As we plan for the implementation of the new Grand Lodge
Program, it is necessary for Lodges to incorporate the new Americanism Essay Contest into that plan. By distributing
the new theme at this time of the year, Lodges will have plenty of opportunity to get into area schools early, let
teachers know about the program and solicit their participation in this most worthy program for the fall
school term. We are asking every Exalted Ruler and Lodge Americanism Committee Chairman to follow through with this
contest and let students in your community know the significance of our American Flag — “Old Glory.”
ENTRY RULES:
1. Eligible participants must be enrolled in the 5th, 6th,
7th or 8th Grades during the school year 2004-2005 preceding June 30, 2005.
2. Essay length is not to exceed 200 words.
3. Essay must be legibly written/printed or typed.
4. Essay must be submitted for judging to the Elks Lodge
administering the contest at his/her school or, if unknown, Lodge nearest to home address of entrant.
5. Entrant must be identified on the Essay by Name, Home
Address, Grade, School Attended and Sponsoring Elks Lodge. The Lodge may enter Lodge information on the Essay.
NOTE: State Winners must have Social Security Numbers attached.
State Winners must be postmarked by March 31, 2005 and sent to the designated Committee Member. The Committeeman will
be designated in July at the Grand Lodge Session in Minneapolis, MN. Watch for this information.
Any additional information needed may be obtained from your
Area Grand Lodge Americanism Committeeman.
There are two divisions, Division 1 (combined grades 5–6)
and Division 2 (combined grades 7–8). Winners of First, Second and Third in each Division will be awarded at the
National Level and will be announced in Minneapolis at the Grand Lodge Convention.
Downloadable certificates will be available on the Elks’
internet site for local Lodge participants in the contest. Additional information and certificates may be obtained on
the www.elks.org site. The site will also have information
on the Lodge Brochure Contest and other Americanism Programs: http://www.elks.org/grandlodge/americanism/default.cfm
The Values We Impart To Our Children Today Will Be The
Values Of Our Nation Tomorrow and will continue to prove to America that Elks Care — Elks Share.
Carl J. Lino, Chairman
G/L Americanism Committee
