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Monday Morning Memo for September 28, 2026
"Catch Inspiration for a High Resolve"
Hello North Carolina Elks,
Today’s guest Bugler is Dave Greiner, PER at Southern Pines.
Reading a recent Monday Morning Memo from guest Bugler Peter Albini brought to mind how much I enjoy our initiation ritual. That ritual, although decades old, still serves as a call to action.
Words from modern and historic figures have motivated generations of people as a call to action. JFK’s “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country” (by the way he was an Elk) and Michael Jordan’s “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen” are two shining examples.
I am sure all PERs have shared a common experience when they held the office of Exalted Ruler. That is members bringing forward a variety of ideas (some good, some bad, a few great) but when asked to help make it happen were not willing to do so. It is the ones that do make it happen I will always remember.
An example, at my lodge—Southern Pines #1692—over 5 years ago a member brought forward the idea that we could provide a Christmas Day breakfast for local on duty police, firemen, and first responders. That member worked hard to make it happen. This past year this program prepared 162 breakfast meals and served nearly all on duty police, fire and first responders in Moore County.
A second local example began last year. A member recommended using a grant to begin a program called “Kicks for Kids.” That member with lots of help started a program that buys shoes for underprivileged school children. The first year 42 children received a new pair of shoes to wear to school.
On the national level someone came up with the idea that Elks could provide “Welcome Home Kits” for homeless veterans who have found a new place to live. That idea has been a call to action for Elk Lodges everywhere. I don’t know the exact figures but am confident that this program has benefited thousands of veterans to date.
Turning words into actions is what makes Elks a great asset in their communities. It also makes those involved feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Next time your lodge has an initiation listen carefully to the words spoken. These words are a call to action. I am confident that it will help you “Catch Inspiration for a High Resolve” and take actions to make your lodge an asset to your community!
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