No. 948 shine.


Blood Drive
Its Blood Drive time again and we hope that all who can will come and help your fellowman. Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 4th, south Ball Room in our Lodge from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
You are treated warmly by professionals and its painless. We appreciate all of our regular donors and look forward to many more members becoming regulars.
In addition to this kind deed of giving, each donor is given a free spaghetti dinner with all the extras.
Again, thank you sincerely and we look forward to seeing you on February 4th.
Joan Kingsley & Mary Anne Weinstein


GOLDEN BRICK WALKWAY
As you enter the Lodge, I hope youve noticed how our Commemorative Walkway has grown. Available space is growing less and less. It is a nice way to dedicate a golden brick to the memory of a friend or loved one, or to a very special cause. Each brick is at a cost of $50.00 and allows you three lines. We take pride in this venture and it helps the Lodge fund in-house projects and further our charitable endeavors. Applications are available in the lobby. Add your special brick and be walked on daily.
James W. Murray, P.E.R. and Lodge Treasurer


HOOP SHOOT UPDATE
The hoop shoot winners from Miami Lodge No. 948 went on to the regional competition this year. Due to an oversight at the District, they shot at the Delray Beach Community Center on Saturday, January 18, 2003.
Bob Willig
Hoop Shoot Chairman


ANOTHER COOKIE STORY
By: Edna J. Camacho

Ever so often, a cookie story worthy of repeating comes to the surface. It has happened again. For the past few years an Elkette tacitly walks among us and doles out the measured ingredients (including the one egg and butter) for three dozen cookies. We come home, bake them, return them to her. She in turn takes them to her church and the end consumers are the homeless.
We were informed last month that it could no longer happen because the church could no longer supply the ingredients. Do you think the cookies stopped? No way Each of those cookie bakers, one by one, said they would continue to bake the cookies and furnish their own ingredients. Guess what? Pecans imported from Georgia are baked into those cookies. (brought in by Lodge 948 Elk member No. 9556). The saying about Elks Care and Elks Share is contagious and its a great feeling.


A NOTE OF THANK YOU
Its been a long period since we started our Football Season last fall, but you know what? It was well worth it. We, as Elks, have added a $2,650. 00 contribution to our Charity Fund and we are very proud. We thank all of you deeply who have participated, supported, and made it a success. I particularly want to thank Rich Henry for his endless computer ability in giving you all the information that was put before you. I thank Edna for hours of dedication. Without all of your help, it would not have been such a success. All of us, as Elks, know the good deeds and fine work that our Charity Fund does. After all, thats what its all about and a great sense of satisfaction, isnt it? Again, my deep appreciation!
George B. Uffenorde


PRESIDENTS DAY
George Washington, was born on February 22, 1732 in Westmoreland County, Virginia. At an early age, he became interested in exploration of this new land. At 15, he earned money as a surveyor. In 1759, he married Mrs. Martha Dandridge Curtis. Later in life, he was elected delegate to the First Continental Congress and in 1789 was elected first President of the United States of America. Died at his home on December 14, 1799 at the age of 67.
Abraham Lincoln, was born February 12, 1809 near present-day Hodgenville, Kentucky. Lincoln, born into poverty, proved his ability as a leader, statesman, and went on to the presidency. On the evening of April 14, 1865, Lincoln attended a performance of Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington. A few minutes after 10 oclock, a shot rang through the crowded house. John Wilkes Booth, one of the best-known actors of the day, had shot the President in the head from the rear of the presidential box. In leaping to the stage, Booth caught his spur in a flag draped in front of the box. He fell and broke his leg. But he limped across the stage brandishing a dagger and crying, Sic semper tyrannis (Thus always be tyrants), the motto of Virginia.
These two great statesmen, rather than celebrate both birthdays, their birthdays were converted to Presidents Day and is celebrated on the Monday in between February 12th and February 22nd. This year it is on February 17th.


Christmas Hearts, 2002 (That hung on our Lobby Christmas tree)
By: Mary Rust, Loyal Knight

We sold 157 hearts for a total of $785.00 raised for the Elks National Foundation. Thanks to Mickey Rauch and Helen Everett who worked so hard to sell them and to all that purchased them, your efforts will enable us to continue to support the many worthwhile endeavors of the ENF.
Our State President, Jim Coggins, asks us to continue to spread the story of Elkdom and to explain what it really means. When you hear some of our brothers and sisters sitting around talking about other members, tell them what Elks are really about. Tell the story of the child that comes to youth camp with ragged clothes and shoes. When this happens, the camp personnel buy them new sneakers, shorts, tee shirts, etc. They get them a toothbrush, toothpaste and soap. For many of these kids this is the first time that they have had their own things without having to share with someone else. It may be the first time that this child has had anything but hand me downs.
One little boy, last summer when his week was over, washed and folded his new clothes and took them back to the office; Mr. Lynn, he asked, where do I turn in these clothes? He had never had anyone give him new clothes. Maybe because of the week that you gave him at your camp, he was impressed with the fact that there is a different life than the one he has always known. Maybe, down the road, he will be awarded one of the many Scholarships granted by the Elks. He may grow up to be a policeman, a doctor or fire rescue worker that answers your call for help. He may even grow up to be President of this wonderful country, and because of the Elks, he found out that there are people who care and want to make a difference in the lives of kids that need it.
So, instead of wasting your time bad mouthing your brothers and sisters, STOP! Tell the story of what Elks really stand for:No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child.


HELP WANTED!
January 1st has come and gone, but there is still time for adding to your New Years resolutions. I hope that you will resolve to donate your time and energy to making our lodge the very best in all of Elkdom. In order to plan for a successful new year, I need to hear from you, as soon as possible, letting me know of your availability and willingness to serve on one of our many committees.
Hoping to hear from you soon and wishing each of you and your families a happy and healthy New Year, I am, Don Schwartz, Leading Knight


POT OF GOLD
Its a brand New Year. Its your Lodge and you should be here for meetings on Wednesday nights. At the end of each regular meeting, a members name is drawn. If you are here and your name is drawn, you win the pot. It is getting bigger, because we havent had a winner recently. Make that extra effort to come and enjoy your Lodge and yes, start the New Year off just right.
Tommy Palma, P.E.R.


BOOKS!
Hospitalized veterans are soon forgotten. A quick visit makes a veterans day shine. We have Lady Vets too!They share a part of the confinement just as men do.
During the holidays, we did not remind you that we are collecting books for our hospitals and veterans. We ask that you check your bookshelves and any books that you have already read and want to give to a worthy cause, please bring them to our deposit in the lobby of the Lodge. They will be deeply appreciated and enjoyed. Our veterans always deserve high priority. Thank you!
John Chorlog, Veteran Services


STEPHEN J.HUNTER, P.E.R.
By: Edna J. Camacho

One can remain perfectly silent, just listen, and you will know through heartfelt responses from his friends, the magnitude of Stephen J. Hunter. Where he walked, there was love and respect for all mankind. He played a tremendous role in Miami Elks Lodge No. 948 and the Order of Elks; he played an equally vital role in the Greater Miami Bowling Association and was a member of Greater Miami Bowling Council Hall of Fame; and an even greater role to his beloved family. Stephen was a gentle man, never had an unkind word toward anyone; was always there to help when needed. He was loved by all and will be missed by all. May he rest in eternal peace.


ADVANCE NOTICE
Sunday, May 4th (Seas will be calmer)
ANOTHER CRUISE TO NOWHERE
Leave the Lodge by bus:10:30 am
Board: SunCruz About 11:30 am at Port Everglades
Includes brunch on board
Four hours: Casino at sea
Return by bus to Lodge about 6:00 pm
$15.00 per person
Its fun! Mark your calendars now!


IN HONOR OF OUR YARD CREW
Saturday, February 22nd
Lounge Area of Lodge
6:00 pm Food will be served
7:00 to 11:00 pm Music
(Bring a covered dish)
PLEASE COME! (Its our way of saying thank you)


RIVERSIDE JAZZ BAND
By: Rob McGown
Saturday, March 15th
in the Lodge Ball Room
8:00 PM to Midnight
$12.00 per person
not including dinner
For tickets contact Ella Mae Shroyer or Helen Everett.

All materials for the March bulletin must be in the office by 10:00 am Thursday, February 20th.