SUGARLOAF -- On May 2-4, 2008, the Maine Elks Association elected and installed its slate of officers for the 2008-2009 association year at their 79th Annual State Convention held at Sugarloaf.

Installed as State President was Robert Drisko of the Augusta Elks Lodge #964. Drisko, in his opening remarks, congratulated outgoing President Bruce Brunelle of the Sanford Elks Lodge #1470 for his dedication to the principals of the Order and for a successful year. He also thanked the members for their support, and encouraged each Lodge to give 100% support to the programs of the Elks.

In his acceptance speech, Drisko indicated that his theme for the coming year would be "The Future Belongs to Those Who Care," referring to the Elks involvement in many charitable endeavors. He stated that his focus this year was to increase membership, and to continue the associations fundraising efforts. He also encouraged the 12,000 Elk members across the state to continue their support of the Maine Children’s Cancer Program, the Maine Elks Diabetes-Hypertension Van, and the Elks National Foundation.

Installed as officers of the association for the 2008-2009 year were: State President: Robert Drisko (Augusta), President Elect: Michael Powers (Houlton), 1st Vice-President: Roger Normandeau (Sanford), 2nd Vice-President: Wayne Cotterly (Lewiston), Secretary: Philip O'Brion (Farmington), Treasurer: Elizabeth Butler (York), Chaplain: Albert Ingraham (Wells), Tiler: Susan Bernier (Bangor), Administrative Assistant: Claris Ranger (Farmington), and Sergeant-at Arms: Anthony Gause (Augusta). Serving as installing officer was Past State President James Ferland of the Presque Isle Elks Lodge #1954.

The Maine Elks Association is a non-profit organization consisting of 22 Lodges and over 11,000 members in the State of Maine. The association provides support programs in areas such as Americanism, Scholarships, Drug Awareness, and Veterans/National Service. For more information on the Elks, visit maineelks.org, or visit your local Elks Lodge.

Front (L-R): Wayne Cotterly, Michael Powers, Robert Drisko, Roger Normandeau, Elizabeth Butler; Back (L-R): Susan Bernier, Claris Ranger, Albert Ingraham, Philip O’Brion, Anthony Gause.