POTSDAM -- For the first time in the Lodge’s 58 year history, Potsdam Elks Lodge #2074 has earned the honor of being recognized as an All American Lodge by the New York State Elks Association for 2015-2016.

Whether at a state or National Level, All American status is the highest honor a lodge can receive, according to lodge member Tim Welpe. The lodge was recognized by the New York State Elks Association with All American distinction during the Elks Spring Convention that was held in Rochester May 19-21.

Past Exalted Ruler Mary Evans-Welpe accepted the award on behalf of the lodge from incoming State Association President Bill Reedy. She served as the Lodges Exalted Ruler for 2015-2016.

An All American Lodge is selected in six division based upon membership size. Potsdam Lodge was recognized as the New York State Division IV All American Lodge. This division consists of lodges with between 700 and 1100 members.

To earn All American Lodge honors, a lodge and its members must demonstrate commitment to the various programs of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

The Potsdam lodge accomplished this thanks to a dedicated team of officers, committee members and volunteers, Welpe said.

Some highlights from Potsdam Lodges 2015-2016 campaign included a continued commitment towards a solid youth program that included involvement in the Elks National Hoop Shoot, soccer shoot, Americanism essay contest, Scout Recognition Program, drug awareness, a student recognition awards program, The Dictionary Project, youth scholarships, a hockey shootout, sponsorship of an NFL Punt, Pass and Kick contest, sponsorship of sport teams banquets and sponsorship of inflatable rides during the annual Summerfest.

The Lodge Veteran’s and Americanism Programs included an annual visit to Veteran’s at Partridge Knoll, sponsorship of a Veterans/Wounded Appreciation Dinner on Veteran’s Day, donations to support the Fort Drum USO and Wounded Warrior Sled Hockey Program, participation in the Presidential Volunteer Service Award Program, presenting a Flag Day Service and placing American Flags in downtown Potsdam in observance of Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, 9-11 Remembrance Day and Veterans Day.

The Lodge continued its philanthropic mission meeting both the Elks National Foundation and State Major Project per capita and by providing over $30,000 in charitable donations to 63 different events.

The Lodges 2015-2016 officers were Mary Evans-Welpe, exalted ruler; Bruce Wells, leading knight; Kellie Hitchman, loyal knight; Missy Truax, lecturing knight; Mike Neaton, chaplain; Tim Welpe, esquire; Paul Covey, inner guard; Steve Davis, tiler; Ernie Charleston, treasurer; James Hassett, secretary; Floyd Supernault, trustee; Sally Boslet, trustee; Sheila Guerin, trustee; Dennis Guerin, trustee and Rick Robar, trustee.