The Times They are a Changing ...

 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Yes, it is that time of year.  Lights and decorations sparkle, both inside and out.  You are cautioned NOT to open packages that may arrive.  Wish Lists are solicited with an urgency seldom experienced.  There are more parties and gatherings to attend than anyone could imagine.  Stores can't stock enough wrapping paper.  And postal carriers backs bow under the weight of extra cards and packages.

Not forgotten, but occasionally placed on a back burner, are other important aspects of the season:  peace on earth; goodwill toward others; appreciation of the many blessings we enjoy.  Most would also include the idea that it is better to give than receive, which is especially important if discussing flu, colds, or Covid. 

Masonically, there are additional thoughts; Inspections, Work Days, and special events.  We have them all!

This information is customarily found on the 15th District web site.  Unfortunately, due to the temporary dysfunction of that web presence, we've had to explore other ways to disseminate the information.  Below are photos of the cards usually circulated at the Past Master's Convocation.  Included are the Inspection dates and degrees, the list of current District officers, and contact information for each of the Lodges within the District.

 

 

 

 

In other news, we have one more meeting before having to learn new habits, like including "2023" on checks and other documents.  January is considered a time of new beginnings.  Among them is the custom of New Year's Resolutions, which usually last until January 2nd.  But what is frequently missed is that we have an opportunity for a new beginning every morning.  Pen and paper are not required, just the intention to do something different or better.  What could be simpler?

Take time to enjoy what surrounds us, and remember the true reason for the season.

See you in Lodge!

150 years and counting ...

 La Rue Lodge #463 was honored this evening by the Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus. The Lodge was the recipient of the Benjamin Franklin Award of Distinction. Chartered on October 16, 1872, we recently celebrated 150 years in La Rue. Humbled by the recognition, we are proud to continue our presence and support of our community.

 

 

It’s FALL !!!

 

For all those who were too hot this summer, and desperately longed for the cooler temperatures of autumn, here you are!  As most “seasoned” folks will tell you, be careful what you wish for.

 

The 15^th District Annual Meeting is in the rear view mirror.  Although we’ve yet to receive copies of the Official Minutes, we did obtain access to a list of dates and events that might fit into your future.  Below is what we’ve gleaned:

  

November 4, 2022 – This date is important for several reasons. 

1 - It is the Annual Meeting of La Rue Lodge #463. 

2 – It is the deadline for receipt of dues for 2022-23.

3 – It is anticipated that we will have distinguished visitors from the Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus.  We are to be presented with their Benjamin Franklin Award, for Lodges observing their 150^th year.  (We know, we don’t look a day over 139.)

 

October 27-28, 2022 - 213th Annual Grand Lodge Communication, Columbus, OH. 

November 19, 2022 – 15^th District Education Meeting at 9am, Palestine #158.

December 3, 2022 – 15^th District Past Masters Convocation at 9am, Marion #70.

February 4, 2023 – JC Musser Workday at 9am, Oliver #447.

March 11, 2023 – State Secretaries Meeting

March 25, 2023 – La Rue #463’s MM Inspection.  Time and location to be determined.

April 9, 2023 – Easter

June 9, 2023 – 15^th District Grand Master’s Reception, hosted by Palestine #158.

June 10, 2023 – Reconsecration of Palestine #158 and Mad River #161.

June 11, 2023 – Ohio Masonic Home Day.

September 16, 2023 – 15^th District Annual Meeting at 9am, Marion #70.

September 17, 2023 – 15th District Awards Banquet.

November 18, 2023 - 15^th District Education Meeting at 9am, Mad River #161.

December 2, 2023 – 15^th District Past Master’s Convocation at 9am, Mt. Gilead #206.

 

In other news, we would like to mention (brag) a recent achievement.  At the 15^th District Awards Banquet we received recognition for the best 2022 FC Inspection.  That’s not something we take lightly, as all Lodges strive to do their best, especially during the Inspection process.  We are grateful to our officers and members who did the heavy lifting to make this possible.

 

That takes care of what we know for now.  As events unfold we will post details.

 

See you at Lodge!

 

 

 

 

 

What Happened to Summer?

We're not sure either.  It seems like it was just yesterday we were fussing with preparations for Memorial Day.  Then without warning, September arrived!  It came in so quickly, we didn't even post a reminder about our first meeting of the fall.  Yep, it's already happened.

 Our first meeting back came with much shock and discussion, preceded of course with pizza.  (No great decisions are made on empty stomachs.)  We had discussions on several major topics:

 - Our 2022-23 Inspection is in the MM degree.  That poses many issues for a Lodge our size - no surprise there.  Two additional issues are our present location and specific degree requirements.  Our future in our present setting is firm through 2022.  After that, we have more questions than answers.  The specific degree requirements are always a concern for smaller Lodges.  We've "made do" in the past, and anticipate being able to do so again.

 - The 15th District Annual Meeting is on Saturday, September 17, at Boggs Lodge.  At that meeting many things are announced and decided, including establishing the Inspection Schedule for the coming year.  In our unique circumstance, we came up with proposals that will be presented, and hopefully approved.  If not, we still have our trestle board to document adjustments.

- The 15th District Awards Banquet will again be held at The Plaza Inn, Mt. Victory.  The date is Sunday, September 18, at 6pm, and reservations are required by the 12th.  No, we don't anticipate receiving any awards or special recognition.  However, the food and fellowship are enough to justify attending.

- We voted on a petition for membership.  The vote being favorable, we anticipate an EA degree presentation at our meeting on the 21st.

- We were treated to a masterful Education program by our LEO.  Of course we are used to this by now.  But really, how many LEO presentations end with those present asking for more?

That pretty well wraps up how our first meeting back went.  Till the next time,

                      See you in Lodge!

  

Deputy Grand Master - Rollout Programs for 2022

 As sure as the sun rises and sets, things change.

We thought we had our calendar full already, as indicated in our previous post.  Today we were alerted to the full schedule for the Deputy Grand Master Rollout Programs for 2022.  To borrow from the announcement, we've copy-and-pasted the following:

***************************************************

Deputy Grand Master Rollout Program Dates - 2022
11 Locations Scheduled
• August 7, Huber Heights Lodge #777; 1 p.m.
• August 7, Amelia Lodge #590; 7 p.m.
• August 8, Scioto Lodge #6; 7 p.m.
• August 9, Paramuthia Lodge #25; 7 p.m.
• August 10, Guernsey Lodge #66; 7 p.m.
• August 11, University Lodge #631; 7 p.m.
• August 13, Lima Lodge #205;1 p.m.
• August 13, Ashland Lodge #151; 7 p.m.
• August 14, Canton Lodge #60; 1 p.m.
• August 14, Quarry Lodge #382; 7 p.m.
• August 17, Toledo-Ft. Industry Lodge #144; 7 p.m.

 

The Deputy Grand Master, RWB Steven M. Grindle, has planned to hold several meetings this summer to roll out plans for the 2022-2023 Masonic year.

All Ohio Masons are invited to attend, especially those anticipating serving as Worshipful Master or Warden of their lodge. DDGMs, DEOs, District Advisors, Grand Lodge Officers, and Past Grand Masters are encouraged to attend a session.

These meetings are scheduled for the month of August, so
the Brethren should feel free to attend comfortably dressed, for
example Polo Shirt and Dockers, etc.

While a planned agenda will be followed, these sessions are
to allow the Deputy Grand Master to hear your concerns as well as
the Lodges to hear of his planning and expectations for the next
Masonic year.

A tiled meeting will not be opened. All members and their ladies are invited to attend, especially lodge officers.

***************************************************

You will note that the above schedule does not include stops in every District.  It does, however, provide ample opportunity to attend one relatively close to your area.  Having attended many of these presentations, this is an excellent opportunity to speak to and learn from one of the leaders of the fraternity.  And what better way to "pull aside the curtain" so your spouse has an appreciation for what you do on so many evenings?   

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

See you in Lodge!

Is it summer yet?

 

 

We’ll admit it - we are ready for warm(er) weather.  Not the "100+ degrees in Texas" version, but the warm days and cool nights of Ohio.  And what will this summer bring for us?  Considering all the possibilities, right now we'd settle for "average", whatever that is. 

With Inspection season finally over (yes, it seems to take years to squeeze in 11 Inspections), we are turning our attention to other activities.

First is a reminder of the calendar as we currently know it:

 

May 30th - Memorial Day.  Yes, it is a holiday, but a somber one.  It is an opportunity for us to honor those who gave their lives for our country.

June 11 @ noon is the 15th District Grand Master's Reception Picnic at West Liberty Lyon's Park.  Contrary to the image of pomp and circumstance usually associated with a Grand Master's Reception, this one is casual - like a picnic!  It is a great opportunity to interact with Grand Lodge Officers, getting to know the person, not just the title.

July 4th - Independence Day.  This commemorates the passing of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.  Parades, fireworks, cookouts, and draping everything in red, white, and blue is how we think of it now.  In 1776, it was a day that changed the world. 

August 20 @ 7:30am is the 15th District Golf Outing.  Held at Kings Mills Golf Club, Waldo, Ohio.  You don't have to play golf to enjoy the day.  Reportedly, there are those who walk the course with the players, occasionally coughing (yelling!) during a putt, kicking a ball into a water hazard, or stepping on a ball in a sand trap.  It's all about fun and fellowship!

September 5th - Labor Day.  Becoming a federal holiday in 1894, Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of the American worker.  Those who do the heavy lifting to keep things working have earned this recognition. 

September 7 @ 7:30pm is our first meeting of the fall.  It is anticipated that we will have petitions to review, and the EA degree to practice.  Refreshments?  We'll know closer to the date.

September 17 @ 9am will be the 15th District Annual Meeting at Boggs #292.  Among other things discussed will be finalization of the 2023 Inspection schedule.  Will there be doughnuts?  Possibly.  Will it be exciting?  Depends on your definition of exciting.  Will a recap be made available on the 15th District site for those who can't attend?  Holding your breath on this is not recommended.

September 18th @ 6pm will be the 15th District Awards Dinner.  It will be held at The Plaza Inn, Mt. Victory, Ohio.  Even if your Lodge didn't win something (after all, this isn't youth soccer), the food and fellowship are enough to justify attending.

November 11th - Veterans Day.  This a day to express gratitude to America's service members, past and present, who served in both war and peace. 

November 19th @ 9am is the 15th District Fall Education Meeting, to be held at Palestine #158.  This is usually a fun, exciting, and informative session.  Yes, doughnuts are usually involved.  

November 24 - Thanksgiving Day.  Observed in North America, this is meant to celebrate the harvest season, as well as the other blessing of the year.  Yes, that means there is more to the holiday than turkey and football.

December 3 @ 9am will be the 15th District Past Master's Convocation, to be held at Marion #70.

 

The last topic is one that pops up every spring - What do we do during summer?  That answer is much longer than the question might indicate.

Lodges traditionally "go dark" (don't meet) during the months of July and August.  In our particular location, with a largely agrarian populous, June also poses challenges.  For years we have not had sufficient attendance in June to conduct business.  It is clear that our necessary vocations are not to be neglected, and just as clear that we are not permitted to "cancel" meetings.  Where does that leave us?  Call before you come, unless you are bringing lots of friends.

That summarizes what we are looking at for the present.  As additional information becomes available we will post it.  Till next time, 

See you in Lodge!