Lodge News
Americanism Essay Contest Winners
Vero Beach Lodge participated in the Elks National Americanism Essay Contest. The theme this year was: “What the Bill of Rights Means to Me.” The contest starts with the local Lodges, progresses through District and State levels, and ends with the naming of our National Winners July 2024. This contest gives students in four separate grade levels, grades 5-8, the opportunity to thoughtfully, evaluate and express their views on this year's theme.
When the project began last Fall, Exalted Ruler Jack "Tex" McClurken emphasized that is contest is vitally important to Elks as it promotes Americanism in our local communities. It encourages 10-13 year old students to thoughtfully consider American values and appreciate the blessings and responsibilities of citizenship.
Our Lodge received 113 entries submitted from 3 elementary and middle schools in Indian River County. On April 16, 2024, Vero Beach Lodge recognized the students in the following categories as our Lodge winners:
* 2 from 5th grade;
* 3 from 6th grade;
* 3 from 7th grade; and
* 3 from 8th grade.
They were given checks at $100 for first 1st place, $75 first 2nd and $50 for 3rd place. Also, they were presented with framed certificates. The families enjoyed a pizza party afterwards.
All the contestants were reminded by our Youth Camp Coordinator, Kathi Miller, that they may apply to attend the Florida Elks Youth Camp this summer in Umatilla, FL--tuition-free.
The winning essays were submitted to the District and State competition. We had 2nd and 3rd place state winners in the 7th grade level from Gifford Middle School. A presentation by Ms. Bonnie Swanson, Lodge Americanism Essay Project Chairwoman, is planned at the school.
We would like to thank Ms. Carol Taylor, Language Arts Teacher at Gifford Middle School, for her tireless efforts for many years in encouraging and guiding students to participate in our essay contests.
Posted by: Vero Beach, FL #1774 (04/26/2024)
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