September 2003 Newsletter

 

 

Brethren,

 

      Greetings from the East...The July 28th meeting was well attended. The lodge was opened and business transacted. DDGM Bill Hare made his official visit and   offered up fine words of encouragement from the District level, but also words of concern about the status of freemasonry in regards to attendance and participation. I personally feel that Bill has gone overboard in his attempt to promote new ways to improve in these areas. He is a strong advocate of the phrase "don't ever give up". He also suggested that he will nominate our own Worshipful Brother Jimmy Stevens to fill his office when it expires. If Jimmy accepts and  is placed in this office, it will not only be an honor to him personally, but to Garner 701, as well. The August 11th meeting was a good meeting. The Chef’s crew provided all a delicious meal prior to the meeting, good food and fellowship.

         

      The lodge was opened and business was transacted.  DDGL - Walter Highsmith graced us with his presence to announce plans for our fall school of instruction.  The dates are: September 25^th at William T. Bain Lodge, and on September 29^th at Cary Lodge 198. We heard reports and updates on our August 23^rd reunion and on our September 13^th Charity Auction.

 

      Worshipful Brother Roy Harris presented a very good Masonic education program on the “Black cube and it’s meaning”. Brother Jim Talaska was presented “the Master’s Award” for his work on our most recent fundraiser.

 

      Congratulations are in order for Brother Tim Shermer on his promotion to Major with the Raleigh P.D., also to Brother Jim Lee on becoming a new “ great grandfather”, and Worshipful Brother Jimmy Stevens on the marriage of his daughter on August 16^th.

 

      I remind everyone again about the October 18^th Past Master’s Dinner.  Brother Don Bennett has signed on to provide entertainment. Please respond with your RSVP, if you are a Past Master, when it arrives in the mail.

         

 

  With four months remaining in my year as Master, I reflect back over the first eight months, and I continue to be proud of our accomplishments. Thanks you all for what you do for Garner Lodge #701, and Thank you for letting me be your Master.

         

              FRATERNALLY,

 

                RONNIE WILLIAMS

          Master Garner Lodge 701

          (919) 772 - 5783

          Email: rswalderman@msn.com