NEWS
News from the Maine Elks AssociationAugusta Elks Provides Cooking Classes to Local Teens
On April 21, members of Elks Lodge Augusta 964’s Edge Program held the first in a series of culinary classes at the Augusta Teen Center. The Edge Program, funded by an Impact Grant, aims to mentor teens in exploring their career paths.
Due to the Spring Break, we will be hosting another culinary class this Thursday, with plans to continue monthly sessions thereafter. Currently, five students have expressed an interest in pursuing careers as chefs, cooks, or sous chefs.
To encourage participation, we have assembled five cooking kits that participants can win. Every student who attends and actively participates will have their name entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of the kits. At the end of the program, we will draw five names. Each kit includes a chef’s rolling cart, a versatile stove/oven 10-inch pan, measuring cups, spoons, and a selection of spices.
Veterans Chairman Recruiting to Expand Coverage
March 25, 2025
Greetings Fellow Elks:
On behalf of the ENVSC and the Maine Elks Association, I wanted to share with you a wonderful opportunity to get involved with Veterans at one of the six Maine Veterans’ Homes in the State of Maine located in Augusta, Bangor, Caribou, Machias, Scarborough and South Paris, and the Togus USVAH (US Veterans Administration Hospital) located in Chelsea, near Augusta.
The Elks National Veterans Service Commission offers a special Elks Voluntary Service Program. We currently have Representatives for the Maine Elks Association in the Maine Veterans Home in Augusta and the Togus VAH.
For the Togus VAH Mike Michaud is the Representative and he has three Deputy Representatives assisting him: Lina Michaud – Augusta #964, Julie Lancaster – Skowhegan-Madison Lodge #2531 and Karen Grenier – Waterville Lodge #905.
For the Maine Veterans’ Home – Augusta Bob Kittredge is the Representative his three Deputy Representatives are Mike & Lina Michaud – Augusta #964, and Karen Grenier – Waterville #905.
My goal this coming year is to get Elk Representatives and Deputies in all six of the above-listed Maine Veterans’ Homes. The ENVSC only accepts proposals for new facilities twice a year in their bi-annual board meetings in February and June.
I would like to find a Representative for the following South Paris Maine Veterans Home as I submit it to ENVSC as a new proposed facility.
The following Elks have expressed interest in being Representatives at the following new proposed facilities:
Bangor – Brooke Greene of the Bangor Lodge #244,
Caribou – Laurence Shorette – Presque Isle Lodge #1954,
Machias – Barry Robertson – Ellsworth Lodge #2743,
Scarborough – Wille Goodman – Portland Lodge #188,
NOTE: As an ENVSC Representative of an approved facility you would be the (Go-To Person) for the Maine Elks Association and work with all lodges and Elks wanting to volunteer at that particular facility.
The ENVSC Representative of an approved Maine Veterans’ Home would receive a standard allocation of $150.00/month. These funds would be used to support monthly events, activities, supplies, etc. for our Veterans enjoyment.
As the ENVSC Representative, you would work with your assigned Veterans’ Home to identify and implement activities and events, that would include Elk Volunteers and involvement. You would be responsible for filing monthly reports of the activities and expenditures to ENVSC for approval.
When we get approval and get these additional facilities approved, we will look to assign 3 Deputy Representatives at each Maine Veterans Home to support the great works of the Maine Elks Association. The ENSVC Representative will work with these 3 Deputy Representatives and support their volunteerism and involvement in each of the facilities.
If you are interested in becoming involved, please contact Mike “Shu” Michaud – #207-441-2838.
“So long as there are veterans the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”
Fraternally,
Shu
MEA Calendar Winners March 2025
MEA Calendars Mar 25.xlsx
| March | Ticket # | Amount | Name | Lodge | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1436 | $50.00 | Scott Wheeler | 244 | ||
| 2 | 1415 | $50.00 | Dan Stewart | 244 | ||
| 3 | 1612 | $25.00 | Dwayne K Guy | 2743 | ||
| 4 | 716 | $25.00 | Carrie Crowley | 1521 | ||
| 5 | 196 | $25.00 | Kevin Monroe | 244 | ||
| 6 | 632 | $25.00 | Bob Loren | 835 | ||
| 7 | 303 | $25.00 | Marie Varian | 934 | ||
| 8 | 607 | $50.00 | John Small | 1293 | ||
| 9 | 538 | $50.00 | Carleton Hartford | 2430 | ||
| 10 | 1322 | $25.00 | Joan Bocergue | 905 | ||
| 11 | 1579 | $25.00 | Connie Lucier | 1470 | ||
| 12 | 222 | $25.00 | Betty Robertson | 244 | ||
| 13 | 389 | $25.00 | Ann Downes | 1597 | ||
| 14 | 16 | $25.00 | Ed Huntley | 2743 | ||
| 15 | 648 | $50.00 | Ray Ivey | 835 | ||
| 16 | 540 | $50.00 | Courtney Leeman | 2430 | ||
| 17 | 837 | $25.00 | Gary Raindon | 188 | ||
| 18 | 306 | $25.00 | Alec Arsenault | 934 | ||
| 19 | 1117 | $25.00 | Reginald Mott, Sr. | 2531 | ||
| 20 | 223 | $25.00 | Lisa Miller | 244 | ||
| 21 | 261 | $25.00 | Danielle Turner | 244 | ||
| 22 | 581 | $50.00 | Bonnie Hollander | 1293 | ||
| 23 | 313 | $50.00 | Tom Fasano | 934 | ||
| 24 | 190 | $25.00 | Jason Worster | 244 | ||
| 25 | 847 | $25.00 | Raven Emerson | 188 | ||
| 26 | 1317 | $25.00 | Joan Hallee | 905 | ||
| 27 | 1467 | $25.00 | Steve Dyer | 244 | ||
| 28 | 1325 | $25.00 | Ed Roderick | 905 | ||
| 29 | 907 | $50.00 | Belinda Anderson | 1008 | ||
| 30 | 113 | $50.00 | Vicki Rodrigue | 964 | ||
| 31 | 1118 | $25.00 | Coralyn Levasseur | 2531 | ||
| 0 |
Augusta Elks Support Veterans at Summer Sports Camp
Pictured above: Veterans No Boundaries Staff Members, Nate Podgajny (left) and Alissa Towle (right) along with Augusta Elks Veterans Committee Volunteers, Jeff Carpenter and his two sons, Ben and Sam (front), Ken and Jean Gotreau, LeeAnn Trask and Cheryl Hersom.
By Lorana Laliberte
On August 24th, members of the Augusta Elks Veterans Committee volunteered at the Veterans No Boundaries/Adaptive Summer Sports Camp at Wavus Camp in Jefferson, Maine. Since 2007, these camps have provided summer and winter programs thanks to the generous support of Move United, Patriot Riders, veterans’ groups, local businesses, and community members dedicated to helping service men and women. All activities, lodging, accommodations, and meals are offered free of charge during these four-day events.
The camp goals include:
- – Providing a supportive environment
- – Boosting confidence and strength
- – Encouraging socialization among service members and their loved ones
- – Offering opportunities to try new sports or revisit old favorites
- – Allowing time to relax, reconnect, and have fun
The day began with a Flag Ceremony, followed by an Ice Breaker Game that helped Augusta Elks members and veterans connect and form relationships.
Participants enjoyed various activities throughout the day. Jeff Carpenter and his sons, Ben and Sam, had a great time at the Pickleball Court, while committee members Jean, Ken, Cheryl, and LeeAnn worked to tidy up the Lodge, rearranging chairs and cleaning tables to create a welcoming space. Cheryl and LeeAnn also assisted with a morning Art Project, preparing colored glass pieces for a tree project.
At lunchtime, Ben and Sam took on the responsibility of ringing the bell to signal mealtime. After lunch, the Augusta Elks presented essential adaptive equipment purchased with Freedom Grant funds to the Veterans No Boundaries staff. This included two sets of Pickleball rackets, two sets of kayak outriggers for veterans with balance issues, and a set of ski outriggers for the upcoming Winter Sports Camp.
With remaining grant and committee funds, the Elks hosted an Ice Cream Social for the veterans, who were visibly delighted by the sweet treat.
Following the social, some volunteers participated in the High Swing Activity, while others engaged in craft projects alongside the veterans. These interactions fostered joy and created memorable experiences for all involved.
Bob Kroll, a staff member of Veterans No Boundaries, shared a story about a veteran who, initially reluctant, was encouraged to kayak with the help of the outriggers made possible by the Elks’ generosity.
Using the Freedom Grant for this impactful equipment proved to be a meaningful commitment, resonating with both veterans and volunteers.
The Augusta Elks Veterans Committee’s efforts highlight the importance of giving back to those who have sacrificed for our country. Their day at Wavus Camp exemplifies the strength of community, compassion, and the shared pursuit of joy and healing.
St. Patrick’s Day heralds the 20th Lodge Visitation
Last Saturday, March 15th, Denise and I visited the Rockland Lodge. This marked our 20th lodge visit and completed our successful tour of all the Maine Lodges. Upon arriving Saturday afternoon, we were greeted at the hotel by Exalted Ruler Pam and her husband, Al. They took us to the Lodge for a tour and a visit to their lounge. We saw their beautiful building, showcasing classic architecture, an excellent commercial kitchen, and a grand ball room with an impressive central fireplace, and we also received a fascinating lesson on the Lodge’s rich history. Downstairs, in the lounge, we met several Lodge officers and members.
Denise and I returned to our room briefly before Pam and Al took us to a wonderful dinner at the Park Street Grille, a local restaurant. The food was excellent. Following dinner, we returned to the Lodge for the lodge’s awards night and a St. Patrick’s Day dance. Pam presented her Elk of the Year, Officer of the Year, Citizen of the Year, and several other special awards, each well-deserved and a credit to the lodge and the community. The live band, playing classic rock, country and popular dance music, did a fantastic job, and we had the opportunity to dance, catch up with old friends, and meet many warm and welcoming new members.
Another busy weekend for the President and First Lady
This weekend, Denise and I attended the New England Regional Hoop Shoot contest in Portland, Maine. It was a spectacular event. We drove out of a blizzard in the county and into a sunny but blustery day in Portland on Friday. On Friday, we attended a banquet with other Maine Elks who were instrumental in our Hoop Shoot.
On Saturday, we attended the “Breakfast of Champions” at the Portland Lodge. I must say, they really outdid themselves. Following breakfast, we were bused with the kids and families to South Portland, where the shooting venue was located. I will leave the announcement of winners to the Hoop Shoot committee, but I am pleased to report that Maine will have two representative shooters at the national competition in Chicago in April. The awards banquet on Saturday evening featured an excellent meal, and seeing the kids excited about the day was quite refreshing.
Sunday morning, we packed up and drove over to the Bath Lodge to participate in the 11th Hour Toast contest as well as the 
Flag Charge contest. I am happy to report that we have again increased participation in these contests this year, although we are still short of all 20 Lodges participating. I was extremely pleased that we had a competitor in the open division. Hopefully, next year these contests will grow even more. Again, I will leave reporting the winners to the committee, but I would add that I improved my score for the Flag Presentation contest.
Next week is my final Lodge visit, and it will be to Rockland. Keep checking this site for a detailed report
Homecoming to the County
Denise and I celebrated our homecoming weekend in Houlton from February 28th to March 3rd. As I’ve always maintained, Lodge 835 is exceptional, and this weekend proved it once again. Friday night featured a trivia contest, bowling, the Queen of Hearts drawing, and a fantastic pub food menu. Elks from around the state gathered, and everyone had a wonderful time.
On Saturday, following the pre-budget meeting, preparations commenced for the evening meal. The kitchen crew outdid themselves, preparing a superb dinner offering prime rib cooked to order or baked haddock. With the help of several area youth groups the meals were served quickly, and everyone seemed delighted.
After dinner, everyone moved to the Lodge room for a roast and toast in my honor. I was thoroughly roasted, all in good fun. My good friend Shawn Stacey even made a donation to the ENF after I put on his Red Sox pullover. I wasn’t the only one roasted; State Chaplain and Past State President Mike Powers also received his share of good-natured ribbing. My boating prowess was also humorously mentioned by an anonymous Facebook follower, who thankfully provided me with an emergency gas can for the boat.
The evening continued with live music from the local band Dirt Bag Jenkins and the Dust Pans, who put on a great show. We danced the night away, followed by the 11 o’clock toast, and then retired to our comfortable beds. The next day the state meeting concluded smoothly, allowing those who had traveled from afar to begin their journeys home on Sunday.
Next week we are off to Portland for the hoop shoot and then to Bath for the Toast and Flag contests.
MEA Calendar Winners for February ’25
| February | Ticket # | Amount | Name | Lodge | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 11 | $50.00 | Ken Stinson | 2743 | ||
| 2 | 699 | $50.00 | Jeff & Sheri Arsenault | 1521 | ||
| 3 | 50 | $25.00 | William Robinson | 2743 | ||
| 4 | 713 | $25.00 | Susan Williams | 1521 | ||
| 5 | 1186 | $25.00 | Dick Vigue | 905 | ||
| 6 | 1459 | $25.00 | Cathy Boscoe | 244 | ||
| 7 | 1175 | $25.00 | Donald Dorr | 905 | ||
| 8 | 1252 | $50.00 | Joel Bogan | 2788 | ||
| 9 | 189 | $50.00 | Max Worster | 244 | ||
| 10 | 1523 | $25.00 | Brittany Hart | 2743 | ||
| 11 | 867 | $25.00 | JoAnn Sparks | 188 | ||
| 12 | 880 | $25.00 | Gary Murphy | 188 | ||
| 13 | 648 | $25.00 | Ray Ivey | 835 | ||
| 14 | 1455 | $25.00 | Jerry Woodman | 244 | ||
| 15 | 1119 | $50.00 | Angel Mott | 2531 | ||
| 16 | 721 | $50.00 | Gerri Bosse | 1287 | ||
| 17 | 1634 | $100.00 | Flo lloyd | 244 | ||
| 18 | 1574 | $25.00 | Claire Morrison | 1470 | ||
| 19 | 1261 | $25.00 | Peter Farrell | 2743 | ||
| 20 | 114 | $25.00 | Emily Lathrop | 964 | ||
| 21 | 511 | $25.00 | Donna McLaughlin | 2430 | ||
| 22 | 216 | $50.00 | Linda Mahan | 244 | ||
| 23 | 117 | $50.00 | Tim Rodrigue | 964 | ||
| 24 | 322 | $25.00 | Judy Deion | 934 | ||
| 25 | 1180 | $25.00 | Danny Adams | 905 | ||
| 26 | 254 | $25.00 | Linda Ward | 244 | ||
| 27 | 9 | $25.00 | Robert Hubbert Sr. | 2743 | ||
| 28 | 590 | $25.00 | Ian Marson | 1293 | ||
| 0 |
President Mike’s Address to the March MEA Meeting
Greetings, everyone.
Welcome to the county seat of Aroostook, the Shiretown. Since our last meeting Denise and I visited Millinocket for a great comedy show, been to the State Hoop shoot, the Skowhegan-Madison Lodge for a toast to ENF, and the Augusta Lodge for a wonderful variety show as well as the State Ritual contest in Waterville. As always, detailed reports on these visits can be found on maineelks.org and I encourage you to go and check them out.
During homecoming festivities at the Houlton ELks, MEA President Michael Hannigan eschews his customary Yankees attire for a stylish Red Sox pullover, thanks to an ENF donation by Shawn Stacey.
Well, I am rapidly approaching the end of my term. I have just one visit left to complete and am look forward to Rockland in a couple of weeks. Many of you exalted rulers are also winding down your year. Some of the people here however, are looking forward to taking over the reins of your Lodge. Some will even be new E.R.s and beginning next month you’ll start a journey you should never forget. I know you’ll greet Corey and Jolene with the same enthusiasm your predecessors met Denise and I. It is to you incoming E.R.s that I have some leadership advice for this morning. In late March or early April you will be placed into the role of the captain of the ship which is your Lodge. Your installer will remind you to be the able mariner steering your vessel as calmly in storm as in fair weather. I would like to share with you advice that may help you as guide your vessel. That advice is to always remember, you can’t change the wind, but you can adjust your sails to reach your destination. Use your local, state, and national resources to both find your way and achieve your ultimate goals for your Lodge. A great place to start is your contest A checklist.
Finally, some advice for not only new E.R.s but for everyone. Recently at a school workshop I heard some good advice for Elks. As we left the workshop the presenter suggested that we come up with an elevator speech to give to colleagues when we went back to our schools. An elevator speech is a brief explanation of something, short enough that you could give in on a ride in elevator but informative enough that it explains your point. I want to suggest to you come up with an elevator speech explaining what the Elks are. Inevitably, someone this year is going to ask you, so what are the Elks. If your caught of guard you may struggle to give a quick answer and you’ll likely miss some important details. Plan ahead, have your speech ready and promote this great organization. Thank you very much, and continue to show Maine in thought word and deed, that Elkdom is the heart of America.
A Great Visit to Augusta
On Saturday, February 22nd, Denise, Heather, and I visited the Augusta Elks Lodge #964. We arrived in the early afternoon and were greeted by Lisa and Tony. The Lodge had provided us with a wonderful welcome basket, filled with Maine-made treats.
At suppertime, Lisa and Tony took us to a very exquisite restaurant, where we met Claris, Roberta, Kip, Bob, and Myra. The restaurant, Otto’s on the River, is one I would highly recommend. After supper, we went to the Lodge to see their variety show. The show was amazing; the crew had obviously put a tremendous amount of efforts into preparation for it. In addition to the preparations, enthusiasm was exuding from the stage. I even had a chance to go on stage and help one of the acts with some dancing. After the show, we talked with many people at the Lodge for a while and then returned to the hotel for a peaceful night’s sleep. Augusta was the last Lodge in the central district that I visited this year, and I had a great time.
The next day, we went a short distance to Waterville Lodge #905 for the State team ritual contest. This year’s competitors were Sanford Lodge #1470 and Waterville #905. Both teams were very impressive. I won’t reveal the outcome, but I will share that the teams were very close. This weekend, I look forward to the homecoming celebration in Houlton and hope to see you all. My next visit will be to Rockland in mid-March. Spring is coming; take heart, the weather will improve!