Yellowknife (Mar 05/04) - Once an Elk, always an Elk, says Yellowknife's Roland Gagnon.

His membership with the Elks Lodge spans four decades now -- yet recalling special events throughout his service is effortless for the enthusiastic member.

"It was the place to join," Gagnon said of the lodge's popularity in the 1960s and '70s.

But despite a drop in the 400-plus membership from its peak, the lodge is no lightweight when it comes to funding community projects.

"Last year, we donated several hundred thousand (dollars) to community projects," he said.

But the fundraising events are equally matched by the number of good times and interesting people met along the way, he said.

Recalling the early years of fundraising work, he said Elks helped with the Yellowknife Dogrib Festival - today known as the Caribou Carnival.

Lodge served many roles

Another memorable occurrence for the lodge was when Yellowknife's hospital burnt down in 1966.

"For seven months, the Elks' became the hospital. When you hear the term 'Elks babies,' that's where it originated from," he said of the numerous births which occurred in the lodge.

During the 1970 territorial centennial, the lodge became the first non-federal building to be a post office -- though only for a day.

The building got a facelift of styrofoam logs, depicting Fort Michener, for the event.

The lodge, at one time the largest hall in Yellowknife, has hosted Territorial and Supreme Courts, as well as various galas, such as the Commissioner's and Fireman's Ball.

"We've also had numerous dignitaries visit," he said.

"Queen Elizabeth visited during the centennial and (past prime minister) Pierre Trudeau visited many times.

"He loved the North."

Now the fourth-largest Elks Lodge in Canada, Gagnon said more recently he recalls the organization's national referendum in 1997, when women were voted in to become equal members.

"All the Elks in Canada voted on that," he said.

Being involved in the Elks Lodge for so long has also meant Gagnon has held numerous ranks, including being the first Northern grand exalted ruler (national president) in 2002.

"Last year, I met my American counterpart in Vancouver, Wash., during a conference," he said.

"It was the first time in 90 years that happened."

Gagnon said his membership in the Elks is far from coming to a close.

"I'm proud in being an Elk and helping wherever I can."