The Salem Elk’s Lodge held its annual awards ceremony over the weekend and presented the Citizen of the Year Award to Ola Chapman.
Chapman was honored for being highly involved in the Salem community. She said she was thrilled and deeply honored when surprised with the award.
“I just love people. I like to talk to people and I think one of my things is the Hospital Foundation. All the friends I’ve made. I’m always glad to help out with anything. If there was a tournament at the Country Club tomorrow, I’d help out, I just enjoy it.”
Chapman is also an active member of the Grace United Methodist Church and is a long time member of the Salem County Club and past board member. The award also noted her time as a Texas Company employee in both Illinois and Texas where she was well-respected by the other employees.
A number of other awards were handed out. Joe Hill was named Elk of the Year. The Outstanding Service Award was presented to Doug Mercer and Mike Purcell. The Officer of the Year is Robyn Duncan.
Jim and Chris Davis were named the Elks Family of the Year. Julie Kohrig was named Lady of the Year. The Davis’ and Kohrig have also won the District award in their category and will now advance to the statewide completion.
Recently retired Exalted Ruler Bob Lafenhagen was honored as the District winner of Exalted Ruler of the Year and the Salem Elks Lodge was honored as District Club of the Year. Lafenhagen and the Salem Lodge also advance to the statewide competition.
There are ten lodges in the district that includes Salem. The statewide winners will be announced at the State Convention on May 19th and 20th.
