Spring!?!?!?!

How can that be?

Only in Ohio can you have sunny 70 degree days in winter, followed by snowy 19 degree days in spring.  Or at least that is how it seems most times.  The weather has been unpredictable, at least according to the local prognosticators.  Our favorite weather-related headline of the season?

“We face 'new normal' of extremes.”

Meteorologists everywhere salivated when that headline broke.

Although we have been huddling close to the fire enjoying the advent of spring, we have stayed busy.  One of our larger projects is one that has a low profile, but which has much potential. 

Over the past several years Lodge operations and communications have slowly migrated to a digital format, replacing many of the files and ledger books with digital equivalents.  Although we still create and preserve paper documents, including meeting minutes, most have a digital origin or equivalent.  This shift has allowed for greater sharing of appropriate information, more flexible access when requested, and more timely responses to requests.  It also permits multiple backup copies, stored in multiple locations, with very little effort.

A key component of this process has been the MORI system (Masonic Online Registry Interface) offered through the Grand Lodge of Ohio.  First used by the Grand Lodge of New York, this system integrates finances, mailings, and Lodge member information.  It automates time-consuming functions and provides a mechanism to track activity over a lifetime.  The individual Lodge is only required to have a computer with internet access, as the program and information are stored on servers designated for Grand Lodge.  To facilitate this process, the Lodge purchased a laptop, which has already proven handy. 

The most recent instance was a time sensitive question to be posed to a District Officer.  During the meeting the District Officer in question was emailed, with a timely response received shortly after.  During the brief interlude the member disclosed that his contact information had changed.  After logging onto MORI the correct information was entered and was immediately available.  The total time for this?  Less than 10 minutes, without postage or carbon paper.  Although this doesn't simplify every function, it allows us to shift our focus on other concerns.

As a further note on electronic communications, information dispersed by Grand Lodge and the 15^th District has slowly shifted toward email and web sites.  Use of email has become more frequent for meeting notices, invitations, and time sensitive information.  Web sites such as are used by the Grand Lodge and 15^th District, and our own Lodge, are increasingly used throughout Masonry.  Frequently they convey details for projects and activities, Lodge Education materials, and numerous forms, such as petitions for membership.  A few even permit notification to subscribers when their content changes, but many don’t.  For this reason, we encourage you to frequent those links on the left of our page to stay up to date.

A topic new this year is the Pay It Forward program implemented by the Grand Lodge.  It formalizes an old activity, assisting others to join the fraternity, but expands the scope significantly.  The content below further explains the program, and is borrowed from the Grand Lodge site:

Pay it Forward Program gives the Gift of Freemasonry

The Pay It Forward program allows a person to donate up to $150 towards the initiation fee of a specifically named individual to be used at any Ohio Lodge or to donate up to $150 to a specific lodge, which can use it for any future petitioner.

For example, the program will allow a Mason to donate towards the future initiation fee of his nephew, who would be able to petition any Ohio lodge with the amount his uncle’s donation going towards the initiation fee, or a Mason may donate to benefit a specific lodge, which will choose which future petitioner should benefit from the gift.

The Process

An individual donates up to $150 through a local lodge and completes the Pay it Forward form, specifying either a specific future petitioner or a specific lodge. The lodge immediately forwards the donation and form to the Grand Secretary. The Grand Secretary will issue to the donor a Pay It Forward certificate in the name of the specified future petitioner or a certificate to the specified lodge for the unnamed future petitioner. Upon notification of the death of the donor or at any other time at the request of the donor, the Grand Secretary will send a letter and a copy of the certificate to the individual named on the certificate, notifying him of the wishes of the donor.

“The Pay It Forward program simply formalizes a very old custom,” explained Grand Master Easterling. My father paid for my initiation fee when I joined National Lodge, and towards the end of his life, he gave me an hundred dollar bill to keep for my brother. I carried that bill in my wallet until he expressed an interest to join. I am very excited that this program has been created, allowing more individuals to benefit”

As our final concern for this posting, we have a new list of activities for your calendar.  It promises to be a busy time.

April 17, 2013           Masonic Service Awards.  Dinner at 6:30pm, Lodge opens at 7:30pm.
 

April 22, 2013.         Masonic Night at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus.  This is a Blue Lodge event rather than a Shrine event.  Doors open at 6:00pm, with Lodge opening at 6:45pm.  Bring your dues card!  Aprons will be available, but bring your own if possible.  The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the MM degree by the Aladdin Past Masters Unit.  Refreshments will be served following.

June 9, 2013.           Ohio Masonic Home Day, in Springfield, OH.  Program details will be available at http://freemason.com// .

June 28, 2013.         Ohio Special Olympics opening ceremonies at the Jesse Owens Sports Complex at the OSU campus in Columbus. 

September 4, 2013.                        First meeting of the fall.

September 7, 2013.                        Annual Meeting of the 15^th Masonic District.  Held at Oliver #447 at 9am.  This meeting establishes the dates and events for the coming year, and is open to all members.

September 15, 2013.          15^th District Awards Night.  Held at the Plaza Inn, Mt. Victory, at 6pm, hosted by LaRue #463.

November 9, 2013.             15^th District Secretary Meeting.  Held at Mt. Gilead #206 at 9am.  Attendance is not restricted to Lodge Secretaries.

December 7, 2013.             15^th District Past Master’s Convocation.  Held at East Liberty #247 at 9am.

  That is the list as we know it.  We will be posting information regarding our Service Awards program as soon as it is available.  If you know of other dates that should be included, please contact us.

See you in Lodge!

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Happy New Year!

OK, that greeting is slightly belated, but we’ve been busy.  Since our last posting we’ve experienced numerous parades, the 12 days of Christmas, 24 days of college bowl games, and New Year’s Eve celebrations that found most of us exhausted by 10:30pm.  Both the gift-giving and gift-returning seasons are now in our rear view mirrors, and while college football continues with a flurry of all-star games, those are quickly winding down too.  What does that mean for us?  Time to get back to work!

With the J.C. Musser Work Day now behind us, Inspection season starts in earnest this weekend at Mt. Gilead #206.  As indicated, our inspection is March 23rd, and the last inspection of the season is listed as April 13 at Bellefontaine #209.  The full schedule is listed on the 15^th District web site, available through the link on the left.  Please check their information frequently for updates or adjustments, as changes are posted whenever they are received.

There are dates on our calendar of note.  Obviously our Inspection is one of the more important, but the Grand Master’s Reception for the 15^th Masonic District occurs the same weekend.  This year it will again be held at the Huntsville Events Center in Huntsville, Ohio, on Friday, March 22nd.  Ticket information is not yet available, but details should be shared soon.  For those who have never attended, this is an opportunity to meet and mingle with the Grand Lodge officers and their ladies, as well as members and officers of other Lodges within the 15^th District.  It is a great opportunity to talk to those responsible for guiding the craft, and receiving personal insight into what goes on behind the scenes.  With the recent relocation of the Grand Lodge office to the Springfield Masonic Center, this will certainly be one of the more active topics.

One of our favorite segments of the Grand Master’s Reception is presentation of the Grand Master’s Excellence in Youth Award.  This is given to a young person who displays the qualities of leadership, character, and community involvement which are prized by our fraternity.  This year we were pleased to nominate two young people for consideration of this award, feeling they are certainly deserving of this recognition.   

For those who have not kept track at home, we have had considerable good fortune with previous nominations.  Our track record reflects that for 8 consecutive years a young person nominated by our Lodge has been selected for this award. We would love to take sole credit for such an accomplishment, but can’t.  The real credit is due to the young people, supported by their parents and families, who choose to display the qualities of character and community involvement which are the focus of the award. While each community has them, we are pleased to assist in seeing ours receive proper recognition.

Frequent readers will recall discussions on the MORI system adopted by Grand Lodge several years ago.  It allows Lodges to track membership information, and provides a convenient method of organizing the financial aspects of Lodge operation.  We have participated since its introduction, and have attended a variety of training opportunities on the topic.  Last year participation in this system became mandatory for all Lodges in Ohio, rather than voluntary.  The resulting changes in our operation have been subtle but steady.  Previously during meetings, all member information could be obtained by opening the proper file drawer and selecting the correct folder.  Now that is not the case.  With implementation of the MORI system, internet access is required to perform the same functions or retrieve information. 

At the first meeting in January the Lodge voted to obtain a new laptop computer to assist with the MORI activities, and to investigate the options for internet access for our Lodge.  Although we are only in the initial phase at this time, we hope to have things in place soon to take full advantage of MORI’s many features.  During our implementation discussions a member brought up the humble beginnings of our Lodge.  He told us to think back to that group of Brothers huddled in the covered bridge on their way home from Richwood in the early 1870’s.  Imagine the looks on their faces had they been able to see the flickering screen of a laptop bringing images from around the world, or pulling up their membership information by striking a few keys.  It makes you wonder what the next 140+ years will bring.

At our next meeting (or three) we will be practicing the FC degree in preparation for Inspection.  Shortly after we will be scheduling a Masonic Awards program, complete with dinner.  We will post the dates as soon as they are determined.  Until then,

See you at Lodge!

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Merry Christmas!

Can it possibly be?

Christmas is only 14 days away?

Where has the time gone?

To quote a previous post, Thanksgiving has passed and the last of the turkey has (finally) disappeared. The expanded edition of Black Friday is over, although the scent of pepper spray lingers in the air. The Super-Sized version of 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.  It was not enough for purists, but more than enough for those Florida-bound.  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.

Here is the calendar as we know it at the moment.

December 20, 5-8pm.  LaRue’s Christmas in the Village.  This is the annual celebration in downtown La Rue. It is certainly a family-friendly event, starting with a parade at 5pm. 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.  Don’t forget the reason for the season.

December 31, 2012.  New Year’s Eve. 

It’s not too late to select a Designated Driver!

January 1, 2012. New Year’s Day.  The day when the resolutions meet the treadmill.  Or not.

January 2, 2013 @ 7:30pm.  This is our first meeting of 2013.

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 the Huntsville Events Center, Huntsville, Ohio.  Ticket information will be shared when received.

March 23, 2013 @ 1pm.  Inspection of LaRue Lodge #463 in the FC degree.  Snacks served at noon.

Make sure to update your personal calendar!

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

Pace yourself!

See you at Lodge!

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Welcome to November!

It has been a busy month, and we’re just getting started.  The largest news item is our election of officers for 2012-2013.  At the bottom of this post is the entire list of elected and appointed officers.  Our calendar listings have had some adjustments, and we learned some new information at the 15^th District Secretary Meeting. 

The question most often asked each year is about a Grand Master’s One Day Class for new members.  The answer is “YES” for 2013, but details are not immediately available.  It appears the classes will be held at several locations throughout the state during the months of April and May.  The locations already identified to us are the meeting locations of the Scottish Rite Valleys in Ohio.  Full information will be made available at the Past Masters Convocation in December. 

Another area of interest is the Grand Master’s Reception.  This year it is scheduled for the Huntsville Events Center, which was also the location last year.  For 2014 the District is taking a fresh look at this event.  Although not publicized, the date has been established, leaving only the location unsettled.  Due to the size and shape of our District this is not a decision without ramifications.  If you are aware of a business suitable for hosting this event, it is suggested you contact the District Advisor with the particulars.

Here is the calendar as we know it at the moment.

November 17 @ 7:30pm.  Installation of RWB Charles Buck as DDGM and WB Matthew Pollock, DEO.  Ceremony to be held at Marion Lodge #70.

November 21 @ 7:30pm.  Installation of our elected and appointed officers for 2012-2013.   This will be a closed installation, with WB Mark Wamack presiding.

November 22.   Thanksgiving.  Our country’s celebration is generally considered to have started in 1621.  That year 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.  Only 242 years later President Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.  However you celebrate, take time to appreciate the things most important in your existence.  We’re sure you’ll be glad you did.

December 1 @ 9am.  Past Master’s Convocation, held at Palestine #158.  This is now being publicized as the “15^th District 2012 Past Masters Instruction Convocation”.  A major change this year is that all in attendance will participate in the educational and informational sessions.  Only the last portion of the meeting will be restricted to actual Past Masters.

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 the Huntsville Events Center, Huntsville, Ohio.  Ticket information will be shared when received.

March 23, 2013 @ 1pm.  Inspection of LaRue Lodge #463 in the FC degree.  Snacks served at noon.

Make sure to update your personal calendar!

2012-2013 Officers / Elected and Appointed

Dave Allman, Worshipful Master
Brian Lightfoot, Senior Warden
Gene McMahan, Junior Warden
Rick Sigrist, Treasurer
John Mathew, Secretary
Milton Lightfoot, Senior Deacon
Cedric Radcliffe, Junior Deacon
Pearl Gamble, Senior Steward
Larry Knapp, Junior Steward
Richard Spracklen, Tyler
O. M. Roux, Chaplain
Rick Sigrist, Lodge Education Officer
.
For the coming year, the following will serve as trustees:
Pearl Gamble
Cedric Radcliffe
Brian Lightfoot
Rick Sigrist
Richard Spracklen
.
That summarizes what we know for now. 

See you in Lodge!

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Halfway Through Fall? How Did That Happen?

After reading our last post it is obvious our attention was elsewhere this fall.  September came and went, as did most of October.  As we close in on November we’ll try to catch up.

Many changes have occurred since our last post.  We now have a new set of Grand Lodge officers, led by MWB James F. Easterling, Jr.  At the level of the 15^th District we have even more changes.  WB Bruce Seaburn is our District President, and WB Travis Lance is the new VP.  RWB John Crabbe has stepped down as Treasurer, being replaced by RWB Larry Lance.  RWB Charles Buck has replaced RWB Paul Robinson as DDGM, and we have two new DEOs:  WB Matthew Pollock and WB Michael Dodds.  Rarely has our District experienced such a large leadership change.  Our congratulations and best wishes go out to each, along with our appreciation for jobs well done by their predecessors.

Our calendar has had some adjustments since our last post also.  Some meeting dates have changed, as well as the starting times.  We’ve also added some events, so make sure to check out the entire list.

November 3 @ 9am.  District Secretary’s meeting held at Marion #70.  Not just for the Lodge Secretary, these meetings offer information and insight on future events.

November 6 from 6:30am until 7:30pm.  Election Day.  Vote! Discharging this responsibility only takes minutes, but is one of the basic features of our democracy.  It is called participatory government for a reason.

November 7 @ 7:30pm.  Annual Meeting and election of officers for 2012-13.  You don't have to take an office to attend, neither does staying home keep you from being considered. 

November 10 @ 7pm.  Installation of RWB Michael Dodds as DEO at Boggs Lodge in DeGraff. This is an open installation,so bring your wives and family.  Light snacks will be served.

 

November 17 @ 7:30pm.  Installation of RWB Charles Buck as DDGM and WB Matthew Pollock, DEO.  Ceremony to be held at Marion Lodge #70.

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 the Huntsville Events Center, Huntsville, Ohio.  Ticket information will be shared when received.

March 23, 2013 @ 1pm.  Inspection of LaRue Lodge #463 in the FC degree.  Snacks served at noon.

That summarizes what we know for now. 

See you in Lodge!

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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Almost Summer!

We are pleased to announce completion of the degree work for our newest member.  With the assistance of Brethren from Marion #70 and Latham #154 we raised a new MM at our second meeting in May.  Although each visitor and honorary member contributed greatly to the experience of our candidate, we value their friendship and fellowship even more.   

As we near our traditional break, the weather assures us summer is truly just around the corner.  Even though we have had a busy spring, we still have some business to handle before we start sipping lemonade in the hammock.  Our meeting on June 6^th will feature a dinner at 6pm, and presentation of our Masonic Service Awards during the meeting.  This year we are pleased to have two (2) 60-year presentations, both to current officers!  Yes, they are both Past Masters, but both continue their active support of the Lodge.  The full breakdown is as follows:

           

Two Members           60-years of Masonic Service

Three Members         50-years of Masonic Service

One Member             40-years of Masonic Service

            Two Members           35-years of Masonic Service

            One Member             25-years of Masonic Service

The dinner menu had not been established as of this writing, but it is sure to be good as our SW is in charge of the arrangements.  We are sure this will add to his string of extraordinary culinary delights.  No reservations are needed, so come!

Summer calendar listings are a combination of fun activities and useful information.  Our customary listings are toward the bottom of this post.  We are using this spot to recommend the presentations scheduled by the Deputy Grand Master describing his intended programs for 2013.  Borrowing from the Spring 2012 edition of The Beacon, here is the pertinent information:

Deputy Grand Master James F. Easterling, Jr. will offer sessions around the state to rollout the Grand Lodge programs for the 2013 Masonic year. These sessions will provide Lodge officers and members information they need to plan for the next Masonic year in coordination with the Grand Lodge programs. Attire for these meetings is business casual.

June 16, 9 AM, Aurora Lodge #48

June 23, 9 AM, Guernsey Lodge #66

July 11, 7 PM, Canton Temple

July 19, 7 PM, Cortland Lodge #529

July 23, 7 PM, Quarry Lodge # 382

July 25, 7 PM, Mansfield Temple

July 28, 6 PM, Jeffersonville Lodge #468

Aug. 10, 7 PM, Bellvue Lodge #273

Aug. 11, 5 PM, Hiram Lodge #18

Aug. 18, 9 AM, Paramuthia Lodge #25

Aug. 31, 7 PM, Temperance Lodge #73

Sept. 7, 7 PM, Browning Masonic Home

Sept. 8, 5 PM, Amelia Lodge #590

Here are our customary calendar listings:

Wednesday, June 6^th, we will host a dinner at 6pm.  Although the menu was not established prior to this post, rumor has it our SW will be concocting something special for the evening.  The inspiration for the evening is presentation of our Masonic Service Awards.  This year we have two recipients for a 60-year award, three recipients for a 50-year award, one for a 40-year award, two for a 35-year award, and one for a 25-year award.  This is remarkable for a Lodge of our size.  Please come and join our celebration.

Sunday, June 10th.  Home Day at Springfield Masonic Community

June 16 @ 1 o'clock.  Mad River #161 will be holding their annual golf outing at Blues Creek in Marysville.  For the sum of $40 you will receive 18 holes of golf, a cart, a sandwich, chips and a pop. Questions can be directed to 567-674-1700.

June 22-24.  Ohio Special Olympics, held at the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. 

July 28.  Browning Masonic Community Car Show at Pray Park

September 8 @ 9am.  Annual Meeting, held at Chester #238.  Valuable information is available at these meetings.  Topics include establishment of 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.

That summarizes what we know for now. 

See you in Lodge!

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