Des Moines, IA 98

GER Message

Grand Exalted Ruler

Lodges elect new Officers, honor PERs in February

Happy birthday to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America! On February 16, we celebrate 158 years of our great organization. On a personal note, I wish everyone a happy Valentine's Day, especially to my wife, Susan.

This month is important for Elkdom as new Officer elections should be held at your last monthly meeting. Every Officer should be dedicated to making the Lodge active and effective, both internally and in the community. Also, the current Exalted Ruler and Secretary should recognize any Member who sponsored or reinstated three Members by awarding them the Grand Exalted Ruler Award Pin. The request form is available on elks.org. Go to the Grand Exalted Ruler page within the Members Only section, then click on Grand Exalted Ruler Award Forms.

It's time to recognize and encourage a group of Members who have shown a great deal of effort and dedication to what we do as Elks, the Past Exalted Rulers. Ask them to perform the ritual during the Past Exalted Rulers Night. PERs deserve to be thanked for all they have done and for what they continue to do for your Lodge.

The Contest "A" - All American Lodge Contest certification forms are due soon. It takes teamwork to achieve this very prestigious award. Honestly, most Lodges would qualify but don't fill out the form properly. It is important to score your efforts on the form provided. It's a great way for your Lodge to keep track of what you need to do.

If you need assistance, contact your Grand Lodge Area Fraternal Committee member. There are first, second and third place winners for each of the six membership divisions. Why not take the time to submit your form before the deadline?

Continue to demonstrate that you can Be The Difference by promoting "Elks Care--Elks Share."