Brothers,
October was another busy month for us.
We initiated two new brothers into the fraternity. The degree team, headed by Bro. Trey Rapp, did such a great job. Thanks for all of your hard work and thanks to WM's Ray Cox, Ralph Pugh and Joe Ingram for assisting at the practices and giving the lecture. And thanks to WM Bob Monroe for altering the staffs. They are now much more manageable. I also want to thank the brothers who chose to come out and support this and all of our "blue lodge" events. District activities may be important but nothing should take precedence over the "blue lodge". It is so very important for the new brothers to see a large group in lodge when going through the degrees.
At this past meeting, we conferred 25 year service award pins and certificates to WM. Ron Wetherall and Bro. Ed Young. We want to thank these brothers for their years of service and contribution, not only to Pine Castle Lodge, but to the Masonic Fraternity.
We are also forming a committee for a 5 year plan for the building and grounds that will raise issues and evaluate ideas for the future use of the building. There are some lodges out there who are doing a lot of different things that are keeping them ahead of the struggles we've experienced. We want to catch up and stay ahead.
After much discussion, we took action on the dues issue. It was almost by unanimous vote that the work we do and the benefits received are worth $10 a month in support. Our notification has been sent to Grand Lodge, and pending their approval, the new dues notices will be going out to you in the mail.
Of course, the topic of perpetual membership has been on a lot of brothers minds. I have discussed this with many brothers and received many conflicting opinions. It would appear that the best benefit of perpetual membership is to the brother who no longer has to concern himself with lodge finances and dues increases. The con side of the story is that so many brothers no longer concern themselves with lodge finances because "I am a perpetual member...so it doesn't matter to me" Some brothers have pointed out to me that if we had 100% perpetual membership, the lodge would likely fail due to lack of operating cash. Makes me wonder if perpetual membership is really good for the blue lodge at all. I suggest that you get as much information from many sources prior to making a decision on this particular scheme.
On November the 21st. we are planning a trip to the Masonic Home. Keep track of e-mail updates for schedule details. If you've not been, it will be a trip well worth a few hours of your time. The place is something to be proud of and will give you inspiration of what Masons can accomplish.
We had our second annual Halloween Party for the community on Sat. night. I thought it was great. The kids and parents had a ball and with all of the brothers and wives that joined in to help, it was a fun event for us all. Our thanks to Bro. Trey Rapp, Selene and Trey Jr. for all of your long hours in preparing and organizing the event.
Thanks to Bro. Jim Guest and Wor.Dick Byle for the lawn service and to Bro. Dave Rohr for your work in the kitchen.
Have a safe November and stay in touch.