A New Lodge Year Begins Under Exalted Ruler Clint Tompkins

Spring brings a new officer corps and a year of fellowship and service

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and with April comes the beginning of a new Lodge year for the officers of Elks Lodge #335. Exalted Ruler Clint Tompkins leads the 2026–2027 officer corps, promising a year filled with fellowship, service, and opportunities to strengthen the bonds of the Lodge and the community.

“Guided by our motto, ‘If you see a need, take the lead,’ we invite every member to step forward — supporting veterans through Welcome Home Kits, mentoring youth, assisting with community programs, or volunteering at Lodge events,” Tompkins wrote in his first Tracks column. “Each act of service, no matter the size, has a lasting impact and reflects the true spirit of Elkdom.”

Joining him in the chairs are Esteemed Leading Knight Tyler Vanwey, Esteemed Loyal Knight Jeff Beasley, and Esteemed Lecturing Knight Shawna Lang. Vanwey pledged to keep the energy high and make sure members feel welcome, valued, and proud to belong. Beasley, noting the Lodge’s support of the community since 1896, plans to focus on the Veterans Committee and programs such as Honor Flight. Lang, moving up after a year as Esquire, looks forward to building strong committee communications.

Rounding out the officer corps are Secretary Brenda Kayal, Treasurer Diane Bodwell, DDGER, Esquire Becky Simons, Chaplain Carol Brown, PER, Inner Guard Kathy Seward, and Tiler Patricia Stewart, along with Trustees Marty Griffith, PER, Clem Brown, PER, Al Kayal, HLM, PDDGER, PSP (Chairman), Terry Jones, and Jim Bowe.

Members interested in getting involved or volunteering with a Lodge committee are encouraged to reach out to any officer. Here’s to a memorable and rewarding year together.

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Originally published in the April 2026 Tracks newsletter of Phoenix Elks Lodge #335. Read the full issue (PDF).

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