July is a month that Independence Day is an occasion to remember all the freedoms we have is our great country. The fireworks heat up our spirit of patriotism. Everyone is on vacation having fun and being safe.

We only have one meeting this month being on Thursday July 17th. At this meeting I will report on my attendance to the Grand Lodge Convention in Anaheim, California from 7/4- 7/10.At the first June meeting, I presented PER Haben his gavel plaque and the next night at Friday’s dinner he was given his PER jewels. Also at the first June meeting fifteen new members were initiated. Martha Scully was elected at the last second meeting in June to fill the Leading Knight’s chair. Cliff Freeman had to resign due to work conflicts. The Father’s Day brunch on June 8th brought out many new volunteers and the turn-out was a good one and as usual the food was delicious.

On June 9th, Gary, Geoff and I attended the Rockville City council meeting to accept from the mayor the Proclamation for Flag Day, which is hanging on the bulletin board. June 14th, the Flag Day ceremony was held in our social quarters. The mayor and whole council was there. The City Brass Quintet supplied the music. Post 86 American Legion’s Honor Guard presented the colors. The Commander Lavelle Farrell led the Legion flag ceremony. Our Boy Scout troop that we sponsor presented all the flags as Lodge #15 officers did the “History of the Flag”. Thanks to State President Priscilla, V.P Gary, PER John, Christine, Ron, Geoff, and Martha for doing their parts.

The weekend of June 21-22 was a hectic one for me. Saturday I was the snack bar gal at the 1st annual Elks #15- City of Rockville Charity Softball Tournament. When all was done we contributed $1200 to the Underprivileged Youth Recreation Scholarship fund. Gary directed and umpired along with member Craig Wallenga. Tee shirts from this event are still on sale at the Lodge. They are in the Elk colors with a great graphics. The next day was the celebration to honor our Lodge member and new State President Priscilla Schwab. Over 200 members from our Lodge and from around the state association attended. She was presented her own reserved parking space sign. A larger sign was erected in the front green space showing how proud we are of her being elected to this office.

Come enjoy the social-quarters. The deck with its tables / umbrellas and bright flowers is a great place when its not raining or too humid. Support our Lodge so we can continue the operations and events. On July 12th the fabulous “Island Fantasy’ is being held. It will have live music ( some Caribbean flavor with a steel drum) . Remember brunch and steak night. Ace of Hearts is climbing fast too.
If you want to see a rainbow then you must put up with rain.