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.