The BPOE No. 835 Houlton Elks Lodge inducted 2023-2024 officers on April 1.
The evening began with installation followed by a prime rib supper prepared by Jock Gentle, Mike Brown and crew. An awards ceremony too place, and then the lodge held a grand bash for members with the band Recall.
The 2022-2023 Elk of the Year Award went to Denise Hannigan. Robert Cleary was named Officer of the Year, while Marie Carmichael earned the Citizen of the Year nod. A special Grand Lodge commendation for outstanding member was also presented to Eric Flewelling.
New officers inducted included Shane Gallop, esquire; Paul Austin, leading knight; Dennis Harmon, chaplain; Rebecca Richardson, loyal knight; Elizabeth Grant, exalted ruler; Alysia Schools, lecturing knight; JJ Schools, inner guard; Devin Smith, tiler; Robert Cleary, secretary; Nason Graham, treasurer; and Jon Bither, past exalted ruler/five-year trustee.