Archive for September, 2010

The Order of Elks is an ideal that formed in the minds of some individuals long ago with the purpose of caring for one another. It manifested into reality and grew to include not only those who were members of the group, but others in time of need. In attending to this purpose, it included enjoying one another’s presence and promoting the Spirit of Brotherly Love. Perpetuating this ideal by providing places to meet necessitates overseeing day to day operations of the Lodge. In doing so, situations sometime arise that must be dealt with. When this occurs, efforts are always to resolve problems in a spirit of love, and the best possible solution for all concerned. Decisions must be made by a small group that you elect to represent the entire Lodge. The resolutions are never political nor personal. The final outcome may not please everyone, largely because not everyone knows all of the facts. You have to trust that the decisions made are based on sound judgment and not personal opinions or  prejudices. Always, it is hoped that the resolution of the situation will be positive for all concerned, and every effort is made to obtain that result. When this is not possible, and it involves employees or members, it is concluded with a feeling of love and regret for the parties involved.

Fortunately for our Lodge, we have a great group of members and employees, and rarely incur a situation that cannot be  resolved to the good of all parties. Do not base your conclusions on rumors, but rely on facts. Know that all of your officers and management are concerned with the satisfaction and well being of all of our members and employees, and that we hold a fraternal feeling of love for you all. We may not always agree among ourselves on solutions applicable to the day to day operation of the facility, but always we accept the majority opinion with no animosity. Most often the decisions are unanimous We are concerned with “the right way”, not “my way.” We make every effort to assure that life at Chico Elks Lodge No. 423 is as great as possible. And, as your representatives, we are always open to your suggestions, concerns and requests. In the words of Rastafarian Bob Marley, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” We are all Elks trying always to adhere to our Cardinal Principles.

Unfortunately, I must submit this article for publication in advance of the end of the month and cannot comment on all of the events that occur in the latter part. I am confident that as always, it has been a great month. The Dog Parade/Chili Cook-Off was a great success, thanks to the hard work by Connie Wright, Geri Lee, PER’s Russ Fortier and Terry Horne, Gus Borchers, The Building & Maintenance Committee and all of the other volunteers. Kudos to Bill Dixon for his great effort on the Patriots’ Dinner/Dance. Everyone had a good time and it appears that we will receive some new members as a result. Bill could use a lot of help in the upcoming Hoop Shoot. A sign-up list is posted on the bulletin board in the lounge.

As we head into Autumn, we have many exciting events coming up. The Elktoberfest, the Elks Charity Ball, and lots of football. Check with Lecturing Knight  Matt Goddard if you would like to volunteer for the Elkoberfest. For those interested in meeting the State President Hugh Scanlon, he and First Lady Dale will be stopping for lunch at our Lodge on October 16 and having dinner at the Paradise Lodge that evening.

Summer is over, and many of our travelers should be back in town and available to come to the Lodge, so hopefully we will see some of the members that we don’t see very often. If you don’t come participate in some of the activities and enjoy the camaraderie of other members, you are missing the best part of your membership. And, we all miss you.