Dear Editor: On a recent Saturday the Hoboken Elks, of which I am proud to be serving as an officer, had its annual car wash to raise money for handicapped children. Braving the sweltering heat, good-hearted Elks and their family members soaped up, hosed down and towel dried enough cars to raise over $1300 for a most worthy cause. In the process we got wet (a blessed relief considering the heat!) enjoyed camaraderie, had a few laughs and feasted on delicious Sabrette hot dogs grilled on the barbecue. A genuine spirit of community, so desperately lacking in this age of selfishness and greed, was on hand in abundance that day. It's incredible to me how the simple act of working together with your neighbors to help make the world a better place can make you feel so good inside. I believe there's a great potential for Hoboken's newer residents, who are intrigued enough by the Elks to do a double-take when they walk past its beautiful historic building and golden Elk statue, to have their lives enriched by the sense of community that comes with the structure for doing good works that the Elks provides. I myself was not born and raised in Hoboken. Since I got involved with the Elks, though, I've experienced a doper, more vital sense of connection with the community. A walk down Washington Street went from being a confusing blur of anonymous faces when I first moved here, to a delightful succession of chats with the new friends I've made at the Elks. I'd like to encourage all Hoboken residents who want to experience the remarkable pleasure that comes from doing good works, to stop by our Lodge located at 10th and Washington Street to see what we're all about. And I'd like to thank all those wonderful folks who volunteered their time to help our car wash. You are such a valuable part of our Lodge and community. John Bredin, Chairman Handicapped Children's Committee Hoboken Elks