On Aug. 20, Merritt Island Elks Lodge #2650 gave its $3,500 Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant to St. Vincent de Paul Society of Merritt Island. It will be used for rent and utilities for neighbors in need. This is the second consecutive year that this grant was distributed to the society. PER Kim Johnson was instrumental in applying for the grant and securing the funds. Pictured are Phil Bennardo and Tom Bowler from St. Vincent de Paul Society; Ralph Gordon, Exalted Ruler; Kim Johnson, PER; and Sylvia Barton from St. Vincent de Paul Society.