Merry Christmas!

Can it possibly be?

Christmas is only 24 days away?

Where has the time gone?

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Thanksgiving has passed and the rest of the turkey has (finally) disappeared. The expanded edition of Black Friday is over, although the scent of pepper spray lingers in the air. Cyber Monday went by more quietly, but some detect the scent of scorched plastic drifting through Ethernet connections. Locally we’ve also had our first official snowfall of the year, followed by the most recent edition of the Flood of the Century. Despite all the issues and concerns, what better time of the year could there be?

December is a month of parties, events, and festivities. It is hard to resist being included in gatherings at work, with family, and within our social groups. Culminating with New Year’s Eve celebrations, December is probably the brightest month of the year. Each community has special displays and programs, Nativity scenes and services. Even if you enjoy the bustle of the season, these are a great way to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the things most meaningful during the holidays. Don’t know where any of these might be? Just ask your family or neighbors! Chances are they will point you the right direction.

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We have two Masonic Anniversaries this month:

12-27-55…….….Donald Adams

12-4-68…………Harvey Doss

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We have three birthdays for December:

12-9..……………..Pearl Gamble

12-22……………..Wayne Schaber

12-31..…………....Charles McConnell

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The following are events for your calendar:

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

December 14, 2011 @ 5-8pm. LaRue’s Christmas in the Village. This is the annual Christmas in the Village celebration in downtown La Rue. This is certainly a family-friendly event. Previous years have featured choirs caroling, free refreshments, carriage rides, and the Big Guy (Santa) making a special appearance. And did we mention free food?

December 25, 2011. Christmas.

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.

January 14, 2012. J.C. Musser Work Day, held at Boggs #292 @ 9am. Our District copy of the written ritual will be available.

January 21, 2012. Inspection Season starts with inspection of Mt. Carmel #303 in the MM degree. The first section starts at 11am, dinner at noon, resuming immediately after. Please consult the 15^th District web site for the full Inspection schedule.

March 31, 2012. Our Inspection in the EA degree. Snacks served at 9am, Inspection starts at 10:00am.

April 13, 2012. 15^th District Grand Masters Reception. Held at the Huntsville Event Center, Huntsville, OH. Dinner scheduled to start at 7pm.

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To close, we have a lesson to share gained from years of watching football bowl games:

Pace yourself!

See you at Lodge!

Can it be the Holidays Already?

Every year the days, weeks, and months seem to fly by more quickly. It seems like we were just getting used to the 90+ degrees of summer when we were plunged into the cool temperatures of fall. Then, as we are getting used to the idea of fall, retailers seem intent upon keeping us off balance. Lately while strolling through some major stores, shelf space was being shared by Halloween costumes, Thanksgiving cornucopia, and Christmas tree lights. At this rate we can expect Easter candy displays next week!

As many of you know, our degree work has been temporarily placed on hold. Our candidate is dealing with personal issues that require his attention, which temporarily limits his availability. We are continuing with preparations to be ready when the situation works out. When this changes we will make it known.

Our first meeting in November is always election of officers for the coming year. Those elected for 2011-12 are listed beside the office they accepted:

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WM – Brian Lightfoot

SW - David Allman

JW – Gene McMahan

SD – Milton Lightfoot

JD – Cedric Radcliffe

Treasurer – Rick Sigrist

Secretary – John Mathew

Tyler – Richard Spracklen

There will be a Closed Installation at our second meeting in November.

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We have two Masonic Anniversaries this month:

11-5-69………….John Hesse

11-3-99………….Scott Jackson

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We have seven birthdays for November:

11-3..……………..Randy Blue

11-5..……………..Rick Sigrist

11-9……………....John Hesse

11-17………….….Harvey Doss

11-19……………..Michael Dutton

11-22……………..Theodore Williams

11-28……………..Evan Clark

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The following are events for your calendar:

November 8, 2011. Ohio’s General Election. They don’t call it participatory government for nothing. Make your vote count!

November 11, 1011. Veterans Day. This is the day to celebrate those who have placed their lives on the line for the freedoms we love. Don't take the opportunity just to thank a Veteran. Do take the opportunity to thank all the Veterans you encounter, whether in person or via social media. It will mean more to them than words can describe.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary Meeting, held at East Liberty Lodge #247 @ 9am. Attendance isn’t restricted to those holding the Secretary position. Considerable information is shared pertaining to future District and Lodge activities.

November 24, 2011. Thanksgiving. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Take time to give thanks for what you hold dear.

November 26, 2011. The Game. Since 1897 The Ohio State University has played the University of Michigan. Between them they have won 78 Big Ten Championships, and 18 National Championships. Long considered the country’s best college football rivalry, it is considered “must see TV” in both states. This year both teams have new coaches. How can shopping possibly compare?

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

December 25, 2011. Christmas.

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.

January 14, 2012. J.C. Musser Work Day, held at Boggs #292 @ 9am. Our District copy of the written ritual will be available.

January 21, 2012. Inspection Season starts with inspection of Mt. Carmel #303 in the MM degree. The first section starts at 11am, dinner at noon, resuming immediately after. Please consult the 15^th District web site for the full Inspection schedule.

March 31, 2012. Our Inspection in the EA degree. Snacks served at 9am, Inspection starts at 10:00am.

April 13, 2012. 15^th District Grand Masters Reception. Held at the Huntsville Event Center, Huntsville, OH. Dinner scheduled to start at 7pm.

That sums up the information we have at this time. Be sure to dust off that ritual. Soon we’ll need your help in the FC and MM degrees!

See you at Lodge!

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What happened to fall?

OK, we thought summer was too hot, and so was September at first. Then the rains came, along with the cool temperatures. As we attempt to look through the rain-streaked window, the raft is sounding like a better deal. At least until the weather turns cold.

On to business!

We have had the 15^th District Annual Meeting and have information on Inspections as well as the Grand Masters Reception. Full details can be found at http://district15.freemason.com/ .

Our Inspection is scheduled for Saturday, March 31, 2012. We will be offering snacks at 9am, and Inspection in the EA degree will commence at 10am. Since coffee, juice and doughnuts went over well the last time, you might anticipate a reprise of that menu.

The Grand Masters Reception has a longer back story. It will be held on Friday, April 13, 2012 at 7pm at the Huntsville Event Center. The facility is in Huntsville, which is between Bellefontaine and Indian Lake, on route 117. Frequent readers and\or attendees will recall that Karen’s Event Center in Marysville was the location for many years. Unfortunately the catering company didn’t own the building. The owner was forced to sell, and it was purchased by a church. With short notice to seek other locations for our assigned date, the District was fortunate to find this location.

We have six Masonic Anniversaries this month:

10-21-64…………Phillip Winslow

10-21-70…………Phillip Weist

10-2-74…………..Robert Lee

10-5-77…………..Rick Sigrist

10-20-93…………William Bennett

10-31-09…………David Allman

We have five birthdays for October:

10-11……………..Ronald Phillips

10-19……………..Cedric Radcliffe

10-21……………..Josiah Sayers

10-26……………..Robert Everly

10-28……………..Gene McMahan

The following are additional events for your calendar:

October 5, 2011. Stated Meeting. FC degree is tentatively planned.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio. For those who have never attended one, this would be a wonderful experience.

November 2, 2011. Annual Meeting of LaRue Lodge #463. Our Annual Meeting gives you the chance to make your thoughts known on the future leaders of our Lodge. You don’t have to accept an office to enjoy the evening, so we’ll count on seeing you.

November 8, 2011. Ohio’s General Election. They don’t call it participatory government for nothing. Make your vote count!

November 11, 1011. Veterans Day. This is the day to celebrate those who have placed their lives on the line for the freedoms we love. Don't take the opportunity just to thank a Veteran. Do take the opportunity to thank all the Veterans you encounter, whether in person or via social media. It will mean more to them than words can describe.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary Meeting, held at East Liberty Lodge #247 @ 9am. Attendance isn’t restricted to those holding the Secretary position. Considerable information is shared pertaining to future District and Lodge activities.

November 24, 2011. Thanksgiving. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Take time to give thanks for what you hold dear.

November 26, 2011. The Game. Since 1897 The Ohio State University has played the University of Michigan. Between them they have won 78 Big Ten Championships, and 18 National Championships. Long considered the country’s best college football rivalry, it is considered “must see TV” in both states. This year both teams have new coaches. How can shopping possibly compare?

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

December 25, 2011. Christmas.

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.

March 31, 2012. Inspection in the EA degree. Snacks served at 9am, Inspection starts at 10:00am.

April 13, 2012. 15^th District Grand Masters Reception. Held at the Huntsville Event Center, Huntsville, OH. Dinner scheduled to start at 7pm.

That sums up the information we have at this time. Be sure to dust off that ritual. Soon we’ll need your help in the MM degree!

See you at Lodge!

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And you thought summer was hot?

OK, we thought summer was hot too. But who thought September would still feature temperatures in the 90’s? So it has been in Ohio this year: one day blizzard, the next day flood. We hesitate to ponder the weather we will experience this coming winter. We are considering orders for ponchos, water wings, and snow shoes. And maybe a raft.

For our first meeting of the year we had anticipated an FC degree experience. Although that is still possible, it appears this will be delayed until a later meeting. Stay tuned for details as they become available. Instead, our Lodge Education Officer has promised a presentation that makes his previous efforts seem like warm-ups in comparison. Get there early for a good seat!

We have one Masonic Anniversary this month:

9-21-77……………Stephan Sigrist

We have several birthdays for September:

9-6………………..Scott Jackson

9-10………………Arthur Keirns

9-14………………Greg Rice

9-16………………Phillip Winslow

9-22………………Donald Redd

9-29………………Milton Lightfoot

The following are additional events for your calendar:

September 5, 2011. Labor Day. Celebrate those who have done the heavy lifting to make our country great.

September 7, 2011. First Stated Meeting after the summer break.

September 10, 2011. 15^th District Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/ . We have been requested to turn in a head count by Thursday, September 8^th. Please contact our Secretary if you plan to attend.

October 5, 2011. Stated Meeting. MM degree is tentatively planned.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio. For those who have never attended one, this would be a wonderful experience.

November 2, 2011. Annual Meeting of LaRue Lodge #463. Our Annual Meeting gives you the chance to make your thoughts known on the future leaders of our Lodge. You don’t have to accept an office to enjoy the evening, so we’ll count on seeing you.

November 8, 2011. Ohio’s General Election. They don’t call it participatory government for nothing. Make your vote count!

November 11, 1011. Veterans Day. This is the day to celebrate those who have placed their lives on the line for the freedoms we love. Don't take the opportunity just to thank a Veteran. Do take the opportunity to thank all the Veterans you encounter, whether in person or via social media. It will mean more to them than words can describe.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary Meeting, held at East Liberty Lodge #247 @ 9am. Attendance isn’t restricted to those holding the Secretary position. Considerable information is shared pertaining to future District and Lodge activities.

November 24, 2011. Thanksgiving. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Take time to give thanks for what you hold dear.

November 26, 2011. The Game. Since 1897 The Ohio State University has played the University of Michigan. Between them they have won 78 Big Ten Championships, and 18 National Championships. Long considered the country’s best college football rivalry, it is considered “must see TV” in both states. This year both teams have new coaches. How can shopping possibly compare?

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

December 25, 2011. Christmas.

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.

That sums up the information we have at this time. Be sure to dust off that ritual. Our next meeting is just around the corner!

See you at Lodge!

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Pass the Lemonade – It’s Hot!!!

We might have to be reminded again how awful the snow and cold temperatures felt last winter. Last week the high dipped into the upper 80’s, and some folks were wearing jackets! Fear not, the forecast for August ensures we will be seeing more of the 90’s than we have so far. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Although it is summer, Lodge related activities continue. At the end of July the first of eight presentations by the Deputy Grand Master, Kevin B. Todd, was held at University Lodge # 631. Our delegation returned with notes, handouts, and a survey form providing insight into the coming Masonic year. RWB Todd gave an excellent presentation, which included two video segments to illustrate points and activities. The entire schedule is included on the July 2011 post below. One is scheduled for every corner of the state, and those able to attend will have the opportunity to share thoughts and ideas with RWB Todd. Did we mention they have refreshments?

We have no Masonic anniversaries for the month of August. Not a great surprise, as Lodges are usually dark during the summer months. We do, however, have several who are celebrating Birthdays during August:

8-15…………Richard Hoover

8-18…………Larry Knapp

8-20…………William Bennett

8-22…………Don Kennedy

8-26…………Dave Allman

8-27…………Jeff Adkins

The following are additional events for your calendar:

September 5, 2011. Labor Day. Celebrate those who have done the heavy lifting to make our country great.

September 7, 2011. First Stated Meeting after the summer break. FC degree is tentatively planned.

September 10, 2011. 15^th District Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/ . Reservation information will be posted as soon as it is available.

October 5, 2011. Stated Meeting. MM degree is tentatively planned.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

November 2, 2011. Annual Meeting of LaRue Lodge #463. Our Annual Meeting gives you the chance to make your thoughts known on the future leaders of our Lodge. You don’t have to accept an office to enjoy the evening, so we’ll count on seeing you.

November 8, 2011. Ohio’s General Election. They don’t call it participatory government for nothing. Make your vote count!

November 11, 2011. Veterans Day. This is the day to celebrate those who have placed their lives on the line for the freedoms we love. Don't take the opportunity just to thank a Veteran. Do take the opportunity to thank all the Veterans you encounter, whether in person or via social media. It will mean more to them than words can describe.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary Meeting, held at East Liberty Lodge #247 @ 9am. Attendance isn’t restricted to those holding the Secretary position. Considerable information is shared pertaining to future District and Lodge activities.

November 24, 2011. Thanksgiving. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Take time to give thanks for what you hold dear.

November 26, 2011. The Game. Since 1897 The Ohio State University has played the University of Michigan. Between them they have won 78 Big Ten Championships, and 18 National Championships. Long considered the country’s best college football rivalry, it is considered “must see TV” in both states. This year both teams have new coaches. How can shopping possibly compare?

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

December 25, 2011. Christmas.

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.

That sums up the information we have at this time. Till the next time, remember to drink plenty of fluids, apply sun screen regularly, and dust off that ritual! Our next meeting will be here before you know it!

Stay cool!

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Its official – summer is here!

We’ve finally moved past the cold snow of winter, the watery tempest that was spring, and the flashes of oppressive heat and excessive wind that marked each transition. Summer at last!

June did not pass quietly, courtesy of four hundred Brothers who joined Grand Master Bradford A. Goebel on Friday, June 24^th. The occasion was to lead the Parade of Athletes at the opening ceremonies of the Ohio Special Olympics Summer Games. Grand Master Goebel presented a check for $200,000 from Ohio Freemasons to help sponsor the athletes who participated in this two-day event. The picture above is of the Grand Lodge of Ohio Officers (including Senior Grand Warden James Easterling, seen in the center of the "O," completing one of the items on his bucket list.) Thanks to all who contributed to this year’s Special Olympics, and to those who assisted SGW Easterling up from the turf.

We have no Masonic anniversaries for the month of July. Not a great surprise, as Lodges are usually dark during the summer months. We do, however, have several who are celebrating birthdays during July:

7-10…………Dan Hicks

7-17…………Stanley Foos

7-18…………John Mathew

7-21…………Tim Stapleton

7-24…………Howard Dean

7-24…………Clyde Schertzer

7-26…………Joshua Zachman

In addition to our customary calendar listings we have a special category. Deputy Grand Master Kevin B. Todd will conduct eight meetings across the state this summer to rollout the Grand Lodge Program for 2012. These meetings are intended to assist Lodges in planning for the next Masonic year and should be of interest to all active Masons. The dress code is business casual, and the meetings are held in an open-forum format. Attending one provides valuable insight into the ideas and activities coming down the road.

• Wednesday, July 13, 7:00 P.M.—Wayfarer Lodge No. 789, Akron
• Tuesday, July 19, 7:00 P.M.—Wick Lodge No. 481, Youngstown
• Friday, July 29, 7:00 P.M. —University Lodge No. 631, Columbus
• Saturday, July 30, 9:00 A.M.—Jefferson Lodge No. 90, Middletown
• Friday, August 12, 7:00 P.M.—Guernsey Lodge No. 66, Cambridge
• Saturday, August 13, 9:00 A.M.— Trowel Lodge No. 132, Jackson
• Friday, August 19, 7:00 P.M.—Findlay Lodge No. 227, Findlay
• Saturday, August 20, 9:00 A.M.—Temperance Lodge No. 73, Sidney

The following are additional events for your calendar:

July 4, 2011. Independence Day. Celebrate the birth of our country. Attend a parade, watch some fireworks, host a cookout, or just relax under the shade of your favorite tree. Whatever your chosen activity, take a moment to honor the sacrifices of those who have gone before us. You'll be glad you did.

September 7, 2011. First Stated Meeting after the summer break. FC degree is tentatively planned.

September 10, 2011. Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15^th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/

October 5, 2011. Stated Meeting. MM degree is tentatively planned.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary’s Meeting, held at East Liberty #247 @ 9am.

December 3, 2011. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

A special thanks to those who pointed out the calendar typos in the previous posts.

That’s all we have on the schedule for now. Be sure to take the opportunity to squeeze in some fun in the sun!

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According to the thermometer we’ve moved from spring to summer. Our activities also reflect the transition, even though the calendar doesn’t quite agree. Our full list of events is contained in our previous post, but we have some additional information to share regarding the Special Olympics.

The opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics will take place at OSU Stadium on June 24^th. Ohio Masons will lead the parade, gathering at 6pm at the southeast corner of the Stadium. Requested attire is white shirt and dark slacks. The first 500 Masons to register will receive a hat, and all will receive a special pin. There will be refreshments afterwards at the Recreational and Physical Activity Center (RPAC) near the southeast corner of the Stadium.

As you might imagine, the Special Olympics is a huge undertaking. In previous years there have been between 2500 and 3000 participants. This year it costs $140 to send an athlete to the Summer Games, and Masonic contributions are used to sponsor all athletes. Those wishing to donate can send a check to the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation. In the Memo space include your Lodge Number, and “Special Olympics” (Special Olympics - #463). Checks can be mailed to:

Grand Lodge F&AM of Ohio

Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation

PO Box 629

Worthington, OH 43085-0629

Some reminders are appropriate. First, all donations to the Charitable Foundation are tax deductible. Second, consider travel times carefully. Taking hints from those who attend OSU football games, traffic can be heavy and parking is never that close. Allowing a little extra time permits arriving relaxed and refreshed, and is much more fun than the alternative.

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We have several Masonic anniversaries for the month of June:

6-6-45………Joseph Spitzer

6-14-61……..Larry Knapp

6-6-62………Ralph Lee

6-4-75………Tom Hafer

6-7-78………Richard Peterman

6-6-79………Evan Clark

6-2-10………Tim Stapleton

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Here are those celebrating birthdays during June:

6-16…………Robert White

6-19…………Charles Randles

6-19…………Dan Stover

6-23…………Philip McCullough

6-30…………Theo McElheny, Sr.

We are now taking a break to enjoy the last of spring and the start of summer. As we ease through the heat and humidity, remember this is what we hoped for all last winter!

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Spring has sprung!

Spring finally sprung, and is giving way to the warmth of summer. Fields are drying, permitting farmers a chance to till and plant, and our thoughts turn from treading water to backyard cookouts. This week we did see one neighbor driving his tractor-mounted snow blower, but suspect he wasn’t listening to a local forecast.

Our last meeting before summer break featured several enjoyable aspects. The evening started with a fabulous meal prepared by our Senior Deacon, Dave Allman. It was more delicious than words can describe. Our meeting featured presentation of Masonic Service Awards to WB Larry Knapp (50+ years, right photo) and B. Terry Hafer (40+ years, left photo). Photos included with this post portray our WM Milton Lightfoot with these distinguished Brothers. B. Dan Hicks (40+ years) was also scheduled to receive an award but was unable to attend.

We moved on to a two-pronged Masonic Minute by our LEO, Rick Sigrist. The first portion was one of the Grand Lodge mandated Education Programs, the Two Wolves Parable (http://www.freemason.com/images/leo/two-wolves-parable.pdf). The second portion was a walk down memory lane for our award recipients. WB Rick presented minutes for the meetings at which each was raised to be a Master Mason. For Larry this was June 14, 1961, for Terry it was February 2, 1971, and for Dan it was March 17, 1971. Stories and recollections followed, which continued well into the social hour in the dining room.

Although we are “done” for a while, we have many calendar items for your consideration. Pull out your date book and mark it accordingly:

June 12, 2011. Ohio Masonic Home Day.

June 24-26, 2011. Ohio Special Olympics – State Summer Games. At the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Venue to be announced: http://www.sooh.org/events.php

July 4, 2010. Independence Day. Celebrate the birth of our country. Attend a parade, watch some fireworks, host a cookout, or just relax under the shade of your favorite tree. Whatever your chosen activity, take a moment to honor the sacrifices of those who have gone before us. You'll be glad you did.

September 7, 2011. First Stated Meeting after the summer break. FC degree is tentatively planned.

September 10, 2011. Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15^th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/

October 5, 2011. Stated Meeting. MM degree is tentatively planned.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary’s Meeting, held at East Liberty #247 @ 9am.

December 3, 1022. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

Until our next post, enjoy summer. It is a time to appreciate the flowers springing up everywhere, and an invitation to get out and get active again.

See you in the fall!

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April showers brought May flowers!

Since our last post we’ve been busy! Many of us have been dodging rains and hanging onto heavy objects to keep from being blown away in spring storms. Mowing has again become both an issue and a blessing. Locating pontoons for mowers has been difficult, but it is a sign that warm weather is finally arriving!

Since we are informally known as the Flood Capital of Ohio each passing storm causes us to watch the all too frequent rise and fall of the river. As residents of Kiwanis Village prepare to return after two months in limbo there are forecasts for additional thunderstorms. Hopefully those storms will bypass our area so the residents can return home, and get used to a “new” normal in familiar surroundings.

We have calendar additions to make, so pull out your date book and pencil these in:

May 4, 2011. Regular Stated Meeting, featuring the EA degree for a new candidate.

May 18, 2011. Regular Stated Meeting, featuring presentation of Masonic Service Awards. Dinner starts at 6pm, with the meeting at 7:30pm.

June 12, 2011. Ohio Masonic Home Day.

June 24-26, 2011. Ohio Special Olympics – State Summer Games. At the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Venue to be announced: http://www.sooh.org/events.php

September 7, 2011. First Stated Meeting after the summer break.

September 10, 2011. Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15^th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary’s Meeting, held at East Liberty #247 @ 9am.

December 3, 1022. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

As the following list indicates, we have several Masonic Anniversaries for the month on May:

5-7-52……..O.M. Roux

4-18-62……Howard Dean

5-20-64……Wayne Schaber

5-20-65……Richard Hoover

5-17-67……Michael Dutton

5-20-70……Rollie McElheny

5-20-70……Pearl Gamble

5-3-72……..Stanley Foos

5-15-74……Milton Lightfoot

5-18-78……Jeff Winslow

5-1-85……..Rod Lightfoot

5-15-10……Josh Zachman

Those celebrating birthdays in May are:

5-4…………Robert Lee

5-27……….Stephan Sigrist

Until our next post, enjoy spring. It is a time to appreciate the flowers springing up everywhere, and an invitation to get out and get active again.

Enjoy!

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We passed!

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OK, we’re not really bragging, just expressing relief. March was such a busy month, both for the Lodge and the community. The last day of February we had “The Flood”, which saw much of our community under water. Things dried out long enough to have our Pre-Inspection visitations, with “The Flood – Part 2” the following weekend. While many of us were pumping or cleaning, the rest of us held meetings, a MM practice, celebrated the newest recipient of the Grand Master’s Excellence in Youth Award, and conducted the MM degree on our newest candidate. A week later we conferred the MM degree for our annual inspection on a pro tem candidate for the pleasure of RWB Paul Robinson. To say we’ve been busy barely covers the situation.

As mentioned above, the 15^th District held its reception for the Grand Master of Masons in Ohio on March 25^th in Milford Center. It is always enjoyable sharing an evening with the leaders of our fraternity. This year we were pleased that one of our nominees, Ben McKinniss, was a recipient of the Grand Master’s Excellence in Youth Award. Ben is a senior at Elgin High school, and anticipates attending Ohio Northern University this fall. He has been active in sports as well as academics, 4-H, church and community activities, and serves as an excellent example of the qualities of character and leadership which form the basis of the award. We are especially pleased to note that for each of the past seven years a nominee from our Lodge has been a recipient of this recognition. While we would love to take credit for some part of this good fortune, we don’t deserve it. The real credit goes to the deserving youth that can be found in each of our communities.

Although Inspection season has ended for our District, plenty of activities remain. For a sample, please check out our calendar below:

January 15 through April 2, 2011. Inspection season. Finished!

April 15, 2011. Chester Lodge #238 spaghetti dinner from 5-7:30pm. $8 for an adult, $4 for a child.

April 28, 2011. Marion County Scottish Rite dinner, held at the Marion Masonic Temple. Dinner starts at 7pm, with presentations to follow. RWB Joseph Hickman and RWB Fred Somerlot will receive their 33^rd degree jewels that evening. RSVP requested.

April 30, 2011. Boggs #292 steak dinner from 4:30-7pm. $12.

June 12, 2011. Ohio Masonic Home Day.

June 24-26, 2011. Ohio Special Olympics – State Summer Games. At the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Venue to be announced: http://www.sooh.org/events.php

September 10, 2011. Annual Meeting, at Mt. Gilead #206 @ 9am.

September 11, 2011. 15^th District Awards Dinner, hosted by Oliver #447 at the Plaza Inn @ 6pm: http://www.plazainn.net/

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

November 12, 2011. 15^th District Secretary’s Meeting, held at East Liberty #247 @ 9am.

December 3, 1022. Past Master’s Convocation, held at Bellefontaine #209 @ 9am.

As the following list indicates, we have several Masonic Anniversaries for the month on April:

4-18-62……Howard Dean

4-2-65……..Don Redd

4-19-67……Richard Spracklen

4-5-78……..Arthur Knickel

4-4-79……..Ron Phillips

4-4-84……..Robert Everly

4-18-90……Brian Lightfoot

4-19-95……Randy Blue

4-27-02……Ted Williams

4-7-04……..Tom Tucker

4-9-05……..Charles McConnell

4-9-05……..Robert White

Those celebrating birthdays in April are:

4-7………...Arthur Knickel

4-10……….James Weist

4-14……….Terry Hafer

4-18……….Jeff Davis

4-26……….James Thuma

4-27……….Joseph Spitzer

We’re now taking a brief break from our activities to enjoy spring, appreciate the flowers poking through the ground, and the seed catalogues that fill the mail box. Till the next meeting, stay dry!

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Was It Something We Said, Buckeye Chuck?

As a result of his prognostication last month, we thought we were mere weeks from the sunny warmth of spring. Not so fast my friend! Over a 10-day period at the end of February we experienced two major snow storms, and record-breaking flooding. As one might expect the snow has all but disappeared with the rain, although piles are still present on roadsides and beside driveways. With waters again rising, we’ll keep our fingers crossed, and our boats at the ready.

On March 2^nd we were visited by RWB Paul Robinson, DDGM, and WB Frank Egelsky, DEO, who made it to the village between storms. The purpose was our pre-inspection audit and special presentations. According to their reports, everything was in order, and we were cleared for the next step in the process. WB Egelsky presented the Grand Lodge Education Program, a 20-questions-style questionnaire relating to the Masonic Code, Officer’s Handbook, and degree work. Very enjoyable, and educational. We were also pleased to learn that one of our nominees was selected as the recipient of the Grand Master’s Excellence in Youth Award for the 15^th Masonic District. Ben McKinniss will receive the actual award at the Grand Master’s Reception on March 25^th (see below). Those wishing to be present need to contact the Secretary for reservations.

We would like to share some background details on the recipient of this year’s Grand Master’s Excellence in Youth Award. Ben McKinniss follows in the steps of his older brother Tom, who was selected for this honor in 2007. We were unable to locate a comprehensive history of this award, but believe this is the first time siblings have been honored in this matter. We are also aware that with Ben’s selection, LaRue Lodge has nominated youth selected for this award for the seventh year in a row. As proud as we are of our involvement in the process, we remind the reader that this says less about us than about the quality of youth present in all of our communities. That’s something worthy of celebration!

Below are the new listings for birthdays and Masonic anniversaries.

Birthdays for March:
3-1…..………..Rollie McElheny

3-21..…………Brian Lightfoot

Masonic Anniversaries for March:
3-20-46…………..James Thuma

3-19-52.……….…Gene McMahan

3-2-60..……….….Randall Huffman

3-4-65…………….Cedric Radcliffe

3-16-66……….….Arthur Keirns

3-17-71……….….Dan Hicks

3-29-78………..…Greg Rice

3-18-81…………..Dan Stover

3-15-89…………..Rick Sims

3-29-03…………..Jeff Adkins

We constantly adjust our 2011 Calendar Listings. Make sure to check them out and plan accordingly. If you need a pocket calendar to keep track of important dates, check with the SW.


January 15 through April 2, 2011. Inspection season. Please refer to the 15^th District web site for specific dates, times, and locations.

March 11 & 12, 2011. State Secretary's Association Meeting, Worthington, Ohio.

March 16, 2011 @ 7:30pm. This is a Stated Meeting, and will feature MM practice for both our candidate and Inspection. Come if you can, as we can always use the help.

March 25, 2011 @ 7pm. The 15^th District Grand Master’s Reception. It will again be held at Karen’s Event Center, Marysville.

March 26, 2011 @ 10am. Special meeting for the conferral of the MM degree on our most recent candidate. Come if you can, as we can always use the help! This will be excellent practice for Inspection the following Saturday. See below.

April 2, 2011 @ 10am. Annual Inspection of LaRue Lodge for the pleasure of DDGM Paul Robinson, in the MM degree.

June 12, 2011. Ohio Masonic Home Day.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

That’s all that we know of for now. Since it is again raining, we’ll be spending the rest of the day working on pontoon boats.

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Bless you Buckeye Chuck!

It has already been a long cold winter. Thanks to the celebrated rodent prognosticator, we are assured that spring is a mere 6 weeks away. Using recent experience as a guide, we suppose that means 12 more significant snowfalls, and 6 more chances to lose power along with our footing. We shudder to consider the possibilities without the impact of global warming.

On the 2^nd we attempted to hold our regular stated meeting, but without effect. The five hearty souls who braved the weather shared travel experiences and mishaps, all of which will be more humorous when the bruises heal. When no additional members arrived, we headed back to our warm homes. Observing our progress on the sidewalk brought to mind Paul Simon’s popular tune, Slip Sliding Away, with a slightly erratic pace.

Much of the discussion on the 2^nd involved the concept of canceling meetings due to ice and snow, declared emergencies, or other exigent conditions. For this reason restating the procedure as it is known to us seems appropriate. Of the four Past Masters present, none recalled ever receiving permission from Grand Lodge to cancel a Stated Meeting. Over the years this issue has been addressed by several Grand Masters, and we know of no change in this position. For that reason, do not expect us to make an announcement canceling a Stated Meeting. That being said, we recognize there are situations where attempting to attend is not recommended. These include declared emergencies, hazardous conditions, and any situation where personal or family safety is an issue. We enjoy gathering for the fellowship on meeting nights, but firmly desire that no one is put at risk to do so. In the grand scheme of things, it is our membership that is important, not the meeting. ‘Nuf said.

Below are the new listings for birthdays and Masonic anniversaries.

Birthdays for February:
2-1…..………..Rod Lightfoot

2-2……………Tom Hafer
2-5….………...Phillip Weist

2-19…..………Don Adams

2-22….……….Jeff Winslow

2-24….……….Richard Spracklen

2-26…………..Randall Huffman
2-26….……….Richard Peterman

2-26….……….Tom Tucker

Masonic Anniversaries for February:
2-3-43……….….Theodore McElheny, Sr.

2-7-62……….….James Weist

2-6-63……….….Phillip McCullough

2-2-71.……….…Terry Hafer

2-6-85………..…Marvin Guider

2-14-87…………Charles Randles

2-26-00………….Jeff Davis

We constantly adjust our 2011 Calendar Listings. Make sure to check them out and plan accordingly. If you need a pocket calendar to keep track of important dates, check with the SW.


January 15 through April 2, 2011. Inspection season. Please refer to the 15^th District web site for specific dates, times, and locations.

March 11 & 12, 2011. State Secretary's Association Meeting, Worthington, Ohio.

March 25, 2011 @ 7pm. The 15^th District Grand Master’s Reception. It will again be held at Karen’s Event Center, Marysville.

March 26, 2011 @ 10am. Special meeting for the conferral of the MM degree on our most recent candidate. Come if you can, as we can always use the help! This will be excellent practice for Inspection the following Saturday. See below.

April 2, 2011 @ 10am. Annual Inspection of LaRue Lodge for the pleasure of DDGM Paul Robinson, in the MM degree.

June 12, 2011. Ohio Masonic Home Day.

October 14 & 15, 2011. Grand Lodge Annual Communication, held in Cleveland, Ohio.

That’s all that we know of for now. Taking a tip from Buckeye Chuck, we’re getting those sunglasses and wide brim hats ready for spring, but we’re going to hold off on the shorts and sandals!

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