Exalted Ruler
Troy Pedersen

As February arrives, we look forward to celebrating Valentine's Day—a special occasion for couples to appreciate one another and renew their bonds.

And speaking of appreciation: My term as Exalted Ruler is nearing its conclusion, and it has been an honour to witness our Lodge grow as both new and long-standing members come together to celebrate our collective achievements.
The first meeting of February will be led by the PER Association, and during that meeting nominations for new officers for the upcoming fraternal year will be gathered. The positions of Exalted Ruler and the three Knights are open for election, with voting scheduled for the second meeting on February 18. If no new Exalted Ruler is elected, the PER Association will continue to oversee meetings until one is chosen.

All members in good standing are encouraged to consider running for these elected roles; remaining officer positions will be appointed by the incoming Exalted Ruler. Serving as an officer offers valuable opportunities to connect with fellow ELKS, both within our Lodge and at state and national conventions.

Please note that this month's dinner will take place on Friday the 13th, and scholarship judging is scheduled for Saturday the 22nd. See your calendar for other events. Stay engaged, participate actively, and enjoy your time as part of our community.

—Troy
Troy Pedersen
Exalted Ruler

Grand Exalted Ruler

A Message from the Grand Exalted Ruler
Hon. Bryan R. Klatt
Lodges elect new Officers, honor PERs in February


Happy birthday to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America! On February 16, we celebrate 158 years of our great organization. On a personal note, I wish everyone a happy Valentine’s Day, especially to my wife, Susan.

This month is important for Elkdom as new Officer elections should be held at your last monthly meeting. Every Officer should be dedicated to making the Lodge active and effective, both internally and in the community. Also, the current Exalted Ruler and Secretary should recognize any Member who sponsored or reinstated three Members by awarding them the Grand Exalted Ruler Award Pin. The request form is available on elks.org. Go to the Grand Exalted Ruler page within the Members Only section, then click on Grand Exalted Ruler Award Forms.

It’s time to recognize and encourage a group of Members who have shown a great deal of effort and dedication to what we do as Elks, the Past Exalted Rulers. Ask them to perform the ritual during the Past Exalted Rulers Night. PERs deserve to be thanked for all they have done and for what they continue to do for your Lodge.

The Contest “A” - All American Lodge Contest certification forms are due soon. It takes teamwork to achieve this very prestigious award. Honestly, most Lodges would qualify but don’t fill out the form properly. It is important to score your efforts on the form provided. It’s a great way for your Lodge to keep track of what you need to do.

If you need assistance, contact your Grand Lodge Area Fraternal Committee member. There are first, second and third place winners for each of the six membership divisions. Why not take the time to submit your form before the deadline?

Continue to demonstrate that you can Be The Difference by promoting “Elks Care—Elks Share.”

Secretary
Laurie Montag

As I write this, the temperature is zero – and that’s where we hope we end up in March – with zero delinquent members! Renewal notices were posted in mid-January, and members should have them in their hopefully HOT little hands by the time you receive this newsletter. Please pay your dues promptly, either by mailing your check, cash at the lodge, or via credit card on the DIRECTBILLER.COM website mentioned in the notice. If you use that website, be sure to enter “LINCOLN 80” in the search, then on the next page scroll down to the red QUICK PAY box. Enter your membership number with the leading zero. Then you’re golden – and thank you very much!

Nominations for and elections of new officers will take place in February. Please let ER Troy Pedersen or myself know if you are interested in becoming an officer and/or working on or heading up a committee!

As always, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions or need assistance with all things Elk. There is voicemail on the lodge phone, or you may contact me as below. See you at the Lodge!
Laurie Montag / secretary@elks80.org / 402.202.6673 by text or phone Laurie Montag / secretary@elks80.org / 402.202.6673 by text or phone.

TeamUp Calendar: https://teamup.com/ks72770fc1e574f762

Leading Knight
Dr William Jackson

The Leading Knight message is not available at this time.

Loyal Knight
Tami Nordman

The Loyal Knight message is not available at this time.

Lecturing Knight
Dave Shoff

The Lecturing Knight message is not available at this time.