by Rachel Hunter
The Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035 awarded Citizen of the Year at its 60th anniversary celebration on Saturday, April 29 to Rick Newvine.
“The Citizen of the Year award goes to the person who has shown leadership in the community, has contributed voluntary service, and is recognized as being an all-around good citizen,” Exalted Ruler Roderick Pryce said. “This does not necessarily have to be an Elk member. However, this person fits the criteria perfectly and not because he is a member of the lodge, but because of what his business provides to our community outside of this lodge.
“I have personally seen this man, whenever somebody walks into his store, and they ask for donations of any type for a fundraiser or event, whatever the case may be, without hesitation he will give something each and every time.
“As a member of this lodge myself, and there are other members here who could attest to this, he has on many occasions reached into his pocket to help this lodge without looking for reimbursements.
“This is the humble man that he is... This is a man I have known since I moved to Gouverneur in 1990. He and I have been very good friends ever since. I have had many great years playing ball on the same team with him in the old-timers league. And even there he was a very generous man, and always believed in having fun – not just winning. It wasn’t about winning, however we were very lucky because we won a lot.
He is our trustee chairperson and he has assumed a lot of responsibility as well as being on the town board in his township. He is one of the hardest working men I know.
“So it is our honor, from the membership of Gouverneur Lodge No. 2035, to award to Ricky Newvine with the Citizen of the Year Award.”
Cheers and applause filled the room as the Gouverneur Elks and their guests honored Rick Newvine with a standing ovation. Despite his recent double knee surgery, Mr. Newvine walked to the podium where ER Pryce presented him with the award, and both paused for a photo opportunity.