The Kentucky Elks Association is hosting its convention in Campbell County this week and will welcome Elks from across the state to its Newport chapter.
Newport Elks Lodge number 273 is hosting the festivities from Feb. 16-18, including the official installation of The Kentucky Elks Association President Ray Pauly, Jr. of Alexandria.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is a fraternal order with more than 750,000 members nationally and a more than 150-year history. The network includes more than 2,000 lodges in communities across the county and focuses its mission on charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity.
Pauly is a lifelong Campbell County resident, a 1971 graduate of Campbell County High School, and a disabled Army veteran who continues his legacy of service. He was given a commendation at the Campbell County Fiscal Court meeting on Feb. 15 ahead of the festivities for his service in the community.
“The Campbell County Fiscal Court hereby recognizes and honors Ray Pauly, Jr. for demonstrating extraordinary service to his community through his diligent effort volunteering countless hours to the Newport Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodge number 273,” Judge/Executive Steve Pendery said.
Pauly earned the “All-American Chaplain” designation in the Initiation Ritual Contest in 1997 and has been a lifelong Elk member with many leadership roles in the organization. The association is celebrating his long service history at this year’s convention as he moves into the president role.
“This is truly an honor coming from an old boy who grew up in Peter Knoll homes down there (in Newport.) Now I’m standing in front of the fiscal court, given an award. Thank you all very much. This means a lot more to me than y’all might think it does, so thank you all very much. I appreciate this.”
Pendery said that meetNKY President and CEO Julie Kirkpatrick got the ball rolling to host the convention in Northern Kentucky.
Kirkpatrick said at the fiscal court meeting that meetings and events are important to the region and Campbell County.
“For the Pauly’s, all the hard work they have done to bring these visitors to Northern Kentucky, it’s going to leave behind a big economic impact at the Holiday in Wilder,” Kirkpatrick said. “As well as I’m sure the Barleycorn Brewhouse in Wilder, as well as other bars and restaurants. I especially want to note your lifetime of service. You’re an inspiration, sir.”
