I just returned from the National Elks Convention in Portland, Oregon. There were 7,000 Elks and guests in attendance. It was amazing to see and hear what Elks are doing for our youth and veterans both on a local and national level. The Hoop Shoot percentage winners gave inspiring speeches on what the Hoop Shoot has done for their confidence and self esteem. We also heard from a bi-lateral amputee from the Iraq war on how support from the Elks got him “back on his feet”. It was truly inspirational.The Elks National Foundation also awarded the top scholarship to the most valuable student. One of the $60,000 scholarship winners spoke on what the Elks has meant to him and how the scholarship will allow him to pursue his goals in the future. We as Elks should all be proud of how our time and donations are shaping our youth for the future.

Our biggest youth program for our Lodge is our Swim Team. They just completed the City Meet and placed sixth out of 23 teams with over 2,000 kids swimming. All of our swimmers swam great in the meet with Caitlin Casazza setting a meet record in the 13-14 girls breaststroke. The old record was set in 1993! Thanks to all the volunteers that make the Swim Team run as smoothly as it does and congratulations to the swim team on their great season.

Our Annual 4th of July Pool Party was a great success. As usual, the line started early in the morning with rumors of some dedicated members spending the night in line. The Ladies Auxiliary did a great job with all the planned activities for the kids. Kids of all ages were able to participate in various activities. Although I’m not sure why I didn’t win the big splash contest? I guess we will need to review the tapes! The Pool Committee did a great job setting up and cooking for our members.

This month the Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting their biggest party of the year. Island Night will be on August 29 starting at 6:30 P.M. There will be a DJ and dinner and all the usual activities the ladies are known for. At this time, all the planning is not complete but you will want to get your tickets early. Check our website www.hpelks.com for updates on this event. Tickets are available in the lounge. Remember that the Ladies have a list of qualified babysitters if you need someone to watch the kids. Contact any one of the Ladies Auxiliary members for a list of babysitters.

Our House Committee is planning another member appreciation night on August 19th. They are planning on grilling london broil with all the fixings. I invite all members to come and see what goes on inside the Lodge and get to know other Elks.

As a reminder our August Lodge Meeting is on the fourth Wednesday only this month.

Looking ahead our House Committee is presenting the Allison King Band in September. Come join us with one of the most established bands in the area for a night of music ranging from Aretha to Zeppelin, Heart to Stevie Wonder, Benatar to Rundgren. This will be a night to surely please your auditory senses! This will be an adult only event with tickets available in the Lounge, $5 in advance and $7 at the door.

I look forward to seeing you all at the Lodge.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
Scott Webster, Exalted Ruler
High Point Elks Lodge #1155