The Benevolent and Protective Grand Lodge Order of Elks Cedar Rapids, Elk's Lodge 251, presented the Elks Distinguished Citizenship Award to Officer Tyler Brandt, of the Benton County Sheriff's Department. They recognized him for his "outstanding and meritorious service to humanity."

Brandt is the School Resource Officer in the Benton Community School District. He said he's been there the last three years working with the children. He thanked the Lodge for the honor and said that he is happy to work in the schools help protect the children and keep them safe. He said that "drugs are a big part of an emerging trend right now, and anything they can do to slow that trend is helpful." 

Roy Schulze of the Elks Lodge explained that the Elks were involved in the "Just say No" campaign as far back as the 80s with former first lady Nancy Reagan.  They still participate in bringing awareness to the drug problem and work with people like Officer Brandt during red ribbon week as part of their drug prevention program. This year Red Ribbon week will be October 23-31 with the theme, "Be Kind to Your Mind."  This is an effort close to the hearts of the Elks Lodge members. 

The Elks Lodge used to have a Elks Lodge in Vinton many years ago, but have joined with Cedar Rapids in covering both communities. Schulze said that the lodge has also helped several Benton County food pantries with donations.

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