[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 27 (Thursday, February 13, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE 
              ORDER OF THE ELKS, NAPA, CALIFORNIA CHAPTER

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                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 2003

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
and honor the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Napa 
Chapter, for providing 100 years of outstanding community service 
throughout the Napa Valley in my home state of California.
  Over the past century, every comer of our community has benefited 
from the contributions made from the distinguished membership of the 
Napa Elks Lodge #832. From its stage productions that entertained an 
entire community throughout the early 1900's to the charitable 
contributions it has provided families needing shelter, food and 
education, the Napa Elks Lodge has been a cornerstone of our community.
  When the youth of our area need help in funding school programs or 
financial assistance to attend college, the Napa's Elks Lodge is always 
there with a helping hand. The same holds true for assisting community 
organizations that help our most vulnerable neighbors. Last year alone, 
dedicated Elks members raised over $8,000 for the Napa Emergency 
Women's Services, Children or Parents Emergency Services, Youth 
Programs and Job Rehabilitation. Every year it awards over $20,000 in 
college scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
  Mr. Speaker, during this past century the Napa Elks Lodge has been 
more than a tremendous service organization. Its members have provided 
daily examples of personal and social responsibility as well as 
advocating the Elks principles of justice, fidelity, charity and the 
spirit of American patriotism. Kelly Lamm, who will become the next 
Exalted Ruler, exemplifies the progression of this outstanding 
organization. A past board member of the local women's bar association 
and long-time volunteer with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Program, Ms. 
Lamm's commitment to service is a model of the true Elks character. She 
will soon be accepting the reigns from Exalted Leader Bret Meltzer who 
has provided outstanding leadership in guiding the Lodge to its recent 
successes.
  Mr. Speaker, the Elks represent a dedicated and meaningful fabric of 
our community. As they are the standard by which other service 
organizations should compare themselves, it is most appropriate that we 
honor them on their centennial celebration.

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