The Sanford Elks Lodge #1679 asked its members to clean off their shelves and share any books that they thought our North Carolina Veterans would enjoy. Our members came through as they always do. We collected nearly 600 books consisting of many genres to include History, Political, Best Sellers, Mystery, Fantasy Fiction, Spirituality, Western and Non-Fiction books. We took these books and delivered them to all of our North Carolina Veterans Homes across the state. They were very appreciative to have new books to add to their library collection for our Veterans to read.
The Grand Lodge of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks presented a “Citation of Merit” to Robert Brisben, Past Exalted Ruler and 5 Year Trustee of the Hickory Elks Lodge. The award is for outstanding contribution to the growth of the lodge for year, 2022 – 2023, achieving a net gain of membership.
Past Exalted Ruler and 3 Year Trustee Gary Gantt on left presenting award to Robert Brisben.
Hosted by the Hickory, NC Elks Lodge #1654, the city of Hickory, NC observed the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on America on Monday, September 11, 2023 with a special ceremony in downtown Hickory. Planned and coordinated by the Hickory Elks Lodge Americanism Committee. Among the many participants were the Hickory area Community Choir performing patriotic and spiritual songs. Also performing music artist and Elks Lodge member, Nathan Hefner. Local radio station WHKY Hal Rowe, provided the 9/11 timeline of events of that horrific day on September 11, 2001. Color Guard was provided by cadets from Fred T Foard High School US Army JROTC program. Cadets from Hickory composite squadron, Civil Air Patrol, served as the flag detail. Serving as the military commander of troops was Elks Lodge member, Charlie Self of the US Air Force Retired. Elks Lodge members handed out American flags to the crowed to commemorate this observance.
This was the 16th year that the Hickory Elks Lodge has been involved in this annual remembrance ceremony.
The Southern Pines Elks Lodge # 1692 held a Golf Tournament at Southern Pines Golf Club on September 9th to benefit Veterans and First Responders in the Sandhills area. Pre-tournament festivities included a color guard presentation by Pinecrest High School AFJROTC members, a solo performance by Amey Parkins who sang the Star Spangled Banner, and a “Most Patriotic” outfit contest. A total of 92 golfers participated, playing in a Captain’s Choice format. The proceeds will be used to serve our local Veterans and First Responders offering continued support of veteran construction renovations, Fayetteville Veterans Home and service dog support. Volunteers worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. The community was very generous with: sponsorships, donations, prizes, a catered lunch, beverage cart, prizes and gift bags for each golfer.
We also plan to once again continue our special “Thank You Breakfast” Christmas morning reaching out to 80 policeman and 5 police departments and firefighters at 17 fire stations providing breakfast meals, water, cookies and a Christmas card.
The Elks want to thank all our supporters who made this event a great success so they can continue to reach out to Veterans and First Responders. Elks Care, Elks Share!
Photos by Natalie Bradley Photography
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On August 12, 2023 the Hickory, NC ELKS Lodge #1654 hosted the 2nd Annual Bike/Walk-a-Thon to raise money for Past Exalted Rulers (PER) Scholarships. There were 26 Elks and 5 non members biking, walking or volunteering. Special guest, Skye Bailey, who won Most Valuable Student in 2022 from the Grand Lodge in Chicago and her family as well as the Vice President to the Elks West District Robert Arrington from Waynesville, NC. To date, this event has raised over $3,500 in scholarship money. Hot dogs and hamburgers were graciously donated by the Hickory PER Association for fellowship after the event. This is an open event that anyone can participate in.
