Illini Moose Magazine

April - May - June Volume 2009 Issue 2 Inside This Issue Moose Economic Stimulus Plan Announced President’s Letter P.2 Regional Manager 3 Breaking News Alert! February 12, 2009 15:53CST MOOSEHEART, IL. Moments ago Moose International Director of Membership IMA Secretary 4 Darrell O’Brien released details of the recently passed “Moose Economic Moose Legion News 5 Stimulus Plan”. After discussion and debate, the Loyal Order of Moose’s Supreme Council and the Grand Council of the Women of the Moose voted to I.M.A. Golf Outing 5 approve the proposal in support of this unprecedented program designed to Lodge Ritual 6 jumpstart economic activity throughout all levels of the Moose fraternity. In an unprecedented action, application fees have been eliminated for all new Youth Awareness 6 and former member applications dated from March 1, 2009 through April 30, Community Service 7 2009. Director of Membership O’Brien stated “This could be just what is needed to Council of Higher 8 solidify the efforts of Lodges and Chapters to achieve their membership and Degrees financial goals prior to the close of our fiscal year. Our Lodges and Chapters can immediately begin promoting the ‘Moose Economic Stimulus Plan’ in their LOOM Membership 9 newsletters, on their websites, on their bulletin boards and elsewhere within the Deputy Grand Regent 10 Lodge Homes.” Moose International normally retains the $20 application fees (Continued on page 14) WOTM Membership 11 Gimme Five 12 Brother Brad Recognized for Heroism Chicago 2009 13 Endowment Fund 13 Economic Stimulus 14 Famous Moose 14 State Convention 15 Margaritaville Photos 16 Moose Charities 17 Paul P. Powell 17 Scholarship Fund Rambler Nation 18 Golf Outing 18 Bean Bags 19 Brother Brad Cunningham is presented with Act of Heroism Award at the Mid- Mid-Year Photos 19 Year Conference in Decatur, Il on Saturday, February 21st, by Jr. Past Supreme Miscellaneous 20 Governor, Gene Huggins, as IMA President, Tom Bilderbeck, looks on. Brother Brad pulled a fellow worker from an oil field explosion without any regard About Press Releases 21 to his own safety last October. Two men were killed in the blast and a total of four Sudoku 22 badly burned. Brad was able to save Glen Iles life, make a stress call and manage to drive them both to nearby Crosstown, Il for medical attention. Both men were Letter from Editor 23 airlifted to hospitals where they were treated for third and fourth degree burns. Illini Order Form 23 Brad was proclaimed a local hero and is currently on the road to recovery.

Letter from the President Let me first start by saying thank you to all those who attended the Mid-Year Conference. I would like to congratulate the co-workers who received their Academy and Green Cap this year. Job well done ladies! We were very fortunate to have Grand Regent Marion Friend and Brother Gary Urwiler, who is the Principal and Superintendent of Mooseheart schools, as our Official Visitors. They both were very informative and a delight to be around. We had some very good reports. Mary Becker and her report on “Bringing Home the Bacon” Seminar held in Reno, Nevada. I hope we take the information she gave out back to our lodges and put it to good use. Finally, Brad and Carol Bowker and their report “Ain’t My Job.” This report was very well orchestrated, switching from each other, talking about different things and jobs in the lodge, and making the comment “Ain't my job.” We received some very important information about the IRS given by Pete Baldino. His remarks were valuable since his lodge had experienced an IRS audit. Thank you Pete! What can I say about the Jimmy Buffett party? It has been a long time since I have seen so many people up out of their seats dancing and singing! The food was great and the entertainment was excellent. None of this would have been possible had it not been for the help of Tim and Becky Alcorn. Hey! How about the Moose Follies?! These fellas went above and beyond the call of duty. They raised approximately $800 for Breast Cancer Awareness. I would like to thank Larry Hartley, our Charitable Gaming chairman. He gave a personal donation of $1,000. Also, I need to thank all those who raised funds for our various charitable endeavors. Thank you everyone! Thursday we were given some very good reports from our District Presidents at the State Board meeting. Before I close, I hope every lodge is taking advantage of the stimulus package and the Ten Member Board to help the lodges to sign new and former members. Thank you for your generosity of giving to our programs and all that you do. Tom Bilderbeck - IMA President

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OPPORTUNITY IS KNOCKING What is Opportunity? Opportunity is surely the “Moose Economic Stimulus Plan” sign a new or former member between March 1, 2009 and April 30, 2009 with no fees. What a deal and what a perfect way to build membership in all our Lodges, Chapters, and Moose Legions! The opportunities offered to Moose members is far more reaching than this. Opportunity is what we offer our children at Mooseheart who come to us from all walks of life, who have very little, if anything at all. We offer them the chance to make a difference in their lives. If it were not for the men and women of the Moose these children may not have any opportunities at all for success. Opportunity is what we offer our seniors at Moosehaven after a long life of trials and tribulations. Our seniors can rest assured that we will be there for them. We offer to them a chance to enjoy their golden years in the golden rays of the Florida sunshine. Through the efforts of the Loyal Order of Moose and the Women of the Moose we offer these special people an opportunity to enjoy the rewards of life they have so richly earned. Opportunity is the ability to belong to an International Organization made of men and women dedicated to caring for the young and old, bringing communities closer and celebrating life. Opportunities to show our neighbors we love and care for all humanity are in another words, WE OUR THE MOOSE. Opportunity to belong to your local Moose Lodge means a place for you to share companions, fellowship, and fun with your family, neighbors, and friends. Opportunities for members to be involved with fellow citizens building a better community one brick at a time by leading participation in community service projects. Opportunity is knocking, so throw open the door and embrace the most fantastic happening to you in a lifetime. The opportunity to be a Moose. Ron Kozuszek - IMA Regional Manager

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Letter from the I.M.A. Secretary The “Beyond Belief” Campaign year has come to a close and the Membership Committee should continue to have a short-term campaign in place while we await the announcement of the new campaign at the International Convention. It is so important that a Lodge recognize their sponsors for their efforts. The Lodge should have plans underway for a Preferred Members Party and begin now to advertise their Preferred Members party for next year. Proper orientations should be held for the new candidates to tell them of the activities of your Lodge and tell them why they should join your Lodge. Brother Jr. Past Governor, you should have or will soon receive the Moose of the Year form from your Administrator. Please return by the deadline on the form in order for your committee’s selection to be considered for International Moose of the Year. I urge you to complete this form as soon as possible, for, the longer you take, the greater the possibility of the form getting misplaced. Every Lodge has a member who is deserving of this honor and we should have 100% participation in this program. Two important deadlines will soon be here, the R. Robert Dale Scholarship for the Class of 2010, and the Paul P. Powell Scholarship for the Class of 2009. Both these programs are open to Lodge and Chapter member students. There should be 100% participation in these programs. Contact your Lodge Administrator or Chapter Recorder for eligibility requirements. The date for the 78th annual Convention of the Illinois Moose Association is August 20-23, 2009. The Headquarters Hotel for the Loyal Order of Moose and the Women of the Moose is the St Louis, Mo. Airport Marriott Hotel. We urge everyone to pre-register and purchase function tickets early. Forms are available on the IMA website, www.illinoismoose.org We will be holding marches of checks on Friday and Saturday at our Convention. Our special capital project for this year is Mooseheart Furniture. A donation form is available on the IMA website www.illinoismoose.org. Please fill it out, as this will help us to insure that you get proper recognition for your contributions. We will accept donations for Mooseheart Furniture, High School Prom, Endowment Fund, Scholarship Fund, and Special Olympics. Please make these checks payable to Moose Charities. Checks for Breast Cancer, Illinois Day, Illinois Residence, and Youth Awareness should be made payable to the Illinois Moose Association. Please make separate checks for each project and indicate in the note portion the project the funds are to be used for. The total of all the donations for the Mid-Year Conference is listed below. Thank you all, it is because of people like you who care, that are children at Mooseheart and our seniors at Moosehaven will have a secure and happy future.

Fraternally, Gerald Ashlock, IMA Secretary Total Contributions from 2009 Mid-Year Conference

SPECIAL OLYMPICS 6,130.00 FLOOR 1,400.00 SCHOLARSHIP 3,470.00 4H 100.00 ENDOWMENT 10,245.67 SCOUTING 1,094.00 SAFE SURFIN 5,173.50 ROTC 100.00 HIGH PROM 2,485.00 MUSIC 100.00 MOOSEHEART FURNITURE 5,092.23 FLIGHT 93 436.00 YOUTH AWARNESS 2,885.00 UNIFORMS 50.00 ILINOIS DAY 2,520.00 CAMP ROSS 300.00 ILLINOIS HOME 3,460.00 GIMME 5 1,016.90 BREAST CANCER 8,599.20 CAMPOUT 100.00 TOTAL DONATIONS 54,757.50

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Moose Legionnaires of the Year Announced at Mid-Year Conference Each year every Moose Lodge is expected to choose a Moose Legionnaire of the Year Nominee. Award recipients are chosen based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to service to the order, to their communities, to their lodge and to their Moose Legion. Nominees are then forwarded to your Moose Legion Secretary. A meeting is held with all past presidents available to choose one from all those submitted by the deadline. The winner is then forwarded to Moose International Dept. of Fraternal Programs to be judged against all other nominees from our state association. The ‘best of the best” is then judged against other Moose Association Nominees to determine who will be named Moose Legionnaire of the Year at the International Convention. The IMA consists of ten Moose Legions. This years winners are: Donald J. Gravlin--Mecca-9 Steve Adam Myles--Fort Dearborn-33 Jim Brewer--Tri State-50 Donald E Schultz--Northwest Ilinois-57 Gaylord Larson-- Illinois Valley-100 Richard Davis-- Southern Illinois 101 William Jones SR. Eastern Illinois 102 Ralph Deblieck--Western Illinois 112 John Diebold-- Northeast Illinois 169 Steve Matteson-- Grand Prairie 173 John “Jack” Diebold from Northeast Illinois #169 was the Illinois Pictured above are Fort Dearborn # 33 Moose Association’s 2009 Moose Legionnaire of the Year. President (on left) with “his” Moose Legionnaire of the Year, Steve Myles, Congratulations to all of our brothers listed above, as it is truly an Chicago Hts. # 828 at Mid-Year honor just to be nominated. Special Thanks to all those lodges who Conference Moose Legion Breakfast took the time to submit a Lodge Moose Legionnaire of the Year. held Friday, February 20th, 2009.

Annual I.M.A. Golf Outing Hosted by Mattoon Lodge # 803 (217) 235-5290 July 10-12, 2009

Friday, Senior Tournament will be a shot-gun start at 9:00 AM Tee times for the Saturday and Sunday State Tournament will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, with entries closing June 30th.

Meadowview Golf Course 6489 Meadow View Lane Mattoon, IL 61928

Friday - $40.00 per person Saturday & Sunday - $50.00 per person includes - golf, cart & prizes

Proceeds go to: Breast Cancer Awareness, Safe Surfin’ and Special Olympics

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Final Lodge State Ritual The last Lodge State Ritual competition was held at our Midyear Conference with 6 teams entered. The teams were: Freeport, Sterling, Harvard, St. Charles, Aurora and Belleville/Swansea. I want to thank these teams for supporting the Ritual to the end. The competition was won by St. Charles with Sterling taking second. These two teams will represent the IMA at the International Convention in Chicago. Good luck to everyone at International. I want to thank all the teams from years past for all the enrollments they have done and the teams that had entered into competition over the years. With the end of the Lodge Ritual, a new era will start at the 2010 International Convention with the new Moose Legion Ritual. I hope all the dedicated members that took part in the Lodge Ritual will continue with the Moose Legion Ritual. Anyone wanting the words for the new ritual can be found on the International website under the Moose Legion Tab. The floor movements and rules will be out at the Chicago convention right after the Moose Legion Breakfast.

Fraternally Yours, Gary Alt IMA Ritual Chairman

Two Youth Awareness Winners to Represent Illinois Moose Association The Youth Awareness Program has really taken off this year with a total of 43 Students at our Youth Awareness Student Congresses. The Students have reached out to over 1500 Children ages 4 - 9 years old. We want to thank all the Lodges that hosted the Congresses, the 14 Lodges and 11 Chapters that participated in sending Students to the Congresses. Students were judged by their peers and 2 winners were selected to go to the International Student Congress in Hampton, Va., to represent the Illinois Moose Association. Again thanks to all. Illinois Student Congresses were hosted by Mt. Vernon #755, Wood River # 1329, Lockport # 1557, Belvidere # 295, Sterling # 726, Batavia # 682 and Elgin # 799. The following Lodges and Chapters sent representatives to the Student Congresses: Albion Lodge # 621 & Chapter # 1530 Belvidere Lodge # 295 DeKalb Lodge # 586 Elgin Lodge # 799 & Chapter # 610 Highland Lodge # 2479 Kankakee Chapter # 143 Lockport Lodge # 1557 & Chapter # 575 Mecca 9 Moose Legion Mendota Lodge # 714 Mooseheart Lodge # 2655 Morton Grove Lodge # 376 Mt. Prospect Chapter # 1481 St. Charles Lodge # 1368 Sterling Lodge # 726 Ralph and Dawn Newton Wood River Lodge # 1349 Woodstock Lodge # 1329 & Chapter # 364

Nimra Elahi from Morton Grove # 376 and Malerie Guthrie from Belvidere # 295 are going to Hampton, Va. to Represent the Illinois Moose Association.

Fraternally Submitted, Ralph and Dawn Newton Co-Chairs IMA Youth Awareness Program 6

Moose International 2008-2009 Community Service Projects

I hope everyone had a good time, at the mid- year conference. I know that my wife and I did. I want to thank everyone for their contributions. We raised $592.00 for breast cancer research and $151.00 for flight 93 at the community service booth. We want to give special thanks to Mrs. Jordan from Waukegan, Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Larison from Zion- Benton for their donation of time, money and effort. In addition, Wauconda raised $759.00 for Special Olympics thanks to Barry Litberg (IMA 2009 Rookie of the Year) and Dennis Longnecker (IMA Family Activities Chairman). The four watches that were raffled were donated by Dennis’ employer, Fidelitone Corporation and another was donated by Barry. Times are hard, but our special projects must have our support. Please give what you can and help others with their fundraising projects. We are only at the half way point with our goals we set in August. Let us do what we can to make it happen. Help us support Breast Cancer Research, Safe Surfin’, Flight 93 and Special Olympics. It will not be long before you are asked to help recruit students for our Youth Awareness Program. This is one of the best tools we have to inform others about our humanitarian objectives. I want to thank the lodges that turn in their community service reports on time. However, last night I received a report from Moose International Fraternal Program Director, Shawn Baile. Over one half of the lodges in Illinois did not submit a community service report on time and some submitted them late. First of all, if they are late they do not count toward the Lodge Premier Award. Secondly, I know that all lodges contribute to their community and most donate to our causes; they just don’t take the time to fill out the form. These reports are very important. Let us try harder and get 100 % before the May 15th deadline. Let’s not forget about the Tommy Moose Program. An inexpensive way to make points in the community and get some free positive press. (See Press Release Information on page 21) I thank you all for what you are doing for our fraternity. Keep up the good work. Fraternally submitted Johnny Larison IMA Community Service Chairman

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“What drives our members away and how to fix it”

WHAT DRIVES OUR MEMBERS AWAY There are various reasons, so here are some categories that come to mind: • MONEY -The person may have just lost their job-having financial situations that make it impossible or very difficult to attend functions and pay dues. • EXPECTATIONS - The Lodge, Chapter and Moose Legion activities are not what he/she expected. • ATTITUDE – The new member does not feel welcome by the board, employees or the cliques in the Lodge, Chapter and Moose Legion. Yes, that does happen! • FORGOT – Some people just forget to pay their dues. • MAIL – Not receiving dues reminders from Mooseheart, Newsletters or other mailings that go with the privilege of membership, this also includes misinformation. • INDOCTRINATION PROGRAM – Sponsor of the candidate is not in attendance, which leaves the new member feeling alone and not appreciated. • FUNCTIONS – Not having Family Functions and Sports Activities.

HOW DO YOU FIX IT • ATTITUDE - Always have a positive attitude, make everyone feel welcome in the LOOM, WOTM & Moose Legion. • SERVICE – Remember being on par in terms of price & quality only gets you in the game. SERVICE WINS THE GAME! • Stress the importance of supporting Mooseheart, Moosehaven and our communities. • Be sure to explain to them & provide them with a Moose Members Benefit flyer. • COMMUNICATION – This is the most important part of any organization. Be sure your membership is fully informed of the upcoming Lodge, Chapter and Moose Legion events. Make sure when planning your functions that they appeal to all age groups.

Always remember RETENTION starts when we bring in that candidate to the Lodge, Chapter & Moose Legion for his or her first visit, if we keep them active and paying their dues that is one less member we need to worry about signing.

RETENTION is the #1 priority of the Council of Higher Degrees. The tools we use are : Moose-A-Thon - Personal contact via telephone. (Importance of contact information on original application)

Mailings – Letters mailed to the EXPIRED & DROPPED from the Lodge, Chapters and Moose Legion. The Administrators, Recorders and Moose Legion Secretaries must provide these lists for you. The Council Officers and the CHD members along with your members must work together. We need the full support of all units to make this happen & become a success! As our Regional Director, Ron Kozuszek, stated “Non-Cooperation is not an OPTION.” In closing we leave you with this: Attitude, Service and providing programs of value are the formula for a successful Council and for a Lodge, Chapter and Moose Legion operation. We want to THANK-YOU in advance for your continued support in Sponsoring NEW members and working RETENTION! We wish all of you a very Happy Easter and a mild Spring! Rich & Ginger Kalensky - IMA Co-Chairpersons of I.M.A. Council of Higher Degrees

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From the Membership Department

THINGS, THEY ARE A CHANGING

I know I don’t have to tell anyone in the Moose that the numbers for signing new members were lousy for the first ten months of the current membership year! However, we are seeing signs of life in the Illinois Moose Association. The total number of members signed so far this year is 3428. As of March 15th you the MEMBERSHIP have signed a total of 404 new and former members. The 404 new and former members signed are in a two week period! This tells me that the application fee waiver from Moose International is proving to be very valuable in these tough economic times.

We have also seen a great response in the IMA 10 Board Campaign. The following Moose Brothers have already won a $ 25.00 VISA Gift Card compliments of the Illinois Moose Association 10 Board Membership Campaign: Ray Richards – Taylorville Dan Lundberg - Batavia John Horton – Downers Grove John Reynolds - Decatur Todd Hanson – Downers Grove James Boblie - Lockport Joe Parobek – Chicago Heights Richard Story – St. Charles John Richeldeffer – Charleston Ronnie Lockhart - Lawrenceville Bret Atkins - Lawrenceville

I want to congratulate these Bothers and encourage all Moose Members to sign a member and get your name on the 10 Board Campaign and have a chance to win a $ 25.00 VISA Gift Card. The 10 Board Campaign runs through the month of April right along with the application fee waiver. If there was ever a time to sign a new member it is now. As I said earlier, the Illinois Moose Association is showing signs of life. Let’s keep this momentum going and get Illinois back where it should be --- # 1!!

As always, if you have any questions about membership or any of the campaigns please feel free to contact me. Congratulations to the lodges listed below that have already made quota based on most recent Lodge Quota Report available.

Jim Brewer IMA Membership Chairman

1st Quota Apps Toward Quota Lodge Assigned Quota Percent

0044 CHICAGO SOUTHWEST, IL 105 260 248% 0361 SALEM, IL 38 56 147% 0420 PITTSFIELD, IL 17 23 135% 0622 BRIDGEPORT, IL 17 32 188% 0880 GALESBURG, IL 17 24 141% 0930 PINCKNEYVILLE, IL 17 22 129% 1001 DANVILLE, IL 33 34 103% 1155 MOUNT CARMEL, IL 35 44 126% 1216 CARLINVILLE, IL 41 42 102% 1294 SHELBYVILLE, IL 30 84 280% 1346 ANNA, IL 49 80 163% 1516 Taylorville, IL 71 99 139% 1535 Downers Grove, IL 101 193 191% 1958 CARPENTERSVILLE, IL 40 43 108% 2350 LOMBARD, IL 58 61 105% 2560 NASHVILLE, IL 14 16 114% 2608 O'FALLON-FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, IL 16 24 150% 2655 MOOSEHEART, IL 22 64 291% 2665 UTICA, IL 6 6 100% Total Lodges for Illinois = 105 Total Qualified Lodges = 19 or 18%

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Hello Co-Workers, Now that our Mid-Year Convention is over, I must take this time for a few Thank you’s . First of all, I would like to thank all of the Co-Workers from Ottawa (Hostess Chapter) for doing such a great job. They worked hard and were very well prepared. Also, Thank you to Lorraine McGough for being my right hand. Her decorations were beautiful as usual and her hard work is so appreciated. Last but not least, to Mickey Emerson and the Ritual Staff for the beautiful Academy of Friendship Ceremony. It was the best one I have ever seen, and so many other Co-Workers have said the same thing. If you did not attend the Mid-Year Conference, you missed a great time. Our Official Visitor, Grand Regent Marion Friend gave us a lot of information and we had a good time learning. There were a lot of laughs and fun. Co-Workers, now is the time to start planning for our International Convention in Chicago. Since it will be held right at our Backdoor, I hope our State will be well represented. I know we will all learn some new changes to take back to our Chapters and share with the Co-Workers. The information we receive every year is vital to the success of our Chapters and for our continued support of our twin cities; Mooseheart and Moosehaven. There will be many of our Co-Workers who will be receiving the Start Recorder and College of Regents Degrees at Convention. Please share in their joy and attend these Conferrals. Chapter support means so much to each of us. In closing, I would like to wish everyone a great summer and I am looking forward to seeing everyone in Chicago. Fraternally Yours Karen Howard - Deputy Grand Regent

College of Regent Shirts!!! To all College of Regents that would like to order a shirt, here are the prices and sizes. You will need to order your own shirts. This is not a fund raiser. At all three summer meetings it was stated that the co-workers wanted a shirt that would make them recognizable as College of Regents from Illinois. Fraternally, Kay McGrath College of Regents Chairman / Phone 815-562-8106.

XSM-XLG $21.25 2X Large 23.38 1X Plus 25.50 2X Plus 27.63 3X Large 25.50 4X Large 27.63 5X Large 29.75 Tax is included in Prices!! Checks & Credit Cards are acceptable If you want you name, just add $3.00

Contact: Darlene Bernhardt Unique Embroidery By Dar 123 Rt. 38 Franklin Grove, Il 61031 1-815-456-3023 1-866-796-0792 Toll Free Fax 1-815-456-2093 email : [email protected]

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WE’VE RAN OUT OF GAS. HELP US GET OUR ENGINES RUNNING. W.O.T.M. WIN A $25. GIFT CARD FOR GAS FOR THE SPONSOR THAT SIGNS THE MOST MEMBERS IN EACH MONTH. ALSO, ALL SPONSORS WILL BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR EACH MEMBER OR RE-ENROLLED MEMBER FOR $250. GIFT CARD TO BE DRAWN AT THE AUGUST CONFERENCE 2009 IN ST. LOUIS.

WINNER FOR SEPTEMBER ……Vicky Howell, Chapter 234 Bridgeport WINNER FOR OCTOBER………… Sharon Okrzesik, Chapter 1329 Morton Grove WINNER FOR NOVEMBER…………..Dorothy Schaefer, Chapter 577 Geneseo WINNER FOR DECEMBER……………..Janet Kotz, Chapter 610 Elgin WINNER FOR JANUARY………………Kelly Wilson, Chapter 162 Lawrenceville WINNER FOR FEBRUARY………..Maria Clement, Chapter 392 Mascoutah

THANK YOU FOR EVERYONE THAT HAS SIGNED A MEMBER, REMEMBER MOOSE INTERNATIONAL HAS IMPLEMENTED THE MOOSE ECONOMIC STIMULUS PLAN NO APPLICATION FEES! March 1, 2009 thru April 30, 2009

PLEASE SUPPORT THE ILLINOIS MOOSE ASSOCIATION IN THEIR MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN. IT’S NOW TIME TO SUPPORT GORDY GOES ON A MOOSE HUNT

WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO TO MAKE ILLINOIS NUMBER ONE!!!!!!! DON’T FORGET TO TRY A RETAIN OUR MEMBERS ALONG WITH BEING ABLE TO KEEP OUR ENGINES RUNNING, SIGN A MEMBER TODAY. THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR OUR FRATERNITY .

- Carol Bowker, WOTM Membership Chairman

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At our Mid-year conference in February, an award was given to the Senior Regent of Flora Chapter #1937 for From Left: Ramona Richards, Sr. Regent , the largest percentage of co-workers contributing to the Flora Chapter # 1837 and Judy Gipson, Gimme 5 campaign from this Chapter in the State of Gimme 5 Regional Chairperson. Illinois. We are so proud of the work that the Gimme 5 chairman is doing in notifying the entire membership in the chapter of this worthy project. The picture shows the happy face of the recipient, Ramona Richards.

During my report, we reminded all co-workers that we are completing the second year of this worthwhile cause. At International in May we will begin year three of our commitment. A nickel in the morning for Mooseheart – a nickel in the evening for Moosehaven - that’s all it takes to secure the future of our Twin Cities. Their future is up to each of us.

Your checks may be sent to Moose Charities, 155 S. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539 and make sure you earmark the check with “Gimme 5” and your Moose ID number listed on your Membership Card. You can donate over the phone by calling (630) 966-2200 or visit the website at www.moosecharities.org. Moose Charities is a 501(c)3 corporation, therefore your entire contribution is 100% tax deductible.

Thanks to all who have given so generously to this campaign!

Judy Gipson, Grand Council Member and Gimme 5 Regional Chairperson

News from Taylorville Moose Family Center

Husband and wife team achieve 25 club Taylorville Moose Family Center held a blood drive. status. Frank Emerson qualifies for the 25 Pictured above are Dave McDonald (on right), member club as Mickey Emerson joined the 50 of Taylorville 1516, gave for the 100th time (comes to division of the 25 Club. 12 1/2 gallons) and Thad Emerson, son of Mickey & Frank Emerson, gave for the first time. “Keep up the good work!” “Like grandfather, Like grandson.”

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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED MOOSE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CHICAGO, IL MAY 21 – MAY 25 2009 HELP IS NEEDED IN THE REGISTRATION AREA AND IN THE GIFT STORE. A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO MEET OTHER MOOSE MEMBERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. IF YOU ARE WILLING TO VOLUNTEER PLEASE COMPLETE THE INFORMATION LISTED BELOW AND RETURN TO: Ron Kozuszek - IMA Regional Manager 1184 Candlewood Road Elgin, IL 60123 847.841.1292 Phone & Fax 618.795.1476 Cell [email protected] NAME ______MID# ______ADDRESS ______CITY ______ZIP Code______PHONE # ______/______E-Mail ______ARRIVAL DATE & TIME______

Thank you, Thank you

Dear Brothers and co-workers,

We would like to thank everyone that dropped off their box tops for kids and Campbell’s soup labels at the endowment fund table at our mid year conference. We collected 1035 box tops, 918 Campbell’s soup labels, 190 Nestle labels and 7 Coke labels. We will be collecting these labels as an on going project. Thank you again.

Endowment Fund Co-Chairmen Mike Pelling and Joe Serwa

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(Continued from page 1) Moose Economic Stimulus Plan collected by Lodges and Chapters. This means that for all Lodges, and most Chapters, there is no cost to participate in this program. Sponsors during this short-term stimulus plan will earn credit toward all currently running membership campaigns and programs. These include ‘Beyond Belief’, ‘Become a Moose Tracker’, the Moose International 5 Club, 25 Club, Director General’s Circle of Distinction and Women of the Moose Heart of Distinction. All applications must be transmitted to Moose International via LCL.Net by 10:00pm Central Time on April 30, 2009. The $20 application fee that is normally billed monthly for each new member application reported will be waived, provided the following conditions are met: 1. The application, dated from March 1, 2009 through April 30, 2009, must be received Darrel O’Brien along with the first year’s dues payment. Director, 2. The applicant must be reported to Moose International as “enrolled” by May 31. Membership

Fraternal Units will be billed retroactively for all applications reported between March 1, 2009 and April 30, 2009, AND not reported as enrolled by May 31, 2009. The application fee billed to the Lodges and Chapters for those applicants who are not reported as enrolled will be the standard amount of $20. Should an appli- cant be rejected by the Lodge’s or Chapter’s membership, the Membership Department should be promptly notified, but not later than May 15, 2009, at (630) 966-2258. This “Moose Economic Stimulus Plan” provides a two-pronged approach to enhanced economic stability. First, every Lodge and Chapter is afforded the chance to promote to their members this limited- time opportunity to sponsor their friends, relatives and acquaintances with a zero-dollar application fee! They need only submit a completed membership application and one year’s dues. Increased membership results in an immediate increase in dues revenue! Secondly, the influx of new members generated during this short-term stimulus plan will enable the Lodges and Chapters to increase revenue from social and fundraising events by expanding their customer base. More members participating in an expanded program of activities can translate to significant increases in revenue. - Darrel O’Brien, Moose International Director of Membership

International Website We urge all our members to visit www.mooseintl.org at least weekly, for the latest news on Mooseheart, Moosehaven, Moose Charities - plus updates on fraternal activities, sporting events and other breaking news from around the Moose Fraternity! In the members only section—you can pay your dues instantly, and change details about yourself in your individual member profile. Famous Athletes that are Moose Members

Larry Byrd Bill “Moose” Skowron Arnold Palmer Gale Sayers NBA Hall of Famer 5X World Series Champ Championship Golfer NFL Hall of Famer

Orange County, IN River Park, IL Latrobe, PA Elkhart, IN Lodge # 2530 Lodge # 2578 Lodge # 95 Lodge # 599 14

The August convention will be held in St. Louis, Missouri August 20, 21, 22, and 23, 2009

Come help celebrate our 78th Anniversary!

The Women and Men’s meeting will be held at the Marriott / St. Louis Airport. Reservations can be made starting March 1, 2009 Marriott Airport 1-877-264-8771 If you have any questions contact Joe Serwa 630-904-0254

The Moose rate is $82 per night plus tax. Be sure to tell them you are with the Moose for this rate. Marriott will waive parking fees for Moose members that are guests. Parking at the hotel for non guest is a maximum of $8.00 per day Rate guaranteed until July 29, 2009 There are plenty of rooms and fun to go around. So come early and stay late.

Greetings, Our mid year conference is now behind us. The attendance at this conference was lower than normal. Until our attendance comes back to levels of the recent past, we will be reducing the number of rooms we block from the hotel. If you want to be sure to secure a room at the convention rate, we recommend you book as early as possible. The 78th Illinois Moose Convention will be held at the Marriott St. Louis Airport. The ladies and men’s headquarters will be the Marriott the dates are August 20, 21, 22 and 23. The Moose rate is $82.00 per night plus tax which includes a rebate. Registration opens March 1st, 2009. See Illinois Website for further information at www.illinoismoose.org. or ask your Lodge Administrator, Chapter Recorder or Moose Legion Secretary. Don’t forget to mention that you are with the Illinois Moose Association to receive this rate. Note: Evening dinner seating will be Pre-assigned. Your ticket will contain your table number. Groups who wish to sit together should arrange to order their tickets together. Needless to say, the best way to assure desired seating is to pre-register and order your dinner tickets at that time. The hotels require a 24 hour notice of meal attendance. Therefore, last minute request for meal tickets may, or may not, be honored. Don’t forget to drop off your box tops and soup labels at the Moose Charities table in the display area. Fraternally, Joe Serwa Convention Coordinator

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Memorable Margaritaville at Mid-Year

Ron Kozuszek, Gary and Donna Urwiler Doug Hester Our Lost Shaker of Salt Officially Having Fun Steppin’ Out

Joe Harris and Bill Polk Gary and Shelly lead the Bernie is Blushing Never Looked Better Train to Margaritaville

Austin and Karen Howard Enjoy the Evening Ron Serio selling green tickets M.C. Tom Bilderbeck 16

Moose Charities Appeals to Illinois Moose Association The I.M.A. has been asked to donate funds to help replace some much needed furniture for Mooseheart Residences, Offices and School. There is also a great need to replace some much needed items on the Moosehaven Campus. If you go to the Moose Charities website at www.moosecharities.org you can click on the link to the Mooseheart and Moosehaven “Wish Lists”. These are items that specifically address the immediate needs of our Mooseheart and Moosehaven Residents. This link gives each Lodge, Chapter, Moose Legion or Individual an opportunity to directly affect the lives of our current residents. We have been assured that these lists will be updated regularly, however, please contact the campus before acquiring the item to make certain that has not already been received by some other generous donor. Thank you for your special interest in the lives of our children and seniors entrusted to our care.

Paul P. Powell Essay Contest John Simmons, I.M.A Scholarship Chairman

The Illinois Moose Association is AGAIN sponsoring the annual Paul P. Powell Essay on Traffic Safety. One award of $500.00 will be granted to the author of the best essay submitted.

Eligibility: The contest is open to all High School Seniors with a parent or guardian belonging to a good standing Illinois Moose Association Lodge or Chapter. The student must submit a 500-word essay on “Traffic Safety-Driving Privileges Require Driving Responsibly”. The essay along with the entry form must be postmarked by June 30. 2009. Mail all entries to:

John Simmons, I.M.A. Scholarship Chairman, 27 Countryside Estates, Sandwich, Il 60548.

The Illinois Moose Association thanks those Lodges that participated last year. We hope to again have an increase in entries from qualifying seniors this year. The entry form below is also available from your Lodge Administrator or Chapter Recorder. The winner will be announced at the State Convention in August 2009.

Materials and programs related to Traffic Safety are available at your local Secretary of State office. We’re proud to provide the winner of this contest extra assistance to further his/her education. Let’s all get behind this worthy program. POST it on your bulletin board. PUBLICIZE it in your newsletter. PROMOTE it to the membership.

______

Student’s Name: ______

Address: ______

High School: ______

College Preference: ______

Chosen Profession: ______

Parent or Guardian: ______Mbr. I.D.# ______

Lodge or Chapter: ______No.: ______

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Rambler Nation On behalf of the Lady Ramblers and Mooseheart I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to the ILLINOIS MOOSE ASSOCIATION for the purchasing the our new warm-ups & practice jerseys. Special Thank you to Ron Kozuszek for your consistent communication and Lady Rambler support, please share with all the Men & Women of the Moose who made this possible! The ladies are extremely grateful! Enjoy. The following pictures taken by Asst. Coach Brook Matelis. - Bryan Miller Coordinator of Recreation & Camping Head Coach High School Girls Basketball

Above left: Katie Stryker takes a 3-pt shot in her new warm-ups . On right: Lady Ramblers say THANK YOU!

Illinois Moose Association District Four Golf Outing Saturday, June 27th, 2009 8:00 AM All Proceeds To Benefit Mooseheart’s Girl’s Basketball Team

Silver Ridge Golf Course 3069 N. Hill Road Oregon, IL 61061

Best Ball Foursome First Come, First Served Limited to 36 Foursomes or 144 Players

Donation of $75.00 Includes: Golf, Cart, Prizes and Dinner Dinner and Prizes at Mt. Morris Lodge

To sign up your team call Jason @ 815.734.4440 Any other questions, call Dan Clare @ 815.990.6469

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Mid-Year Conference Bean Bag Tournament

The Bags Tournament held at the 2009 IMA Mid-Year Conference attracted 28 players. Of the donations collected, $120 was donated to "Breast Cancer Research" and $125 was donated to "Safe Surfin' ". With the small time frame between meetings to run the tournament, it was a success. A tournament is scheduled to be held at Illinois Day at Mooseheart from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Early sign up is encouraged, that way a double elimination event can be scheduled. Thanks to Bruce & Matt Derby for all their help. See you at Mooseheart!

Above are Rob Simmons of Yorkville # 2371 and Above are Don Kubilius and Roy Brown III of Phil Roosevelt of Albion # 621. Singles Champs. Downers Grove # 1535. Doubles Champs.

Mid-Year Photos from the Display Area

Jack & Joyce Snidle / Breast Cancer Johnny & Barbara Larison / Community Service Bruce Sasek / LOOM Membership

Nancy Abell Ginger Ashlock, Barbara Johnson & Marlene Kostenbader Ann Baikie / Merchandise

19 Jerry & Amy Weiss / CHD with Joe Serwa Norman Kirkendoll, Walt & Barbara Walker Carol Bowker / WOTM

Decatur Dedicates

Well known Central Illinois musician and Loyal Order of Moose Member, Larry Garner, died last fall. Moose members collected funds, posted a sign and installed two red wrought iron benches at the front door of Moose Lodge # 684. A Moose dedication was held on February 28th, 2009 with Moose Brother, Mike Day giving a eulogy as members gathered. Pictured above are members of the Garner Family enjoying the new benches following the ceremony.

Prospect Praises

Mt. Prospect Chapter # 1481 hosted a Retirement Luncheon for William Lindahl on February 15th, 2009. The chapter gave Bill an engraved pocket watch commemorating his 15 plus years of service as administra- tor of Prospect 660. Top left: Rich Kalensky, IMA Council of Higher Degree Co-Chairman outlines some of Bill’s accomplishments as Fort Dearborn Moose Legion # 33 President stands by. Top Right: Bill is pictured in the center seated with family members. Wife, Joceal, was unable to attend due to recent back surgery.

Academy of Friendship Shown on Right: Coworkers Debbie Crawford and Diana Inman received their Academy of Friendship Degrees at the Mid-Year Conference at Decatur in February. Other Academy of Friendship gather around to welcome them into the Academy of Friendship.

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A Brief Discussion Regarding Press Releases

The primary role of Publicity is to promote lodge events and activities through media coverage, whereas Public Relations is the management of community perceptions and information, often in maintaining a positive image. Press releases can accomplish both objectives.

What makes up a good press release? • Information in the top left of page which contains the name, phone number, email address and any other facts that would be useful to get in contact with the author. • Create an eye catching title. Arouse curiosity. Promise to answer a question. Then follow through with an answer. Opening paragraph should quickly and directly tell the reader what the press release is about. Secondary paragraphs should furnish more detailed information about the press release or event. A visual aid or picture is appropriate. • The final paragraph should be standardized about your lodge and Moose International. • Sloppy, inaccurate, pointless releases are the first to hit the newsroom wastebasket or recycle bin. • Provide sufficient and accurate information. Particularly phone numbers, email or Web Site Addresses. • Press releases must be complete and specific. • Be careful not to be redundant. Keep it brief. Avoid wordiness. It should be no longer than one page. • Be prompt. Newspapers have deadlines. Don’t procrastinate after an event. Include pictures. • Send a release that is “newsworthy”. It should be uncommon or extraordinary. • Avoid words and phrases such as spectacular, incredible, the only one of its kind, breakthrough, cutting-edge, unique and state-of-the-art. • Send press releases to the editorial staff at all local papers. • Email the press releases to Todd Kramer ([email protected]) Editor of the Illini Moose Magazine and Mike Pelling, Webmaster of the Illinois Moose web site ([email protected]) .

The following is suggested by Moose International as a sample release:

Month , Day, Year FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: First name, Last name, Title, phone number, email and/or web address

Place Headline Here in Bold, Larger Type

YOUR TOWN, Your state – This is the first paragraph of a news release. Use your Lodge/Chapter’s preprinted letterhead. The opening paragraph should quickly and directly tell the journalist what’s going on regarding your Lodge/Chapter/Moose Legion that you want him or her to know about. It should be written in a news style such that the journalist can, if he or she chooses, run the information essentially “as is,” with minimal editing. This first paragraph, known as the “lead” should include essential details such as what you’re planning, times, dates, and where. (providing the address). The second paragraph (and the third, fourth, if you have enough information to justify more copy) should furnish more detailed information about your event – such as attractions that are planned for children, whether complimentary soft drinks and snacks will be provided, how long your Lodge/Chapter has been established, etc. In closing, the final paragraphs of the release should be standardized, incorporating much or all of the wording that appears in the following concluding paragraphs: “Moose International, headquartered at Mooseheart, Illinois, is a fraternal and service organization founded in 1888, comprising nearly 1 million men in the Loyal Order of Moose and nearly 500,000 members of the Women of the Moose, in more than 1,800 Lodges and 1,600 Chapters throughout the U.S., Canada, Great Brit- ain and Bermuda. “The Moose organization founded and continues to support Mooseheart Child City & School, a 1,000-acre community and school for children and teens in need, located 40 miles west of Chicago; and the Moosehaven retirement community, a 65-acre campus for qualified retired members and their spouses, located near Jackson- ville, Florida. Additionally, Moose Lodges and Chapters conduct nearly $90 million worth of community service (counting monetary donations and volunteer hours worked) annually.

Roy A. Brown III of Downers Grove # 1535 & Moose Int’l Publications Department contributed to this article.

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Leadership Training Required Southern Illinois Celebrates for All Lodge Officers! Sixty Year Member

The Illinois Moose Association by-laws now require all Lodge Officers to attend Officer’s Leadership Training every two years. If you hold a Lodge Office you have until 90 days after your installation to be formally trained. Administrators are exempt from this requirement. Training Sessions Currently Scheduled are:

April 4th in Downers Grove @ 10:00 am or April 18th in McHenry @ 1:00 pm

Cost is $13.00 per person

The above photo was taken at the 1/18/09 Southern Illinois Upcoming I.M.A. Sporting Events: Moose Legion #101 Celebration. We were honored that day to present Past North Moose, Pilgrim Brother, Charles Ritter, Horseshoe & Washer Tournament Litchfield, IL #1634 with his 60 year service pin. Charles has Hosted by Carlinville Lodge # 1216 - served the order in many capacities over the years. Prior to June 27-28, 2009 transfer to Litchfield Lodge he was administrator of the former Virden, IL Lodge. From Left: Dick Maahs, Past Administrator Golf Outing Hosted by Mattoon of Litchfield #1634, Charles Ritter, Rick Cordes, Jr. Past Lodge # 803 – July 10-12, 2009 Governor #1634 and Gary Cartwright, Governor 1634. (see page 5 for more details) Fraternally Submitted. Rick Cordes Jr. Past Gov. Litchfield

Sudoku To solve: enter digits 1 to 9 into each 3x3 Every row and column must contain 1-9

5 1

3 5 9 Solution to Feb. March Issue of Sudoku 2 4 5 3 7 9 1 6 8 4 2 1 4 4 1 2 3 7 8 6 5 9 9 8 9 8 6 4 2 5 1 3 7 8 4 5 1 9 2 7 6 3 6 2 3 6 1 7 8 4 9 2 5 4 8 2 7 9 5 6 3 4 8 1 1 7 9 1 5 3 8 4 9 2 7 6 7 2 4 6 5 1 3 9 8 2 6 6 9 8 2 3 7 5 1 4 22

Letter from The Editor

The Illini Magazine has been losing money for some time. The Association can no longer absorb these costs. Based on pure economics, the IMA Executive Board has decided to increase the cost of a subscription to $10.00 per year. This amount is more in line with the costs of producing and mailing the magazine. In addition, after much debate it has been decided that the magazine will be sent out quarterly based on the calendar year. For example Issue 1: January, February, March. Issue 2: April, May, June. Issue 3: July, August, September. Issue 4: October, November, December. Another key area of concern is the number of subscribers. Approximately, one percent of the membership in Illinois subscribe to the magazine. As your editor, I have two main priorities. The first is to put out a quality publication you look forward to receiving in your mail box. My second goal is to substantially increase circulation. A tall order when considering we just experienced a price increase in a tough economic environment. However, I believe it is possible with your help. I am asking you to bring your Illini Magazine to your lodge or chapter meetings and functions to show your friends. Another idea would be for each lodge and chapter to purchase at least one subscription for their board of officers. One lodge has decided to reward a sponsor of a new or former member with a one year subscription to the Illini Magazine. Perhaps you have an idea to help increase circulation. The deadline for contributions for upcoming issues is the 10th of the month preceding the next edition. Generally if an event took place in a previous quarter it is fair game for inclusion. If the event happens after the 10th or toward the end of a quarter and I receive it prior to the paper having been proofed and forwarded to the printer, it may still have a chance to be included in the current or a subsequent issue. Please keep in mind, not all articles or photos submitted will make the magazine, regardless of when they are received. We have limited space and some difficult decisions have to be made as to the layout, priorities, timeliness, subject matter, relevance and the quality of the article and / or pictures. My preference is to receive your submissions via email, however, I have an excellent scanner and I can type. Materials submitted via U.S. mail will not be returned unless a written request has been provided. Articles and photos are always appreciated regardless of their fate. If you have any questions or need further clarification as to this policy, please feel free to contact me at anytime @ (847) 759-8210.

Fraternally yours, Todd Kramer - Editor, Illini Moose Magazine

Illini Magazine Order Form

Name______

Address______

______

Phone ______Lodge #______or Chapter # ______

For one year subscription, please send check made payable to the I.M.A. for $10.00 to: Todd Kramer - Editor 859 S. Wolf Road Des Plaines, IL 60016

Please check your expiration date on your address label. It may be time to renew! Show your friends our magazine. Maybe they would like to subscribe!

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Illini Moose Magazine Todd Kramer- Editor 859 S. Wolf Road Des Plaines, IL 60016 [email protected]

“The information contained herein is both confidential and privileged and shall only be available to and used by good-standing members of the Loyal Order of Moose for fraternal purposes. Any use of the information contained herein for private gain or for any commercial, political or Deadline for contributions for July-Aug-Sept business purpose is strictly prohibited” 24 edition is June 13th, 2009