This month’s highlights:
502 words | 3 minute read time
Dear Torrington Elks Members,
March is my last month as Exalted Ruler of Torrington Elks. Wow, has it been a busy year!! Check out pages 6 and 7 for some of the activities and accomplishments that occurred in the last 12 months! Keep in mind that for every event listed, there is a ton of planning and prep work that has to happen. As I’ve said many times this year, Torrington Elks has an amazing village that really cares about our Lodge and our members. The time and effort put in by so many volunteers is amazing, and I am so thankful for each and every one of them. Chef Kelly and our bar manager Victoria and their teams are also very dedicated to the good of our membership and continue to do a spectacular job!
But we’re not done yet! In February, we dropped off another 6 winter coats and $430 in grocery gift cards to Torrington Veteran’s Service Office, we provided $500 worth of household goods to Susan B. Anthony Project, we raised $2000 for Special Olympics, and collected pet items to donate to “For the Love of Jack.” On March 21, from 9am—noon, which is the first full day of spring, we will be giving away Smoke Alarms and CO detectors at Torrington Fire Department and Harwinton West Side Fire Department as part of a “Spring Safely” campaign. This community event was made possible by a $1700 grant from CT Elks Association Charities. More funds will become available on May 1 for community safety.
As I begin my last month, there are so many individuals to thank for their guidance and continued support, most notably my husband Jim, who has put up with “all Elks, all the time” and House Chairman Mike Zordan who is “retiring” from Elks roles as of March 31. Mike’s 15 years of service and contributions to our lodge as House Chairman over the last 10 years are impressive, and have really helped shape our lodge into the fine establishment it is today. Finally, I must thank PER Rich Slevinsky for all of his support and guidance through the year—plus the great shows he has helped us offer our membership! It has truly been an honor for me to serve as Exalted Ruler, but I’m looking forward to some traveling, golf and more time with my grandchildren in the near future as I step away from a leadership role at our lodge. I wish ER-elect Sarah Lloyd and her team of officers and House Committee all the best as they take the reins and move the lodge forward. Thanks for the memories!
Fraternally, Jean Weingart
