The Grand Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks annually offers an
Americanism Essay Contest.  The theme for this year was: “What the Bill of Rights
Means to Me.” The essay contest is open to students in the 5 th through 8 th grades.
Florence Elks Lodge #1858 sponsors the local competition and invites student
participation from the Florence, Reedsport and Mapleton areas.

The winning authors and their proud family members attended dinner and the awards
presentation at the Florence Elks Lodge on Thursday, March 7, 2024.
The 7 th grade First place winner was Pearl Jensen, who attends Academy by the Sea.
Second place was awarded to Aubrey Carrington, a student at Reedsport Community
Charter School. Third place went to Payton Hill, also a student at Reedsport Community
Charter School.
The 8th grade First place winner was Sailor Jensen, who attends Jensen Academy by
the Sea. Second place winner Danika Durchevski and Third place Payton Hill are both
students at Reedsport Community Charter School.
The winning essays have advanced and will be judged at the state-wide competition in
April. The theme for the 2024-2025 year will be announced in August.