Whatever good things we build, end up building us. – Jim Rohn
With June’s Elks Burgers, Brats, and Beer concessions during the 40th Annual McQuade Charity Softball Tournament and July’s Elks Camp Grassick Day, dozens of volunteers members donated hundreds of hours of their personal time for the cause of the Elks. These people could have been doing many other enjoyable things; spending time with family, going camping, golfing, you name it. But they didn’t. Instead, they chose to spend their time in the service to others.
On behalf of the Officers, Trustees, and Team members of the Elks, we thank the many volunteers who help make our many projects successful.
According to the “Points of Light” Foundation, volunteering refers to ―rendering of service by choice of or free will for the benefit of the wider community by an individual, group, or institution without necessarily expecting monetary gain in full knowledge and appreciation of being a volunteer.”
Along with helping assist with Burgers, Brats, and Beer and Camp Grassick day, you see Elks volunteer helping serve burgers on Wednesdays during the summer and seafood on Saturdays during the winter. You see them at the Hoop Shoot, Soccer Shoot, Student Government Day, and Children’s Christmas Party. (You also see them occupying chairs on the lodge floor the first Thursday of every month.)
Studies have shown that people who volunteer feel more socially connected, happier, and healthier. According to Points of Light, Volunteering helps the economy. It helps build a more cohesive, safer, stronger community, increase the social network between communities and neighborhood. Volunteering also has positive effects on volunteers as individuals, increasing their self- esteem, enhancing various skills and capacities, expanding career paths and helping them be healthier physically and mentally.
Personally, volunteerism was passed down from my parents who donated their time to the Jaycees, Elks and other service clubs, including the Elks, as well as the McQuade Charity Softball Tournament.
Is volunteerism a family tradition for you? If not, you may want to consider giving it a shot. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
Whoever renders service to many puts himself in line for greatness – great wealth, great return, great satisfaction, great reputation, and great joy. – Jim Rohn
Speaking of people who get things done, is with great satisfaction and excitement that the Board of Directors recently named Chad Stockwell as General Manager of the Elks. Stockwell has served as Dining Room Manager for the past two years. He brings with him a wealth of experience in bar and restaurant management, with emphasis on finance, business process and customer experience.
Stockwell oversees a talented group of dedicated Elks team members whose mission is to provide Elks #1199 members and guests with the best dining, drinking, and entertainment experience around.
Please join me in congratulating him on his new position!
It is my sad duty to announce the death of Donald E. Smith, Troy R. Green, Valery Vetter, Jeffrey Newton, Dr. Olaf Lindelow, Eddie E. Wagner and Joe Kisch. May their virtues be written on the tablet of love and memory.
Michael Lindblom
Exalted Ruler
