Mesquite Elks lodge #2811 returned from the 88th Nevada State Elks Convention in Las Vegas April 19-21 heavier than when they left.

Past Exalted Ruler, Howie Koontz was named the Veteran Volunteer of the Year for the 2011-2012 by the State Veterans Chairman. P.E.R Bill Heiter accepted six awards for best Youth Program, Activities Program, Lodge Activities Program, Americanism Program, single P.R. Event and

best Public Relations Program. The Lodge ritual team won the Blanton Division and qualified for the finals.

The following people won first place medals: PER Bill Inman as candidate; Bill Oskin as Inner Guard; Debbie Oskin for Loyal Knight; Charlie Lum Kee for Leading Knight; and Shelley Piper second place for Chaplain.

The Lodge also was applauded for raising over $10,000 for the Elks National Foundation, the charity arm of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. The Lodge is located on Riverside Drive.