[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26581]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[[Page 26581]]

       CONGRATULATING SOUTHAMPTON ELKS ON THEIR 70TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL P. FORBES

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 21, 1999

  Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the 70th anniversary of 
the founding of Southampton Elks Lodge 1574. Its long and rich history 
dates back to December 7, 1929, when 90 candidates were initiated by 
the Officers of Patchogue Lodge 1323. The fraternal organization was 
founded on the principles of improving the quality of life on Eastern 
Long Island and strengthening ties within the community. They have been 
fulfilling that pledge ever since. On July 10, 1930, the Southampton 
Lodge was awarded their Grand Lodge Charter.
  Elks in Suffolk County have long been known for their dedication in 
assisting and comforting the veterans of our wars, especially those who 
are disabled or in distress. The Southampton Elks are very proud of the 
symbol for which they fought--our national flag. They not only promote 
and defend the flag but also see it as a symbol of charity. 
Furthermore, the efforts of the Elks to involve youth in the lives of 
our veterans should serve as a model for community building in this 
country.
  We cannot overlook the close attention they pay to the individual 
members of society who are in dire need of assistance. In the past, 
they have donated such items as specially-designed bicycles, 
wheelchairs and other items needed by the physically-challenged, helped 
local families pay for medical treatments, and assisted those whose 
homes have been lost to fire.
  I am especially proud of their local assistance when disaster 
strikes. During emergency situations, Southampton Elks have always 
been, and I'm sure always will be, prepared to assist by donating 
funds, volunteering their time, or doing whatever else is needed during 
times of difficulty.
  Once again, I commend Southampton Elks Lodge 1574. Their unselfish, 
voluntary efforts and generosity are a credit to the communities they 
serve. They are an asset to Long Island, and I have no doubt that they 
will continue their good works and service strongly into the new 
millennium.

                          ____________________