New Elks Temple dedication. An extremely large pair of shears, bedecked with ribbon, awaits ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the new Elks Temple dedication on September 3, 1965. (L-R) Grand Exalted Ruler R. Leonard Bush of Inglewood, California, Harry Potter, Tacoma Elks member, and H.A. Wollen, Exalted Ruler are posed, along with the scissors, behind the purple satin ribbon. They are standing beneath the cursive Elks signage. Mr. Potter, age 87, was a 42-year member of the Lodge No. 174 and had purchased the first building bond. When handed the scissors, he deftly snipped the ribbon so quickly that most photographers did not manage to catch him in action. Tacoma May Harold Tollefson, who was in attendance and had performed a number of ribbon cuttings himself, was reportedly green with envy at the speed and smoothness exhibited by Mr. Potter. (TNT 9-3-65, p. 1, TNT 9-4-65, p. 1)
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Tacoma Lodge No. 174 (Tacoma); Fraternal organizations--Tacoma--1960-1970; Building dedications--Tacoma--1960-1970; Bush, R. Leonard; Potter, Harry; Wollen, H.A.; Scissors & shears; Signs (Notices);