Early last month I represented our lodge at the 150th Elks National Convention in San Antonio, Texas. Over 8,000 Elks were in attendance to attend business sessions, to nominate Grand Lodge officers and to vote on resolutions that will affect our lodge. During an Elks National Foundation Grants Seminar session, attendees were encouraged to apply for grants and I am happy to report that an application for an anniversary grant in the amount of $1500.00 was submitted and approved on July 5th. The great heart of Elkdom was evident throughout the week and a full report will be provided at an upcoming lodge meeting. In continuing my desire to identify community partnerships, the lodge invited brother David Benson of the Bobby Benson Center (http:// bobbybenson.org/dev/) to our July 10th lodge meeting. Brother Benson’s story and his desire to serve has led to success for the Bobby Ben- son Center for more than twenty-five years in offering assistance to adolescents overcoming substance abuse. Members in attendance were inspired by brother Benson’s message and how his Center has had a positive impact on young adult lives. We have more visitations scheduled for the first lodge meeting of the month, including HPD Chief Ballard in November.
Our lodge and club staff are gradually moving into their offices and saying aloha to the Kainalu Room, which also housed our kitchen. Work is underway to clean and restore Kainalu for rental and meeting usage. Led by the landscaping creativity of Secretary George West, landscaping projects are underway in and around our lodge as evidenced by the beautiful plants and foliage surrounding our entrance. As we enter August, our food and beverage services will be fully operational. Last month for a period of two weeks, staff were provided an opportunity to attend training sessions facilitated by our HR provider Altres. Additionally, Chef Kirby and his team have been working diligently on providing newly inspired menu options for our members and guests – gastronomy at its best!
Lastly, as a reminder the dress code for lodge meetings is as follows: men – slacks, dress shorts, collared shirt and covered shoes; women – pants, dresses or skirts, sandals, dress shoes. Appropriate aloha attire is welcomed.
E Hana Kakou – Let’s Work Together!
Mahalo! Byron A. Apo Exalted Ruler
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