Elks Maintain Principles At 100

To the Editor:

Saturday, Sept. 6, the Oneonta Elks Lodge #1312 had an evening celebrating a Century of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity. Our centennial – one of the most exciting times in the history of our lodge – provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tell the Elks’ story, share what we have done over 100 years and reveal our plans for the future.

A special “thank you” to the community, Oneonta Mayor Richard Miller, Jr. and to the Elk members for attending the dinner and making it a memorable evening.

Today, Oneonta Lodge #1312 is 430-members strong and growing, with programs that give back to the community. The cumulative value of our local lodge’s contributions in terms of cash, donated items, hours of services and miles driven exceed on a national level $30 million yearly, bringing comfort, cheer and necessities to veterans and active personnel throughout the United States and abroad. In so doing, we fulfill our solemn pledge: So long as there are veterans, the benevolent and protective order of Elks will never forget them.

A highlight of our history was receiving, through the assistance of then-officers Maria Kelso and Debra Crampton, the state grant from state Sen. Jim Seward, R-Milford. This grant has helped us in numerous ways to enhance the structural integrity of this building that serves as a location for community events such as Red Cross blood drives, Wednesday night dinners open to the public, Thanksgiving dinners and fundraisers for school events and sporting teams.

Therefore, it was my honor – in this our 100th year – to present a community service award to Senator Seward for his dedication to community and for modeling the principles of the Elks.

In Elkdom,
BARBARA ANN HEEGAN
Exalted Ruler