It is officially Spring !

Yes, it still feels like winter to us.  Periods of cold and snow will do that.  The comfort (?) is that those periods aren’t as severe and don’t last as long as during the “official” winter.  Thank goodness!

It doesn’t seem like so long ago that our last post was made, but much has transpired.  We received the official notice that we passed our Inspection, which included many favorable comments.  Our degree work received positive mention, as well as the number of non-Past Masters in our Officer line.  We have many positives to build on, and are excited for the opportunities presented.

In the less-than-wonderful category was the continued plumbing issues experienced during our Inspection, and mentioned in our last post.  As with any project, as it progressed we found additional issues that required attention.  By the time the dust cleared, we had to replace commodes, sinks and faucets in each toilet, the water heater, install some cut-off valves, and replace the kitchen sink faucet set.  This time the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” is very appropriate.  We are pleased to say that now, everything that should, works.

The follow-up to the plumbing project was a number of serious discussions about fund-raising.  Although we have had enough to cover the bills, the recent past has heavily impacted our resources.  As examples, the most costly listings are these:

$3258.00  -  plumbing project

$  359.28  -  lift chair repair & batteries

$  375.00  -  drain repair

$3270.00  -  Mike’s Roofing for repair

$4361.00  -  lift chair & installation

                        ______________________________

                        $11,623.28  -  total

Final decisions on fundraisers have not been made, but the discussions are sure to be frequent for the near future.  It should also go without saying, but any donation to offset the impact of these expenses would be greatly appreciated.

Now, on to more pleasant things.

This year’s Grand Master, MWB Rick Schau, has placed a priority on recognition of our Veterans.  At the same time, the Grand Secretary, MWB C. Michael Watson, has been emphasizing maintaining accurate membership records, to include contact information.  To address both, we distributed a newsletter which included a questionnaire.  After permitting sufficient time to respond, we have scheduled an event to celebrate our members who are Veterans. 

Prior to our meeting on Wednesday, May 2, at 6:30pm, we will be having a dinner prepared by our Senior Steward, Mike Wells.  During the meeting following (7:30pm) we will be honoring those who have served, or are still serving.  RWB Willard Fissell, DDGM, will assist WB Brian Lightfoot in the presentations.  Following the presentations we will be viewing the video for the Replace Yourself program.  Reservations are not needed for the dinner.

As always, there are many items on the calendar.  The remaining Inspections can be viewed on the 15^th District web site (on the left).  Below are other items worthy of your consideration:

April 6, 2018             15^th District’s Grand Master’s Reception.  To be held at All Occasions in Waldo.  Gathering and Fellowship start at 6pm, with dinner and the program at 7pm.

April 29, 2018           Scottish Rite Valley of Dayton (525 W. Riverview Avenue, Dayton, OH 45405) has issued an invitation to their Open Installation of Officers, starting at 2pm.  Dessert bar to follow.

May 5, 2018              Mad River Lodge will be hosting a prime rib dinner from 5-7pm at the West Liberty Methodist church.  Cost is $16.00.  Tickets may be purchased at the door.

May 28, 2018            Memorial Day. 

Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day and it is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season.

June 10, 2018             Ohio Masonic Home Day, Springfield, Ohio.  See schedule link on the left side of this page.

June 22, 2018          Opening Ceremonies of the Ohio Special Olympics.  To be held at the OSU campus, Columbus, Ohio.

July 4, 2018              Independence Day.  Celebrate the birth of a nation! 

As of this date, 242 years and counting.

August 18, 2018      15^th District Past Presidents Golf Tournament.  Held at Kings Mills Golf Club (2500 Berringer Road, Waldo, OH). 

That’s the schedule as we know it for now.  See you at Lodge!