Bullhorn
Berea Elks Lodge #1815
september 2025
a message from the Exalted Ruler
Dear Elks Members,
Last month marked a significant milestone for our lodge as we celebrated our 75th anniversary, an occasion that brought together members, community leaders, and distinguished guests in a heartwarming gathering. Among those gracing the event was Grand Exalted Ruler Bryan Klatt, along with Past Grand Exalted Rulers Doug Schiefer and Jim Nichelson. Their presence added a layer of prestige to an already memorable celebration.
The celebration was not just about reflecting on our past accomplishments but also about engaging with the community. Many local leaders expressed their surprise at the vibrant activities and impactful programs we host within our lodge. Several remarked that despite having driven by our building their entire lives, they had little knowledge of the enriching work we do to support both our fellow members and the wider community. Their unexpected admiration served as confirmation of our ongoing mission to be a positive force in the lives of those around us.
A month prior to our anniversary, I had the honor, alongside several officers and Past Exalted Rulers, to attend the National Elks Convention in Kansas City. This event proved essential as it not only marked the day Bryan Klatt was elected as our Grand Exalted Ruler, but it also highlighted critical initiatives for the year ahead. During his keynote address, Klatt introduced his theme, "Be the Difference," which serves as a rallying cry for all Elks to actively participate in initiatives that positively impact our neighborhoods.
GER Klatt stressed the vital role we play in supporting veterans by making them feel personally supported and engaging youth through programs such as the Drug Awareness Program and the Hoop Shoot. These initiatives aim to create opportunities for growth and transformation in the lives of young people, while also fostering a sense of community responsibility among members. He also emphasized the importance of member retention, pointing out that a strong, committed membership is essential for our outreach efforts.
For those interested in learning more about our national initiatives, a complete collection of Convention Newsletters can be found on the lodge bulletin board. These newsletters provide a comprehensive overview of the Grand Lodge Convention, which took place June 29th through July 2nd, highlighting essential discussions and decisions made during the event.
On a different note, I want to address an ongoing concern regarding fraudulent emails that appear to be coming from me, your Exalted Ruler. It’s disheartening to hear that some members are receiving messages that seem to solicit personal favors or financial assistance. I want to assure you that these emails are scams and do not originate from me. Please do not respond to such messages; instead, delete them immediately. If you are ever unsure, feel free to reach out to me directly or to our Lodge Secretary, Jeff Coyle, for verification.
As we look ahead, let us continue to build on our legacy and focus on making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Together, we can foster a spirit of community that extends far beyond the walls of our lodge. Here's to our past achievements and to many more years of service and camaraderie within our Elks family!
Fraternally,
Debbie Greenhill, Exalted Ruler
Lodge Officers
Exalted Ruler - Deb Greenhill
Esteemed Leading Knight - Hans Larsen
Esteemed Loyal Knight - Dianna Threadgill
Esteemed Lecturing Knight - Pat Greenhill
Secretary - Jeff Coyle, DDGER
Treasurer - Danielle Mahany, PER
Chaplain - John Masterson
Inner Guard - Ro Pruitt-Humphreys
Tiler - Jon Elias
Esquire - Lenny Oliveri, PER
Lodge Trustees
5th Year - Rich Ward
4th Year - Kevin Maloney, PER
3rd Year - Aric Pruitt-Humphreys
2nd Year - Andy Tyler
1st Year - Dr. Mitch Rivas
UPCOMING EVENTS
September
Sept 2 - Skee-ball League Begins
Sept 3 - Lodge Meeting
Sept 10 - Board of Directors Meeting
Sept 13 - Ladies Night
Sept 17 - Lodge Meeting (Initiation)
Sept 20 - 1815 Club
Sept 27 - Jeopardy Night
October
Oct 1 - Lodge Meeting
Oct 7 - Dart League begins
Oct 8 - Board of Directors Meeting
Oct 11 - CP Ball at Ashtabula #208 (Lodge Closed) Tickets on sale now
Oct 12 - Ohio Elks Northeast District Meeting at Ashtabula #208
Oct 15 - Lodge Meeting (Initiation)
Oct 18 - Craft Fair
Oct 18 - 1815 Club
Oct 25 - DEA National Drug Take Back Day
Oct 29 - 5th Wednesday Club Ashland #1360 (Lodge Closed)
Oct 31 - Trunk-or-Treat
Tuesdays & Fridays
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
September
Sept 1 - Ed Bodach
Sept 1 - Jim Coone
Sept 11 - Bob Courtemanche
Sept 13 - Caroline Kuhl
Sept 17.- Sandy Kotris
Sept 19 - Greg Coyle
Sept 20 - Doug Mouat
Sept 14 - David Dalessandro
Sept 25 - Richard Koharik
Sept 28 - Rob Wieser
Sept 29 - Elizabeth Passiatore
Sept 30 - Casey Kensinger
Trivia Fridays at 7pm
Berea Elks 1815 75th anniversary party
The Lodge finally celebrated its much anticipated 75th anniversary on Wednesday August 13th. Around 150 Elks, family, friends. and guests came together to recognize the great work that this Lodge has been done over the past 75 years. Honored guests included Grand Exalted Ruler Bryan Klatt and his wife Susan, Past Grand Exalted Ruler Jim Nichelson and his wife Mary Carolyn, Past Grand Exalted Ruler Doug Schiefer and his wife Julia, Ohio Elks Association President Keith Denny and his wife Lynn, Berea Mayor Cyril Kleem, and Mary Kate Hasting a regional director for Senator Jon Husted. The Lodge received several awards and proclamations along with an overwhelming amount of community appreciation. The Lodge preformed a mortgage burning ceremony led by Exalted Ruler Deb Greenhill. This ceremony celebrated the completion of our loan from Massillon North Canton Lodge 2029. Additionally, Past Exalted Ruler Nate Moore put together a tremendously well received pork roast. The night ended with the 11:00 toast performed by the Past Exalted Rulers of Berea 1815. Thank you to all that attended and help make this night possible. A special thank you to Past Exalted Ruler Richard Threadgill who coordinated this historic night.
Photos credited to Dr. Mitch Rivas, Linda Kramer, and Mark Ratliff.
Lodge Dart League returns
LODGE FALL & WINTER DART LEAGUE NOW SIGNING UP!
It is time to start thinking ahead to the arrival of Fall and the Berea Elks Annual Fall & Winter Dart League. As always, the league will play on Tuesday evenings beginning at 7:00 p.m. We are, above all, a FUN league looking for darters of all skill levels. So, whether you' are an old pro or a total beginner, this is the dart league for you. Our league will begin in early October and still only cost $5/week.
A sign-up sheet will soon be in the Lounge and interested darters can also use e-mail to sign up.
Bill Maloney - Dart League Chairman
Elks care Elks share
Thanks to all who helped with this year's backpack program! 130 backpacks were stuffed and delivered to Berea Midpark Middle School. More than $6,000 worth of supplies to help our 5th graders have an amazing year. Everyone at BMMS was super appreciative of the Elks helping with this much needed effort!
Welcome new members
In August Berea 1815 initiated four new members: Ellen Barrett, Mindy Rivas, Makenzie Rivas, and Shepley Logan! Be sure to welcome and congratulate them the next time you are at the Lodge.
DDGER Jewels Ceremony
In August Berea 1815 PER Jeff Coyle was given the DDGER jewels for the Northeast District of Ohio. Several Past State Presidents, Past District Deputy Grand Exalted Rulers, and visiting members attended the Ceremony.
11th hour grille changes
Starting September 1st, the Lounge will resume the grille on Tuesday nights. There will no longer be food on Saturday nights, and the Lounge will resume opening at 6:00pm. Follow the Lodge Calendar for single meal of the day specials.
As a reminder we are in need of additional volunteers to help in the kitchen and at the bar. Please contact Danielle Mahany with interest.
THIS IS BEREA JEOPARDY!
GRAB YOUR PARTNER IN CRIME WHETHER IT’S YOUR HUSBAND, WIFE, BEST FRIEND, OR A RANDOM STRANGER ON THE STREET AND JOIN US AT BEREA ELKS FOR AN ENF JEOPARDY NIGHT ON SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27th STARTING AT 6:15PM. SIGN UP AT BEREA ELKS LODGE BAR.
COST FOR A TEAM OF 2 IS $10.
PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO BEREA ELKS ENF FUND.
THERE WILL BE 2-3 BASKET RAFFLES ALSO UP FOR GRABS. TICKETS WILL BE $1 FOR 1 AND $5 FOR 6. THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BASKETS WILL ALSO BE DONATED TO BEREA ELKS ENF FUND
ADDITIONALLY, THERE WILL BE AN ALL YOU CAN EAT PASTA BOWL DINNER FOR $15 PROCEEDS GOING TO ENF.
purse bingo
Our 3rd Annual Purse Bingo is set for Saturday, November 8. Doors open at 5, with game play to begin at 5:30. Cost is $40 in advance and $50 at the door and includes 10 rounds of bingo for purse prizes and an entry into the door prize drawing. There will also be sideboards and raffle baskets full of amazing items. Tickets can be purchased here:
Balloting on candidates
The Lodge will be balloting on candidates during both meetings in September. All Berea Elks in good standing are encouraged to attend.
Northeast Ohio Elks Cerebral Palsy Charity Ball
Tickets are available at the Lounge. Contact Jeff Coyle for more information.
Tickets are available here: https://www.bereaelks.com/lodge-store/halloween-cookie-class
Trunk-or-Treat
Join us for a spooktacular Trunk or Treat at Berea Elks Lodge! On October 31st from 6-8pm, bring the kids for a fun, safe evening of candy, costumes, and community. Decorate your trunk or just come trick-or-treat!
Veterans to the Zoo
Due to an unexpected scheduling conflict the veterans to the zoo event is postponed. If a new date is scheduled, it will be reflected in the next Bullhorn.