Worthy Grand Exalted Ruler, Sister and Brother Elks:
This is a very proud moment for me and no doubt the easiest task I have had in Elkdom; having been asked to nominate the Grand Exalted Ruler. It is an honour to nominate not only a good friend but a very dedicated and knowledgeable Elk, Brother Paul Clendenning from Sarnia Lodge No. 503 and Petrolia Lodge No. 590.

Paul has been a member of this Order since 1974 and during his 25 years of service he has certainly proven his leadership skills and his interest for the welfare of the Order as he was Exalted Ruler in  1981, District Deputy in 1983 and Provincial President of the Ontario Elks Association in 1991. He has also served on all National Committees of the Grand Lodge and has traveled extensively in his own Province promoting Elkdom wherever he goes.

Paul is a man of action and has proven this with his concern for membership by making membership his Number 1 priority and being a man who walks what he talks. He successfully instituted the Petrolia Elks Lodge and assisted in organizing two more Lodges in Ontario. Whether he is working on a National Committee or the Grand Executive  he always keeps everyone focused on the needs of the membership from all across Canada.

Paul has been an employee of Bayer Rubber Inc. in Sarnia for 30 years. When I first heard the word Bayer, I thought here is a person who can resolve all our headaches but actually Paul is the wage Supervisor in the Steam and Power Plant. With a position like that he has to be a friend to everyone.

It is hard to believe but Paul’s curriculum expands beyond Elkdom. He is an avid sportsman enjoying bowling, curling, running, especially in walk-a-thons, golfing and if you want  to put a smile on his face just say “GO LEAFS GO”.

Paul and his good wife Donna have a family four: two sons, a daughter and a grand child. I understand Donna will be traveling with Paul, and Corky “the boss” is going to say home and look after the house.

It is interesting to note that Paul was elected Provincial President here in North Bay in 1990 and he was elected to the Grand Executive as Grand Chaplain in this room in 1992. His nominator was the late Past Grand Exalted Ruler, Brother Ken Gooding. So I ask your support in electing a truly dedicated and very sincere Brother Elk, who I know will meet the challenges facing this Order and make positive things happen for the Elks of Canada, Brother Paul Clendenning.

Dennis Stewart
P.G.E.R.
Winnepeg Lodge # 10