LEWISTON – Amos McCallum, grand exalted ruler (national president) of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will make his official visit to Maine lodges in November.

Since his election in July, McCallum and his wife, Barbara, of Saco, have been traveling across the country, serving as an ambassador to promote the charitable works of the order.

The McCallums will travel to the Millinocket area, where he will be met by Maine Elks Association President James Ferland of Sidney and Past Grand Lodge Inner Guard Andrew Constantine of Bangor.

While in Millinocket, McCallum will have the opportunity to tour a paper mill and visit Ripogenus dam. He will be honored at a special banquet at the Millinocket Elks Lodge. On Nov. 5 McCallum will travel to Augusta where he will meet with Gov. John E. to discuss the Elks programs.

Ferland said, “This is a very special year for Elks in Maine. Not only are we celebrating our 75th anniversary as an association, but for the first time one of our own has been elected to the highest office in our order.”

McCallum joined the Biddeford-Saco Elks Lodge in 1963, becoming its exalted ruler in 1972-1973. Since then, he has served in many capacities in his own lodge and in the Maine Elks Association, serving as its state president in 1982-1983.

His involvement with the Grand Lodge began in 1983, when he became a district deputy. He held several national committee positions and offices, culminating in his position as national president.

The Elks support veterans and youth through the drug awareness, hoop shoot, soccer shoot and scholarship programs.