Lamar Elks # 1319 Celebrated 100th Anniversary

Grand Exalted Ruler, John Amen presents the 100 Year Award Plaque to Lamar Exalted Ruler Cary LaCost.

There were 46 original charter members of the BPOE in Lamar on May 24, 1915, 100 years ago.  That membership has ebbed and flowed over the years, but the spirit of the Elks holds as true today as it did back in 1868 when the order was first created in New York City.

Elks Officer, Gerald ‘Oscar” Riley and Lamar Elks Exalted Ruler, Cary La Cost proudly display the 100 Yard Award from the Re-Dedication Ceremony.

The Lamar Elks rolled out the red carpet for a special occasion all last week, leading up to the rededication services on Saturday afternoon and the prime rib dinner that followed for members and guests.  The Old Timer’s Lodge Night was held on Tuesday, May 26, a wine tasting on Wednesday a special $100 bingo event on Thursday and a calf fry and catfish nugget dinner on Friday.  Participants enjoyed a Saturday morning poker run and the open house at the Lodge through the day.  Approximately 200 people enjoyed the Saturday dinner and dance with entertainment provided by long-time troubadour, Gary Phipps, who made a special trip back to Lamar to be with a host of friends.

State Exalted Ruler, Thomas Fraker from the La Junta Elks Lodge leads the 100 Year Re-Dedication ceremony.

Exalted Ruler, Cary LaCost, said a number of Elks dignitaries made a special trip for the century celebration.  “Our Grand Exalted Ruler, John Amen and his wife Marcia were on hand as well as Dr. Ray Ross, Special Deputy to the Exalted Ruler, State President Thomas Fraker, First Vice President Rick Stolte and Second Vice President Malcolm Freeberg.”   He added, “This was a very special highlight for our Lodge as our Grand Exalted Ruler was able to attend.  This is something very few lodges have been able to experience for their rededication.”  The Lodge held numerous fund raising events and special dinners to finance the hundred year event.

Other persons attending included past State Presidents from Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, New Mexico and Missouri including Lamar’s own Tom McKibbon, and several state officers and members of other Lodges.  Local dignitaries in attendance included Lamar Mayor Roger Stagner and his wife Leslie, County Commissioners Ron Cook and wife Lonna and Henry Schnabel.  Lamar City Councilmembers Gerald Riley and Anne Marie Crampton were on hand.

Special Deputy to the Exalted Ruler, Dr. Ray Ross addresses the attendees of the 100 Year Re-Dedication Ceremony.

La Cost added, “It was a very special time for the Lamar Elks Lodge and its members.  Everybody did a great job in preparing and representing our Lodge.  I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished and excited to what we can do in the future.”

By Russ Baldwin