The Potsdam Elks Lodge #2074 Initiation of Officers was held at the Lodge on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The Lodge Officers for the 2026-2027 Fraternal year are Dusty Baker - Exalter Ruler, Tracy Green - Leading Knight, Robbie Castro - Loyal Knight, Randy LaValley - Lecturing Knight, Marsha Bradley - Chaplain. Justin Fuller - Esquire, Steve Myers - Inner Guard, Mary McIntosh- Tiler, Melissa Basford - Secretary, Tess Casler - Treasurer, Missy Truax - Trustee, Kellie Hitchman - Trustee, Mary Charleston - Trustee, Patrick Gray - Trustee and Rick Robar - Trustee.
A dinner and Awards ceremony was held following the initiation. During the awards ceremony, outgoing Exalted Ruler Ernie Charleston recognized several members with awards. Ryan Fuller was recognized as Elk of the Year for his loyal and meritorious services. He was a key member of the Lodge House Committee and committed numerous volunteer hours in support of many Lodge dinners and functions. Dusty Baker, who served as Secretary, was recognized as the Officer of the Year for his unselfish commitment, dedication and enthusiasm. David Cotey was the recipient of an Elks Grand Exalted Ruler Outstanding Service Commendation, recognizing his exceptional contribution to the Lodge and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. This past winter, he initiated and coordinated a coat drive to support the Potsdam Holiday Fund. Over 300 coats were collected through the drive and provided to the Holiday Fund for distribution this past Holiday season. Mike Corbett was also recognized with a Grand Exalted Ruler Outstanding Service Commendation for his exception contributions to the Lodge and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He volunteered many hours towards Lodge renovation projects and House Committee activities, serving as the House Committee Chair. Outgoing Exalted Ruler Ernie Charleston was recognized with a Grand Exalted Ruler Making a Difference Citation in recognition of his outstanding and meritorious service and for supporting the many Elk Programs throughout his year as Exalted Ruler. The Lodge was also recognized with a Grand Exalted Ruler Making a Difference Citation for supporting all Elk service programs. New Exalted Ruler Dusty Baker recognized outgoing Exalted Ruler Ernie Charleston with a special award, citing his commitment to the Lodge as Exalted Ruler the past two years and recognizing his 40 plus years of service and commitment to the Potsdam Lodge and Benevolent and Protective Oder of Elks Programs. Lastly, Tim Welpe was the recipient of the Elks Distinguished Citizen Award in recognition of his outstanding and meritorious service to the community. In addition to volunteer efforts with the Elks, he has supported community projects as a Canton Rotarian, and served as a long time volunteer for Special Olympics New York as games coordinator and as a member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Polar Plunge committees.
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