After checking our web site it became apparent that we haven't updated anything since ... Well, lets just say it's been a while. Not as long as the 15th District web presence, but that's a story for another time.
On November 1st we had our Annual Meeting, which loosely translates to "who wants (or doesn't want) an office this time?" With our Lodge size, generally this issue is resolved before the meeting actually starts. Not this time! In a very orderly fashion ballots were cast, counted, and results confirmed moments later. The results are reflected on the "Officers" tab.
The next thing was to decide when to work in the Installation festivities. In a stroke of genius it was decided to combine a catered dinner with Masonic Service Awards, followed by an Open Installation. Dinner was catered by The Plaza Inn, and we enjoyed our largest dinner crowd in years. After Lodge was called to Refreshment our guests were escorted in, first witnessing the Masonic Service Awards. Every organization is stronger due to the continued support and activity of its long-term members, and our Lodge is no different. This year we were able to recognize three 50-year members, one 45-year member, one 30-year member, and one 25-year member.
Each Award recipient present was given the opportunity to share thoughts and insights. Without exception, each noted the impact of fellow members on their Masonic journey. Older Brothers who, with time, became friends and mentors, were cited most frequently. One 50-year recipient brought his father's Masonic Bible, reading the names of members present when his father joined, with many of those also present when he joined years later. Shared experiences and continuity has helped many organizations thrive, and so it is with ours.
RWB Don Broadwater assisted WM Brian Lightfoot with certificates and pins for the 50-year presentations. In a different twist, the pins were actually applied by the spouse of each member.
Following the Awards presentations, WB Brian Lightfoot proceeded to install the officers elected and appointed for 2023-24. As they were installed, each officer assumed their station. In most cases that involved a different view of Lodge operations and responsibilities.
Many photos were taken during the evening, so we thought we'd share what we considered the best.
That's all we have to report for now. See you in Lodge!
