Hickory Elks Observed Ceremony for 9-11 Attack

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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.

Elks Lodge 1692 Annual Veteran and First Responder Golf Fundraiser

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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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Hickory Elks Host 2nd Annual Bike/Walk-a-Thon

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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.

Hickory Celebrates Independence Day at Veterans Home

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Awesome day celebrating our nation’s independence with the Veterans at Black Mountain State Veterans Home! The Hickory Elks Lodge provided music with our own Joe Elko, and provided BBQ and sides by Elks: Chuck Crawford and Tom McNair. Pictured serving the veterans Carole Anderson, Karl Kuehn, Samantha Bowman, Mary Elko, ER (president) Cary Bowman, Linda Dodson, Joe Elko, Patti Brown, Blake Watts, and Kevin McCutcheon. Elks Volunteer Service representative to the home supplied the veterans with lotions, shampoos, hats, sweatpants, and electric razors. We were happy to be able to help.

Hickory Elks Provide Bed and Household Good to Veterans

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June 6th the Hickory Elks lodge was happy to reach out to local Marine Veteran Harry Odum. Mr. Odum was referred to us by Fran Harvey with Veterans Services of the Carolinas. The Elks provided a bed and household goods with our Welcome Home Kit Program. Please help us wish this veteran the best of luck in his brighter future. Pictured, Lodge ER (President) Cary Bowman, Veterans Committee Chairperson Samantha Bowman, and Marine Veteran Harry Odum.