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Nebraska Attorney Becomes National President of the BPO Elks
The week of July 2 through July 8 was an exciting week of highs and life-long
memories for an Ogallala, Nebraska Elk. James Michael McQuillan began the
week with a number of receptions and gatherings as "Announced
Candidate" for the prestigious office of Grand Exalted Ruler of the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and finished the week with his
installation to that office.
Monday's Grand Lodge Session featured the nominations of officers for the Grand
Lodge year. The final nomination of the morning for Grand Exalted Ruler
was made by Mike McQuillan with a second by Jim McQuillan, sons of the nominee.
Many of the Nebraskans and friends of the McQuillans had a difficult time
fighting back the tears during the nominating speeches, they were deeply touched
by the things they heard from the sons of the new GER.
A unanimous ballot was cast and James McQuillan was now our elected GER awaiting
installation. A major rally followed the election with the strains of the
"Fighting Irish" fight song sounding throughout the convention hall
and wrapping up with the entire McQuillan clan upon the dais listening to our
newly elected GER serenading the audience with "Danny Boy" and other
Irish lullabies. Then came the McQuillan acceptance speech (parts of which will
be published on this Web Page).
The day just started! GER elect Jim spent part of the afternoon in
an ER training session briefing the new ERs on his goals for the year and what
and how they can help him achieve these goals and help the Order grow again.
In the evening, the McQuillans were guests of honor at a giant reception held at
the Hilton in his honor. More than 1,000 guests and dignitaries were in
attendance and got to meet the GER elect and his Lady, Karen, and the entire
McQuillan family. Many Nebraskans worked the reception in various jobs
from greeting guests to handing out drink tickets. It was a great party.
On Thursday morning, after one hectic week of necessary meetings and receptions,
James Michael McQuillan took the oath of office as Grand Exalted Ruler of the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. But there was no slow down.
Jim and Karen were preparing for their first visitation to the state of Montana
over the weekend.
Congratulations to the entire McQuillan clan, how awesome it is to have Jim head
up our Order as its national president.