Kenton Elks Lodge #157 Shines at Ritual Finals in Kansas City

Kenton Lodge #157 proudly represented Ohio in the Ritual Finals held Monday, June 30, earning a strong fourth-place finish in a highly competitive field. The 2025 Grand Lodge Ritualistic Contest took place in Kansas City, Missouri.

The margin between Kenton and first-place Carthage Lodge #1762 of New York was less than a point, highlighting the intense level of performance across the board.

Individual honors also went to John Hines, who secured second place in the Flag Charge Finals, and Derryck Menard, who placed third in the preliminary 11 o’clock Toast contest.

While the team didn’t take home a championship this year, they expressed pride in their efforts and appreciation for the opportunity to compete at the national level.

The ritual team extended heartfelt thanks to their families, friends, Kenton Lodge #157 members, the Northwest District, the Ohio Elks Association, State President Keith Denny and First Lady Lynn, Past Grand Exalted Ruler Douglas Schiefer and First Lady Julia, and all others who supported them throughout the year.

A Kenton Elks Lodge #157 member was also installed as Northwest District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler.

John Hines received that title on Wednesday, which the last day of the Elk Grand Lodge event in Kansas City.