MEA State President, Michael W. Powers is a resident of Houlton, Maine where he was born raised and educated. He is a member of the Houlton Lodge of Elks # 835 and has been since 1978. He is married to Alfreda (Freddy) Woodward Powers and together they have two sons.

Mike is a graduate of the University of Maine with a BS degree in Political Science. He is a certified teacher of Social Studies and has been teaching in the public school system of MASD # 29 for thirty-four years. He has been an Elementary school teacher as well as an Elementary Principal. For the past twelve years he has been the Department Chair of Houlton High School's History Department.

Mike's private life includes camping with Freddy and their 3 cats at Pleasant Lake in Island Falls. Both Mike and Freddy are avid Red Sox fans and have been known to travel to distant stadiums to see their beloved Sox play.

Mike's involvement with the Houlton Lodge of Elks began in 1978 when he and Freddy began bowling on the couples league. As they raised their two sons, Mike was always involved in their activities but remained a member in good standing in his lodge. In 1996, Mike was asked to become an officer and he was actively involved with the activities of the lodge and in performing the ritual. He was on two State ritual teams as well as performing Nationally twice. He was Exalted Ruler of the Houlton Lodge during the 2001-2002 year.  He was selected as DDGER for Maine North for the 2007-2008 year.

In the Maine Elks Association, Mike Powers has served as a nominating chair, Trustee, and has been an officer for the past three years. He and Freddy thoroughly enjoy all the work of the Association and cherish the wonderful friendships they have made along the way.

Mike's slogan for this year is “ There is never a wrong time to do the right thing.” With that thought in mind he hopes to instill in each Elk that we have a new day every day to do the right thing.

Mike and Freddy are very much looking forward to traveling around the state and trying hard to spread the idea of kindness and compassion for each other.

Acceptance Speech-delivered on May 3, 2009