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Des Moines, IA 98
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GER Message
GER Message
Elks showed heart, made 2024–25 a special year
Happy Independence Day, the Fourth of July. We live in the greatest country on the face of the earth. We, as proud Elks, want to uphold the virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity in order to honor our great nation.
This is the perfect time for me to reflect on this amazing year of travel to meet all of you. We could never in our wildest dreams have thought that we would have this great honor. We want to thank each and every one of you for your love, hospitality, and support in fulfilling our year as Grand Exalted Ruler and First Lady.
It was easy to stay enthused by visiting each unique state convention. But there truly was a common bond in all of our visits: Heart.
Everyone has to serve others to show what the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks are truly about. You are the reason we are 800,000 Members strong. You are the reason that we have more than 1,800 successful Lodges. You are the reason that we are the greatest charitable organization in the United States of America. We are strong, mighty, and blessed to be citizens in our great country, and I want to express my gratitude for your service to others.
We would like to thank our family. We truly missed them during our travels, but they were always gracious and encouraging when we missed special events. We are so thankful for having such a loving family.
God bless our family, the Elks, and God bless the United States of America. I believe that my motto, "Elkdom's Heart for America" will live on for many years to come. Remember we are 157 years young!