Washington and Henry Lodge 344 News

May 2012

From the Master

Brethren,

It was nice to have such a good turnout for our April stated. Another excellent meal was prepared for the best stewards committee in all of Freemasonry, and served by the loveliest ladies in any Eastern Star chapter in existence. These folks have taken good care of us over the years, and we can never thank them enough. If you haven't been to a stated lately, try to make plans to join us in May, where we will recognize another group of under appreciated people, at our annual law enforcement recognition night.

While our lodge continues to grow with the approval of both a petition and an application for affiliation, I believe some eyes were opened (I know mine were!) by our Jr. Deacon/District Education Officer, Bro. Dale Jordan. Dale gave an excellent presentation on what the future of our craft may hold if we don't find a way to attract a younger membership, and retain them through a mentoring program. Dale began by asking all sixty-seven in attendance to stand, and then telling those over fifty to again be seated. There were only nine left standing! While this is a concern for all lodges, not just Washington and Henry, we need to be looking at ways to address this sooner, rather than later. We also discussed something that is long overdue, and that is the need to evaluate, and possibly replace the sound system. If the brethren can come out to the meeting, the least we can do is to make sure they can hear what is being said. We hope to have something to report at the next stated.

Hope to see you all in lodge soon,
Jimmie

From the West

Behold another month here and gone as we head on into what looks to be a plentiful summer. As we go full on into our summer time routine it's easy to get distracted from our work, but as always, forget not the duties brethren. If you haven't come out to lodge in a while and feel a bit left out, just stop on by for a welcome reception and good fellowship with friends and brothers. We've been blessed with an amazing turnout this year for our stated communications.

Don't hesitate to drop us a line for one of our upcoming called communications as well, we can always use the help and we guarantee you will have a great time! Take care and be safe brethren.

Fraternally yours,
Richard Dibble

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From the South

Brethren,

Spring is here and the race is only two weeks away...please come out and support your lodge by volunteering at the racetrack. Also, remember that we have a lot of degree work coming up so plan to attend as many called communications as you can. Brother Dale's talk reminded us all of our responsibility to the lodge and especially our new brothers. Come out and show your support and become a mentor. I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Fraternally,
John O'Dell

From the Blood Drive Chair

Brethren,

The Lodge held its annual blood drive on Saturday, March 24. The Drive was a big success. A preliminary count shows we had 25 donors, three were deferred and 22 units of blood was collected. Brethren, we had folks waiting in line to give blood at 8:00 a.m. when the bus doors opened. The participation by our members, families and friends made this a very memorable event hosted by the grand Lodge of Mechanicsville, Washington & Henry.

Thanks for your support
Wor. Carter H. Brown

From the RACE Committee

Brethren,

The RIR races are just around the corner. Mark your calendar. April 26, 27 and 28. We will be ushering three races this year and will need all the help we can get. Please talk it up with everyone you know and would like to know and get with me so I can put together a head count for Wor. Winston Robinson. My email address is Hfeild at msn.com , My cell number is 804-366-3502, my Office # is 804-798-3555 and Home is 804-550-3561.

As of now I have 30 spots to fill and time is getting close. CALL ME ASAP

Bro. Harry Feild.

From the Secretary

Brethren,

Please again take notice that 2012 dues will be $80.00 dollars due on or before January 1st 2012. If you have already paid please remit the extra ten dollars to the lodge. I would like to thank the officers and members of our lodge for their help and support this year. This past year we have seen many adversities come to past. But remember do not let the troubles of today pull us apart but unite and cement us in a bond of brotherly love and affection. Let not what we have lost be on our only thoughts but remember what our Heavenly Father has provided for us and blessed us with. May God bless you and have a safe and happy Holiday Season.

Thank You
Robert W. Harvie

From Worthy Matron Order Of The Eastern Star

Brethren,

Mechanicsville Chapter #138, Order of the Eastern Star is looking for new members to join our Chapter. It is a Fraternal Organization for Master Masons and Ladies who are related to Master Masons. We meet the fourth Thursday each month except November and December then the 2nd Thursday at 7:30. If you would like more information, please call Sister Darlene Harvie, 328-4506 or Sister Frances Harvie, 746-0365.

Darlene Harvie
Worthy Matron