Exalted Ruler’s Report – January 2024

January 1, 2024 | Exalted Ruler

Happy New Year! I’ve always liked counting down to the new year. I reflect on what our lodge has been through and prepare for what’s ahead. Optimism is so important these days, but optimism must have a plan, goals and timeline. We must be steadfast on keeping what’s been good and at the same time look at how to make things better. For the Honolulu Elks Lodge, it takes dedicated staff and member volunteers to serve the lodge and club needs. Mahalo! We must take “Elks Care – Elks Share” to heart in the decisions we make.

This is the fourth and last quarter of the Elks year, which ends on March 31, 2024. Some members have asked me, what do you plan for the lodge in the coming ninety days. Foremost, I would like to continue the support of our local community, from keiki to kupuna, Veterans, students and others in need. Our hardworking committees help move this mission forward. I would like our members to be living healthy, taking care of themselves, ohana and friends. In February the lodge succession process gets started with officer nominations and then voting. Keep an eye out for the candidates and who you will be voting for. Let us show the candidates that your vote counts, so please participate on election.

When Grand Exalted Ruler Randy Shook is here on island early January, take a moment to go to the Elks website, www.elks.org and refresh what the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is all about, and see where you can contribute in time or donations. When members engage in the lodge, it strengthens our community presence. Some of you may meet GER Shook at the 616 reception or official dinner and so you will gain a better understanding how such a dedicated Elk represents the lodges across the country.

Hau’oli Makahiki Hou!

Calvin Hara

Exalted Ruler