HOULTON, Maine – The Houlton Elks Lodge BPOE No. 835 recently held its appreciation dinner and awards ceremony on Saturday, April 2, at the lodge on Main Street.
New officers inducted 2022-2023 were Jonathan Tuttle, esteemed leading knight; Paul Austin, esteemed lecturing knight; Elizabeth Grant, exalted ruler; Ben Corey, esteemed loyal knight; Shane Gallop, chaplin; Rebecca Richardson, esquire; Nason Graham, treasurer; Drew Marino, inner guard; Devin Smith, tiler; Robert Cleary, secretary; and Dave Brown, trustee.
Receiving the Elks Distinguished Citizen Award was Shelly Bouchard, a teacher at Houlton Middle-High School, for “Edie’s Cupboard,” a food pantry for students in grades 6-12. Edie’s Cupboard was developed to help students fight hunger issues at home.
The Outstanding Service Commendation award was presented to Matthew Powers for his service to Houlton Lodge of Elks 835, while the Officer of the Year award was presented to Grant in appreciation for her dedication and services to the lodge.
The top award, Elk of the Year, was presented to John Bushey for recognition and appreciation of his loyal service and unselfish dedication to the lodge.