Greetings,

The highlight of the Elks Mid-Year Conference held at Breezy Point is always our Friday afternoon activities at the Minnesota Elks Youth Camp across the lake.  This year was no exception.  The weather was beautiful, 68 degree temperatures with just a gentle breeze.  The fall leaves in that area were at their peak.  Our Elkogram Editor, Marnie, got some great pics of the fall colors.  

The MN Elks Youth Camp is an extraordinary place.  It is supported completely by Minnesota Elks.  Members come in the Spring and open things up.  Getting all the water running again in the buildings that are shut down for the winter.  They clean up the grounds and do all the repairs that might be needed.  The Camp Board has been proactive over the years, re-roofing, remodeling, and keeping equipment for the many sports and activities up to date. If you have never been to camp, I urge you to stop there some time.  

The Elks provide a camp experience for close to 600 children each summer, for free.  If you know children who might not otherwise be able have a camp experience, let us know  We are always looking for campers.  The Youth Camp Raffle pays the camper fees and each lodge pays $5 per member to help with the expenses.  The other funding comes from the Youth Camp Memorial Trust Fund.  When you are asked to contribute to Penny-a-Day on your dues statement, that money goes into the Trust Fund.  Members make donations to the fund and also donate by putting money in the pigs at the bar.  With the help of professionals, the Trust Fund Board has had steady growth in their investment portfolio.  Each year they are able to give a significant amount of money to keep the camp running.  We have had the same Camp Directors for many years.  They teach during the school year, so they know about kids and what they are going through.  We are able to have two sessions at the end of the season for children and grandchildren of Elks members.  The fee you pay is minimal compared to other camps and the facilities are second to none.  Information will be on the MNELKS.org website.  

Our lodge will be hosting its annual Veterans Meal on November 12 from 11 am – 1 pm.  Veterans and their spouses eat for free.  They do not need to be members of the Elks to attend this event.  We like to honor all veterans.  

Have a happy Thanksgiving,

Stancy