Alma Lodge #1400
Houghton/Higgins Lodge #1982
September 11-12, 2009 

 On Friday 9/11, Sharon and I were guest at the Alma Lodge #1400 for their special appreciation dinner for all those who wear the uniform, our heroes. It was well attended and the Lodge is to be commended for their outstanding efforts and presentation. It was more of a last minute thing for us, but it was a pleasure to address these fine men and women. Our hats go off to the Alma Lodge, Exalted Ruler Shirley Potacka, and all of the volunteers that made this such a success.

 On Saturday it was off to Houghton/Higgins for their annual stag golf outing. I was fortunate enough to play with Gari Baracy and his family members. As usual, this being a golf outing, something had to happen to me and it did. First my back is still hurting from my wife’s punishment in a previous golf outing and then in haste that morning I forgot my glasses. As you can see I’m a real asset to our team. I played the absolute worst golf I’ve played since I started playing. Somehow my team overcame their handicap and played well without me.

 We then headed back to the Lodge for a wonderful steak dinner and some true Elk camaraderie. I was able to meet some new friends and renew some old acquaintances. My golf game couldn’t be punishment enough; I had to watch the Michigan/Notre Dame game with a very vocal Michigan delegation. The game was great; the outcome was sinful, as Christmas came early for Michigan. (Still crying, and yes the game was played on the field but the Big 10 Officials made their presence known) Enough said.

 The Lodge, along with Deak Watters, Gary Beeson, and the golf committee did an outstanding job. The only shortage was sympathy for me. I hope to be back next year, I’m sure it will have to be on another team, but it was worth attending.

 Last but not least, I would like to thank the team from Alma, not ours, but the one headed by Chuck Oatten for finishing last and saving me further embarrassment. All in all a great time was had by all.

Your President

 Kevin M Quinn