Alliance Elks #467 Awards $5,500 to Local Youth & Adult Disabilities Support Organization

Jeff Summer, Exalted Ruler of Alliance Elks Lodge # 467, had the honor of presenting a check for $5,500 from the Ohio Elks Association Cerebral Palsy for a grant written by Ravenna Lodge #1076 to Hattie Larlham Foundation representative,  Mary Horoszko.

Hattie Larlham is a not-for-profit organization providing care and support to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their service area includes Northeast Ohio and Central Ohio. 

Ohio Elks Association Announces State Winner of DAP Poster Contest

Simon Willgohs, the Ohio State winner, was awarded the top prize for his entry in the Elks Drug Awareness Poster Contest in Salem, Ohio.

Simon and his winning entry.

Simon is a 5th grader attending Salem-Southeast Elementary School.  His poster was spot on with this year’s theme, Be Kind to Your Mind-Live Drug Free. Simon received a blue ribbon and won a $100 Visa gift card from the state along with prizes from the Salem Elks Lodge #305 and the Northeast District Elks.

Gallipolis Elks #107 Helps Battle Hunger in Local Community

Pictured from left to right are Greg Hall, owner and operator of Poppy’s Tea Shop and Food Pantry along with the Court St. Ministries and Exalted Ruler Dan Bowman.

Gallipolis Elks Lodge #107 used $2,000 from the Elks National Foundation (ENF) Beacon Grant to support Poppy’s Tea Shop and Food Pantry, aka Court St. Ministries.  

Court St. Ministries serves the homeless and needy by providing them with clothing, hot meals, hot drinks and every two weeks a box of groceries.  No one in need is turned away.  All of this is made possible because of donations of clothing, food and monies to the pantry.

Ohio Elks Association Recognizes Outstanding Elks For Drug Awareness Programs

Sharon Brown with State DAP Chairman Becky Underhill and Ohio Elks President Tom Pavlik.

Ohio Drug Awareness Program (DAP) Chairperson, Becky Underhill, acknowledges the outstanding efforts by Lodge DAP Chairpersons at the 2024 State Convention.

John Gazzale with State DAP Chairman Becky Underhill and State President Tom Pavlik.

Sharon Brown from Jackson Lodge # 466
Sharon did an outstanding job getting the Drug Awareness information out to the Jackson County Counts System, local police, kids in her local schools, and being present at the county fairs and festivals.

John Gazzale from the Marietta Lodge #477
John submitted Drug Awareness information to the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County and has also been working with drug rehab centers in the county.

Eddie Hanna from Kent Lodge # 1377 and Scott Enlow from Ravenna Lodge # 1076
Two years ago these guys started a little friendly competition to raise money for drug awareness by hosting a rib cook-off. This year they raised over $1300 for their district DAP.

Marysville Elks Lodge #1130
Lodge members beat the pavement all summer long during their city’s MORA events where Elroy walked the streets with his entourage giving hugs, posing for pictures and handing out drug awareness information.

Thank you all for a job well done!

Van Wert Elks #1197 Awards Student of the Year

Van Wert Elks Lodge #1197 selected Ethan Scaggs, senior at Lincolnview High School as the recipient of the Student of the Year for Van Wert Lodge.  

From Left: Ethan Scaggs with Lynne Etling, Exalted Ruler

Ethan was selected as the Student of the Month for December.    He will graduate this spring from Lincolnview High School.

Students are nominated by their high schools to receive the Student of the Month award.  Each Student of the Month receives a monetary donation along with a certificate from the Van Wert Elks Lodge 1197 with the possibility to be named the Student of the Year.   Students are judged on the basis of multiple achievements – Volunteerism, Character, Leadership, Service, Citizenship and Scholastic.   

All of the Student of the Month winners are then judged for their performance and achievements for selection as the Student of the Year.   Ethan received a monetary donation as well as a certificate.   He will now be competing for District Student of the Year against students from 12 other lodges within the district.

This program is designed to recognize outstanding young men and women for their achievements in school and community.   The Elks wish to recognize and praise those students for their accomplishments, their activities, and their contributions to society through this program.

Ohio Elks State President Installs Southeast District Officers

State President Brad L. Goodballet recently installed the new Southeast District Activities Chair "BK" Brian Caldwell and his officer corp for the coming year at his home lodge of East Liverpool #258. Congrats to all officers and best of luck in the coming year!

State President Brad L. Goodballet with the newly installed Southeast District Activities Chairman "BK" BrIAn Caldwell and Vice District Activities Chairman George Poorman, Exalted Ruler of East Liverpool # 258 "Ziggy" Anthony Zirillo and the State President’s Wife Kerry.

Van Wert Elks #1197 Honors Local Eagle Scout

Pictured, left to right are Michael C. Stanley, Lodge Scouting Liaison and Eagle Scout Evan Elling.

Van Wert Elks Lodge #1197 participated in the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Evan Elling.  Evan is a member of Boy Scout Troop #32, sponsored by the Middle Point United Methodist Church in Middle Point, OH.

Evan was presented an American Flag and an Eagle Scout Certificate from the Van Wert Elks Lodge.   He also received a letter of commendation and a special citation from Randy P. Shook, Grand Exalted Ruler/National President.

For Evan’s Eagle Scout Project he installed a Veterans Memorial Stone at the Ridge Cemetery in Van Wert County.

Cambridge Elks #448 Awards Local Americanism Essay Contest Winners

Exalted Ruler Brian “BK” Caldwell of Cambridge Elks Lodge #448 awarded gift cards to the winners of the lodge’s Americanism Essay Contest. 8th grade winner Chris Parker and 7th grade winners Karalynn Tindall and Gracie Wagstaff were in attendance. Congratulations to all!

Salem ELks #305 Announces Lodge Soccer Shoot Champions

Congratulations to the winners at the Salem Elks Lodge #305 Soccer Shoot held Sunday, April 21 at the Community Center indoor soccer field.

The 2st place winners will advance to the NE District Soccer Shoot, to be held later this year. 

Front: Ky Carlisle-1st B/U8, Luis Vicente-2nd B/U8, Alejandro Sebastian-3rd B/U8, Isaiah Sebastian-2nd B/U10, Noah Gancarz-1st B/U10, Sayla Gancarz-1st G/U10, Tessa Barrett-1st G/U8 and Teagan Hedrick-2nd G/U8

Middle: Landon Bricker-2nd B/U14, Aiden Deem-1st B/U14, Derrick Hepner-1st B/U12, Claire Shean-2nd G/U12, Austin Deem-3rd B/U10, Layla Hewitt-1st G/U12, Sophia Davis-2nd G/U10, Kinley Gfeller-3rd G/U12 

Very back: Aiden Davis-1st B/U16, Greg Davis- Soccer Chairman, Nora Shean-1st G/U14

Lima Elks #54 Honor Local Eagle Scouts

Lima Elks Lodge #54 recognized Andrew McKenzie of BSA Troop #106, Gabriel Harvey of BSA Troop #162 and Conner Smith of BSA Troop #162 during their Eagle Scout Couts of Honor.

The award consisted of The American flag and the Eagle Scout Certificate frames for hanging along with the Grand Exalted Rulers' Congratulatory letter, Certificate of Merit and the Elks/Scouting Pin.

For his Eagle Scout project, Andrew build benches and erected signs for the memorial for Chief P-H-T at the Shawnee Cemetery. He also constructed an east facing concrete pad in the shape of a turtle for the memorial.

For his Eagle Scout Project, Gabriel built handrails for the Metzger and Ferguson reservoirs. During his Court of Honor, Gabriel also received his bronze palm, gold palm, silver palm, double bronze palm, double gold palm and double silver palm.

For his Eagle Scout Project, Conner constructed signage, planted trees and landscaped the Lifewise Academy in Elida. During his Court of Honor, Conner also received his bronze palm, gold palm, silver palm, double bronze palm, double gold palm, double silver palm, triple bronze palm, triple gold palm and triple silver palm.

Congratulations to Andrew, Gabriel and Conner on their many achievements.

Massillon-North Canton Elks #2029 Help Local Food Pantires

After combining the Elks National Foundation Beacon and Spotlight Grants, Massillon-North Canton Elks Lodge# 2029 donated to additional food pantries in Massillon and Canton. 

The Lodge donated to Refuge of Hope Ministries in Canton this winter. Their mission is to glorify and serve God by providing meals for hungry men, women, and children, emergency shelter and transition to independence for homeless men, and spiritual hope through Jesus Christ.

Refuge of Hope Ministries serves meals 9 times per week for hungry men, women, and children.They provide shelter and transition to independence for homeless men.They supply free clothing for individuals and families.They also deliver essential healthcare services to the community, including those uninsured.

Additionally, Massillon-North Canton Elks Lodge# 2029 donated to the Massillon Museum Brown Bag lunch program. The Massillon Museum offers a variety of programs, activities, classes and events for the community. The Lodge has had a long history of volunteering with the Massillon Museum and helped to start the reading program for kids.

Ohio's National Elks Hoop Shoot Dominance Continues, Adds Two More National Champs!

It was a GREAT weekend at the Hoop Shoot National Contest for all three Ohio shooters on April 20,2024, with Ohio coming away with two National Champions and one fifth place finish!

Ainsley Weaver, representing Chillicothe #52, earned the first National title by going 24/25 free throws in the Girls 8-9 division. Soon after, Parker Moeller, representing Mercer County #2170, also hit 24/25 and won the Boys 8-9 division.

Mason Malone, competing in the Boys 12-13 age group, missed only four shots but ended up tied for fifth in a very competitive field. He went 21/25 but the final two free throws he made earned Great Lakes Region 4 the Cam & Linda Cronk Award for top region in the country. Region 4 totaled 134 free throws, winning the award by two shots over Region 11. Mason was representing Jackson #466.

Ainsley then went into a shootoff with Blake Ensfield from South Haven, MI #1509 for the girls Getty Powell Award for top girls score. She outlasted Ensfield in three shoot-offs to claim the top award and will now attend the Grand Lodge Convention in Austin to get her Getty Powell trophy. She will also travel to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremonies in August in Springfield, MA.

Ohio now has 18 National Champions in the 52 year history of the Hoop Shoot, the most of any state! And we have 11 National Champs in the last 11 years! Plus six Getty Powell winners! All because of great teamwork by our six District chairs and all the lodges throughout the state.

Van Wert Elks #1197 Donates to Local Scholarship Fund

Van Wert Elks Lodge #1197 recently donated $150.00 to the Van Wert Peony Festival Committee.

Pictured, left to right are Matt Krol, Past Exalted Ruler and Kim Ousley, Pageant Director.

The monies are to go towards the Peony Festival Scholarship Program.   The Elks, nationally, are only second to the United States Government in the number of scholarships that are given out each year.   Van Wert Elks Lodge is proud to be a contributor each year to this important scholarship program.

Massillon-North Canton Elks #2029 Makes Impact in Community

After combining the Beacon and Spotlight Grants, Massillon-North Canton Elks Lodge# 2029 donated to additional food pantries in Massillon and Canton. 

The Lodge donated to the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Massillon. The mission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is “a network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.”

Volunteers represent all ages, every race, and all incomes, and share our blessings of time, talent, and treasure with those who need help and hope.In addition to their Food Pantry, St. Vincent de Paul offers a variety of services from back to work programs and home visits to youth programs and disaster services. 

The Lodge also donated to Matthew 8:20, which is a mobile Food and Clothing Ministry in Canton Ohio. They provide clothing, hygiene items, a hot meal and cold take away bag for their guests. Each month they serve three outreach locations in Stark County.

First Friday at 5pm: Joshua Casteel Catholic Worker House in Alliance.
Third Friday at 6:30pm St. Benedict's Church in Canton
The Tuesday after the Third Friday at 4pm Crossroads UMC on Harmont Road

Matthew 8:20 is based out of Little Flower Catholic Church in Canton Ohio. Volunteers prep on Tuesdays 9am to Noon to sort donations and prepare for the next outreach night. All are welcome to help, and keep Matthew 8:20 in your prayers.

Van Wert Elks #1197 Announce Students of the Month

Van Wert Elks Lodge #1197 have selected Hudson M. Myers, senior at Wayne Trace High School and Kaden Hohman, senior at Lincolnview High School as the recipients of the Student of the Month for March.

Pictured left to right is:  Kaden Hohman with Linda J. Stanley, Lodge Student of the Month Chair.

Students are nominated by their high schools to receive this award.  Each Student of the Month receives a monetary donation along with a certificate from the Van Wert Elks Lodge 1197 with the possibility to be named the Student of the Year.   Students are judged on the basis of multiple achievements – Volunteerism, Character, Leadership, Service, Citizenship and Scholastic.

Pictured left to right is: Linda J. Stanley, Lodge Student of the Month Chair with Hudson M. Myers

This program is designed to recognize outstanding young men and women for their achievements in school and community.   The Elks wish to recognize and praise those students for their accomplishments, their activities, and their contributions to society through this program.

Newark Elks #391 Awards DAP Contest Winners

Newark Elks Lodge #391’s Exalted Ruler, Kathy Wise and Drug Awareness Chairperson, Becky Underhill presented 10 contest winners with their prizes for their winning entries in the Drug Awareness Poster, Essay, Video contests as well as a coloring page contest.

From left to right is Becky Underhill, DAP Lodge ChaiRPERSON; Elizabell Gambill, 2nd grader from Cherry Valley elementary winning the coloring contest and receiving a $10 Walmart gift card; Emma Davies, 6th grader from Heritage Middle School winning the essay contest; Heritage Middle School Video Team, Zavyer Elizondo, Asher Elizondo, Xahvier Spradlin, Landen Salina winning the video contest; PER Kathy Wise.

Not present are Tristan Fogle, Dominic Walton, and Nyree Street on the video team and Lydia Bawi from John Clem Elementary the poster winner.

The poster, essay and video winners all were awarded a $25 Walmart gift card and a certificate. They also won the South Central District contest and received a pennant.

Last Chance to Pre-Register For Spring Convention!

Greetings All!

The 125th Ohio Elks Association Spring Convention is just a few short weeks away. If you have not yet pre-registered, please do so right away!

The deadline to pre-register is Thursday, April 4, 2024

New this year is an all-new Fun Night format featuring a sit-down dinner and a comedy show buy the “FFN Comedy Troupe” which should conclude around 9:30 p.m. giving everyone more time to spend with fellow Elks in the hospitality rooms Friday night.

Cost is only $25/person with a paid convention credential. You won’t get dinner and show anywhere in town at that price! More than 60% of all attending members have bought tickets to Fun Night, so don’t miss out!

This year’s installation of officers will also be a change of pace with a great party in the main ballroom following the event and hospitality provided by the Southeast District.

After April 4th, members can register for convention in person, however Fun Night tickets may not be available at that time.

Van Wert Elks #1197 Support Local Aging Council

From Left: Mary Weisman, Lodge Chaplain presenting the check to Kevin Matthews, Executive Director Council on Aging.

Van Wert Elks Lodge #1197 recently donated $200 to the Van Wert County Council on Aging.   The monies will go towards supporting their upcoming 12th Annual Designer Purse Bingo Fundraiser scheduled for Friday, June 14, 2024. The agency will use the donations to purchase designer handbags which will be displayed and used as bingo prizes throughout the fundraiser.

The Council on Aging transports seniors every day to medical appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies or social service appointments free of charge.  The Van Wert County Council on Aging has be serving the Senior Citizens of our community for 43 years.  Without these vital services, many of the county’s seniors would be forced to enter long-term care facilities.    Through fundraisers such as this, the agency will be able to continue and expand their much-needed services for our senior citizens.

Ohio Hoop Regional Champions Advance to National Championship

Back Row: State Chairman Dennis Sabo, state president Tom Pavlik,  GER Elect Doug Schiefer. Front RoW: Ainsley Weaver, Parker Mueller, and Mason Malone

Congratulations to the Hoop Shoot Champions of the Regional Semifinal competition recently held in South Bend, IN.

Ohio winners were:

8-9 Girls - 1st place
Ainsley Weaver (Chillicothe #52) making 23 of 25 free throws.

8-9 Boys - 1st place
Parker Mueller (Mercer County #2170) making 22 of 25 free throws and 14 of 15 in a shoot off to advance.

12-13 Boys - 1st place
Mason Malone (Jackson #466) making 24 of 25 free throws and 5 of 5 in a shoot off to advance.

Kamille Smith (Ravenna #1076)  signing her book for fellow competitors.

Additionally, Kamille Smith (Ravenna #1076) who finished 2nd in 10-11 Girls was signing copies of her book "Girls Fall Down Sometimes". She gave a copy to all the girl shooters from Michigan,  Ohio, and Indiana.

These amazing competitors will represent Ohio in the National Championship contest in Chicago on April 20th.

Salem Elks #305 Hosts Abbey Road For Farewell Concert

So much fun at the Salem #305 Elks! Abbey Road, Beatles Tribute Band, completed their last performance as their Farewell Tour last night.  Amazing band who have been at it for 41 years and traveled all over the world, plus opened for the Monkeys several times!! 

This caps off the evening with John Gilbert Lecturing Knight as Paul McCartney. Bruce Hall as George Harrison; Scott Krejci as John Lennon; David Byers as Ringo Starr and Wayne Gorby, ER.