Wisneski recognized with Elks scouting award

Herman Wisneski, Brainerd Elks Lodge No. 615 member currently serving as Minnesota Elks Association president, was recently one of four recipients of the 2009 Marvin M. Lewis Award presented at the Elks Grand Lodge Convention in Portland, Ore.

The Boy Scouts of America established the Marvin M. Lewis Award and approved by the Elks Grand Lodge in 1998 in recognition of Elks in good standing who have significantly contributed to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the Scouting and the development of America's youth.

Wisneski became involved in Scouting in 1980 when his sons Jeff and Brian joined Pack No. 83 eventually becoming the Scoutmaster. He has served many positions with the local troop such as fishing merit badge counselor, coordinating the Eagle Scout Recognition dinners sponsored by the Brainerd Elks Lodge and helping with the flag presentations to the Eagle Scouts.

On the district level Wisneski has been a member of the Round Table Staff and Boy Scouts training staff for eight years. He has helped with the Klondyke Derby, helped start new packs and troops and does Friends of Scouting presentations.

Among the council activities he has been involved with are Train the Trainer, chaired and co-chaired the Lad and Dad program for four years and chaired the Fishing merit badge weekend for three years, planned the first Webeloes crossover for the council and has been on Ripley Rendezvous staff in charge of the buildings for almost 20 years.

Wisneski is Boy Scout Wood Badge trained and has earned the Silver Beaver award, Parker Scout Camp award and the District Award of Merit.