Richard Falzone has been a member of the Springfield Lodge #61 for 21 years. He was Esquire 1995-1996, Loyal Knight 1996-1997, Leading Knight 1997-1998, Exalted Ruler 1998-1999. During his 21 years as a member of the Elks, he served on various Lodge committees, these include but are not limited to the Italian, German, Irish, Polish and Bingo committees, As well as the Eastern States Program Sales. He has also worked the National Hoop Shoot in Springfield for a number of years.  He also served as a Lodge Trustee for 5 years, serving as Chairman of the Board in his 5^th year.

He also has served on several state committees, West District News Booster, West District Membership & Lapsation and the Credentials Committee. He also was elected to the State Board of Trustees for three years, elected as approving member in his 2^nd year and elected to

Chairman of the Board in his 3^rd year.  In 2008 he was elected as 2^nd VP, 2009 elected to 1^st VP and 2010 elected as President Elect.

He was employed by Hamilton Sundstrand for 42 years before retiring in 2007, holding done various Supervisory positions.

He was married for 23 years to his wife Gail, who supported him in all of his Elks activities.  He has 4 daughters, 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

I would like to thank the members of this Organization for giving me the opportunity to serve you this coming year as your State President. With your help and support I know that the Massachusetts Elks Association will continue to grow and prosper.

In closing, let me leave you with this thought as we move towards the summer months:

Elks are precious people who cause joyful happenings in the hearts of many! For this, I can’t

Thank you enough.

As always, I’m here and ready to assist you in any way possible – don’t hesitate to call.