LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the Amst-
erdam Elks Lodge No. 101

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who are devoted to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is also the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
and pay tribute to fraternal organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
citizens of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and this Nation to pay
tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to
the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 125th Anniversary of the Amsterdam Lodge Club No. 101 to be
celebrated on Saturday, September 14, 2013; and
WHEREAS, The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is one of
the oldest and largest fraternal organizations in the United States;
established in 1928, the Elks National Foundation is the charitable arm
of the BPOE; over the years, the Foundation has contributed millions
toward Elks' charitable projects nationwide; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1867, "The Jolly Corks" was a group of 15 actors
and entertainers, interested largely in associating with a group of
like-minded individuals; by 1868, their members had recognized the
impact they could have as a "benevolent and protective society," and
moved to bring permanence to their cause; and
WHEREAS, It was in this purpose that the Amsterdam lodge was formed;
established in 1888, Amsterdam Lodge No. 101 is the 12th oldest Elks
Lodge in continuous operation in New York State, and 84th in the nation;
and
WHEREAS, The Amsterdam Lodge has had many locations throughout its
history, and has provided many services and entertainments to its commu-
nity, but has always been notable in its dedicated, enthusiastic, and
earnest membership; and
WHEREAS, In 2001, the Amsterdam Lodge membership welcomed its first
female member; since that time, many women have joined the ranks, and
have played a significant role in the programs and activities of the
Lodge; and
WHEREAS, The B. P. O. Elks organization is dedicated to a variety of
community programs, focusing on the local youth, veterans, and families
in need; the Amsterdam Lodge is highly involved in the national scholar-
ship program, Hoop Shoot, Drug Awareness, Veteran's recognition and
outreach, Halloween Day parade, and many other programs focusing on
Community Investment and Americanism; and
WHEREAS, Organizations of singular distinction such as Amsterdam Elks
Lodge No. 101 of Amsterdam, New York, merit the grateful praise of the
community and of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body that when organ-
izations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Amsterdam Elks Lodge No. 101;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Amsterdam Elks Lodge No. 101.