As I sit down to write this newsletter, the forethought of everyone, I believe, is on the flooding that is taking place in Bismarck/Mandan and beyond. As we all know, this is a flood of great magnitude which has us dealing with unchartered territory. It is dealing us a scenario which has not been seen in most of our lifetimes. I can’t help but reflect on a saying by Martin Luther King, Jr., in which he stated, “We must build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear.”

As I have witnessed over the past several weeks of all the sandbagging, dike building, moving, etc., it is most humbling to me to have witnessed firsthand the helping of strangers, neighbors, relatives, friends and colleagues to do what is necessary to protect one’s home and property. There have been countless situations in which those have shown up to do what is required to fight this flood and help mankind. I am most proud to live in such a great community.

The Jerome Distributing Elks Golf Tournament was held last month when most were in the height of the flood fight. It was an outlet for those who have had nothing but “flood fighting” on their minds as a way to relax and enjoy an awesome day. Thanks to all the sponsors and participants in helping make this another successful year. I also want to express our gratitude to Tom O’Leary Golf Course for accommodating us at the last minute as Riverwood was under water.

As most of you may have heard, the McQuade Distributing Softball Tournament was downsized. We took a major hit in the charity fundraising with our hamburger stand that weekend. But if you still want one of the Elks great burgers, I invite you down to Burger Night, every Wednesday starting at 6:00 for our famous burgers.

We are in the preliminary stages of planning a “make up” charity event in which we wish to do a parking lot/street dance or “Battle of the Bands,” which will hopefully offset the monetary loss from the McQuade event. Please watch our website, Facebook or the marquis for the date, which is to be announced.

As a friendly reminder, the Camp Grassick family picnic is scheduled for Sunday, July 17th, at Lake Isabel in Dawson, ND. Please come out and enjoy a complimentary pork/beef pit barbeque meal prepared by Arlan Scholl and his crew.

If you are bound up by all the flooding, come on down to the Elk’s, as we are presently high and dry, for a time of food, fun and fellowship to help take your mind off of all the worrying and working you have been doing.

In closing, always remember, Elk’s care, Elk’s share.

See you at the Elks.
Rick DeBolt
Exalted Ruler, Bismarck-Mandan Lodge #1199

It is my sad duty to announce the death of Marvin Kollman, Gilbert Olson, Wilhard (Bill) Paul, Edward Makelke, Vic Baumgartner. May their Virtues be written on the tablet of love and memory. Members hospitalized Clarence Olson, John Ackerman, Leeila Bina.