I would like to thank the members of this great Association for allowing me to represent you as your State President for the year 2007-2008. Debbie and I look forward to being your ambassadors as we promote Elkdom and spread the word of the great work we do in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia.

Our motto this year is "Committed to the Community". Like the "Jolly Corks" who have founded our Order with the purpose in mind to help their small "community" of actors, we are committed to helping those in our communities through all the good work we do. As Elks, we have the opportunity to leave a positive and lasting impression on our communities and the people we touch through our programs. I encourage all Lodges to add one new program to their agenda this year.

Our State Major Project, Elks Camp Barrett is a prime example of our commitment to the community, allowing children to attend a week of camp. I urge you to support your camp, by sending children who may not otherwise have the opportunity for an experience like this.

I ask for your continued support of the William J. Jernick Fund, which provides for children in need and the Elks National Foundation, which provides us with materials, drug awareness, hoop shoot, soccer shoot, scholarship and scouting programs.

We are a great Association, second to none; which all of us can be proud of. It is through your dedication, we have achieved this and I thank you for your hard work. However, we must continue to grow in order to maintain what we have accomplished and prepare for years to come. I ask all of you to work toward an increase in membership this year and a decrease in lapsation.