What an incredible month it has been at Kinderhook Lodge! Our committees have been hard at work, and their dedication has resulted in a number of successful events throughout the month.

We wrapped up the month with a visit from our State President, Michael Sage, and his wife, Staci. They were joined by Jeff and Jen Smaldone from Rome, along with visitors from several other lodges across the state.

It was an inspiring evening and a reminder of what a tremendous organization we belong to. I am proud to be an Elk because of the values we share, the impact we make in our communities, and the friendships we build along the way. We truly are the “Best People on Earth.”

That evening also reminded me how important it is to embrace our identity as Elks. From time to time, I hear members say they don’t really care about being an Elk or question why we should follow the rules and guidance set forth by Grand Lodge. The reality is simple: we are an Elks Lodge. We are not an independent social club operating under the Elk name. We are a chartered lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and that connection is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Each of us stood before this Order and took a solemn and binding obligation to obey the Statutes, Rules, and Regulations of the Order, as well as the By-Laws of this Lodge. Those obligations are not optional, nor are they conveniences to be followed only when we agree with them. They are part of the commitment we willingly made when we became Elks. That commitment helps ensure that every lodge across the country operates under the same principles and standards that have defined our Order for generations.

Being part of this great Order is also what makes so much of our work possible. Our connection to Grand Lodge provides grant opportunities, resources, programs, and recognition that allow us to accomplish far more than we could on our own. The Elk name carries respect in communities across the nation, and that reputation has been built over generations by members who honored their obligations and put the good of the Order ahead of themselves.

As members of Kinderhook Lodge, we have the privilege and responsibility of carrying that legacy forward. We may not always agree on every decision, but we should never lose sight of the fact that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. When we uphold our obligations, support one another, and work together for the good of the Lodge and the Order, we strengthen the foundation that has made the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks one of the most respected fraternal organizations in America.

Fraternally,

Kelly McGiffert
Exalted Ruler
Kinderhook Elks Lodge #2530