06/15/2026
🇺🇸🇺🇸What a weekend at Rome Elks #96!
On Friday, we had the honor of hosting New York State President Michael Sage and First Lady Staci Sage for a lasagna dinner and Meet & Greet. Nearly 60 Elks joined us for an evening filled with great food, desserts, drinks, conversation, and fellowship. Thank you to our State President and First Lady for spending time with us and making the evening so memorable!
Sunday brought one of the most meaningful traditions of the year—our Flag Day celebration. This day holds special significance for Rome Elks #96, as we have proudly served as caretakers of the gravesite of Francis Bellamy and his family since 1937.
Each year, with the help of Boy Scout Troop 11 of Rome, Boy Scout Troop 175 of Holland Patent, Cub Scout Pack 50 of Rome, and cemetery caretaker Art Golden, we clean the grounds, remove weeds and debris, plant fresh flowers, and raise new flags to honor the author of the Pledge of Allegiance. It is a responsibility we take great pride in and one that reflects our commitment to patriotism, remembrance, and community service.
The day began with a moving graveside ceremony, followed by the Presentation of the Flags at the Lodge and a special dinner shared among members and guests. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s celebration a success and to those who continue to preserve and honor this important piece of our nation’s history.
We are proud to be Elks, proud to serve our community, and proud to carry on these traditions. 🇺🇸🦌❤️🤍💙
