Exalted, but modest
Head of the city's Elk's Lodge gives the credit to the membership

Tracy Kovalench
Northern News Services

NNSL (May 08/98) - Craig Janz may be called the Exalted Ruler of the Yellowknife Elks, but "exalted" isn't exactly his style.

Anything but. "Personal satisfaction" tops his list of motivations when it comes to his work.

Janz will be kicking off Yellowknife Elks Lodge 314's 50th anniversary celebration dinner and dance this Saturday night with a warm welcome speech. His three-year reign as Exalted Ruler began in January 1997, after eight years as a member of the lodge.

Janz seems to speak for the entire volunteer-based organization, which has established a ̃nancial assistance committee supporting "worthy community needs" contributing to "the general well-being of the citizens of Yellowknife and surrounding communities."

A 19-year veteran heavy-equipment mechanic for Royal Oak's Giant Mine, Janz is also a serious family man.

His duties as Exalted Ruler of the Yellowknife Elks Lodge 314 have kept him quite busy as the 50th anniversary draws near. Enrolment is up, projects are abound and thanks to efforts made by lodge members, the community is prospering.

Their participation in numerous projects within Yellowknife and the surrounding area has touched the lives of many and Janz expects it will continue to do so for years to come.

This year has already been a memorable one. Jan. 15, 1998, saw the order open up to women across the country.

Under the current regulations, women can now obtain membership in both groups.

Janz sees this as a progressive step and he welcomes more female applicants. "Women can contribute to the Lodge. They have every right to join," he says.

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