Brethren,
As my year as Master is rapidly coming to an end, I wanted to share a few thoughts. There were many things I wanted to accomplish during my year, but as you know, we’ve had a few unexpected events happen that have distracted me and required my time to attend to those issues. Some of the things I wanted to do this year were (in no particular order):
- Bring back the Trustleboard – I’ve heard from quite a few members, who are not able to make it to Lodge, who have asked why we decided to discontinue sending out the Trustleboard and requested that we bring it back in at least an electronic version. I agree. I think we need to bring it back and have it available to be read on-line. Many of our brothers can not physically attend lodge, but they still want to know what’s going on.
- Build a stronger relationship with the Easter Star – Over the years, our relationship with our sisters in the Eastern Star has become strained. I wanted to rebuild that kinship with them and have our Lodge support them in whatever way they need, just the way they have graciously supported us.
- Community Involvement – To be honest I’m not sure what we, as a Lodge, could do, but this was another item that I wanted to look into and see how we could help out in our community.
- Scholarships and Charity – I wanted to revive our scholarship program and help our youth who are trying to further their education. Even if it meant that we could only give a small amount, anything would help these kids go/stay in school. Bikes/Kindles For Books – Literacy is the foundation of learning. If we can give kids an incentive to read, they would have a great start. When I was in grade school, many years ago, my interest in reading came from my involvement in the Easter Seal Read-A-Thon contest that happened every year. I know first hand how an incentive program, like Bike/Kindles For Books, can change a life.
- Lodge Banner – As you’re probably aware of, our Lodge’s banner has been missing for a while. I’ve asked Brother Chris Purcell, who is a creative artist, to design a new banner for our lodge. I can’t wait to see our new banner.
- Degree work – Let’s face it, our membership is getting older. Many of the Brothers who are involved in our degree work have been doing it for many years (they’re our “veterans”), but time is taking it’s toll on them physically and mentally. Our younger Brothers, and myself, need to step up and learn these degree parts. We have an advantage of learning the floor work and memorizing lines if we utilize these “veteran” Brothers to help us. If we could all get together one night every couple of weeks, or at least once a month, and start learning these parts, it would be a great investment in our Lodge. I would even bring Pizza and drinks!
I wanted to tell each and every one of you a heart-felt thank you. I feel that, although our meeting attendance is low, we have a strong Lodge. It pleases me to see quite a few Brothers sitting on the side during our meetings. We have Brothers, who may not always attend meetings, show up at our functions. Our Lodge doesn’t have to “recycle” too many Past Masters to fill gaps in our officers’ chairs. That in it’s self is something that our Lodge can be very proud of. As for this years Lodge officers, I couldn’t have asked for a better line. All of you have done what’s been required of you, and then some. As you come up through the line, learn as much as you can. Take heart in your role as a Lodge officer. Attend as many trainings as you can. Remember why we’re here.
I hope that I have served you and our Lodge well.
Fraternally,
WB Steve Baker