Where did Autumn go?

 

In our last post we tried to figure out what happened to summer. When we turned around, autumn was suddenly in the rear view mirror. And here we are.

Among our most recently discussed situations, we’ve had an interesting chain of events regarding our upcoming MM Inspection. During the 15^th District Annual Meeting in September we were granted / assigned the date of Saturday, December 20, 2025. We were happy about that, until we experienced some health issues in our officer line. That started a lengthy chain of conversations and communications. Many alternate dates were proposed and explored, during which all involved learned how many other Masonic bodies already had “that” date scheduled. Some might be suspicious of that. For those, reflect back on the number of Masonic body insignias on the back of our vehicles. ‘Nuff said.

This week we came up with a “final” resolution. Our MM Inspection will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, starting at 5pm.

With that in mind, we have additional tidings to share. At our Annual Meeting we elected our slate of officers for 2025-26. (The full listing is under the “Officers” tab.) And due to an infrequently used clause in the code, we were able to install that slate the same evening. Not a bad way to start a new Masonic year.

Here are some dates for your calendar:

Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Thanksgiving may be a day on the calendar for many. It should also be a daily reminder that however comfortable and admirable our immediate surroundings may be, we should be thankful.

Saturday, December 6, 2025.

At 9am the 15^th District will hold its Past Master’s Convocation. The meeting will begin at 9am at Chester #238. All incoming WM-elect must attend, even if they have served in that capacity previously. It is usually combined with an education meeting/presentation.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

La Rue will hold its traditional Christmas in the Village. A combination observance and celebration that only a small town can pull off. It is a family friendly event that helps set the tone for the season.

Saturday, May 2, 2026.

We will be having our MM Inspection, for the pleasure of RWB Scott Zwiezinski. Lodge will open at 5pm. As every member knows, this degree requires a considerable number of participants. All who can assist, in any capacity, would be appreciated.

Till next time, we’ll

                         See you in Lodge!

Looking toward the future!

 

It barely seems that summer was attempting to arrive, and now we’re looking at our fall schedule? Like most of us, as we age, it seems like the days fly by more quickly.

As noted above, although it is early in August, we are glancing toward our fall schedule. There are many events that should peak your interest, so we’ll go right to the list.

Thursday, August 14, 2025.

Annually, the Deputy Grand Master presents his thoughts, ideas, and focus for the 2025-26 year at a series of Roll-Out Programs across Ohio. At 7pm on this date, he will be presenting at University Lodge #631 in Linworth, OH. Open to all, including wives, significant others, etc., it is an opportunity to meet in person, and actually converse with our state office holders.

Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

This is our first meeting after the traditional summer break. In addition to the usual discussions, there are two segments we anticipate.

#1 – RWB Charles Hall, 15^th District Advisor, is scheduled to visit. He is also the current WM of Mt. Carmel #303.

#2 – We’ve been forewarned about this Masonic Minute presentation by our LEO: “What did you do last summer?” Be prepared to explain in-depth (within reason) your escapades over the past months.

 

September 12 - 14, 2025.

The Grand Master's Masonic Weekend, held at the Canton Masonic Temple located at:  836 Market Ave. N., Canton, OH.  Details and registration (by 8-12-25) are available on GrandView.

 

Saturday, September 13, 2025.

At 9am the 15^th District Annual Meeting will commence at Mt. Carmel #303. This is where the 2026 Inspection schedule is worked out, future District events are discussed, and there is usually a preview of the proposed legislation for the Grand Lodge Annual Communication in October.

Sunday, September 14, 2025.

At 6pm the 15^th District will hold its Annual Awards Banquet at The Plaza Inn,, Mt. Victory. The food is excellent, the fellowship is comforting, and who knows – your Lodge might be taking home some hardware!

Saturday, October 4, 2025.

At 6pm the 15^th District will hold what is presumed to be its first annual Charity Dinner and Silent Auction.  It will be held at the Marysville Elks Lodge, 125 E. Fifth, Marysville, OH, from 3 to 6pm. 

Saturday, October 11, 2025.

The 15^th District will be taking a road trip to Livingston, KY. The purpose is to be present at their Cave Degree presentation. This will be an all-day trip, with details posted on the 15^th District web site.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

This is our Annual Meeting. Normally preceded by a dinner, it features election of officers for the coming year. Come, enjoy some food and fellowship, make your thoughts known, and (possibly) take an office! Ask any of our active members, and you will hear that the more active you are, they more you get out of Lodge.

Saturday, December 6, 2025.

At 9am the 15^th District will hold its Past Master’s Convocation. (The location is yet to be announced.) All incoming WM-elect must attend, even if they have served in that capacity previously. It is usually combined with an education meeting/presentation.

Wow, that’s a lot of dates to remember!  Don’t fret. Just bookmark this page on your phone, tablet, computer, etc., and you’ll be able to access it anywhere. Is that great, or what?

Till next time, we’ll

See you in Lodge!

Whew!

Every Lodge that has been through the annual Inspection process can identify with this word.  After completing volumes of end-of-year reports and audits, the next step of the process is/was the Pre-Ispection Visit.  In theory that is a review of the paperwork.  The reality is it becomes a Q&A session on several levels.  The next step in the process is the actual Inspection, where your Lodge demonstrates proficiency (or lack thereof) in their degree work.  Attended by Brothers from area Lodges, and accompanied by a buffet feast, it quickly becomes "an event".  As wonderful as all of that sounds, it is nice to have that in the rear view mirror for another year.

Here is a photo of those present during our 2025 FC inspection, taken by WB Bosh, 15th District President:

 

As we move forward, there are dates of note on the calendar.  Some are ours, and some are from elsewhere in the 15th Masonic District:

April 16th - La Rue - Stated Meeting

April 26 - Marion 70 - FC Inspection

April 26 - Chester 238 - MM Inspection

May 3 - East Liberty 247 - MM Inspection

May 7th - La Rue - Stated Meeting  

May 21th - La Rue - Stated Meeting   

June 4th - La Rue - Stated Meeting

June 13th - Grand Master's Reception @ All-Occassions

June 18th - La Rue - Stated Meeting

July 12th - 15th District Golf Outing @ Cherokee Hills Golf Course

September 3rd - La Rue - Stated Meeting   

September 13 - Grand Lodge Masonic Weekend (One Day Class)

September 13 - 15th District Annual Meeting @ Boggs 292

September 17th - La Rue - Stated Meeting 

October 1st - La Rue - Stated Meeting 

October 4th - 15th District Charity Dinner Fundraiser

October 15th - La Rue - Stated Meeting  

October 24th - Grand Lodge of Ohio Annual Communication, at the Kalahari Resorts, Sandusky, OH.  All details will be available "online" beginning Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at www.GLOHIO2025.com

November 5th - La Rue - Stated Meeting AND Election of Officers  

Of course, additional activities will be added to the list.  We just don't know what they are - yet.  😎

 

Till next time, 

                                              See you in Lodge!

 

 

Time flies! And other thoughts

It seems like just yesterday that we were typing about the new slate of officers, important dates on the Masonic calendar, and other trivia.  Since then, there have been so many changes that we don't know where to begin.  

"Inspection Season" swung into action, but has already experienced some hiccups.  There have been too many schedule and procedural adjustments to track.  At times in the real world, schedules do need adjusted.  Despite the harrumphing of Past Masters on the sidelines, there are additional adjustments that deviate from established custom.  (English translation: How we used to do things.)  

To keep up with the changes we highly recommend two things.  First, regularly checking the 15th District web site, noted on the left margin.  The officers of the 15th District go to great lengths to update the information and report any changes.  Second, check your Grand View account for messages and updates.  Each change is listed there under the FEED tab.

The change least talked about is the Inspection meals.  In olden times they were prepared and served by a ladies group, most commonly from the local O.E.S. Chapter.  The menu would invariably be baked steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans (apparently the official Masonic vegetable), and pie.  Trust us, those were good eats, and no one went home hungry.  Now it is much more common to have soup and sandwich, a pasta bar, deli sandwiches, or even (gasp!) no meal at all.  A bad thing?  Nope.  Just a reflection of the changing times and changing preferences of membership.

In preparation for our FC Inspection on April 2, 2025, we have been "putting in the work", but experiencing our own hiccups.  While we feel assured that all will be ready when the time comes, it is yet to be determined whether we will have a full-blown dinner or light snacks.  There is plenty of time to work that out, and we promise to share the details as soon as they are known.

One additional date to mark on your calendar is June 13, 2025.  That will be the Grand Master's Reception for the 15th Masonic District.  Details aren't available yet, but will be posted after they are revealed.

 That's all we have for now.  Till next time, 

                                           See you in Lodge!

 

 

Do you hear what I hear?

Where has the time gone?  We don't know either.  It seems like just last week we had our first meeting after the summer break.  In the blink of an eye we considered the arrival of the Great Pumpkin, our Annual Meeting, and election of officers, all of which are now in the rear view mirror.  So, what are we looking forward to?  Glad you asked!

At our next meeting, December 4th, we will be celebrating milestones in Masonic journeys.  Masonic Service Awards will be presented for members observing 25, 30, 40, and 50-years with our fraternity.  The evening will start with a dinner at 6:30pm, crafted by our own RWB Markley.  The meeting will open at 7:30, immediately going to Refreshment for the presentations.  That way spouses and other family members can be present for the festivities.  

During our Annual Meeting we elected a full slate of officers.  They will be Installed at our regular meeting on December 18th.  We are excited for the opportunity to elevate those who have participated and taken an interest in our fraternity.  This will be a "Closed" installation, open only to members.

There is a meeting-related situation that will arrive with 2025.  We meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, and a close observer will noted that the first meeting in January should be on the 1st.  The operative word is "should".  Article II of our By-Laws reads in part: "When a stated meeting falls on a legal holiday, it may be held on the following Wednesday".  So, if you show up for a meeting on January 1st, make sure to bring a friend to keep you company. 

In preparation for our FC Inspection on April 2, 2025, we have been "putting in the work".  Getting everyone familiar with their unique participation opportunities has occupied much of our meeting time.  We feel assured that all will be ready when the time comes.  It is yet to be determined whether we will have a full-blown dinner or light snacks, but there is plenty of time to work that out.

One additional date to mark on your calendar is June 13, 2025.  That will be the Grand Master's Reception for the 15th Masonic District.  Details aren't available yet, but will be posted after they are revealed.

In the mean time, there are a number of major, and minor, holidays on the horizon.  Among them:

- Thanksgiving: A day for giving thanks for the many blessings we have.  In some jurisdictions this also means large gatherings focused on food and football.

- Christmas: A day that brings out the kid in all of us.  

- New Year's Eve: A day frequently associated with gatherings even wilder than the office Christmas party.  It is also a day to fondly remember favorite experiences of 2024, and say a final goodby to those less than favorite experiences.

- New Year's Day:  A day of new beginnings, and a chance to start with a relatively clean slate.  In some jurisdictions this also means sleeping in, being propped in front a TV watching football, munching on cold (and stale) h'orderves.

 

No matter the holiday or occasion, take time to enjoy your journey, the company of others, and those manifold blessings that constantly surround us.

That's all we can think of for now.  Till the next time, 

See you in Lodge!

Notes from the quarry

With the arrival of autumn, and September drawing to a close, we have tidings to share.  Some are routine, some aren't, and a couple absolutely amaze us.

As every member knows, this time of year Masonic organizations send reminders about dues.  That can be a little overwhelming, depending on how many memberships are involved. It also leads to mental fatigue, as one loses track of which ones have already been paid.  The Grand Secretary's office alerted us to an unusual "fly in the ointment", whatever that is.  For reasons unknown, Grand Lodge has been experiencing delivery issues for email addresses that end with "rr.com".  Techies will recognize that represents a Spectrum email account.  For some reason, their firewall doesn't let emails generated from Grand Lodge to be sent to the recipient.  This is not intended to bad-mouth Spectrum, as their firewall is doing what it is designed to do: protect their customers.  However, it does reinforce the need to check one's Grand View account frequently.  That will keep you up to date on communications from the Lodge, District, and Grand Lodge.

Speaking of Grand View, a new version of it will be "live" soon.  It has been in beta testing for a while, but version 2.0 is expected to be implemented within the next month.  Will it look the same?  No.  Will it do the same things it used to?  Yes, and more.  Having been part of the beta test group, rest assured that the learning curve is minimal.  You might even find topics and information that previously were unavailable.

Frequent readers may recall that the 15th District web presence has had significant issues.  Those date back over a year, and have been the topic of many conversations.  Confounding the situation was loss of the domain name.  Our District President stepped up and took on this project.  Due to his efforts, it has been recreated under a different domain name.  Don't worry about being confused by the jargon.  Just click on the link on the left and you will see the results of his efforts.  Yes, it is a work in progress, but what amazing progress!

The last bit of news to share is about our 2024-25 FC Inspection.  Our date is Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 7:30pm, which is a regular meeting night.  It will be held in La Rue, but additional specific details (dinner, Inspecting Officer, etc.) aren't available at this time.   

That brings us up to date for now.  Check back often, as we never know when additional information might come our way.

See you in Lodge!

Is summer over already?

 

Greetings!

As summer draws to a close, there are many things to share.

- Our first meeting of the fall will be next Wednesday, September 4^th.  At 6:30pm we will be having a pizza dinner to fortify ourselves for the meeting.

- The 15^th District Annual Meeting is on Saturday, September 14^th, 9am, at East Liberty Lodge.  Among other things, Inspection dates will be decided.

 - The 15^th District Awards Banquet is on Sunday, September 15^th, 6pm, at The Plaza Inn, Mt. Victory.  Cost to attend is $20 per person, with a final count provided to RWB Larry Lance, District Treasurer, by September 8^th.

 - Registration reminder for the October Grand Lodge Annual Communication.  All event information is available at www.GLOHIO2024.com.

 - Upcoming District Meetings:

            Annual Meeting  9-14-24 at East Liberty at 9 am 
Past Masters Convocation 12-7-24 at Bellefontaine at 9 am 
JC Musser Work Day 1-4-25 at Chester (Chesterville) at 9 am
Spring Education Meeting 5-3-25 at East Liberty at 9 am
Annual Meeting 2025 9-13-25 at Boggs Lodge at 9 am 
Past Master 2025 12-6-25 at Chester (Chesterville) 9am

 

See you in Lodge!