Exalted Ruler’s Report – December 2023

December 1, 2023 | Exalted Ruler

I always see the month of December in many ways. The joy of the holidays, the ohana gatherings, shopping (minus the crowded stores) and wishing each other a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year seem to fill the busy month. But of greater thought is “reflection.” As your Exalted Ruler, by December 31st, our Elk year will be entering the fourth quarter of the year. It’s hard to imagine, but soon the Elk year will come to a close. I thank you for allowing me to be in this leadership role for the year.

There has been much consternation shared to me by members about the “facilities” of the club and lodge. As a refresher to you, the “club” refers to the “fun stuff” – essentially the first floor. The “lodge” refers to the life long commitment to Elkdom and the many focus areas of being an Elk, from keiki to kupuna, veterans and the communities in need where we live and work. Our obligation, as elected and appointed leaders of the lodge is, to name a few, to assure the membership that there is efficiency, sound financial accountability and foremost, listening and communicating (with aloha) to members. I continuously remind myself of such and frown upon any thinking and doing things with entitlement. As such, club and lodge concerns need to be addressed by the team of Elk member leaders and management staff and the many staff who strive for excellence in their work.

When you have a moment, please reflect on: “To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America will serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share.”

In closing, embrace the season and spirit of giving, look out for one another and may the coming year bring joy and peace.

Mele Kalikimaha – Hau‛oli Makahiki Hou!

Calvin Hara

Exalted Ruler