What's Happening

PHX Welcomes the Elks Convention

With a multitude of activities, ample convention space, and wonderful weather much of the year, the Valley of the Sun is a popular place for conventions and events. And, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s staff is always ready to welcome visitors to the area for such events. From now through July 20, approximately 8,000 to 10,000 people are visiting in the Phoenix area for the Elks Grand Lodge Convention.

The majority of arrivals took place July 15 to July 17, and staff at America’s Friendliest Airport® was on-hand to answer questions and provide assistance. Additionally, more than 40 volunteers from the Elks organization participated in Meet & Greet activities. Local Elks members staffed the welcome tables at Sky Harbor providing information about the Convention as well as answering questions about the Valley of the Sun.

Volunteer Janet Spencer said arriving Elks members were excited to be here and looked forward to seeing the area and participating in Convention events. Some even started collecting pins – a tradition among Elks members.

Those traveling to Phoenix for the Elks Convention are from all 50 states as well as Guam, Puerto Rico and the Philippines. The Elks is an organization that is devoted to helping others and doing good in the communities in which they serve. One important project in Arizona is the Steele Children’s Research Center Wing at the University of Arizona. The Elks organization has been very active in donating funds to assist in the research of curing childhood illnesses and diseases.

“The Elks are all about charity,” said Valentino Bianchini, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler. “We take care of the kids, the veterans and seniors. The Elks is the largest fraternal organization in the United States and we are third among groups awarding scholarships to qualified high school seniors (behind the U.S. government and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation). We are also very proud of the Steele Children’s Research Center Wing.”

As the Elks make their way through America’s Friendliest Airport®, Sky Harbor’s Operations and Customer Service teams are working diligently to provide support and assistance. This is common especially for large conventions and major events such as College Bowl Games, NASCAR events, etc.

Other travelers through Phoenix Sky Harbor will likely not notice anything different during this time, but should be aware of the general summer travel tips because Phoenix Sky Harbor does get busy during the summer.

And, remember, travelers who have questions while in the Airport can go to an Information Counter located in all terminals or ask a friendly Navigator in a purple shirt or jacket.

Welcome to the Elks Convention and all travelers to Phoenix. We hope you enjoy your time here!

Pictured above from left to right, back row: Harold Whitaker and Valentino Bianchini. Front row: Janet Spencer and Charles Olson.

First posted: 7/18/2011