We have lived in Sweet Home for a little more than three years. We have found everyone to be extremely friendly and welcoming.
We transferred to the local Elks Lodge and have been trying to volunteer as much as we can, which fails in comparison to many of the members. Some are so committed to this organization and helping their community that I am constantly amazed at the amount of time they manage to give.
We have been aware of the lack of participation among its members, and as I said, we don’t participate as much as some. But we try. I know this lodge has had to deal with some financial and legal problems that are unique to this lodge. What I can’t understand is the petty and hurtful goings-on among some of the members.
As an example, my husband made and donated three large banners to the lodge to advertise bingo on Thursday nights. I volunteer at bingo along with a group of other very dedicated and busy people.
We are trying to increase the participation and raise money to be given to this lodge to help pay the bills and help our community. As some of the community might not be aware, the lodge is being run entirely through volunteer help because we don’t have the funds to pay anyone.
These banners would sell to the public for at least $75 each. Yesterday (July 17) someone felt they needed to make a statement by “stealing” one of these banners along with two sandwich boards that advertised the breakfasts put on by the lodge. Our banner was attached to these two boards, which, by the way, were made and donated by another volunteer.
Since we covered the cost of this banner and donated it, we would like to see it returned. I’m sure the friendly members of the Sweet Home community did not intend to “steal” from volunteers and ultimately from their community.
As I said this lodge donates a lot of volunteer time and money to this community and the groups that serve the needy. If whoever has the banner could please return it to the lodge (or maybe just set it back up next Thursday) we would appreciate it, and if anyone knows where it might be, please give the lodge a call.
Jo Carol Regan
Sweet Home