Portland, Ore., Shares Plans For Great Parade

As a result of Grand Esquire Charles H. Grakelow’s recent visit to Portland, Ore., and his conference there with the Grand Lodge Convention Committee, plans for the great parade that will be a feature of the July convention are rapidly being developed. Indi cations point to the fact that between 60 and 70 bands and drum corps, and close to 1,000 drill teams and uniformed units will take part in this event. The parade will probably be held on the afternoon of July 16. The route, while not yet definitely outlined, will be 2½ miles long, though It is estimated the marching line itself will be between 3 and 4 miles long, as 15,000 or 20,000 members will participate. It is expected that between 50 and 100 floats will be in the line of march. The parade, according to present plans, will be divided into 5 or 6 sections. The band contest will, in all likelihood, be at the Multnomah Field on July 14; and the drill team contest on the following day at the same place.

Sacramento Calif, Lodge Making Great Strides in Progress

Every member of Sacramento, Calif., Lodge No. 6 must sense a feeling of pride at the remarkable strides forward that this Lodge is taking. Two great steps in the march of progress have been made during the past few months, each of prime importance in the development of the Lodge. One of these was the breaking of ground for Its new million -dollar Home which will be completed early m 1926. The second was the successful membership campaign conducted by the Lodge, which added close to 400 new members to the rolls.

School for Crippled Children Makes Excellent Progress

The school for Crippled Children which is maintained and operated by Fort Wayne, Ind., Lodge No. 155 has been functioning now for a number of months and the complete happiness of the youngsters who are attending it is ample testimony of its success. When the school opened there were 7 children. This number has been increased to 10 and the committee in charge intends to increase the enrollment as fast as funds permit and as suitable cases are discovered. The instruction is being carried on by a special teacher assigned to the school by the Board of Education. Desks, blackboards and other necessary supplies have also been furnished by the school board. At present the school makes no attempt to prescribe treatment for physical ills. A trained nurse, however, is in constant attendance and is ready to administer any treatment which the family physician of any of the children may have decided upon. By following this course the school assures the youngsters the best possible care without at tempting to interfere with the regular treatments which they may have been getting. The committee in charge has provided a competent matron and a caretaker for the school. These keep everything in shipshape order and do the cooking for the children's lunches. Fort Wayne Lodge has already spent upwards of $10,000 on the building and on its equipment which includes wheel chairs, hospital beds, bed side stands and other special furniture and apparatus. Though the project is still in the state of development and expansion, there is little doubt that the possibilities are so great and the work so worthwhile that its ultimate success is assured.

Illinois State Elks Association To Meet on June 2-4

Plans are being perfected by the officers of the Illinois State Elks Association for the coming annual convention of that body. It was recently decided by the Trustees to hold the meeting at Murphysboro on June 2-4.

Member of Bellevue, Ohio, Lodge Awarded Carnegie Medal

The name of Clyde W. Jameson, a member of Bellevue, Ohio, Lodge No. 1013, was recently inscribed on the official list of heroes by the Carnegie Hero Commission. He was awarded a bronze medal for the part he played in saving the life of a fellow emplo3'ee of the Nickel Plate Railroad who was trapped in a coal dock. As further testimony in appreciation of Mr. Jameson's heroism, he was presented, at a recent meeting of his Lodge, with a handsome Elk emblem—the gift of his fellow members.

Reynoldsville, Pa., Lodge Shows Progress and Activity

Reynoldsville, Pa., Lodge No. 519 has so substantially increased its membership in late years, that it is now one of the large Elk Lodges in its district. The Lodge owns its own Home and has spent several thousand dollars recently in remodeling and redecorating it throughout. An active interest is taken by its members in welfare work and community charities. Recently the Lodge organized an orchestra and Glee Club which have already participated in various Lodge functions and which will play an important part in the musical life of the city. Plans for the celebration of the Lodge's twenty-fifth anniversary this Fall are being worked out and a fitting program will be provided in honor of the occasion.

Study Club Is Interesting Feature In Valley City., N, Dak., Lodge

The members of Valley City, N. Dak., Lodge No. 1110 are taking great interest in the Elks Study Club which is organized and sponsored by the Lodge's Social and Community Welfare Committee. This Club takes up the study and discussion of various public questions and many prominent scholars and well known authorities are invited to address the members from time to time.

Pawtucket, R. I., Lodge Closes a Year Of Many Welfare Activities

Cooperating with various other civic and fraternal organizations of the city Pawtucket, R. I., Lodge No. 920 has dosed a Lodge year that has been rich in Social and Community Welfare Work. Among some of its most laud able activities in this field was the entertainment given the patients of the Tuberculosis Camp a Lake Wallum, where the Lodge presented its famous minstrel show and distributed many gifts. An outing was also provided the children of the Lodge members at Rocky Point. Two large steamers and a number of autos were on this occasion to transport the party to the shore resort. Motion pictures have also been shown the children of the community from time to time and a minstrel show, was staged for the pupils of Sockanosset School for boys. Thanks giving and Christmas were occasions for special charities and for the distribution of many gifts among the poor of the city.

Association of New York West Meets at Buffalo

The Association of Past Exalted Rulers, Exalted Rulers and Secretaries of Lodges in New York West, recently met at the Home of Buffalo, N. Y., Lodge No. 23 in response to a call sent out by District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler William R. Cullen of the district. Reports made by the representatives indicated that the Lodges in this part of the State were enjoying prosperity and a healthy growth in membership. Philip Clancy, Past President or the New York State Elks Association and Vice-President A. F. Leuthe of the Association re ported wonderful progress being made through out the State organization. District Deputy Cullen of Buffalo Lodge was elected President of the district association and Charles A. Merkle of Lancaster, N. Y., Lodge No. 1478 was elected Secretary.

District Deputy C. L. Haley, Jr., Reports Prosperity in Alabama Lodges

District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler C. L. Haley, Jr., recently paid his official visit to Birmingham, Ala., Lodge No. 79, where he was greeted by a large gathering of members and witnessed the initiation of a class of candidates. Accompanied by several officers of Birmingham Lodge, he later visited Bessemer, Ala., Lodge No. 721, and Blocton, Ala., Lodge No. 710. Visits were also made by him to Lodges in Florence and Ensley. Everywhere Mr. Haley was impressed by the increase in the member ships of the various Lodges visited and by their prosperity.

Denver, Colo., Lodge Has Fine Record In Social Welfare Work

Denver. Colo., Lodge No. 17, by virtue of its many activities in the field of social welfare work is held in high and warm regard bi' the citizens of its community. Among the numerous acts typifying its generous public spirit may be mentioned the purchase of an ambulance during the World War, the building of a pavilion for the tubercular patients of Craig Colony, the furnishing and maintaining of a room in the Old Ladies' Home, the furnishing of a room in Saint Rosa's Home, the furnishing of a school room in the Queen of Heaven Orphanage, the contributions to the House of the Good Shepherd, the subscription to the Presbyterian Hospital, the annual donation to Denver's Community Chest, the helping hand extended to the Tuckaway, a refuge for homeless children, and many others in this class which have received its liberal support, to say nothing of the hundreds of individual cases, bounteously provided for from day to day.

Lyons, N. Y., Lodge Closes Year Of Prosperous Activity

The past Lodge year has been a prosperous one for Lyons, N. Y., Lodge No. 869. It has substantially increased its membership, played a prominent part in the welfare activities of its community, and conducted many excellent and successful social functions. Its beautiful Home, which it owns outright, was recently completely remodeled and redecorated. The Lodge is at present cooperating with various organizations in the establishment of a playground for the city's children.

Burlington Lodge Will Be Host To Iowa State Elks Association

next meeting of the Iowa State Elks Association will be held in Burlington during the first week in June. It has been twelve since Burlington Lodge No. 84 entertained the Association and those who were present on that occasion remember how splendidly they were received. Committees are already at work on plans for the forthcoming meeting, and the delegates who attend, as well as the visitors, will be royally entertained. One of the features which the committees are striving for is the chartering of a large river steamer for excursion purposes. There will be plenty of other entertainment, but the main thought of the meeting will be a real business session out of which some constructive work on the part of the Association may be inaugurated.

La Fayette, Ind., Lodge Honored By Purdue University

Purdue University recently set aside an "Elks Night" at which time all members of La Fayette, Ind., Lodge No. 143 were the guests of the University's athletic department at the Western Conference Wrestling Meet m which the Purdue team scored a victory over_-he University of Michigan wrestlers. Special invitations were also sent to Lodges at Crawfordsville and Lebanon, and their representatives were on hand to cheer the team to victory. T he invitation was issued by the Purdue Athletic Department as a token of appreciation for the splendid cooperation La Fayette Lodge has given to athletics generally at Purdue, but particularly to wrestling. For the past two years, the Lodge has done much to stimulate and encourage the sport at the university. Each year the Lodge has presented medals to the high point winner and to the man who showed the most improvement during the season on the Purdue squad. In addition, a splendid banquet has been tendered the Purdue grapplers and their coach William von Bernuth, himself an Elk. The improved state of wrestling at the present time at Purdue is due in no small way to this interest shown on the part of the Lodge. The meet marked the first time that an athletic event of such importance was dedicated to a fraternal order by any member of the Western Big Ten Conference.

Radio Sets Brighten Hours Of Sick Members

An idea that might be considered seriously by other Lodges was recently put into practice by Flint, Mich., Lodge No. 222. Tills Lodge has purchased a special radio set for the use of its members while ill or convalescing in their own homes or hospitals. Quite a number of the members have enjoyed the set during illness and it will doubtless prove a solace to many more who are shut in by sickness from communing with their fellows. Acting on somewhat the same idea, the Social and Community Welfare Committee of New York, N. Y., Lodge No. 1, recently installed a complete radio set for the use of patients in St. Rose's Home for Incurable Cancer of New York City

Auburn, N. Y., Lodge Takes Census Of City's Crippled Children

Auburn, N. Y., Lodge No. 474, took an active part in the recent survey of the city conducted under the direction of the State Health Department to ascertain the number of crippled children. Auburn was selected as a typical city for such a survey, and the Lodge and other fraternal organizations were asked to do the actual work. As a result of the survey, no crippled children were treated.

Omaha, Neb., Lodge Celebrated Thirty-ninth Birthday

Omaha, Neb., Lodge No. 39 recently celebrated its Thirty-ninth Anniversary. The Home was thrown open from basement to roof during the evening, and several thousands of Elks and their friends filled it to capacity. An appropriate program was presented in the Lodge room, a special feature of which was the first appearance of the newly organized Omaha Elks Choral and Glee Club. Every department of the Home was thoroughly enjoyed by the visitors and the celebration was a success from start to finish.

Frederick, Md., Lodge Plans New Home, Will Be Host to State Convention

Frederick, Md., Lodge No. 684, is working on preliminary plans for the erection of a new Home which will adequately take care of its growing membership. The Lodge is also making arrangements for entertaining the visitors and delegates to the annual convention of the State Association which comprises Maryland. Delaware and the District of Columbia. This meeting will be held in Frederick, September 1-3, and a record gathering is expected. The formation of an Elks Orchestra was recently completed and this musical unit is cast for a prominent part in the convention.

Milwaukee, Wis., Lodge Planning For Dedication of New Home

One of the largest classes of candidates in its history will be initiated as a part of the elaborate program prepared by Milwaukee, Wis., Lodge No. 46, in connection with the dedication of its new Home this Spring. This handsome building situated on Juneau Park overlooking Lake Michigan, is one of the striking structures of the city. Not only for its size is it to be remarked, but for the excellent arrangements which provide every comfort for the members. From the living rooms on the upper floor, down through the great Lodge room, the dining rooms, the bowling alleys, recreation halls, the mezzanine floors and main lobby, to the large swimming pool and gymnasium in the basement, the building offers unlimited opportunity for service, not only to the members but to every traveling Elk who comes to Milwaukee.

Nevada State Elks Association Is Organized

As a result of a call recently issued by District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler George C. Steinmiller, representatives of Nevada Lodges in Elko, Ely, Las Vegas, Tonopah, Goldfield and Reno, met at the Home of Reno Lodge No. 597 with the object of organizing a Nevada State Elks Association. After an outline of the advantages to be gained by a State Association was given by Exalted Ruler A. G. Breitwieser of Susanville, Calif., Lodge No. 1487, who is a Trustee of the California State Elks Association, and by Howard B. Kirtland, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Committee on State Associations, it was moved that the members present form such an Association and meet at Goldfield some time in May or June at the time of the dedication of the New Home of Goldfield Lodge No. 1072. Constitution and By-Laws, and the Ritual used by the Illinois State Elks Association were then adopted and officers were appointed to act until the Goldfield meeting. To further a healthy competition among the Lodges of the State, Mr. Steinmiller offered to present a handsome cup to be awarded as a prize to the best drill team at the meeting in Goldfield The officers of this new Association, with their addresses, are: President, G. C. Steinmiller, Masonic Temple, Reno; Secretary, W. S. Lake, P. O. Box 2042, Reno.

Death Comes to District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Orin S. Bogardus

A real loss has been suffered by the Order in the recent death of Orin S. Bogardus, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for New York North Central. Mr. Bogardus, a Past Exalted Ruler of Fulton, N. Y., Lodge No. 830, passed away at Syracuse, N. Y., where he had come to greet Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price and to accompany him on his trip through the State. Long prominent in the civic and business life of his community and an active and a tireless worker for the good of the Order, his death is lamented by a wide circle of friends and fellow members throughout the country.

Rochelle, Ill., Lodge Begins Promising Career

A new Lodge, Rochelle, Ill., Lodge No. 1501, was recently instituted by District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler C. N. Isaacson, assisted by the. officers of De Kalb, III., Lodge No. 765. Members of the Order from nearly every Lodge in Northern Illinois were on hand to take part in the exercises and to wish a prosperous career for the new Lodge. R. L. Hydacker was elected Exalted Ruler and Edwin Sparrow, Secretary. The new Lodge began with a charter list of eighty-three members and plans are being perfected for the initiation of a large class of candidates in April, the ritualistic work to be conducted on this occasion by the officers of Dixon, Ill., Lodge No. 779. Rochelle Lodge will take an active part in the life of its community and has already interested itself in various welfare programs.

Cambridge, Mass,, Lodge Plans Scholarship Fund

Cambridge, Mass., Lodge No. 839 is considering the establishment of a Scholarship Fund for sons of its members. It is proposed that the necessary funds be raised by volunteer contributions from the members, and that the awards be made on the basis of need, character and ability. The Lodge plans to loan the applicant enough money each year to pay his tuition and incidental expenses connected with the courses. This money will be advanced the boy without interest but on his personal note in which he will agree to reimburse the Lodge as soon as he is in a position to do so after graduating.

Ionia, Mich., Lodge Will Enlarge Its Present Home

Ionia, Mich., Lodge No 548, which recently celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary, is building an $80,000 addition to its present Home. The first floor of the new structure will provide a store space of 90 x 30 feet and another entrance to the Home from Steele Street. The second floor will have three bowling alleys, a number of club-rooms, storage-rooms and cloak-rooms. On the third floor will be a banquet and assembly room, 40 X 00 feet with a stage 12 feet deep, and several dressing-rooms. The present banquet room will be remodeled into a kitchen and men’s smoking-room. This floor will be constructed as a unit and may be rented for various community functions. The building plans also call for numerous changes in the present building. Ionia Lodge, which was instituted with a charter list of 48 members, now has close to 800 names on its roster and is a leader in the community life of the county.

George J. Winslow, District Deputy For New York North Central

Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price has appointed George J. Winslow, Past Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight, of Utica, N. Y., Lodge No. 33, as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler of New York North Central to fill the unexpired term of Orin S. Bogardus who recently passed away. Mr. Winslow is also Past President of the New York State Elks Association, and has previously served as a District Deputy.

East Bay Lodges of California To Help Disabled Veterans

Sponsored by Alameda, Calif., Lodge No. 1015 and backed by Lodges in Oakland and Berkeley, an important charitable movement is now underway—a movement designed to promote in as permanent a manner as possible the comfort of patients confined in the tubercular hospital of the United States Veterans Bureau at Livermore, Calif. Funds will be raised by a series of benefit performances in which various other fraternal and civic organizations will be asked to cooperate. The committee in charge of the work has drawn up far reaching plans and it is expected that thousands of dollars will be expended by it in relieving the lot of the men who gave so willingly for their country and flag.

Salem, Ore., Lodge Will Dedicate New Home

Salem, Ore., Lodge No. 336 is making plans for the dedication of its magnificent new Home which will be completed about July 1. As Salem is only fifty miles from Portland where the Grand Lodge Convention will be held July 13—17, the members of the Grand Lodge have been invited to take charge of the dedication. great many visitors to Portland are also expected to attend the ceremonies, and the special exercises and the festivities which will mark the formal opening of the new structure.

Large Indoor Circus to Be Given By Norwalk, Conn., Lodge

A large indoor circus, to be held at the Norwalk Armory sometime in April, will be conducted by Norwalk, Conn., Lodge No. 700. The Armory will be elaborately decorated and a special program will be given every night. Tn addition to the usual circus attractions there will be many unique features, it being the plan of the Lodge to make the affair one of the greatest of the kind ever held in the State.

Memorial Tablet Dedicated by Salt Lake City, Utah, Lodge

The officers of Salt Lake City, Utah, Lodge No. 85 recently conducted the Memorial Tablet services dedicating the new memorial tablet which adorns the memorial room of the Home. The tablet is one of the most beautiful in the Order, consisting of four memorial plates containing over 100 names on each, and revolves on a bronze column set on an octagonal oak base. On the top of the tablet a bronze cap has on each of its four faces a clock dial indicating the hour of eleven. From each dial rises a miniature flagstaff holding a silk flag at half-mast.

New Home of Ilion, N. Y., Lodge Dedicated by Grand Exalted Ruler

Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price, assisted by many other distinguished members of the Order, recently dedicated the beautiful new Home of Ilion, N. Y., Lodge No. 1444. Preceding the dedication a banquet was served to the prominent visitors in the dining hall of the new Home. Following the ceremony Mr. Price addressed the large gathering, congratulating Ilion Lodge on its fine achievements during the three years since it was instituted. The new Home of Ilion Lodge, besides being unusually attractive architecturally, is admirably equipped and furnished throughout. Bowling alleys, pool and billiard rooms, excellent banquet facilities, a library and a large Lodge room are some of its features.

Binghamton, N. Y., Lodge Presents American Flag to Court

An American flag, representing the principles back of the oath of allegiance and the obligations which foreign born persons assume when being admitted to citizenship in the Naturalization Court, was recently presented to the Broome County Court by Binghamton, N. Y., Lodge No. 852. Howard A. Swartwood, Exalted Ruler, made the presentation in behalf of the Lodge in the court-room, and the flag was accepted by Supreme Court Justice Leon C. Rhodes in behalf of the people. The presentation of the flag followed out the suggestion of Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price, who spoke recently at the annual banquet of Binghamton Lodge, urging Elks to aid aliens in their efforts to become new Americans.

Ohio State Elks Association Will Meet Week of August 23

Preparations are already being made by Sandusky, Ohio, Lodge No. 285 for the reception of the thousands of visitors who will attend the annual convention of the Ohio State Elks Association to be held in their city the week of August 23. The General Committee of the Association in charge of the entertainment and program of exercises have announced prizes for the parade and band contests to the amount of $600. Practically every Lodge in the State is expected to be represented in the line of march and the event should be one of the most spectacular ever witnessed at a meeting of the Association.

Assembly of Shenandoah, Pa., Lodge Is A Brilliant Affair

Another milestone in the social activities of Shenandoah, Pa., Lodge No. 945 was passed recently when the Twentieth Annual Assembly of the Lodge was held in Maher s Auditorium. Like the 10 other Assemblies that preceded, it was marked by a good fellowship and a dignity that made a lasting impression on all those who were present. The beautifully decorated auditorium, the special dance orchestra and the excellent supper that was served by the Lodge, all contributed to the huge success of the evening. The Assembly was also one of the best attended functions ever conducted by the Lodge, representatives from many parts of the State being present in goodly numbers.

Success Attends Free Clinic Opened By Freeport, N. Y., Lodge

The free Medical Clinic opened by Freeport, N. Y., Lodge No. 617 which is housed in the Reitmeyer Building on Grove Street is proving itself to be one of the finest humanitarian projects ever undertaken by the Lodge, although it has only been in operation a short time. At present the Clinic is conducted like an out-patient department of a hospital with the exception that no operations are performed. Periodical examinations and diagnoses of children under six years form the main work of the clinic at present, though it is expected that its service will include adults in the near future. The Clinic occupies an office and two consulting rooms. All the medical work is done under the supervision of the Nassau Medical Society with Dr. William H. Runcie in direct charge, and a nurse, loaned by the State Department of Health, is in daily consultation with mothers who do not want to come to a clinic with their children.

San Pedro, Calif., Lodge to Enlarge And Improve Its Home

At a recent meeting of San Pedro, Calif., Lodge No. 966 it was definitely decided that due to its rapidly increasing membership, the present Home of the Lodge was inadequate and that steps should be taken to enlarge the building. Tentative plans were submitted and are under consideration by the membership. These call for a complete remodeling of the present building and for the erection of a three story addition on the Palos Verdes Street lot owned by the Lodge. The membership of San Pedro Lodge bids fair to reach 2000 in the near future, which will make the new quarters imperative.

Pennsylvania Southwest Association To Hold Annual Reunion in August

It was decided recently by the Pennsylvania Southwest Elks Association to hold its annual reunion and picnic this year at Kennywood Park on August 5 or August 12. Chairman John F. Nugent of the Picnic Committee has announced that arrangements are being made to bring a number of internationally famous swimmers to the new swimming pool at Kennywood Park on the day of the outing as a super-attraction. The annual banquet of the Association which was recently given in honor of Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price was a most brilliant affair. Representatives from every Lodge in the District were present and the large banquet hall of the William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh was taxed to capacity. Many distinguished members of the Order from various parts of the country were guests of the Association.

Ensley, Ala., Lodge to Build New Home

Ensley, Ala., Lodge No. 987 is planning to erect a three-story Home on its recently acquired property at Twenty-second Street and Avenue D. The building will cost approximately S40.000 and will contain a large Lodge room, numerous club rooms, billiard room, gymnasium and other features. Construction is expected to start about May 1 so that the building can be completed during the summer. The large dining room which the new Home will contain will be used on occasions by civic and luncheon clubs of Ensley, which for some time have been in need of more facilities for their meetings.

Charity Ball of Jamestown, N. Y., Lodge Is Brilliant Affair

The most elaborate function sponsored by Jamestown, N. Y., Lodge No. 263 was the Charity Ball which was given recently in the Crystal Ballroom of the Hotel Jamestown. District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler William R. Cullen of Buffalo. N. Y.. Lodge No. 23 was the guest of honor and many other distinguished visitors took part in the function. The Eleven O'clock Toast given by Mr. Cullen and all of the dance music were broadcast by radio from Station WOCL atop the Hotel Jamestown. The proceeds of the ball will be devoted 'to the charitable activities of Jamestown Lodge.

Death Comes to Joseph Salabes, Past Exalted Ruler of Baltimore, Md., Lodge

News of the death of Joseph Salabes, Past Exalted Ruler of Baltimore, Md., Lodge No. 7, came as a shock to his many friends in the Order and to the fellow members of his Lodge. Pa.st Exalted Ruler Salabes passed away at his home in Baltimore after only a short illness. He was an indefatigable worker in the interest 6f his Lodge and for the Order as a whole. Rabbi Morris Lazaron of the Madison Avenue Synagogue officiated at the beautiful funeral services which were conducted at the Home of Baltimore Lodge.

Anniversary Music Program Broadcast By Detroit, Mich., Lodge

Detroit, Mich., Lodge No. 34 observed the Fifty-Seventh Anniversary of the birth of the Order by broadcasting an elaborate musical program from Station WCX which was heard throughout the country. The Lodge's band opened the program with a number of selections. It was followed by the Quartette of the Lodge, and by a group of organ numbers played on the fine instrument in the Lodge room of the Home. After the organ recital, James T. McLaughlin, the soloist of the evening, sang a group of delightful Scotch songs. Judge Joseph A. Moynihan. the speaker of the evening, delivered an interesting address on the progress and ideals of the Order. Many telegrams from Lodges scattered all over the United States came in during the concert expressing appreciation of the music.

Mt. Vernon, Ind.. Lodge Has Visit From District Deputy Lowenthal

District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Harry Lowenthal of Evansville, Ind., Lodge No. 116, recently paid his official visit to Mt. Vernon. Ind., Lodge No. 277 where he was given a hearty reception by the members. Accompanying him were E. J. Julian, Past President of the Indiana State Elks Association and Past Exalted Ruler of Vincennes, Ind., Lodge No. 291 and Secretary of that Lodge for 24 years; and Roy R. White, Secretary of Evansville. Ind., Lodge No. 116. Past Exalted Rulers of Mt. Vernon Lodge were present in large numbers and occupied the chairs during the meeting. An initiation of a class of candidates was followed by a supper served to the distinguished visitors in the banquet hall of the Home.

Elyria, Ohio, Lodge Initiates Large Class of Candidates

With the goal set at 100. Elyria, Ohio, Lodge No. 465 recently wound up a two-week invitational campaign to find that it had succeeded in securing 124 new members. The initiation of this large class of candidates was an event to which Grand Exalted Ruler John G. Price was invited and which was participated in by many prominent members of the Order and visitors from surrounding Lodges.

Oakland, Calif, Lodge Will Conduct Festival and Radio Show

Oakland, Calif., Lodge No. 171 plans to conduct an Elks Festival and Radio Show which will run from April 24 to May 4 inclusive at the Oakland Auditorium. Aside from the special entertainments every night, there will be dancing and many other attractive features. The profits derived from the Festival will be used during the new Lodge year for social functions of every kind.

Albany, N. Y., Lodge Glee Club Has Active Season

The Elks Glee Club of Albany, N. Y., Lodge No. 49 has been doing excellent work recently. In addition to raising funds for charitable projects, the members of Club visited the Albany County Almshouse and the OW Ladies Home where concerts were given. The organization also staged a minstrel show at Castleton for the benefit of the Sacred Heart church which was highly successful.

Detroit, Mich., Lodge Will Have Indoor Circus, April 11-18

The annual indoor circus of Detroit, Mich., Lodge No. 34 will be held from according to revised plans announced by the committee having the event in charge. It was first planned to hold the circus in February, but certain features which will be a part of the affair necessitated a postponement. Arrangements now being completed indicate that this year's circus will be one of the biggest novelties ever staged by the Lodge.

Well-Known Comedian Given Honorary Life Membership

Thomas K. Heath, of the famous theatrical team of "Mclntyre & Heath", who has been a member of Baltimore, Md., Lodge No. 7 for more than 42 years, was recently given Honorary Life Membership in the Order by his fellow members. The honor was conferred at a special reception tendered the well-known comedian at the Home of Baltimore Lodge. Mr. Heath was presented with a handsome engraved gold card case and Mr. Mclntyre, a member of Brooklyn, N. Y., Lodge No. 22, who was also present, was given a pair of platinum cuff links.

Pennsylvania State Elks Association Prepares for Convention

Plans for the entertainment of the nineteenth annual convention of the Pennsylvania State Elks Association to be held in Bethlehem August 24-28 are progressing rapidly. Various committees are working faithfully, outlining special arrangements for the entertainment of the many thousands of visitors who are expected to be present at the convention.

Building Plans of Various Lodges Approved

The following purchases of property and building plans have been approved by the Grand Exalted Ruler and the Board of Grand Trustees; Willimantic, Conn., Lodge No. 1311. Erection of a new Home. The site is now owned by the Lodge and the building is to be 44 x 89 feet, two stories, of fire-proof construction; bowling alleys, billiard room, kitchen and showers will be located in the basement; lounging room, office and ladies' room on the first floor; Lodge room and ante rooms on the second floor. The auditorium will have a seating capacity of 800. The building will cost approximately $100,000 with furnishings of $10,000. Ionia, Mich., Lodge No. 548. Building of an addition to the present Home, the addition to be three stories, with a store on the ground floor. Bowling alleys, cloak rooms, and club rooms will be on the second floor. On the third floor will be the banquet hall, kitchen, rest rooms and cloak rooms. The addition will cost $82,000 with furnishings of $10,000. Woonsocket, R. I., Lodge No. 850. Purchase of a three story frame building at a cost of $50,000 and erection of a Hall on the same property at a cost of $25,000. The building which has ten living rooms on the third floor, twelve living rooms on the second floor, four large rooms, dining rooms and kitchen on the first floor, will be altered to fit the requirements. Gallup, Mex., Lodge No. 1440. Erection of a new Home. The Lodge already owns the building site, 250 x 142 feet. The building, which will consist of two stories and basement, will be of native brick and will contain a hotel feature of twenty rooms, club features for the members, dance floor, and lower floor which will be used by the Boy Scouts, Women's Club, etc. The cost is estimated at approximately $50,000 with furnishings costing $10,000. Monmouth, Ill., Lodge No. 397. Remodeling their present Home consisting of a three story and basement brick building. The Club and Lodge room, halls and entrance will be remodeled to make a modern Home, and the cost is estimated at about $23,000 with furnishings of from $3,000 to $5,000.

Joseph M. Norcross, Charter Member Of Mother Lodge, Passes Away

Joseph M. Norcross, who at the time of his death was the oldest living member of the Order in good standing, passed away recently at his home in Springfield, Mass., at the age of 84. He was initiated as a member of the Order at his preliminary organization on February 2, 1868, and was duly obligated as a charter member on February 16 of the same year. He dimitted to Philadelphia, Pa., Lodge No. 2 on March 12, 1871, and was a member of that Lodge when he died. Joseph Norrie, as he was known professionally, was one of the best of the old-time minstrel men and singers, and he continued to follow his profession up to a year before his death. His passing is the cause of deep sorrow among his many friends and life-long associates.

Madison, S.D. Lodge Shows Rapid Growth Since Institution

A steady healthy growth has characterized Madison, S.D., Lodge No. 1442 which has been in existence a little less than three years. The Lodge, which is next to the youngest in the State was instituted with a membership of 247. It now has close to 600 names on its roster. One of its foremost accomplishments has been the acquisition of a new $50,000 Home. Although not of recent construction, the building has been made ideal for Lodge purposes. The interior has been refitted and furnished. The entire upper floor including a large Lodge room, lounge, ladies' room and recreation rooms, is devoted exclusively to the Lodge. The building serves as a community center and many civic gatherings as well as social functions are being held in it. Among other achievements are the organization of an Elks band of 28 pieces and a male quartet. The band was formed shortly after the Lodge was instituted and has been used in exemplifying the ritual at every initiation. The band also furnishes free public concerts at frequent intervals and both it and the quartet readily lend their services 10 gatherings and celebrations of a public nature. Charity has been constantly practiced by No. 1442. Since organization the Lodge has ex pended approximately 83,000 for charitable purposes. It has maintained an annual community Christmas tree and has given away presents to the children besides preparing Christ mas baskets and distributing them among the needy. An Elks Scholarship Fund of $2,500 has been formed by the Lodge and donated to the Eastern State Teachers College, located in Madison, for the purpose of assisting students who are short of money to continue and complete their education.

New York State Elks Association to Meet at Niagara Falls

The Thirteenth Annual Convention of the New York State Elks Association will be held at the city of Niagara Falls, June 1-3. The selection was made and the dates decided at a recent meeting of the Board of Trustees and Advisory Committee held in New York City. Invitations to meet in this delightful city were presented by Philip Clancy, Past President of the Association, and expressed the combined desires of the municipality, Niagara Falls, N. Y., Lodge No. 346, the various clubs and civic bodies to entertain the Association. The beautiful Hotel Niagara which will be complete before the date of the meeting, will be the headquarters of the Convention

Grand Exalted Ruler Price Visits New England Lodges

The Grand Exalted Ruler's recent trip through New England was everywhere marked by a splendid enthusiasm on the part of the Lodges visited, and he was everywhere impressed by the health and prosperity of the Order in that section of the country-. Here is a brief summary of his visitations which included Lodges in Massachusetts, Connecticut, ;Maine and Rhode Island; Sunday, February 15: The Grand Exalted Ruler was the guest at a reception given in his honor in the new Home of Somerville, Mass., Lodge No. 917. Following this he attended a special meeting at 10.00 P.M. of Brookline, Mass., Lodge No. 886. Monday, February j6; On this date the annual banquet and ball of the Massachusetts State Elks Association in honor of the Grand Exalted Ruler was given at the Copley-Plaza Hotel in Boston. Many distinguished members of the Order were present and representatives of the State and City joined in the welcome accorded Mr. Price. One of the incidents of the evening was the presentation of the handsome cup presented by Past Grand Exalted Ruler James R. Nicholson to Woburn, Mass., Lodge No. 908, awarded for its successful initiatory work in competition with 8 other Massachusetts Lodges. Tuesday, February 17: The Grand Exalted Ruler was the honor guest at a banquet given by Portland, Me., Lodge No. 188. This was one of the finest meetings held in the State for some years and was attended by members from all parts of Maine. Addresses were made by Mr. Price; John F. Malley, Chair man of the Grand Lodge Committee on Judiciary; Grand Secretary Fred C. Robinson; Grand Chaplain, Rev. Dr. John Dysart, and Past Grand Exalted Ruler James R. Nicholson. Wednesday, February 18: The Grand Exalted Ruler returned to Massachusetts to attend the banquet and ball at Haverhill given by Lodges of the Merrimac Valley consisting of Haverhill Lodge No. 165, Lawrence Lodge No. 65, Lowell Lodge No. 87 and Newburyport Lodge No. 909. The introductory remarks were made by Andrew J. Casey, Assistant Corporation Counsel of the City of Boston, Past Exalted Ruler of Newbury-port Lodge and member of the Grand Lodge Committee on Credentials. The toastmaster of the evening was Dr. William D. McFee, President of the Massachusetts State Elks Association who presented the speakers: .Mr. Price. Hon. Alvan T. Fuller, Governor of Massachusetts; Hon. Frederick McGregor, Mayor of Haverhill; Grand Secretary Robinson and Past Grand Exalted Ruler Nicholson. A delightful musical program had been arranged for the occasion by James E. Donnelly, Exalted Ruler of Lowell Lodge. The banquet was also attended by ladies and it marked one of the largest Elk gatherings ever participated in by them in Massachusetts. Thursday, February 19: In the afternoon a reception was given to Mrs. Price and the ladies of the party by the Emblem Club of Providence, R. I. The Grand Exalted Ruler was the honor guest that evening at a banquet given by Providence, R. I., Lodge No. 14. Many prominent members of the Order joined the Hon. Joseph H. Gaynor. Mayor of the City, in welcoming Mr. Price. The address of the Grand Exalted Ruler was broadcast by radio and during the evening congratulatory telegrams were received by him from many of his friends in the Eastern part of the country Friday, February 20. luncheon and reception in the beautiful new Home of Worcester Lodge No. 243 was followed by a banquet given by Springfield Lodge No. 61 at the Hotel Kimball. Saturday, February 21: The Grand Exalted Ruler and his party visited the new Home of Rockville, Conn., Lodge No. 1359 where they were the guests at a luncheon and reception. In the evening Mr. Price attended a banquet given by Hartford, Conn., Lodge No. 19 at the Hartford Club. Grand Trustee Edward W. Colter was the toastmaster. The address of welcome was delivered by Mayor Stevens who is also the Chaplain of the Lodge. The Grand Exalted Ruler was accompanied on this New England trip by Mrs. Price; Fred C. Robinson, Grand Secretary; Rev. Dr. John Dysart, Grand Chaplain; John F. Malley, Chairman Grand Lodge Committee on Judiciary (who had arranged the itinerary and was in charge of the Party); James R. Nicholson, Past Grand Exalted Ruler; Andrew J. Casey, Member of Grand Lodge Committee on Credentials; Bernard E. Carbin, Member Grand Lodge Committee on Auditing; John W. Kaufman, Secretary to the Grand Exalted Ruler, Mrs. John W. Kaufman, and Edward McGrath of Columbus, Ohio, Lodge. In each of the States visited the Grand Exalted Ruler was also accompanied by the District Deputy Grand Exalted Rulers in those States.

Charles Edward Osgood. Prominent Member of Boston, Mass., Lodge, Dies

The recent death of Charles E. Osgood is the cause of deep sorrow to his fellow members of Boston, Mass., Lodge No. 10 and to his many friends throughout the Order. He was one of the city's leading merchants, a man of high ideals who brought to the Order a steadfast loyalty and an unselfish interest in all its activities. As Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee of the Boston Elks National Convention Association, he was very largely responsible for successfully raising the New England Convention fund for last year's Grand Lodge Convention. His gracious personality and his generous hospitality endeared him to many members who attended that Boston meeting. Something of the spirit in which he considered his obligations as an Elk is found in his beautiful Eleven O' Clock Toast printed in the September, 1924, issue of this magazine. The passing of Charles E. Osgood is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Death of Frederick W. Upham Mourned By Members of Chicago, Ill., Lodge

Frederick W. Upham, former Treasurer of the Republican National Committee, passed away recently at Palm Beach, Florida. Mr. Upham, one of the outstanding personalities in the business and public life of the country, was a member of Chicago, III., Lodge No. 4 and his death was keenly felt by all his fellow members. He was initiated into the Order in 1921. In this connection it is interesting to recall what he said shortly after he became a member, "President Harding got me into the Elks," he said. "I had hardly gotten into the campaign when President Harding said to me, 'Fred, are you an Elk?' I said 'No.' 'I don't understand how a man who loves the American flag and its principles as you do has gone this long without being a member,' the President said. So I joined and when I went to Washington I said, 'Hello, Bill,' to him."

News of the Order From Far and Near

Milwaukee, Wis., Lodge is organizing an Elks orchestra. A demonstration was recently given by the local Boy Scout troop before the members of Winthrop, Mass., Lodge. Members of Pomono, Calif., Lodge are now occupying their new Home.