2012, while still quite young, has already been eventful. The year started – appropriately – with a party. In this case, the fun featured duck-pin bowling and pizza in appreciation of the Rentschler Field concession workers. WB Chris Ramsey (not having anything to do after football season) arranged the party, which was attended by 25 or so. Creative victory strategies were witnessed on the boards (throwing gutter-balls into adjacent lanes) as well as on the score-sheets. While I don’t know who had the high score, I am confident in saying that everybody had a good time. The Lodge owes a terrific debt of gratitude to these volunteers, and especially to Chris for leading the team. The concession is a major source of our annual revenue, and we are always looking for volunteers – keep your eye on the website for updates. 

   The cannons were charged, aligned and fired many, many times at the January 19^th Table Lodge that was conducted jointly with Manchester Lodge #73. Nearly 70 brothers from a half-dozen lodges joined in the festive meal and traditional toasts that keep Freemasonry’s heritage alive and well. Brother Gary Arseneau, Deputy Grand Master, was guest of honor and provided most excellent training on “toast-timing” and an inspirational message as well. The Wardens of both lodges proved able leaders-of-men, but the consensus was that the Column of the South provided the more accurate fire. WB Steve Spencer did an amazing job of putting the whole thing together, and the Kitchen Crew, headed up by WB Dustin Wood, provided an outstanding meal and service to the diners. Special thanks are also due to the Brothers of Manchester Lodge and Worshipful Master Sandy Ostrinsky.

  Most recently, your officers showed the results of dedicated preparation and offered a fine Fellowcraft degree, which was most appreciated by all in attendance. I was impressed beyond measure by their presentation, and am very proud to be a part of that team.

  While there are many ways to look at these events, I am struck mostly by the common themes of friendly fellowship, education and fun. We all became Masons for different reasons, I believe that what keeps us coming back and dedicating so much to the Fraternity is that we enjoy it. We look forward to spending time with each other and learning more about our craft, our brothers and ourselves. I come away from each meeting with more knowledge, and the fact that it was gained in enjoyment makes it more permanent and easier to apply. Thank you all for your part in my growth – I hope you feel the same.

  More fun events are in the future: The Past Masters are presenting the Entered Apprentice degree in February, our annual Irish Night is in March, and of course, the Pancake Festival will be held on Palm Sunday, April 1^st.  And, I must add that planning for the annual lodge trip to Annapolis Lodge #89 in Maryland is well under way. The cost has been established at $325 per person and deposits are being taken by WM Steve Spencer.

  Brothers – take advantage of all that Masonry has to offer. The efforts are rewarded many times over!