One of my favorite songs is “What a Wonderful World.” The second verse says, “I see skies of blue and clouds of white, the bright blessed day, the dark sacred night; and I think to myself, what a wonderful world.” I like this song because it inspires us to look upon the world and people around us with appreciation. As autumn arrives this month, I hope that you will take time to soak up its beautiful tapestry of colors as it begins to spread across the landscape of our great state.

As I look back at the past couple of months’ activities at our lodge, it brings a smile to my face, as many lifelong memories were made, new friendships were started, and old friends were visited.
July started with our ritual team hitting the road (skies, actually) to Orlando where we competed for our state at the Elks National Ritual Competition. We also attended National Convention activities and meetings.

Within less than a week of our arrival home, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of our lodge with a banquet and dance and nearly 150 people in attendance. Thank you to the officers for their help and to Steve Furcht and the staff for their hard work on this special event.

A few days later, all Elks were invited to Camp Grassick for Elks day at the camp. Thank you to Arlan Scholl and our “pit crew” for cooking the pork and beef that was served to all who attended. It was delicious!

The end of July brought a visit to our lodge from the Grand Exalted Ruler, Michael Smith, and his wife Sandra. His theme for this year is “Promote Elks Passion.” In other words, spread the word of our good works and ask others to join the lodge. Michael and Sandra were in awe of our facility. They were amazed at the number of employees we have, at the size of the building, at the variety of venues within the lodge, etc. It was fun to have the opportunity to visit with them and share ideas.

The State Elks Convention in Dickinson was held the end of July as well with officers and delegates from our lodge traveling there for meetings and socializing with Elks from across the state.
In early August, our Elks parking lot was host to a Safety Day sponsored by First Community Credit Union. A variety of law enforcement was there along with an ambulance crew and fire truck. Our lodge Drug Awareness chairman, Steve Vaughan, organized a table where parents and kids could get information on how to stay healthy and drug free. Elroy the Elk even made an appearance. Thanks to Esquire, Sheldon Babeck, for coordinating this event.

September brings with it a slate of new activities at the lodge. A special dedication event will be held on Thursday, September 30 for the beautiful granite monument located on the lawn in front of the building commemorating our 100th anniversary. Be sure to read the “Lounge Lingo” and event calendar for other activities happening at the club.

Come out and support your lodge and club. Bring guests and let them see what we offer and tell them about our good works. Then, ask them to become a member. If the same guests are coming to the club with you many times, it is time to ask them to join. It is your duty to the life and longevity of our lodge to promote membership. Remember, as our new Grand Exalted Ruler said, “We must promote Elks passion!”

Have a “Wonderful World” September! I’ll see you at the Elks!

Andrea Edstrom Frank
Exalted Ruler
Bismarck-Mandan Lodge #1199

It is my sad duty to announce the death of Arden W. Fisher, Etienne E. Doppler, Gary Banker, Thomas Johnson, Ronald J. Burns, Carl H. Laemmle Jr., Bruce Bair. May their Virtues be written on the tablet of love and memory. Members hospitalized (PER) Syver Vinje, Adele Gordor, Marilyn Wilson, Thomas Paul.