State President’s Message by SP Donna L. Wallace, PDD Continued on page two.... circulation 20,580 Greetings to the Members of the Connecticut Elks Association; As we close the month of December and are six months into the Connecticut Association Year, I know that the Elks of Connecticut both on the Lodge and State levels have been very busy. Beginning in October the CEA Leather Program Committee met. This committee is working to collect deer hides to turn them into leather pelts for our Veterans in the VA Hospitals to work on. Last year 59 hides were collected, and the committee is looking to increase that number to over one hundred. The main drop off for the hides will be the Middletown Lodge No. 771. This is a fairly new program and would certainly like to see this program continue to grow within our state. Also in October the Drug Awareness Committee hosted a clinic for the lodges with Ray Lozano, a drug and substance prevention specialist, a youth speaker and the CEO of Prevention Plus. Those who attended learned some interesting facts about the connection between the brain and addiction. Ray also visited area schools to entertain and educate CT students with information primarily about the dangers of underage drinking. Once again, his down to earth approach to addressing the students was well received and we look forward to having him back in the future. The State Soccer Shoot was held in October at the SportsWorld in East Windsor. The winners of the contest then went to the Nashua, NH in November to compete in the Area I Soccer Shoot. I went to New Hampshire and witnessed the competition. I am proud to say that Connecticut had some winners! For the girls, there were (2) Honorable mentions and (2) 2nd place winners. For the boys, there were (2) Honorable mentions and (1) 2nd place winner and (1) 3rd place winner. Although the Veteran’s Parade in Hartford was cancelled, members from various lodges were able to march with the Branford Lodge in the Veteran’s Day Parade in Branford. A special Thank You to all that participated and living up to our motto, “As Long As There Are Veteran’s, The Elks Will Never Forget Them”. Once again, the Connecticut Elks Association were the sponsors of the 2017 Unified Sports Classic for Special Olympics the weekend of November 18th and 19th. Each year our association donates $30,000 toward this event. It was my distinct honor as the President along with the Vice Presidents Dave Acanfora, Jim Sabio, Mike Stewart and Robert “Beau” Doherty, President of Special Olympics Connecticut, to visit the basketball, bowling, powerlifting and volleyball venues. It was amazing to witness the competitions being held at all the different locations - all of which were being held simultaneously! Everyone we met was extremely grateful and thankful to the CT Elks for their generosity. I would like to thank the 168 Connecticut Elks Volunteers who came out for that weekend to assist with the volleyball venue. We asked for your help and you certainly did not disappoint! THANK YOU!! This is the busy season for the Hoop Shoot Committee. Competitions on the lodge and district levels are well under way in preparation for the State Contest to be held on February 10th in Manchester. As we begin January 2018, there are only (3) more months in the lodge year and we are in the final stretch to realize the goals that were set forth in the beginning of the lodge year. First is a gain in membership. Last year the state realized a gain of plus 210 members. In Reno a challenge was put forth to have Connecticut have a gain of 500. That goal is still attainable, however the push to do so needs to be done so NOW! Please bring membership to the forefront of your priorities so we can make our goal of continued growth a reality. Recruitment, Re-instatement and Retention is a proven formula for success. Please be sure that your lodge is on track with GER McPherson’s ENF per capita goal for 2017–2018 of $4.75 per member. CT ELKS ASSOCIATION December 2017 Steve Maheu and Jennifer Maheu, Publishers https://ctelks.org/ Volume 22, Issue 2 “Alone we do so little, together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller Donna L. Wallace, pdd, State President Phillip R. Stender, PDD, Secretary David R. Carr, pger, Advisor John P. Simko, PDD, Public Relations Chair A 5 Star GL Award Publication
Transcript
State President’s Message by SP Donna L. Wallace, PDD
Continued on page two....
circulation 20,580
Greetings to the Members of the Connecticut Elks Association; As we close the month of December and are six months into the Connecticut Association Year, I know that the Elks of Connecticut both on the Lodge and State levels have been very busy. Beginning in October the CEA Leather Program Committee met. This committee is working to collect deer hides to turn them into leather pelts for our Veterans in the VA Hospitals to work on. Last year 59 hides were collected, and the committee is looking to increase that number to over one hundred. The main drop off for the hides will be the Middletown Lodge No. 771. This is a fairly new program and would certainly like to see this program continue to grow within our state. Also in October the Drug Awareness Committee hosted a clinic for the lodges with Ray Lozano, a drug and substance prevention specialist, a youth speaker and the CEO of Prevention Plus. Those who attended learned some interesting facts about the connection between the brain and addiction. Ray also visited area schools to entertain and educate CT students with information primarily about the dangers of underage drinking. Once again, his down to earth approach to addressing the students was well received and we look forward to having him back in the future. The State Soccer Shoot was held in October at the SportsWorld in East Windsor. The winners of the contest then went to the Nashua, NH in November to compete in
the Area I Soccer Shoot. I went to New Hampshire and witnessed the competition. I am proud to say that Connecticut had some winners! For the girls, there were (2) Honorable mentions and (2) 2nd place winners. For the boys, there were (2) Honorable mentions and (1) 2nd place winner and (1) 3rd place winner. Although the Veteran’s Parade in Hartford was cancelled, members from various lodges were able to march with the Branford Lodge in the Veteran’s Day Parade in Branford. A special Thank You to all that participated and living up to our motto, “As Long As There Are Veteran’s, The Elks Will Never Forget Them”. Once again, the Connecticut Elks Association were the sponsors of the 2017 Unified Sports Classic for Special Olympics the weekend of November 18th and 19th. Each year our association donates $30,000 toward this event. It was my distinct honor as the President along with the Vice Presidents Dave Acanfora, Jim Sabio, Mike Stewart and Robert “Beau” Doherty, President of Special Olympics Connecticut, to visit the basketball, bowling, powerlifting and volleyball venues. It was amazing to witness the competitions being held at all the different locations - all of which were being held simultaneously! Everyone we met was extremely grateful and thankful to the CT
Elks for their generosity. I would like to thank the 168 Connecticut Elks Volunteers who came out for that weekend to assist with the
volleyball venue. We asked for your help and you certainly did not disappoint! THANK YOU!! This is the busy season for the Hoop Shoot Committee. Competitions on the lodge and district levels are well under way in preparation for the State Contest
to be held on February 10th in Manchester. As we begin January 2018, there are only (3) more months in the lodge year and we are in the final stretch to realize the goals that were set forth in the beginning of the lodge year. First is a gain in membership. Last year the state realized a gain of plus 210 members. In Reno a challenge was put forth to have Connecticut have a gain of 500. That goal is still attainable, however the push to do so needs to be done so NOW! Please bring membership to the forefront of your priorities so we can make our goal of continued growth a reality. Recruitment, Re-instatement and Retention is a proven formula for success. Please be sure that your lodge is on track with GER McPherson’s ENF per capita goal for 2017–2018 of $4.75 per member.
CT ELKS ASSOCIATION December
2017
Steve Maheu and Jennifer Maheu, Publishers
https://ctelks.org/Volume 22, Issue 2
“Alone we do so little, together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller
Donna L. Wallace, pdd, State PresidentPhillip R. Stender, PDD, SecretaryDavid R. Carr, pger, AdvisorJohn P. Simko, PDD, Public Relations Chair
state President’s Message, continued from page one
PGER David R. Carr’s Placemat ProgramYou can find your set of GL Placemats on ELKS.ORG/ Grand Lodge/Committees/
Fraternal Committee/Forms&Downloads.They can be used at your next event,
breakfast, dinner, and more to promote your Lodge and Elkdom. Download them today!
It is the intent of the State Public Relations Committee to publish this newsletter quarterly. All Grand Lodge & State Officers, committee persons
& local Lodges are encouraged to submit any articles & information to the State or District Public Relations Chair. Chair: John P. Simko, PDD – [email protected]; Central: Kathleen Ackerman, PDD
Next is the fundraising needed for the State Major Project. Each year $100,000 is committed to the CCMC’s “Safe Kids Connecticut”. The association relies on the lodges to assist in making this goal. Currently we are behind on the lodges making their $5 per member goal, but I am confident that when the District
Chairpersons contact your lodge, you will be able to provide what programs and activities are in the works at your lodge to make
this happen. The State Association will be hosting (2) fundraisers and the money raised is specifically earmarked for this purpose. First is the Connecticut Sound Tigers game on February 24th and the second is the Connecticut Elks Bowling Tournament on March 4th. The Mid Year Convention will be held on January 27th at the Groton Lodge. There will be work shop sessions at 9:15 am and 10:20 am. There will be a very dynamic speaker at the convention this year. Rick Gathen, the Grand Lodge Membership/Public Relations Manager. Anyone who has heard him speak at the Grand Lodge conventions, knows that he is energetic and
will certainly have some creative and interesting ideas to share. I encourage all the lodges to include their membership, lapsation and public relations chairperson as delegates to this year’s convention. It’s the Elks 150th anniversary! How many other fraternal organizations has that distinct honor? That is something to be proud of and can certainly be a way to strike up a conversation with prospective members. Imagine how much more we will be able to accomplish in the next (6) months of the CT Elks Association Year if we continue to work together. For that I thank you.
Special Deputy GER, Richard M. Palanzo, PGLCC, PSP, PDD
Grand Lodge Committeeman Auditing
& Accounting, William J. Chinn, Jr.,
PSP, PDD
District Deputy GER Central District
Vincent Alianiello, Jr., DDGER
District Deputy GER Coastal District
Bonnie Mullin, DDGER
District Deputy GER East District,
Arthur Brault, DDGER
District Deputy GER Northwest District Donald Woscyna,
DDGER
a Message froM grand exalted rulerger, MalcolM J. McPherson, Jr.
New London Elks Lodge #360Elks Member Antonio Suarez (left) and Exalted Ruler Aaron
Baldwin Sr. (center) of the New London Elks Lodge were pleased to host the Second Annual Evening of Giving event. This annual Christmas tree auction fundraiser raised over $15,000 for our Citizen of the Year Amy Sarcia (right) on behalf of the New London Community Meal Center which
provided 73,518 meals in the last year.
Left to Right: Vincent Alianiello, Jr. DDGER, Central District, Arthur Brault, DDGER, East District, Bonnie Mullin, DDGER, Coastal District, Donald Woscyna, DDGER, Northwest District.
Embrace charity and compassion this holiday season Christmas is certainly a time to visit family, socialize with friends, cook delicious meals, and shop for
the perfect gift, but we must also remember the true spirit of the holiday. As Dr. Seuss famously wrote in the story of the Grinch, “Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” For Elks, Christmas means a lot more. It’s the ideal time to put my theme of “Strengthening Elkdom Through Community Awareness” into practice and showcase the hope and charity that Elks have given throughout the past 150 years. There are many ways Lodges can give back
to those who are alone or struggling this Christmas season, such as adopting a family in need of a warm meal or winter coat, donating gifts to children whose families can’t afford presents under the tree, or visiting with veterans who don’t have loved ones. Be sure to spread the word of your charitable efforts through your membership—I’m confident you’ll receive a positive response and many helping hands. In addition, as you attend social events at your Lodges this holiday, remember to be kind and compassionate to one another. While the holidays are a fun and easygoing time for some, they can be difficult for others. It is our duty as Elks to extend the same help to each other as we do to our friends outside the Order. From our house to yours, Pat and I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy holiday season and New Year. We hope you all find a way to grow your hearts three sizes this Christmas. See you in 2018!
Embrace charity and compassion this holiday season BPOE celebrating 150 years
By Bryan R. Klatt, Grand Secretary
The BPOE, which is celebrat-ing 150 years of service over the next year, is asking for your help in uploading on the Elks.Org website, any photographs, newspaper articles, commu-nity service projects and any other documents that provide a historical background of your Lodge. We will compile and archive the uploaded docu-ments to show the rich history of our Lodges, membership and accomplishments. Don’t be excluded. Learn more at www.Elks.Org/History on our website Local Lodges wanting to use the Elks’ 150th Anniversary logo for stock & customized items, may do so through D. Turin Company. The D. Turin Company contact is David Plask, who may be reached at (305) 825-2004, ext. 312; or [email protected].
Care Share
Special Olympics CEA Volunteers
3
The Dictionary Project was founded in 1995 by Mary French of Charleston, SC. It’s primary focus is to promote literacy to children in third-grade as they transition from learning how to read to identify and use information. Over the course of the program nearly 15 million third-grade students have received dictionaries including about 2.5 million dictionaries donated in 2009. Elks joined this movement in 2004 nationwide have donated more than 2.2 million dictionaries to third-grade
students and their teachers as sponsors of The Dictionary Project
over the last 12 years. There are 600 lodges that actively participate in the program. To see if your nearest lodge participates in this program, find a lodge near you.
Sample Kits There are two different sample kits available from The Dictionary Project. Each sample kit contains five books and can be obtained for $15. One kit provides all five of the American English language dictionaries. The other kit contains a dictionary and thesaurus usage guide, Spanish to English dictionary, an English to Spanish dictionary, atlas and thesaurus.The Dictionary Project website http://www.dictionaryproject.org.
Join the dictionary ProJect at your lodgeBy diane roBinson, er, cea state youth activities chair
aMericanisM essay contest WinnersBy suzanne l. novaco, Per, cea aMericanisM state chairMan
Americanism Last years Essay Contest Winners
Division 11st place – Jasmine Green sponsored by Danbury Lodge - Lodge chairman Lisa Knapp PER- District Chairman Suzanne Novaco PER2nd place – Alex Caba sponsored by Danbury Lodge - Lodge chairman Lisa Knapp PER - District Chairman Suzanne Novaco PER3rd place – Sofia Marie Retiglian Sponsored by Wallingford Lodge – Lodge chairman Shari Dziekan PER – District chairman Shari Dzikan PER Division 21st place – Samantha Mierzejewski sponsored by Meriden Lodge – Lodge chairman Jim Botsacos – District chairman Denise Johnson PER2nd place – Gabriel Aguero sponsored by Willimantic Lodge – Lodge chairman Jenn Audette – District chairman Alex Coriaty PDD
3rd place – Rosemary Redrovan sponsored by Danbury Lodge - Lodge chairman Lisa Knapp PER - District Chairman Suzanne Novaco PER
2017-2018 Americanism Community Contest
This is the 3rd year for this contest. The format is easy, all your lodge needs to do is document, with a picture or pictures and an outline or article, 5 events your lodge hosted or participated in involving Americanism in the Community. Submit your 5 events in a folder, portfolio or report binder. Dates and more details are outlined in this downloadable document Americanism/Community contest.Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have
The New Britain Elks Lodge #957 held a Veterans Memorial Service at the Hospital for Spe-cial Care (HSC) in New Britain. Thirty-five guests attended, including veteran patients and employees of the hospital, fam-ily members and friends. Ceremony officiants were Robert Ferone Sr., PDD, LM; Donald Woscyna, DDGER and Peter Moran, LM and Trustee. James Caplik, New Britain lodge member, performed taps follow-ing the program while a wreath was placed at the base of the flagpole by Elks members. The prayer and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Hospital Chaplain Tom Anderson, US Army Reserve. At the conclusion of the pro-gram, all veterans in attendance were presented with an Elk pin to show appreciation for their service. Several patients were unable to be present in the hospital lobby for the ceremony. How-ever, Lodge Officers visited pa-tients’ in their rooms and were presented pins and thanked for their service to our Country. A total of twenty-five pins were presented. This was the first Veterans Day Service conducted at the Hospital for Special Care, and the service was very successful. Lodge Of-ficers Robert Ferone and Donald Woscyna are security officers employed at HSC and were able to bring the Veterans Day Service to veterans who were unable to leave the hospital due to medical conditions. We would like to thank the Administration and staff of HSC for their enthusiastic support to bring this Veterans Day Service to honor patients and employ-ees who are veterans.
Left to Right: Veteran Michael Timura who served in World War II, Donald Woscyna, DDGER, NW District, PER Photo credit: Rachel Anonuevo
On Sunday, October 1st, sixty-four members of the Connecticut Elks Association enjoyed a spectacular Autumn day in Boston for the First Annual Connecticut Elks Day at Fenway Park. The event raised $576 for Major Projects, the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center’s - Safe Kids Connecticut program. Thank you from the Major Projects Committee for making this event a success!
drug aWareness PrograM Motivational sPeaker returnsBy lisa BerthiauMe, cea daP state chair
cea day at fenWay ParkBy darren “hoWie” laWler, Per, cea state MaJor ProJects chair
Ray Lozano, a drug and substance prevention specialist and youth speaker and CEO of Prevention Plus, once again visited our state on October 11-14, 2017 to entertain and educate CT students with information primarily about the dangers of underage drinking. Connecticut Elks Drug Awareness Program State Chair Lisa Berthiaume used an ENF National Drug Awareness Program Grant to retain motivational speaker, Ray Lozano. Ray has educated and entertained thousands of students in hundreds of schools all over the country as well as internationally. Mr. Lozano spent 4 days in Connecticut speaking to students at local schools and at a CEA DAP Clinic for Lodge DAP chairmen, Lodge officers, members and guests. Overall Ray connected with 1,406 students and 231 adults. On Wednesday, October 11, Ray returned to Mark T. Sheehan High School and Lyman Hall High School, both in Wallingford, to address the senior class of both high schools. Later that day Ray spoke to about 40 students in an after school program hosted by Naugatuck Youth Services.
Thursday, October 12, Ray spoke to a group of at-risk students from West Haven High School and traveled to Winsted to address the 7th & 8th graders at The Gilbert School. Friday, October 13, Ray returned to Tyrrell Middle School in Wolcott to address the 7th graders and then presented to the 8th graders of Hamden Middle School. What I thought was especially thought provoking at the end of Ray’s presentations were the questions he
asked of students to know whether or not they may be addicted to alcohol or drug(s) – no hands needed to be raised, he just asked students to think about:1. If you go to party and there is no alcohol there and you think it’s boring, that is a sign that you started an addiction. 2. If you do go to a party and there is alcohol there and you have to drink til you’re drunk or smoke to get high, you have an addiction.3. If on Wednesday you start wondering where
you’re going to be drinking or smoking on the weekend, you have an addiction.4. If you’ve ever done something illegal or lied to get a drug, you have an addiction.5. If you’ve ever had somebody look at you and say, “Wow! You can really drink a lot or you can really smoke a lot!” and you feel a little bit proud about that, you have an addiction.
Left to Right: Madigan Lawlor, “Big Papi”
Left to Right: Terry Barrett and his wife Tara, daughter Shay, and son Bohan
It is the Veteran, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the Veteran, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the Veteran, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the Veteran, not the campus organizaer, who has given us freedom to assemble. It is the Veteran, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial. It is the Veteran, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote. It is the Veteran, who salutes the Flag.
The Elks Thank all those who have given up so much to give us so much.
Left Mr. Ray Lozano presenting at West Haven High School
CEA State Veterans CommitteeRick Berthiaume, PER, CEA State Chairman
Care Share 5
March 15, 2018, is a very important date to remember: It’s the deadline to mail your All American Lodge—Contest “A” entry form to the District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler. The winner of the contest, which recognizes Lodges that have best administered Elks Programs throughout the year, is determined by a score that counts participation in 40 activities. Each activity has a designated value between 5 and 100 points. Activities include observing Flag Day services, sponsoring a new Lodge, increasing membership, and participating in Elks programs such as Antlers, Hoop Shoot, and the Americanism Essay Contest. Prior planning prevents poor performance, so start planning now if you’re not doing so already. Begin by appointing a chairman knowledgeable in Lodge activities (perhaps a Past Exalted Ruler) and schedule a meeting with the Lodge Secretary, Treasurer, Auxiliary, PERs, and all committees, including those unique to the Lodge. Provide each with a copy of the contest entry form and, if available, the Lodge’s entry form from last year that
shows past contest information. Some of the activities that earn the most points involve action by more than one Lodge committee, so it is important that all attendees review the entry form and provide the required information to the contest chairman. Previous contest winners take advantage of activities with designated maximum points that require specific listing in the attachments. Provide as much info as possible, not just enough to make the quota. The best idea is to “overkill,” just in case your competitors have a similar number of activities. Potential sources for obtaining activities numbers include a Lodge’s expenditure reports and newsletters. Have all designated committee members update their provided information the first of each month. Lastly, keep in mind that winners are determined by membership category—your Lodge is competing against only Lodges of a similar size.
all aMerican lodge contest By richard c. conWay, grand lodge coMMittee MeMBer
state ten Pin BoWling tournaMentconnecticut elks association 10th annual event
The Connecticut Elks Association will be holding their 10th annual bowling tournament on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at Apple Valley Bowling in Plantsville, Connecticut. The event benefits a state major project, The Connecticut Children’s Medical Center under the Connecticut Elks Association Charities, Inc. The CEA Charities, Inc. mission is to assist veterans, youth and communities in the good work of the Benevolent and protective order of the Elks. Registration for the event will begin at 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. and bowling competition will begin at 11:00 a.m. Four person teams, which can include, men, women or both. You can have mixed Lodges bowl as a team and no handicaps. If you
don’t have a team, send in your registration and you will be assigned to a team. High 3 game total will be awarded champions. An awards dinner will be served following the bowling tournament. Cost per person in advance is $30, at the door $35 and $7 per person for lunch. All registrations and fees are due by February 4, 2018. Please make checks payable to CT Elks Association Charities, Inc. Please send to Louise Lee, PER Danielson Lodge #1706, 13 Center Street, Danielson, CT 06239. If you have any questions, please contact Louise at (860) 377-8658 or email [email protected]. To access the application and registration form visit the Connecticut Association website.
2017-2018 Hoop Shoot Contests
Coastal District - Sunday, 1/14/18 Derby High School75 Chatfield Street, DerbyRegistration - 9:00 AM Contest - 9:30 AMDirector - Dave Nagy (203) 954-6486 Central District - Sunday, 1/14/18Dag Hammarskjold School106 Pond Hill Road, WallingfordRegistration - 11:30 AMContest - 12:00 PMDirector - George Gilhuly (203) 269-2666 East District - Sunday, 1/21/18West Side Middle School 250 Brandegee Ave, Groton Registration - 10:00 AMContest - 10:30 AMDirector - Mary Hill (860) 460-2995 Northwest District - Sunday, 1/28/18Torringford School800 Charles St. TorringtonRegistration - 12:30 PMDirectors - Jim and Jean Weingart (860) 482-7088 State Hoop Shoot Saturday, February 10, 2018Place: Mahoney Recreation Center, Manchester, CTTime: 10:30 a.m. Director: Micheal Stewart (860) 235-1681
Following the competition, a complimentary luncheon will be served at the Manchester Elks Lodge #1893, at 30 Bissell Street Manchester.
The 19th annual team scramble golf tournament will be held on May 16, 2018 at the Windham Golf Club on 184 Club Road in North Windham, CT. Registration will be from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Dinner post the event will be held at the Willimantic Elks Lodge #1311 forty-five minutes after tournament end time. The tournament benefits the Connecticut State Major Projects, which include, but is not limited to, accomplishing annual goals of providing Scholarships to students, strengthening our support to the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Safe Kids Program, the Connecticut State Special Olympics and giving back to local communities to support veterans and youth. The tournament is limited to one foursome per Lodge, per district. This will allow all 31 Lodges within the State of Connecticut to participate. Reservations must be secured by March 1, 2018 and full payment with application is due on May 9, 2018. If your Lodge does not plan on participating, please contact Chic Rhodes, Jr., PER at (860) 688-9474. so another Lodge within your District may register more then one foursome.
Golf, cart, dinner and prizes only $100 per person. Closest to the pin and long drive contest is included. Dinner will be served 45 minutes post the event conclusion. Dinner reservations without partcipation in the golf tournament is available for only $20 per person. Please reserve your dinner in advance. Proper dress is required, no jeans and no PGA members of any type allowed. Hole sign sponsorships are also available for $50 each. If your lodge or a member would like to donate a prize, it would be greatly appreciated. To access the application and registration form visit the Connecticut Elks Association website.
iMPortant ‘sign in Book’ uPdateBy Matt frankel, Pdd, cea state chairMan, cea governMent relations
19th annual teaM scraMBle golf tournaMenthosted By connecticut elks association
There has been some confusion around the state over guest book sign in requirements. Here I have listed the Connecticut General Statute number, title of the statute, and what it means to your Lodge.
30-23a : Guest Book requirements Under Club Permits• Non member guests visiting a lodge must be
signed in as guests.• Members of a lodge, visiting another lodge are
required to sign in as guests.30-24 : Spouses of Club Members
• Spouses of a lodge member shall not be considered guests and are not required to sign the guest book. (The statute mentions “privileges” of said club, but for our purposes, privileges mean use of the clubroom.)
30-24b : Auxiliary Club Members• Auxiliary Club members, who are spouses of
members, or surviving spouses of deceased members, shall not be considered guests, and are not required to sign the guest book. (This is for Emblem Clubs and Does Clubs.)
Number of Guest Books Within A lodge:• Opinion of Liquor Commission is that a Lodge
may use multiple guest books in various lodge rooms, but each book must be properly maintained.
I hope this information has provided some clarification. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me and my information is in the state directory.
Waterbury Elks Lodge #265 Exalted Ruler Eugene Lafauci, Jr., his wife Linda and George Reis,
Inner Guard donating smoke and CO2 detectors.
CT ELKS Association is on Facebook
Follow us on Facebook. With over 20,000 Elks in Connecticut, let’s increase our
numbers! FIND US AT CTELKS.ORG
Meriden Elks Lodge #35 On November 11th our Veteran’s Committee collected donations for the Fischer House. Between our collection date in October and
November and our breakfast on Thanksgiving, we collected over
$1,000.00 for Fischer House!! This certainly proves that Elks Care Elks Share. We held our annual Veteran’s Day luncheon on November 11th.
The 2017 holiday season has opened with the CEA holding the Special Olympics Volleyball event from Saturday, November 18th through Sunday, November 19th. Saturday’s opening ceremony was soundly declared by our State President, Donna Wallace PDD, that the competitions were officially open and to LET THE GAMES BEGIN. A great weekend was held by all. There were 38 Volleyball teams (295 players) from 3 states (CT, NY & RI). We had a good volunteer turn out for Saturday & Sunday (168) (Saturday 89, Sunday 79). Sunday, the CEA Officers , gave out the medals and ribbons to all participants. Every one went home after the weekend, participants and volunteers, with a great feeling and looking towards next year.
2017 sPecial olyMPicsBy frank “cheech” defazio, Pdd, cea sPecial olyMPics chairMan
elks give Winsted scoreBoardBy kurt Moffett, rePuBlican-aMerican
The local Elks Club has donated a new scoreboard to the town for use at one of the multi-purpose fields off Willow Street. Volunteers installed the 200-pound electronic sign late one afternoon. The field is used for a variety of organized sports, from baseball to soccer. Elks Exalted Ruler Tom Matthews said the civic organization was contacted by Recreation Director Tanya Risucci two years ago about
whether his group could fix or replace the old scoreboard, which no longer worked. “People were having trouble reading it,” because the numbers were not getting fully illuminated, Matthews said. He did not know how old the previous sign was. The civic organization subsequently held at least two fundraisers, including a duck race at the YMCA that raised $3,750. Another $500 was raised separately at a stained glass raffle.
We are now in the busiest season for the Drug Aware-ness Program. Hopefully, your Lodge’s poster, essay and video contests are un-derway or plans are firm for when they will be held. This year’s theme is “What Heroes Do”. Remember: Your Lodge’s entries are due to your DAP District Chairman NO LATER than March 1, 2018. And be sure to begin planning how your Lodge’s winners will be recognized, ideally during Youth Week the first week of May (reminder: DAP basket-balls and soccer balls make GREAT prizes!). Ray Lozano, our national spokesperson, will be return-ing early October 2018. As I always say, if you have an interest in bringing Ray to your community to speak to students honestly and frankly about drug and alcohol abuse, please contact me. I’d love for him to tour everywhere in the state. Our annual fundraiser was once again very successful and we were able to cover the expenses of Ray Lozano’s October 2017 speaking tour. Everyone’s efforts are so very much appreciated. Remember the resources that are available to your Lodge at no cost: coloring books, bookmarks and the many DAP/DEA pamphlets, not to mention the use of Elroy the Elk and the DAP trailer. Also at no cost are the “What Heroes Do” comic books that your local school can request for use in their classroom.
Photo Credit: Jim Shannon, Republican-American
Left to right: Dan Matthews, Lecturing Knight; Mayor Candy Perez; Patrick Matthews, 5 Year Trustee; Tom Matthews, Exalted Ruler; Jim Matthews, Citizen of the Year; Pastor David McGee, Veterans Committee Chair
Care Share 8
The 3rd Annual Connecticut Elks Night at Webster Bank Harbor Yard Arena will be held on Saturday, February 24th, 2018 for the Bridgeport Sound Tigers hockey game starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and $4 of each ticket sale will go towards the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Safe Kids CT program. Webster Bank Arena has taken center stage in Connecticut’s thriving sports and entertainment industry, now hosting over 150 world-class events each year.
The Arena is a favorite of patrons and promoters alike with its excellent acoustics, seating configurations that vary from 2,000 to 10,000 offering viewers close proximity to the stage, outstanding amenities, and professional staff. To reserve your tickets or purchase your tickets, please contact Darren “Howie” Lawler at [email protected]!
gl accident Prevention / insurance riskBy Michael a. Johnson, Pdd, secretary southington elks 1669, cea accident Prevention chairMan
BridgePort sound tigersBy darren laWor, Per, cea chaPlain
The service of alcohol is a privilege the Lodge extends to Members and their guests, not a means of revenue for the Lodge. Cutting off a Member or guest who is approaching intoxication is better than defending a multi -million dollar lawsuit.• Know all State and Local Liquort laws;• Never serve anyone approaching intoxication;• Do not let others buy drinks for anyone who might be close to intoxication;• Stop service to anyone else if they will give drinks to anyone approaching intoxication;• No beer kegs, no pitchers and no coolers;• Remind Members/guests not to drink and drive;• Be observant while serving alcohol;• Encourage designated drivers;• Never permit BYOB;• Do not allow games/contests involving alcohol consumption;• An outdoor tent/bar must have a server;• Do not hold a “Happy Hour”;• Never discount prices to promote liquor sales;• “Last call” should be well before closing;• Insist on a taxi or a ride for anyone who drank too much; and• Members that have a problem need our help, now!
Certificates of insurance What you need to do when there is request for a certificate of insurance from the Lodge:• Ask that the request be in an email so the details
can be shared with the Insurance Department and Aon
• A “Certificate of Liability Insurance” can be found on page 8 of the Liability Insurance Program
• Copy the “Certificate of Liability Insurance” and provide it to anyone that requires proof that the Lodge has liability insurance for its Officers and Members
• Lodges that require specialized certificates should also refer to page 9 of the Liability Insurance Program for guidance on how to obtain a certificate through Aon Affinity Services, Inc. (The Elks Team)
• Contact the Grand Lodge Insurance Department with any questions about certificates of insurance
“Special Event” Policies Anyone using Lodge facilities must sign an indemnity agreement and provide a Certificate of Insurance that names the Lodge as additional insured. If the entity or individual cannot name the Lodge as additional insured on their insurance policy, “Special Event” policies can be obtained by contacting Aon Affinity Services (The Elks Team) at 1-800-421-3557.
On November 10, Groton Lodge #2163 held its annual salute to
the Armed Forces and veterans. It was attended by over 200 veterans,
active duty military including members of the current sub school, honored guests and members. There was a special recognition of Vietnam veterans, a speech by RADM Jimmy
Pitts and a Performance by the Mystic Highland Pipe Band.
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The Anniversary Grant is a one-time grant opportunity to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Elks through service! This $1,500 grant offers an opportunity for Lodges to do even more charitable work. All Lodges are eligible for a one-time Anniversary Grant, regardless of meeting the ENF per-member-giving goal. Much like the Gratitude Grant, the Anniversary Grant has flexible guidelines. An opportunity to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Elks! This one-time grant is available toevery Lodge and offers a chance for Lodges to do even more charitable work. This grant is only available during the 2017-18 grant year. Grant Amount: Every Lodge is eligible for a one-time $1,500 grant. The Lodge does not need to meet the GER’s per-member-giving goal to receive this grant. Charitable Focus: ENF grants must be used for charitable purposes: to relieve the poor, distressed or underprivileged; advance education; lessen the burdens of government; lessen neighborhood tensions; eliminate prejudice and discrimination; or to combat juvenile delinquency. Flexibility: We encourage your Lodge to use its Anniversary Grant to supersize another CIP grant! Use the $1,500 to increase the budget of a Beacon, Gratitude or Promise Grant. The supersize option can only be applied to one grant. If the Lodge is unable to plan an active project, it may use an Anniversary Grant to donate funds or
supplies to a charitable organization.Restrictions: ENF grant guidelines state that Lodges may not use grants to support State Major Projects, national Elks programs, fund scholarships, Hoop Shoot events, youth awards nights, poster and/or essay contests, appreciation dinners, fundraisers or general community events, benefit Lodge members and their families or Lodge maintenance and repairs. The Lodge will only have to answer the following questions if it chooses the stand-alone Anniversary Grant application. These questions do not apply if you choose to supersize.Application Questions:• Describe your Lodge’s charitable
project.• Why is this an important
community need?• How will Lodge members be
involved in this project?• What does the Lodge expect to
accomplish with this project?• Itemized budget. Please note:
No more than 10 percent of the budget can be dedicated to administrative or publicity expenses.
Application Dates: Anniversary Grant applications are available online only, July 1, 2017, until March 31, 2018. No exceptions. Anniversary Grants are available for use between the date your Lodge applies and July 31, 2018. Go to Elks.org for more information.
anniversary grantgrand lodge coMMunity investMents PrograM
Honoring our Blind Veterans
On Sunday, November 19, 2017, the Derby Elks Lodge #571 hosted seven blind/sight impaired veterans from the West Haven VA Medical Center, Blind Unit. A dinner of homemade meatloaf, mashed potatoes, corn and chocolate was on the menu. The dinner was prepared by our own Bud Baxter and his team. A total of sixty-five people attended the Annual event. The veterans shared their life stories and each received a red, white and blue handmade lap robe from Annette Marcucio. Annette estimates that she has donated more than two hundred lap robes throughout all annual events. As one veteran expressed, “This is a wonderful evening for us to get out, commiserate with all of you and enjoy a meal that is not like we get in the cafeteria…please don’t EVER change the menu!”
Now Open! Connec,cut Elks Online Store
Visit us through CTELKS.ORG
Or scan this QR Code
All proceeds benefit CCMC Our State Major Project
Thank you to those who have donated to the Elks Natural Disaster Relief Program. As of October 31, $197,890 has been collected with $205,000 distributed: $180,000 for Hurricane Harvey and $25,000 for Hurricane Irma. The November Membership Report has been tentatively closed with the Order showing a gain of 3.1% (23,695) for a mid-year total of 798,787 members with 9,529 candidates.
The downside is that we have 9.8% (75,615) delinquent members. Continued emphasis must be given towards retaining those lapsed members. The Memorial Building is now closed until 4/15/18. If you or someone you know are planning on visiting Chicago during the winter, give a call and staff can give you a personal tour of the National Headquarters. Season’s Greetings and Happy Holidays from your Grand Lodge staff.
elks coMe uP Big for disaster reliefBy grand secretary Bryan r. klatt
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Now is the time of the year that we start collecting deer hides for our Veterans Leather Program. The opening of hunting season is upon us... or the deer. This is for all hunters not only those who are Elks members. Spread the word. We need the hides to have them tanned and turn them in to leather pelts for our vets in the VA Hospitals to work on. The hides will again be collected at the main drop off at Middletown Lodge #771. Contact Glenn
Davis or Bill Ackerman (both of Middletown Lodge). All we ask is that you salt them down and fold them. Last year we collected 59 hides. We are looking to double that figure so we make the most of the freight that the Grand Lodge is paying. All animal hides are accepted. If you have any questions call me.
attention huntersBy frank “cheech” defazio, Pdd, cea sPecial olyMPics chairMan
On Thursday November 16, 2017, the Rockville Lodge of Elks #1359 hosted the annual luncheon for fifty-one Veterans from various healthcare facilities. They were
treated to a roast beef lunch with mashed potatoes, carrots, salad,
rolls, butter and pumpkin pie for dessert at no cost to any of them. We
were able to raffle off some home made afghans and they all left with a goodie bag that contained various
articles.
Annie Dance, Esteemed Loyal Knight & DAP Chairman of Danbury, CT Elks Lodge No. 120 & her dog Harley, at the annual Kids Safety
Day held at Mill Plain Fire Department in Danbury, CT.
Free Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide
Detectors were distributed to attendees, from Safe Kids CT, CT State Major Projects
charity. Approxinately 40 kids attended, learned
about fire safety, including dog safety, and Elks Kids Drug Awareness Program
information as well as Food Allergy Research & Education’s (FARE) Teal
Pumpkin Project.
grand lodge MeMBershiP and MarketingBy rick gathen, MeMBershiP and Marketing Manager
Many of us understand the role of taking care of aging family members or helping friends who are struggling financially or are in poor physical health. As charity begins at home, please give consideration to delinquent members who may be facing hardships. Remember “Living or dead, an Elk is Never Forgotten...Never Forsaken.” Let’s stand by these words and review Lapsation rolls, especially emphasizing those members with many years serving our Order. Some have been loyal dues paying members for decades. Discuss the loss of these at-risk members with your Lodge’s Standing Relief Committee. Per Statute Section 13.010: “The Exalted Ruler, Esteemed Leading
Knight, Loyal Knight and Lecturing Knight, Secretary and Treasurer shall constitute the Standing Relief Committee of the Lodge, which shall examine the merits of all cases suggesting the necessity of aid or relief.” Upon committee recommendation, your Lodge may legally vote on assisting with their dues. Any member present at a Lodge meeting may make that motion. Because this process is often overlooked, the Lodge Secretary is forced to cancel memberships of those worthy of assistance. Instead, allow your Lodge the right to vote before cancelling. Make sure your Lodge Standing Relief Committee performs this important responsibility. Only then are we acting with Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity.
On Sunday November 5th the Branford Elks #1939 along with Grand Lodge and CEA members marched in the Branford’s Annual
Veterans Day Parade. Marchers and Lodges: DD Bonnie Mullin - New Haven; PER
& ER Denise Reynolds - New Haven; DD Vinnie Alaniello - Glastonbury; PER Tom Matthews - Winsted; PDD Kathi
Ackerman - Middletown; PDD John Franco - Branford; PER Deb Franco - Branford; PER Darren “Howie” Lawler - Branford; PER
Janet Vergason - Branford ; ER Alicia Dunbar - Branford; Mike Nobile - Branford; Kenny Larson - Branford; Gary Carlson - Branford; Barbara Cowles - Branford; Madigan Lawler - Branford
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The annual Marvin M. Lewis Award recognizes Elks in good standing who have significantly contributed to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the Boy Scouts of America. It is presented to an individual in each of the four Scouting regions who have brought Elks and Scouting closer. Both organizations share values such as charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. The award, which was named after a PGER and established in 1998, has been presented to 116 individuals for their exemplary work in Scouting. The Grand Lodge invites all Lodges to nominate one candidate for the award. Candidates must have the recommendation of their Local Lodge and their local Scouting Council to be eligible. Winners of the award receive a medal, ribbon, framed certificate, lapel pin, and square knot. When selecting a candidate, Lodges are asked to consider Elks who:• Have brought Scouting to more
youth.• Have assisted Local Lodges in
forming Scouting units.• Are fully trained in the skills
of Scouting and are considered outstanding role models.
• Have contributed significantly to Elks and Scouting by bringing the two movements together to serve the community.
• Have offered Scouting to all youth regardless of race, creed, or income level, and have been instrumental in organizing Scouting units, especially in inner-city or other
low-income communities. The applications are available online. Go to Elks.org, then click on the Committee Programs menu to find the section on the Marvin M. Lewis Award. After clicking on the link, the PDF of the application form for the award can be found toward the bottom of the page. The form can be filled out online, and the mailing address is on the bottom of the application. The deadline is March 1 of the current Lodge year. The next presentation will be made at the Grand Lodge Convention in San Antonio, Texas, in July 2018. I would like to encourage those who have previously applied to apply again. We only select one recipient from each of the four areas and we have turned down some very worthy applicants in recent years. The Marvin M. Lewis Award winners for 2017 were Russell C. Larsen Sr., Lockport, NY Lodge 41 (Northeast Region); Robert Britton, North Platte, NE Lodge 985 (Central Region); Morris Brown, El Paso, TX Lodge 187 (Western Region); and Robert C. Bloberger, Dallas, TX Lodge 71 (Southern Region). Other programs are also open, of course. While you’re on the Elks Activities page, check out other Committee Programs such as Antlers, Scouting, Medal of Valor and Medal of Honor, the Junior Golf Program, the Student Recognition Program, and Youth Week Proclamation. Look under Printable Certificates and you will find a number of certificates for each of the programs.
aWard honors elks Who contriBute to scoutinggrand lodge coMMunity: By dale e. nielso, scouting coordinator
Branford Elks Lodge #1939Members helped support a Take-a-Vet Fishing program held at the Indian Neck Yacht Club. Together the Elks made over 300 double egg sandwiches for Veterans and boat captains to take out on boats with them. The Lodge also provided a donation in support of this great
Left to Right: DD Don Woscyna, DD; Lindsey McCarthy, ER and her
husband & another Antler advisor.
Per association Meeting rePortBy roBert J. ferone, sr., Pdd, secretary, connecticut Per association
MEETING OPENED at approximately _1:20 pm, President, Frank DeFazio PDD presiding. ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS: Robert Magowan, Sgt. @ Arms, Mike Ruimerman, Inner Guard, absent ROLL CALL OF LODGES: 18 Lodges Present; Total Attendance 42
READING OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS SESSION: Accepted as Read GREETING Alicia Dunbar, Exalted Ruler Branford Lodge 1939 INSTALLATION OF NEW MEMBERS: By President Frank DeFazio, PDD: Stephanie Nobile, Branford 1939, Terry Barrett, Branford 1939, Louise Lee, Danielson 1706, Carl Stevens,
Continued on Page 13
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Bridgeport 36, Ray Dunbar, Branford 1939. SICKNESS AND DISTRESS: Albert Cliff LM, PER New Britain #957; Lou Mayers, PER Enfield Lodge is ill. COMMITTEE REPORTS: Scholarship: Elizabeth Raynor, sponsored by the Manchester Lodge #1893 was named recipient of the Peter Affatato PGER/CT. Elks PER Assoc. Scholarship and will receive $500. COMMUNICATIONS: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None. NEW BUSINESS: Election and Installation of OfficersPresident: Kathi Ackerman PDD, nominated by Al Baranyai, PSP, 2nd by John Simko, PDD• 1st. VP Dave Lemoine , PER nominated by Bovb
Mossback PER, 2nd by Kathi Ackerman PDD• 2nd VP Sandra Hirth PER, nominated by Leon
Zahaba, PSP; 2nd by Mike Barta PSP• 3rd VP John Simko, PDD nominated by James
Coley, PDD; 2nd by D Lawler, PER• 4th VP Seth Miller, PER nominated by Don
Woscyna, DDGER; 2nd by Denise Johnson, PER• Secretary Robert Ferone PDD, nominated by Don
Woscyna DDGER; 2nd by Jim Money, PDD• Treasurer Ed Baranyai, PDD nominated by Al
Baranyai, PSP; 2nd by Jim Money PDD. Motion by Ed Baranyai, 2nd by Frank DeFazio, that the nominations be closed and that the President cast one ballot for all nominees. Motion passed. President Frank DeFazio cast one ballot for all nominees. Officer Appointees by President Elect: Sgt. @ Arms to be announced Chaplain John Franco, PDD Inner Guard Denise Johnson, PER Installation of Officers by Leon Zahaba, PSP with John Franco, PDD as Chaplain. *Drawing for 50/50 PER Scholarship Raffle 1st Prize Thomas Oppelt, PER $110.00; 2nd Prize John Franco $65.00; 3rd Prize Trish Robles $45.00 *Raffle Report: Secretary Robert Ferone reported that the raffle took in $1,100.00. Expenses were $307.62 for ticket printing, and $220.00 in winner payouts. Profit was $572.38. • Jim Coley made mention of the recent hurricanes
in Florida and stated that the PER Association should make a donation if requested by the GER.
• Al Baranyai made a motion to donate $500 to the Elks Disaster Relief Fund, 2nd by Denise Johnson, motion passed.
• John Simko thanked Frank DeFazio for his year of service as President of the PER Association.
• Donna Wallace, SP, reminded all present to have reservations in for the GER visit.
• Dave Acanfora, PDD reminded all present that there would be no Veterans Day Parade this year in Hartford due to budget cuts.
• Motion made by Kathi Ackerman, 2nd by Jim Money to have PER secretary put member email addresses
• On the website. Under discussion, Frank Hegedus agreed that the email addresses was a good idea.
• Bill Chinn, PSP, voiced concerns that the addresses could be accessed by anyone on the website, and maybe a separate level of security could be used. Motion was tabled for further information regarding this security issue.
• John Simko made a motion to donate $500.00 to the CT. Transplant Team, 2nd by Leon Zahaba.
• Under discussion, John Simko explained the purpose of the CT. Transplant Team to remove organs from deceased persons to then be replanted into patients requiring those organs. Motion passed.
Public Recognition of Dignitaries in Attendance:• Secretary Robert Ferone announced the following
Dignitaries: Past State Presidents: Leon Zahaba, Phil Wilson, Frank Hegedus, Al Baranyai, William Chinn Jr., Michael Barta.
• Grand Lodge: Auditing and Accounting, William Chinn Jr.
• State Association Officers: Donna Wallace, President, Dave Acanfora, VP Coastal, James Money, Treasurer, Joe Mingoia, Trustee East, John Simko, Trustee at Large, James Coley, Trustee Northwest, Darren Lawlor, Chaplain, Kathi Acherman, Inner Guard.
• DDGER: Bonnie Mullin, Coastal, Don Woscyna, Northwest
• Past PER Presidents: Leon Zahaba, Al Baranyai, Frank Hegedus, Mike Barta, Robert Ferone Sr., James Money, Andy Caporossi, Michael Johnson, Joe Mingoia.
• PDD’s: John Franco. Secretary Robert Ferone reported vouchers for the following payments.• $750.00 – American School for the Deaf, annual
