Time is rapidly running out on my term. It seems the days were all too short as I head into the final two months. I am disappointed with some of the things that I had hoped to see accomplished that did not happen.
The failure to initiate the Antler Program in our Lodge is a big disappointment, because it is important to do all we can to try to positively influence the younger generation. To use an overused cliché, “They are the future.” While we want a better world for our children and grandchildren because we love them, it is also to our benefit to exit it leaving it in better shape than when we entered. The desire to better life’s conditions goes beyond just love of our progeny. We know this innately.
I don’t want to leave you with the impression that there has not been some accomplishments this year. Our bar top underwent an impressive renovation thanks to the contribution of materials by PER Terry Horne, and the much appreciated efforts of the volunteers who did the work. If we do not already have it, hopefully we will be adding a new electronic piano to our lounge in the near future.
The Boy Scouts have redone our horseshoe pits and built a flag retirement pit for the Eagle Project by Hutton Zubiata. We have had a good deal of favorable publicity in the Enterprise Record, and an increase in new members. We added a Brownie and a Girl Scout troop to round out our scouting program.
It would be a good addition if we had a group of volunteers who have the time and the desire to aid other members in times of need. Members who could be on call to help supply meals, run errands, help with repairs, and whatever other needs arise for members or widows of members who are experiencing health or other problems. Also to help the families of the guardsman that are deployed to Afghanistan if the need arises Call the office and leave your name if you would like to help. We would need to establish committees. We have also committed to become a “POD” (point of distribution) for the Butte  County Health Department in the event of a disaster of some sort. Should that occur, we would need a large number of volunteers available to help at the Lodge in a nonmedical capacity. Sign-up forms are available in the office. You may also sign up on line at www.healthcarevolunteers.ca.gov. You must be on file with the county to assist. No particular skills or training is involved.
“Old Timers” night is coming up on February 9. If you know of a member who needs help getting to the Lodge, please inform the office so we can try to make some arrangement. It’s important that we get these “old boys” out to honor them. Also that is PER night and nomination for our new officers. The election of new officers is during the last meeting of February on the 23rd.
While addressing a district meeting when I first became the ER, I commented that I believed the Elks’ were America’s last best hope. I believed that because we are the only large group left that actively promotes patriotism and adheres to the principles of Charity, Brotherly Love and Justice, and are committed to remaining faithful to those principles (Fidelity.) However, our biggest strength is in our common convictions, and unification. That is what binds us together and gives us our power. This entails treating one another as we wish to be treated, with respect and dignity. Sadly, this is not always adhered to. Please, for the sake of the Order and our Lodge and each one of us as individuals, lets work on it. The time may come when we will be called upon to show our solidarity.
BROTHERS ALL ARE WE.

By Joe Lusher, ER

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