[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 61 (Wednesday, April 20, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E546]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING HAZLETON LODGE NUMBER 200, BENEVOLENT AND PROTECTIVE ORDER 
        OF THE ELKS, UPON THE OCCASION OF ITS 125TH ANNIVERSARY

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                           HON. LOU BARLETTA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 20, 2016

  Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 
125th Anniversary of the establishment of the Hazleton Lodge Number 
200, Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks. With its humble roots 
in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, the order was founded in 1891 and has 
continued to reflect the founding principles of charity, justice, and 
brotherhood. The Elks work to empower the communities around them 
through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free, 
institute projects that address local needs, and honor the service and 
sacrifice of our nation's veterans. Having been formally inducted into 
the club during my time as the mayor of Hazleton, I can attest first 
hand to the humanitarian and philanthropic services provided by the 
Elks.
  With help from members of Philadelphia Lodge Number 2, Hazleton Lodge 
Number 200 was formally instituted in 1891 with the initiation of 26 
members. Occupying several locations over the course of its history, 
Hazleton Lodge Number 200 settled into its current home in 1956. With 
such a vast network spanning across diverse communities, the Elks have 
exemplified an unwavering commitment to Pennsylvania as they continue 
to expand their membership and community services.
  Deeply rooted in principle and character, Hazleton Lodge Number 200 
embodies the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A.'s 
motto, ``Elks care and Elks share.'' Through 125 years of service to 
the Hazleton community, the Elks have encountered over a century's 
worth of diverse issues and unmet needs. Whether it was through youth 
programs, educational scholarships, aid to disabled children, food for 
the less fortunate, or due acknowledgement for our veterans, the Elks 
have raised the standard of living for all Pennsylvanians. The veterans 
committee hosts VA picnics and donates Christmas gifts to the veterans 
in the local nursing homes through the Veterans Christmas Giving Tree. 
The Flag Day Program salutes the flag, Boy Scouts, and veterans, with 
the ultimate goal of recognizing those that have sacrificed so much in 
the past, and to inspire the next generation of valiant leaders.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Hazleton Lodge Number 
200, Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks as it celebrates its 
125th anniversary. On behalf of a grateful community, I wish to thank 
the Elks Lodge and its members for their tireless service to the 
community and unwavering commitment to our nation's veterans.

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