During an inspiring ceremony March 26, Cape Henlopen Elks Lodge 2540 of Lewes installed Joanne Mayer as exalted ruler for the fraternal year 2022-23.
Grand Exalted Ruler Robert Gable, past district deputy grand exalted ruler, opened the evening with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. During the ceremony, he charged Grand Esquire John Mazzotta to lead the elected officers into the hall for their swearing-in to their new positions.
Mazzotta was honored for his service, and his accomplishments were read to the many guests in attendance.
Newly elected officers are Exalted Ruler Joanne Mayer; Leading Knight Joy Schreck; Loyal Knight Buddy Hall-McBride; Lecturing Knight Marty Schreck; Esquire Mary DiGennaro; Chaplain Betty Ann Kortlang; Inner Guard Bob Hall-McBride; Tiler Lynne Brown; Secretary Becky Hollinger; Treasurer Karen Palmer; Past Exalted Ruler Lynn Clougher, one-year trustee; Past Exalted Ruler Gary Eckenrode, two-year trustee; Past Exalted Ruler Ralph Patterson, three-year trustee; Bill Fay, four-year trustee; and Past Exalted Ruler Paul Holton, five-year trustee.
In recognition of exceptional service to the lodge, awards were given for Officer of the Year Joy Schreck, Elk of the Year Bob Hall-McBride and Citizen of the Year Buddy Hall-McBride.
Dinner was served on beautiful table settings, followed by a delicious two-flavored sheet cake created by member Lisa Travis. The hall was filled with popular music provided by Lodge member DJ Norm Latham.