Madera Elks Lodge announces Drug Awareness contest winner

For The Madera Tribune

Front row, from left, are Kathy Row (Elks Lodge Activities Chair), first place contest winner Arianna Villanueva, Superintendent Sheila Perry, and contestant Cooper Bloom. Back row, from left, are contestants Abigail Carroll, Brianna Rodriguez, Doug Row (Elks National Foundation Chair), Boston Tharp, and Bear Hernandez (Elks Exalted Ruler). Not pictured is John Bliss, Elks Drug Awareness chairman.

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Madera Elks Lodge #1918 sponsored their annual Drug Awareness Essay contest for students in grade 6th, 7th and 8th grade local schools.

The Elks are committed to eliminating the use and abuse of illegal drugs by all members of society and believe that, in order to ensure a bright future for our country, it is essential that our children be raised in a drug-free environment.

The theme for the year 2025-2026 was “Drugs Are A Grave Mistake.” Dairyland School had five students participate in the Elks East Central District level contest. Arianna Villanueva was the first place winner, and she received $100 and a Special Citation from the California-Hawaii Elks Association. All contestants also received a cash prize along with a gift card for Taco Bell donated by the Madera Elks.