On The Road With State President Lynn Rohlf
October, 2012
Virginia Lodge #1003 Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks! What a difference a week makes. 80 plus degrees last weekend and I'm watching some snowflakes fall as I leave Duluth today, October 5, 2012, heading for my nest destination: Virginia, Minnesota, and my visit to Virginia Lodge #1003. The forecast all weekend is for snow, but I'm hoping it stays further North. I heard on the radio that Roseau received 14 inches last night. I hope it stays there. ENF Chair Sparky Reuter has coordinated an Elks National Foundation Mystery Dinner. The only thing I know for sure is that I've selected chicken for my entree. I have no idea where she came up with the idea for this event. All I can say is - WHAT FUN!! The dinner consisted of three courses and you had to select items from a list of ENF terms, such as: Legacy Award, Hoop Shoot, Promise Grant, etc. Back in the kitchen, and unbeknownst to us, those terms matched up with items such as: your salad, a fork, dinner roll, dinner mints, etc. Each course had to be finished before the next course was served and all utensils and food remnants were removed after each course. To be generous, Sparky would sell you a knife for $2 or a spoon for $2 or a fork for $2. All, I can say is this: "It's the best $2, I've ever spent." Our table received our first course - consisting of 8 items. NO SILVERWARE. Lucky for all of us at the table, we had made a wise decision and had each purchased a fork. The courses continued, along with the fun. Our second course was a little more dismal than the first. We received a fork, a knife, a spoon, butter, and carrots and celery. Good thing we hit our veggie dip under the leafy table decorations :o) Information about ENF was shared with those in attendance. They were half way to the GER's Goal of $4.50 and I'm sure that the funds raised during this event will help them reach the goal. If you are looking for something fun to do - this is it. Give Sparky a call and she will be happy to share this information with you. In visiting with ER Erik, the lodge is trying some new things in an effort to entice some new, younger members. As many of you know, change is not always easy, but it is necessary. I'm looking forward to hearing the results from their Fine Dining events. Again, another idea that lodges can share with each other. It's not necessary to recreate the wheel. Most lodges would be more than happy to let you steal some of the successful ideas and events. Well, after a fun filled evening, I'm off to stay with my dad as he lives in Virginia. It will be an early day on Saturday for both of us as he is heading off to a conference in International Falls and I will be hitting the road with my next destination being Stillwater Lodge #179. And, if you are curious, I did have to brush snow off of my car on Saturday morning before I hit the road. Not a lot, but it did require me to dig out my snowbrush. Stay tuned for my Stillwater installment . . . In the meantime, don't forget to ROCK THE BOAT! Fraternally, Lynn M. Rohlf Minnesota Elks Association State President |
Stillwater Lodge #179
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Saturday, October 6, 2012 - snow has been removed from my car and I'm on the road, headed for Stillwater Lodge #179. Another day for a great drive - no snow as I make my way south - the trees are still beautiful and the sun is shining. I haven't been to Stillwater Lodge #179 since the last time they hosted the convention. I'm looking forward to this visit. On tap for the evening: Chuck Wagon @ The 179 Corral. 5:00 p.m. - Saloon Hour - which included some festive appetizers, such as Cowboy Caviar, Wagon Weinies, Vegetables and Spud Chips. 6:00 p.m. - Chow Time - Check Wagon Beef On A Bun, Spud Salad, Bunkhouse Beans, Grandma's Pickles, and Sweets. 7:00 - Karaoke & Dancing. The food was very tasty!
Again - another fabulous and fun event. What a group of "WORKERS!" This event was hosted by the Auxiliary. Note, I didn't say Ladies Auxiliary as the Stillwater Auxiliary is made up of men and women. Who said men don't do dishes?? I think I met everyone in the place! What great hospitality! I was able to meet with the ER and some of the Officers and Trustees. After a lot of changes, the group is working hard to keep the lodge on track. It was refreshing to see such a positive atmosphere and positive group of individuals. The Lodge has begun a membership drive and had already signed up a couple of new members. When ER Jim gave the 11 o'clock toast, I think there were just as many people at the event as when it started! But, when people are having fun, they like to stick around. They had some fabulous and entertaining karaoke singers as well. I returned to the Lodge on Sunday, October 7, 2012, as they were demonstrating how to brew your own beer. How could I pass that up?
There were two individuals out back of the Lodge, brewing up some beer. The one was going to be a Vanilla Oatmeal Stout and the other I don't recall. There was so much to learn, I couldn't remember everything. What a process! One was using a propane burner/kettle system and the other an electric/keg system. The best part, there were some samples of previously brewed batches. The bourbon stout was quite tasty. Later in the day, they were going to have the Lift Bridge Brewing Company on tap with some samples. In addition, as I was leaving the lodge, they were having a wine making demonstration. I did learn that brewing beer takes a long time. I jokingly said: "You know you can buy this stuff at the liquor store." But, as you beer brewers know, it's hard to find good beer. So, as you can see - things are moving along at Stillwater Lodge #179. I would have liked to have stayed longer, but it was time for me to get back on the road and head home for another fun filled week of my real job.
The cook at Duluth Lodge #133 took a couple of days off to travel to California and be on the Price Is Right, so I've volunteered to go up and cook spaghetti on Monday. The Duluth PER's are cooking a Harvest Dinner at the Lodge on Friday, October 12. So much to do and so little time. . . Then, it's off to Alexandria.
Stay tuned for my next installment . . . In the meantime, don't forget to ROCK THE BOAT!
Fraternally,
Lynn M. Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Saturday, October 6, 2012 - snow has been removed from my car and I'm on the road, headed for Stillwater Lodge #179. Another day for a great drive - no snow as I make my way south - the trees are still beautiful and the sun is shining. I haven't been to Stillwater Lodge #179 since the last time they hosted the convention. I'm looking forward to this visit. On tap for the evening: Chuck Wagon @ The 179 Corral. 5:00 p.m. - Saloon Hour - which included some festive appetizers, such as Cowboy Caviar, Wagon Weinies, Vegetables and Spud Chips. 6:00 p.m. - Chow Time - Check Wagon Beef On A Bun, Spud Salad, Bunkhouse Beans, Grandma's Pickles, and Sweets. 7:00 - Karaoke & Dancing. The food was very tasty!
Again - another fabulous and fun event. What a group of "WORKERS!" This event was hosted by the Auxiliary. Note, I didn't say Ladies Auxiliary as the Stillwater Auxiliary is made up of men and women. Who said men don't do dishes?? I think I met everyone in the place! What great hospitality! I was able to meet with the ER and some of the Officers and Trustees. After a lot of changes, the group is working hard to keep the lodge on track. It was refreshing to see such a positive atmosphere and positive group of individuals. The Lodge has begun a membership drive and had already signed up a couple of new members. When ER Jim gave the 11 o'clock toast, I think there were just as many people at the event as when it started! But, when people are having fun, they like to stick around. They had some fabulous and entertaining karaoke singers as well. I returned to the Lodge on Sunday, October 7, 2012, as they were demonstrating how to brew your own beer. How could I pass that up?
There were two individuals out back of the Lodge, brewing up some beer. The one was going to be a Vanilla Oatmeal Stout and the other I don't recall. There was so much to learn, I couldn't remember everything. What a process! One was using a propane burner/kettle system and the other an electric/keg system. The best part, there were some samples of previously brewed batches. The bourbon stout was quite tasty. Later in the day, they were going to have the Lift Bridge Brewing Company on tap with some samples. In addition, as I was leaving the lodge, they were having a wine making demonstration. I did learn that brewing beer takes a long time. I jokingly said: "You know you can buy this stuff at the liquor store." But, as you beer brewers know, it's hard to find good beer. So, as you can see - things are moving along at Stillwater Lodge #179. I would have liked to have stayed longer, but it was time for me to get back on the road and head home for another fun filled week of my real job.
The cook at Duluth Lodge #133 took a couple of days off to travel to California and be on the Price Is Right, so I've volunteered to go up and cook spaghetti on Monday. The Duluth PER's are cooking a Harvest Dinner at the Lodge on Friday, October 12. So much to do and so little time. . . Then, it's off to Alexandria.
Stay tuned for my next installment . . . In the meantime, don't forget to ROCK THE BOAT!
Fraternally,
Lynn M. Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Alexandria Lodge #1685
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
What a week - spaghetti on Monday, bought a new car on Tuesday, cooked at the Elks on Friday, I think I need a vacation . . .Oh, yes, I bought a new car. I loved my 2004 Toyota Corolla and would have kept it forever, just one little problem - no 4 wheel drive - and it doesn't push snow all that well. So, in getting set for my travels across the great state of Minnesota in the middle of winter, I decided that I needed a 4 wheel drive vehicle. I am now the proud owner, along with Toyota Motor Credit Corp., of a new Toyota Rav4. Silver in color.
So, on my maiden voyage with my new car, I've set my destination for Alexandria Lodge #1685. It's raining as I leave Duluth, but the weather brightens up the further south and west that I drive. By noon, it's a gorgeous, sunny day in Alexandria, Minnesota. Bar Manager Sue said that her prayers were answered with the great day. On tap - a bean bag contest, a rib and wing contest, and DJ/karaoke in the lot. So, the nice weather was welcomed. 8 teams competed in the bean bag contest and there were 7 entrants in the rib and wing contest.
This is a great example of stealing an idea from another lodge. Bar Manager Sue had traveled up to Wadena in August to see their pig and wing event and decided to start one of their very own in Alexandria. For it being their first time, I think they did a fabulous job and I'm not just saying that because they let me be a judge. I, along with 4 other judges, judged the entrants. So many fabulous chicken wings and ribs!! Prizes were awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention. Those in attendance also voted on a People's Choice Winner. Money raised from this event will be donated to the Polar Plunge. Another bonus - all of the meat was donated by Golden Plum and the MN Pork Producers Association. Local distributors also donated prizes that were given away to the people in attendance. And, since it was such a great success, they plan to continue this event in the future. Again, another lodge that has undergone some changes in recent years, but has a dedicated core group of people working hard. This is becoming quite a common theme when I make my visits. It is very encouraging to see that our Elks have not given up and continue to do the good work that we do.
Well, the evening has come to an end and, again, it's back home to work. Just a few short days and I'll be heading out to the Mid-Year Convention in Brainerd. It will be nice to have a short drive over and back. I'm gearing up for a 3 visit weekend. At the close of the month, I will be in Thief River on Friday; St. Cloud on Saturday; making a non-Elk stop in Plymouth on Monday; and, then, I'm heading to Austin (Minnesota, not Texas). It might feel like Texas by the time I get home - 919.66 miles before it's all said and done. I must be crazy . . .
I hope I see all of you in Brainerd. That's where I'll be ROCKIN' THE BOAT!
Fraternally,
Lynn M. Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
What a week - spaghetti on Monday, bought a new car on Tuesday, cooked at the Elks on Friday, I think I need a vacation . . .Oh, yes, I bought a new car. I loved my 2004 Toyota Corolla and would have kept it forever, just one little problem - no 4 wheel drive - and it doesn't push snow all that well. So, in getting set for my travels across the great state of Minnesota in the middle of winter, I decided that I needed a 4 wheel drive vehicle. I am now the proud owner, along with Toyota Motor Credit Corp., of a new Toyota Rav4. Silver in color.
So, on my maiden voyage with my new car, I've set my destination for Alexandria Lodge #1685. It's raining as I leave Duluth, but the weather brightens up the further south and west that I drive. By noon, it's a gorgeous, sunny day in Alexandria, Minnesota. Bar Manager Sue said that her prayers were answered with the great day. On tap - a bean bag contest, a rib and wing contest, and DJ/karaoke in the lot. So, the nice weather was welcomed. 8 teams competed in the bean bag contest and there were 7 entrants in the rib and wing contest.
This is a great example of stealing an idea from another lodge. Bar Manager Sue had traveled up to Wadena in August to see their pig and wing event and decided to start one of their very own in Alexandria. For it being their first time, I think they did a fabulous job and I'm not just saying that because they let me be a judge. I, along with 4 other judges, judged the entrants. So many fabulous chicken wings and ribs!! Prizes were awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention. Those in attendance also voted on a People's Choice Winner. Money raised from this event will be donated to the Polar Plunge. Another bonus - all of the meat was donated by Golden Plum and the MN Pork Producers Association. Local distributors also donated prizes that were given away to the people in attendance. And, since it was such a great success, they plan to continue this event in the future. Again, another lodge that has undergone some changes in recent years, but has a dedicated core group of people working hard. This is becoming quite a common theme when I make my visits. It is very encouraging to see that our Elks have not given up and continue to do the good work that we do.
Well, the evening has come to an end and, again, it's back home to work. Just a few short days and I'll be heading out to the Mid-Year Convention in Brainerd. It will be nice to have a short drive over and back. I'm gearing up for a 3 visit weekend. At the close of the month, I will be in Thief River on Friday; St. Cloud on Saturday; making a non-Elk stop in Plymouth on Monday; and, then, I'm heading to Austin (Minnesota, not Texas). It might feel like Texas by the time I get home - 919.66 miles before it's all said and done. I must be crazy . . .
I hope I see all of you in Brainerd. That's where I'll be ROCKIN' THE BOAT!
Fraternally,
Lynn M. Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Mid Year Convention
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Hello All - It's Thursday, October 18, 2012, and I'm on the road again. I'm headed for Brainerd, Minnesota, site of the 2012 Minnesota Elks Association Mid-Year Conference. It sure is good that I purchased a new vehicle as I don't think I would have fit everything into my little 2004 Toyota Corolla. Who knew that one person needed so much stuff. I guess that's what happens when you are "in charge." It's a good thing that I'm single, as I had no room left for a husband. I arrive in Brainerd and am greeted by PSP Herman, who is most kind and helps me to carry all of my stuff into my room. Thanks Herman. He even had all of my registration material in hand so that I didn't even need to go down to the lodge register. I ran into LeRoy in the parking lot, so invited him in to have a cold Budweiser with me. I headed down to the bar to grab some quick lunch before heading off to the Advisory Board Meeting. Thanks to PSP and Advisory Board Chair George Walters, we finally made it out of the corner and I, along with the District Presidents in attendance, was seated at the head table. I guess it's good to "Rock The Boat."
Thursday evening brought an invite to the Past State President's Dinner at The Fort. An enjoyable evening was had by all and, since I was flying solo, I didn't put too much of a dent in their coffers. In my usual fashion, I along with a couple of other fellow Elks from Duluth closed up the lodge and then proceeded to close up the hotel bar. It's Friday, October 19, 2012 and I do have to say that 6:00 a.m. came pretty quickly. I was up and getting ready for my first meeting. The meeting started at 8:00 a.m. and we were off . . .
Introduction of Grand Lodge Officers, as well as State Officers. We quickly moved to Reports of Officers and learned from the District Presidents all of the good things that were happening in our local lodges. It was time for the workshop portion of the agenda. Items on tap were: HELP my lodge is in trouble; Board of Directors; Business Practices; Web Design; Membership/Public Relations; Officer Development; and, Trustees/State Budget/Expense Reimbursement; as well as a Secretaries Workshop. The meeting reconvened and we heard some committee reports. The meeting ran a bit over and we adjourned for the day at about 12:15. For me, the meetings just continued: State Meetings at 12:15; Bowling at 1:00; and, a meeting with the District Presidents to discuss ER101 at 2:30. I finally wrapped up the meeting portion of my day at about 4 p.m. and went off to visit the Worthington Elks in their hospitality room. Back to my room at 4:30 to get ready to meet the Duluth crew for dinner. We dined at the Sunshine Kitchen & Moonshine Lounge. Out of character, it was early to bed for me as there was another meeting to run on Saturday.
Saturday morning arrived and I was feeling rested. Off to face the day and finish up the meeting. We started at 8:00 a.m. and quickly made it through the remainder of the Committee Reports, State Meetings, Unfinished Business, New Business and Good of the Association. Under New Business, the State Association elected George Lehn of Hutchinson Lodge #2427 to become the 2013-14 State President. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and I now know that it is not a train. . .The meeting finished up just before noon, but, just like the previous day, my business was not quite done. It was back to my room to get ready to go and help with the Camp Raffle, host a cocktail party, and attend and speak at the Banquet.
As you may know, I received devastating news at about noon that day. I received word that my brother, Dean Rohlf, had passed away that morning from a heart attack. I returned to my room and wondered how I would be able to make it through the rest of the day. I knew that there was nothing I could do at home and I needed to finish out the convention. I requested of my Duluth Elks family to keep the news to themselves, as I knew that I would not make it through the day if everyone heard the news. I knew that my brother would understand and would want me to finish what I had started. You see, he was so very proud of the fact that I became the State President. So, I guess I was doing it for him. It was probably the most difficult day of my life, helping with the raffle, hosting my cocktail party, and sitting at and speaking at the banquet. Sharing this horrible news with all of you at the banquet was difficult as well, but I do sincerely appreciate all of your kind words and support.
Sunday morning, I was up and back on the road. Ahead of me was the difficult task of planning a funeral, burying my brother, and grieving with my family. In addition, I was gearing up for my 1,000 mile weekend and oval around the State of Minnesota. Stay tuned for my updates from Thief River Falls, St. Cloud, and Austin.
In the meantime, don't forget to Rock The Boat!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Hello All - It's Thursday, October 18, 2012, and I'm on the road again. I'm headed for Brainerd, Minnesota, site of the 2012 Minnesota Elks Association Mid-Year Conference. It sure is good that I purchased a new vehicle as I don't think I would have fit everything into my little 2004 Toyota Corolla. Who knew that one person needed so much stuff. I guess that's what happens when you are "in charge." It's a good thing that I'm single, as I had no room left for a husband. I arrive in Brainerd and am greeted by PSP Herman, who is most kind and helps me to carry all of my stuff into my room. Thanks Herman. He even had all of my registration material in hand so that I didn't even need to go down to the lodge register. I ran into LeRoy in the parking lot, so invited him in to have a cold Budweiser with me. I headed down to the bar to grab some quick lunch before heading off to the Advisory Board Meeting. Thanks to PSP and Advisory Board Chair George Walters, we finally made it out of the corner and I, along with the District Presidents in attendance, was seated at the head table. I guess it's good to "Rock The Boat."
Thursday evening brought an invite to the Past State President's Dinner at The Fort. An enjoyable evening was had by all and, since I was flying solo, I didn't put too much of a dent in their coffers. In my usual fashion, I along with a couple of other fellow Elks from Duluth closed up the lodge and then proceeded to close up the hotel bar. It's Friday, October 19, 2012 and I do have to say that 6:00 a.m. came pretty quickly. I was up and getting ready for my first meeting. The meeting started at 8:00 a.m. and we were off . . .
Introduction of Grand Lodge Officers, as well as State Officers. We quickly moved to Reports of Officers and learned from the District Presidents all of the good things that were happening in our local lodges. It was time for the workshop portion of the agenda. Items on tap were: HELP my lodge is in trouble; Board of Directors; Business Practices; Web Design; Membership/Public Relations; Officer Development; and, Trustees/State Budget/Expense Reimbursement; as well as a Secretaries Workshop. The meeting reconvened and we heard some committee reports. The meeting ran a bit over and we adjourned for the day at about 12:15. For me, the meetings just continued: State Meetings at 12:15; Bowling at 1:00; and, a meeting with the District Presidents to discuss ER101 at 2:30. I finally wrapped up the meeting portion of my day at about 4 p.m. and went off to visit the Worthington Elks in their hospitality room. Back to my room at 4:30 to get ready to meet the Duluth crew for dinner. We dined at the Sunshine Kitchen & Moonshine Lounge. Out of character, it was early to bed for me as there was another meeting to run on Saturday.
Saturday morning arrived and I was feeling rested. Off to face the day and finish up the meeting. We started at 8:00 a.m. and quickly made it through the remainder of the Committee Reports, State Meetings, Unfinished Business, New Business and Good of the Association. Under New Business, the State Association elected George Lehn of Hutchinson Lodge #2427 to become the 2013-14 State President. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and I now know that it is not a train. . .The meeting finished up just before noon, but, just like the previous day, my business was not quite done. It was back to my room to get ready to go and help with the Camp Raffle, host a cocktail party, and attend and speak at the Banquet.
As you may know, I received devastating news at about noon that day. I received word that my brother, Dean Rohlf, had passed away that morning from a heart attack. I returned to my room and wondered how I would be able to make it through the rest of the day. I knew that there was nothing I could do at home and I needed to finish out the convention. I requested of my Duluth Elks family to keep the news to themselves, as I knew that I would not make it through the day if everyone heard the news. I knew that my brother would understand and would want me to finish what I had started. You see, he was so very proud of the fact that I became the State President. So, I guess I was doing it for him. It was probably the most difficult day of my life, helping with the raffle, hosting my cocktail party, and sitting at and speaking at the banquet. Sharing this horrible news with all of you at the banquet was difficult as well, but I do sincerely appreciate all of your kind words and support.
Sunday morning, I was up and back on the road. Ahead of me was the difficult task of planning a funeral, burying my brother, and grieving with my family. In addition, I was gearing up for my 1,000 mile weekend and oval around the State of Minnesota. Stay tuned for my updates from Thief River Falls, St. Cloud, and Austin.
In the meantime, don't forget to Rock The Boat!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Thief River Falls Lodge #1308
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Good Morning - It's Friday, October 26, 2012, and I'm heading out for my long weekend. First stop: Corner Bar, Nymore, Minnesota. No, there isn't a lodge in Nymore, just one of my old college hangouts and I stop to have a Corner Bar burger every chance I get. Big white fluffy flakes are falling fast and furious as I get closer and closer to my first stop. Snow, wonderful snow. It's about 1 p.m., when I arrive at the Corner and order my usual cheeseburger with fried onions and chips. I regard this as a special treat as I usually only get back to the Corner once a year and I was just here the end of September when I made my visit to Bemidji #1052. Well, it has stopped snowing and I'm back on the road - next destination - Thief River Falls. I arrive and, believe it or not, the wind is blowing . . . again, but no snow. I get checked into my room and my ride picks me up and we are off to the Lodge for 17th Annual Buck & Doe Night.
Thief River Falls Lodge #1308 hosts this event every year. I am able to sit at the door and sell dinner tickets and greet all of the members and guest who have come out for this event. ER Keith Storm and his crew are in the kitchen cooking up a delicious pork loin dinner. In addition, they are having their annual gun raffle that goes hand-in-hand with this event. All tickets have been sold - great news for the Lodge - bad news for you if you didn't buy your ticket early. Funds from the dinner and the raffle are used through the course of the year for the Lodge to fund their activities with the community, the youth and the veterans. If you failed to get a chance in the raffle, there were plenty of meat raffle tip boards for you to get in on. Unfortunately, I didn't win a gun and I didn't win any meat. At the end of the evening, however, the Lodge did present me with a spare liver. You can never have too many of those now can you? There were also multiple door prizes donated by members and local merchants for those in attendance.
Marci's Creations, owned and operated by Thief River Falls Elks Lodge member Marci Lindahl, had a new item for sale: Ammo Mitts - For the hunter who has everything. Blaze orange mittens for your shells. All proceeds raised were donated to the Elks National Foundation. Marci also presented me with a new hat for my collection, from her hunting line. A white fabric with orange dots, with a trim made of felt orange leaves. It truly is "one of a kind." Thank you Marci! The lodge has just hired a new Club/Bar Manager and I was able to meet and visit with her. She has some fabulous ideas and is hiring some new staff to come in and assist her with her these new endeavors. It's always a fun time in Thief River Falls with the friendly Elks I have met over the years. The State is in for a real treat when they host the 2014 Mid-Year Conference. DJ/Karaoke Specialist Peg Mehrkens was on tap to play some fine tunes to keep the crowd entertained.
Interested in having a successful gun raffle, get in touch with the folks from Thief River Falls Lodge #1308 and they can surely help you out. They have been running this event for a number of years and surely know all of the specifics to get you started. Well, I must run and sleep fast as I will be up and off to St. Cloud tomorrow morning for the next leg in my journey.
In the meantime, don't forget to Rock The Boat!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Good Morning - It's Friday, October 26, 2012, and I'm heading out for my long weekend. First stop: Corner Bar, Nymore, Minnesota. No, there isn't a lodge in Nymore, just one of my old college hangouts and I stop to have a Corner Bar burger every chance I get. Big white fluffy flakes are falling fast and furious as I get closer and closer to my first stop. Snow, wonderful snow. It's about 1 p.m., when I arrive at the Corner and order my usual cheeseburger with fried onions and chips. I regard this as a special treat as I usually only get back to the Corner once a year and I was just here the end of September when I made my visit to Bemidji #1052. Well, it has stopped snowing and I'm back on the road - next destination - Thief River Falls. I arrive and, believe it or not, the wind is blowing . . . again, but no snow. I get checked into my room and my ride picks me up and we are off to the Lodge for 17th Annual Buck & Doe Night.
Thief River Falls Lodge #1308 hosts this event every year. I am able to sit at the door and sell dinner tickets and greet all of the members and guest who have come out for this event. ER Keith Storm and his crew are in the kitchen cooking up a delicious pork loin dinner. In addition, they are having their annual gun raffle that goes hand-in-hand with this event. All tickets have been sold - great news for the Lodge - bad news for you if you didn't buy your ticket early. Funds from the dinner and the raffle are used through the course of the year for the Lodge to fund their activities with the community, the youth and the veterans. If you failed to get a chance in the raffle, there were plenty of meat raffle tip boards for you to get in on. Unfortunately, I didn't win a gun and I didn't win any meat. At the end of the evening, however, the Lodge did present me with a spare liver. You can never have too many of those now can you? There were also multiple door prizes donated by members and local merchants for those in attendance.
Marci's Creations, owned and operated by Thief River Falls Elks Lodge member Marci Lindahl, had a new item for sale: Ammo Mitts - For the hunter who has everything. Blaze orange mittens for your shells. All proceeds raised were donated to the Elks National Foundation. Marci also presented me with a new hat for my collection, from her hunting line. A white fabric with orange dots, with a trim made of felt orange leaves. It truly is "one of a kind." Thank you Marci! The lodge has just hired a new Club/Bar Manager and I was able to meet and visit with her. She has some fabulous ideas and is hiring some new staff to come in and assist her with her these new endeavors. It's always a fun time in Thief River Falls with the friendly Elks I have met over the years. The State is in for a real treat when they host the 2014 Mid-Year Conference. DJ/Karaoke Specialist Peg Mehrkens was on tap to play some fine tunes to keep the crowd entertained.
Interested in having a successful gun raffle, get in touch with the folks from Thief River Falls Lodge #1308 and they can surely help you out. They have been running this event for a number of years and surely know all of the specifics to get you started. Well, I must run and sleep fast as I will be up and off to St. Cloud tomorrow morning for the next leg in my journey.
In the meantime, don't forget to Rock The Boat!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
St Cloud Lodge #2843
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Good Morning - It's Saturday, October 27, 2012, I'm starting the second leg of my journey. Destination: St. Cloud Elks Lodge #2843. I arrive in St. Cloud a bit early, so decide to grab some lunch and then run some errands since I don't seem to be spending much time in Duluth these days. ER Patches Presfield and her husband (the birthday boy) Frank pick me up at the hotel around 7 p.m. I'm glad they weren't late - it's amazing the stares you get when you are dressed like a nun. Oh, didn't I mention, I'm off to a Halloween Party hosted by James and Jean Michael.
The guest list consists mainly of members of St. Cloud Elks Lodge #2843 and they are having a Mexican themed spread of appetizers. Beverages were served by the Drink Wench (Jean) and her Knight (James). Birthday Boy Frank came as a birthday candle - all dressed in black, with a flame atop his cap. I saw an ape and his banana; The Mad Hatter; and, Captain Morgan . . . just to name a few. Me, I was Sister Lynn Margaret (or Mother Lynn Margaret). I couldn't find a cross, so wore my life ring around my neck instead. My bible was the statute book and I carried my ruler that I received from PGER Grillo when I was installed as DD. It was nice to visit with the members and learn a bit about what they are doing in their community. It's nice to hear that you can still do so much - even if you don't have a building/club. It seems as though they have a good relationship with the VFW and are able to host events and raise money to use for their projects. It's nice to see the focus being on what they can do for their community instead of trying to figure out how to keep a bar open. They truly have a dedicated group of members.
In speaking with the members, I heard that the "core" group is getting burned out. I shared with them that, even if you have a club and more members, each lodge still has a "core" group. They are looking for ways to increase their membership. This is not an easy task when you don't have the club perk to offer them. It seems that they have a few members joining because they are Sno-Birds and want to use their membership when they are away for the Winter. I encouraged them to try and find events that these members could be involved with when they are Minnesota in the summer.
I think that lodges in Minnesota could learn something valuable from this group of Elks. You can still have events and raise money - even without a Club. I think that sometimes this gets you more visibility as you are out in the community having your events, instead of being back at the Club with just members seeing what you are doing.
A fun evening was had by all in attendance. The Elks of St. Cloud are "Rockin' The Boat" and doing great things in their community.
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
Good Morning - It's Saturday, October 27, 2012, I'm starting the second leg of my journey. Destination: St. Cloud Elks Lodge #2843. I arrive in St. Cloud a bit early, so decide to grab some lunch and then run some errands since I don't seem to be spending much time in Duluth these days. ER Patches Presfield and her husband (the birthday boy) Frank pick me up at the hotel around 7 p.m. I'm glad they weren't late - it's amazing the stares you get when you are dressed like a nun. Oh, didn't I mention, I'm off to a Halloween Party hosted by James and Jean Michael.
The guest list consists mainly of members of St. Cloud Elks Lodge #2843 and they are having a Mexican themed spread of appetizers. Beverages were served by the Drink Wench (Jean) and her Knight (James). Birthday Boy Frank came as a birthday candle - all dressed in black, with a flame atop his cap. I saw an ape and his banana; The Mad Hatter; and, Captain Morgan . . . just to name a few. Me, I was Sister Lynn Margaret (or Mother Lynn Margaret). I couldn't find a cross, so wore my life ring around my neck instead. My bible was the statute book and I carried my ruler that I received from PGER Grillo when I was installed as DD. It was nice to visit with the members and learn a bit about what they are doing in their community. It's nice to hear that you can still do so much - even if you don't have a building/club. It seems as though they have a good relationship with the VFW and are able to host events and raise money to use for their projects. It's nice to see the focus being on what they can do for their community instead of trying to figure out how to keep a bar open. They truly have a dedicated group of members.
In speaking with the members, I heard that the "core" group is getting burned out. I shared with them that, even if you have a club and more members, each lodge still has a "core" group. They are looking for ways to increase their membership. This is not an easy task when you don't have the club perk to offer them. It seems that they have a few members joining because they are Sno-Birds and want to use their membership when they are away for the Winter. I encouraged them to try and find events that these members could be involved with when they are Minnesota in the summer.
I think that lodges in Minnesota could learn something valuable from this group of Elks. You can still have events and raise money - even without a Club. I think that sometimes this gets you more visibility as you are out in the community having your events, instead of being back at the Club with just members seeing what you are doing.
A fun evening was had by all in attendance. The Elks of St. Cloud are "Rockin' The Boat" and doing great things in their community.
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Austin Lodge #414
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
A continuation of my 1,000 mile journey . . .The third leg of my journey was when I traveled from St. Cloud to Plymouth, Minnesota. Again, no Elks lodge in Plymouth, just a little rest, relaxation and shopping with some old friends. It's Monday, October 29, 2012, and I'm starting the fourth leg of my journey. Destination: Austin Elks Lodge #414. As many of you know, Austin closed their club doors a few months ago and they are trying to sell their building, recoup and possibly move into something smaller and better suited to their current needs. On tap tonight, a fun event to bring Austin Elk Lodge members together and to inform them of what is going on. In addition, trying to reinstate some members.
The evening was hosted at Smitty's Bar. This is the place where the Austin Elks have been holding their lodge meetings. I was quite impressed when I learned that the owner shuts down the entire bar so the Lodge can have their meeting and then reopens when the meeting is finished. A delicious meal was served inside and there was a heated tent out back with some lively music. A group of ladies known as: Who Let The Mama's Out played in the tent.
In speaking with ER Spokes, Secretary Randy, the members and PER's I learned that they are getting things back on track. They have put together a newsletter to get out to the membership to let them know what is happening and were hosting this event to do the same. They had a great turnout and it appears that they have a dedicated group of people who want to see Austin Elks Lodge #414 prosper and grow. I heard of members reinstating, members paying their dues and of new people joining that evening. I believe it took a lot for the membership of this lodge to recognize that they could not afford to keep the doors opened and shut down the club operation. I am hopeful that they can get things moving in the right direction. I believe that with the help of their PER's and with the help of other Elks in the State, we can all help them in these uncertain times. It is unfortunate that their club closed, but we do know that lodges can survive when we look to St. Cloud, Dakota County and Mankato.
I had a very enjoyable time speaking with the members in attendance and catching up with some old friends. Good elks having a great time. This event - raising funds to stay alive. All-in-all, it appeared to be a very successful event for their lodge.
Austin Elks - "Rock The Boat" - and keep moving forward!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
Greetings Fellow Minnesota Elks!
A continuation of my 1,000 mile journey . . .The third leg of my journey was when I traveled from St. Cloud to Plymouth, Minnesota. Again, no Elks lodge in Plymouth, just a little rest, relaxation and shopping with some old friends. It's Monday, October 29, 2012, and I'm starting the fourth leg of my journey. Destination: Austin Elks Lodge #414. As many of you know, Austin closed their club doors a few months ago and they are trying to sell their building, recoup and possibly move into something smaller and better suited to their current needs. On tap tonight, a fun event to bring Austin Elk Lodge members together and to inform them of what is going on. In addition, trying to reinstate some members.
The evening was hosted at Smitty's Bar. This is the place where the Austin Elks have been holding their lodge meetings. I was quite impressed when I learned that the owner shuts down the entire bar so the Lodge can have their meeting and then reopens when the meeting is finished. A delicious meal was served inside and there was a heated tent out back with some lively music. A group of ladies known as: Who Let The Mama's Out played in the tent.
In speaking with ER Spokes, Secretary Randy, the members and PER's I learned that they are getting things back on track. They have put together a newsletter to get out to the membership to let them know what is happening and were hosting this event to do the same. They had a great turnout and it appears that they have a dedicated group of people who want to see Austin Elks Lodge #414 prosper and grow. I heard of members reinstating, members paying their dues and of new people joining that evening. I believe it took a lot for the membership of this lodge to recognize that they could not afford to keep the doors opened and shut down the club operation. I am hopeful that they can get things moving in the right direction. I believe that with the help of their PER's and with the help of other Elks in the State, we can all help them in these uncertain times. It is unfortunate that their club closed, but we do know that lodges can survive when we look to St. Cloud, Dakota County and Mankato.
I had a very enjoyable time speaking with the members in attendance and catching up with some old friends. Good elks having a great time. This event - raising funds to stay alive. All-in-all, it appeared to be a very successful event for their lodge.
Austin Elks - "Rock The Boat" - and keep moving forward!
Fraternally,
Lynn Rohlf
Minnesota Elks Association State President
