The Presque Isle Elks Lodge 1954 hosted their annual family Christmas dinner on Christmas Day in Presque Isle.
Since 2005, the Elks have put on the meal, complete with live music, for anyone who would otherwise be alone on Christmas.
Dozens of people attended the popular event. Food preparation began on Sunday, Dec. 22. Thirty volunteers participated in preparing and serving the meals.
Prior to the meal, guests enjoyed 10 pounds of assorted cheeses, 4 pounds of assorted crackers and 2 pounds of pepperoni as appetizers.
(Courtesy of Presque Isle Elks Lodge)
Elks prepared 150 pounds of turkey, 43 pounds of ham, 30 pounds of potatoes, 10 pounds of squash, 20 pounds of stuffing and 12 quarts of gravy.
In addition, guests enjoyed 58 quarts of tomato bisque soup prepared by Rodney’s restaurant, 17 dozen rolls and 16 pies from Governors, and 12 pies from Star City IGA.
Beverages included 72 bottles of water, 6 gallons of coffee and 2 gallons of tea. Eleven pounds of mixed nuts and 20 pounds of assorted chocolate candies were also enjoyed by the guests.
While at the lodge, guests listened to the live musical offerings of James “Sheldon” Wright and his friends, Ben Yeager, Leland Clark, Aegis Clark, Joe Romeo and Jason Gagnon.
“The Presque Isle Elks Family Christmas Dinner is not only an annual gift to this community, it is also a prime example of the Presque Isle Elks Lodge carrying out the motto of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks” ‘Elks care, Elks share,’” Presque Isle Elks Exalted Ruler Tina Dougherty said.
