On behalf of the Officers, Trustees and staff of Elyria Elks Lodge 465 we wish you and yours a prosperous and Happy New Year. As we leave the year 2020 in the rear view mirror and look forward to 2021 there are reasons to be optimistic. Multiple COVID-19 vaccines are being approved and should become available to the general public in the near future. If this proves to be true this should put us on a trajectory to a degree of normalcy as the year progresses. Let us all hope and pray that this becomes reality. The Board of Directors remains committed to reopen the Lodge on January 11th 2021. We continue to monitor current infection rates and changing guidelines from the State of Ohio and healthcare professionals and assess any potential future impact to Lodge operations. On a positive note, during the current shutdown The Lodge applied for and received COVID-19 related grant dollars totaling $5000 which will be used to cover operating expenses. In addition, we applied for a second grant of $2500 and are waiting notification on the status of the request. Over the next few weeks preparations will begin for Lodge year 2021/2022. This will include preparing our operating budget and selecting and voting on Lodge officers and trustees. If you are interested in being considered for a leadership role please contact a current officer or P.E.R. to better understand the commitment. To be considered you must be nominated by an officer or P.E.R. then put up for a vote at a regular Lodge meeting. Finally, for the majority of calendar year 2020 the focus has been on navigating the pandemic and incorporating safety measures throughout Lodge operation and social activities. As we start a new year we should reflect on the fact that at its core the Elks is benevolent organization, one that supports the needs of other through sharing talents and treasure. Unfortunately this aspect of membership has taken a big hit this past year and contributions to Elks sponsored charities are down considerably. Hopefully we are all in a position to do something to reverse this trend over the next few months. In closing, please stay safe, look out for family, friends and neighbors and know that you all remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Fraternally Yours, Chuck Martin ER