What Happened to Summer?

It seems like last week we posted thoughts about our most recent candidate, our Masonic Service Awards event, and the Deputy Grand Master’s Roll Out Program.  Now all those are in our rear view mirror.  My how time flies!

Before moving on completely, including a few words about our weather is appropriate.  This summer we seem to have received our share of 90+ degree days, and possibly more.  This contributed to the drought we still experience, and was highlighted during the power outage in the area at the end of June.  For six days the Village was without power, ranging from a minor inconvenience for some, to a catastrophe for others.  Generators and folks who owned them became very popular during that stretch.  Although everyone has a favorite recollection or two of this period, some observations may not have caught their deserved attention.  Here are some of ours, in no particular order.

- Several businesses remained open, although with reduced hours or services.  Among these were the Post Office and Lynch’s grocery.

- Generators found their way to the homes of those with medical conditions, along with spare cans of fuel.

- Residents periodically checked on neighbors, just because.

- Work groups formed to assist persons unable to prepare food, providing them fresh meals throughout the outage.

- Families found that entertainment was possible without electronics.

- Smart phones and Face Book became the communication methods of choice to keep the community informed, creating links that are still maintained.

Often the media glosses over how communities take care of themselves in times of difficulty.  It is reassuring to know that our community does take care of each other, and does the right thing even when no one is looking. 

Our calendar is starting to become clearer as fall approaches.  Make sure to mark the following highlights in yours:

September 5, 2012 @ 7:30pm.  This is our first meeting after our summer break.

September 8 @ 9am.  Annual Meeting, held at Chester #238.  Valuable information is available at these meetings.  Topics include finalizing the 15^th District Inspection Schedule, recap of the Deputy Grand Master’s Rollout Program, and announcements pertinent to the Craft. 

September 9 @ 6pm.  15^th District Awards Dinner, held at the Plaza Inn, Mt. Victory.  Reservations are required by September 5th, and may be made by contacting our District Secretary at 740-225-1066, or by email at: jlbelt@earthlink.net

September 10.  Jim Perry Celebrity Golf Classic, Windy Knoll Golf Club

November 10 @ 9am.  District Secretary’s meeting held at Marion #70.  Not just for the Lodge Secretary, these meetings offer information and insight on future events.

December 1 @9am.  Past Master’s Convocation, held at Palestine #158.

January 12, 2013 @ 9am.  J.C. Musser Work Day, held at Mad River Lodge #161 in West Liberty, OH.

March 22, 2013 @ 7pm.  Grand Master’s Reception, held at Highland High School, hosted by Chester Lodge #238.  Ticket information will be shared when received.

March 23, 2013 @ 10am.  Inspection of LaRue Lodge #463 in the FC degree.  Snacks served at 9am.

That summarizes what we know for now. 

See you in Lodge!

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