Hank Heilmann, exalted ruler of Astoria Lodge 180, and Jan Jackson, exalted ruler of Seaside Lodge 1748, attended the Elks National Convention in Portland July 5-9. Grand Exalted Ruler James L. Nichelson from Ohio and the 2009-10 officers of the Grand Lodge were installed. More than 70,00 Elks, members and guests from around the nation attended the convention.

Oregon introduced John Steinbach, the top male winner of the Elks National Foundation Scholarship contest. Steinbach, sponsored by Forest Grove Elks Lodge 2440, received $60,000 for his continuing education. He will attend Yale University. Steinbach delivered a speech and received an ovation from the convention attendees.

Elks National Foundation presented a Give Back Grant of $25, 000 to the Children’s Cancer Association of Portland. This donation will help support low income families in the Portland area who are facing serious pediatric illnesses. Seaside Lodge 1748 welcomed more than 500 visitors from almost every state in the nation during the first two weeks of July.

For information about the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, call the Seaside Elks Lodge 1748 at (503)-738-6651 or Astoria Elks Lodge 180 at (503) 325-2806.