NEWS
News from the Maine Elks AssociationVisit to a Lodge Hoop Shoot
On Sunday, December 8th, Denise and I drove up to Pittsfield from Bath to join them for their hoop shoot competition. The trip coincided with a rather healthy snowstorm, but we made it to the Maine Central Institute without any trouble.
At the Sebasticook Valley Elks hoop shoot, despite the inclement weather, there was a strong turnout of young shooters. I had the opportunity to assist as a judge, calling whether the shots were successful. In the end, Sebasticook will be sending six talented shooters to the district shoot in Bangor.
It was a pleasure to visit with Mike, Jeremy, and the other officers present at the hoop shoot. Our next travels will take us to the state meeting in Old Town, and we are looking forward to seeing everyone at this important gathering.
Portland Lodge Supports Local Non-Profit Efforts
(Shown L-R): Margaret Poulin, chair, 188 Basket Raffle, Silvan Shawe, Cultivating Community; Melissa Skahan, McAuley Residence; Angela Stone, Maine Needs; and Kim Toppi, 188 Activity Chair/Trustee.
As a result of the recent Basket Raffle extravaganza, the lodge raised $6,120 for work in our neighborhood, and in the members’ lounge on Friday, December 13, Portland #188 presented donations to three local nonprofits. Present were Melissa Skahan, VP of Northern Light Mercy Hospital/ McAuley Residence and Silvan Shawe, Executive Director of Cultivating Community. Each were presented a check for $2,000. The remaining money is being used to purchase new dinner plates for the banquet side of the lounge.
Additionally, the lodge recently held a warming tree clothing drive for Maine Needs, and during the December 13th presentation Angela Stone, Executive Director and founder of Maine Needs, accepted 529 items of clothing, boots, gift cards, hats, mittens, coats, and other essential items to help our neighbors in need.
President Mike Makes Themed Cribbage Boards for Togus
November’s Calendar Winners
First Couple Visits Bath
This past Saturday, December 7th, Denise and I made an official visit to the Bath Lodge. We drove down on that Saturday, enjoying beautiful weather with bright sunshine and fluffy white clouds. Upon arrival, we were impressed by the hotel’s beauty and its thorough preparation for the visit. Exalted Ruler Craig graciously provided transportation to and from the Lodge. We received a tour of the Lodge and then settled in for an evening of silent auction, raffles, and karaoke.
Dinner featured a wonderful choice of pulled pork, available in both traditional and Caribbean jerk styles. Both options were phenomenal. The evening’s proceeds were generously donated to assist local children in need during the holiday season. A substantial amount of money was raised, and everyone had a fantastic time. The karaoke was very enjoyable, and I was even persuaded to sing the final song of the evening.
I highly recommend visiting the Bath Lodge if you ever have the opportunity. Stay tuned, as Denise and I will be sharing more details about our visit to Sebasticook very soon.
Togus National Cemetary Wreaths
Foggy Bottom Trail
Chelsea, ME 04330
MEA Christmas Giving to Veterans
Lodge Thanksgiving Program makes the News
MEA Supports Operation Warm
A Busy Week in Bangor
The first week of November, Denise and I assisted with the Grand Exalted Ruler’s visit to the State of Maine. Doug and Julia are a great couple and most appreciative of the hospitality Maine had to offer. We were able to get them to four different Lodges and see several interesting sites. Additionally, a banquet was held in their honor at the Bangor Lodge. See Wayne’s account of the week elsewhere on this site.
That Saturday, Denise and I had our official visit to the Bangor Lodge. We arrived at the hotel and were greeted by Exalted Ruler Jan. The room was wonderful, and an array of camping-themed gifts was presented to us. That evening, Shawn Stacey graciously drove us to the Lodge for Bangor’s annual veterans ball. The music was excellent, provided by the Skyliners and covered a wide range of genres. We also had the pleasure of sharing the table with State Veterans Chair Michael Michaud, along with his honored guests. There were raffles, pictures, and a lot of conversation.
After the ball, we went to the lounge and caught up with more friends. It was a great visit and much enjoyed. Our next visit will be in early December, hitting both Bath and Sebasticook Valley in one weekend. Keep checking here for updates.