05/12/2026
Oglesby Elks Hosts 43rd Annual 8th Grade Ball for Area Schools
For the 43rd year the Elks of Oglesby Lodge #2360 has once again sponsored The Eighth Grade Ball. May 1, 2026 was a night that brought together 174 graduating students from nine smaller grade schools for a dress-up evening of music, dancing, refreshments, and fellowship. Students from The Academy of St. Carlo Acutis, Oglesby Washington, Ottawa Marquette, Tonica, Lostant, Deer Park, Waltham, Dimmick, and Grand Ridge enjoyed dancing to the music offered by the DJ under their school flags hung from the ceiling of the hall.
The evening is designed to foster connection and familiarity among students before they enter high school. It is one of the many community focused events that the Oglesby Elks sponsor throughout the year “committed to youth and civic engagement”. The event is funded by the Lodge’s Childrens Care Fund set up to serve youths under 21. The event was organized by Kelli, Morgan, and Dusty Shan with help from Sarah and Junior Metcalf. Elks Care and Elks Share.
