November/December 2007

Well, our year is winding down. Much has been accomplished this year, but much more needs to be done. Our Degree work has slowed, but we still have three Entered Apprentices that should be ready for their Fellow Craft Degree before the New Year. In addition, we have a Master Mason Degree scheduled for Dec. 18th.

As Thanksgiving has just been celebrated, let us not forget to be thankful for Duvall Lodge, and the core of officers that have made this a successful year. I understand that no one will be happy to hear that Dues notices will be sent out shortly. Brethren, please understand that our dues structure allows us to operate and maintain our building, and by paying early, we can continue to function. Dues have not been increased this year, but understand also that we only have 85 members who actually pay dues. That’s right, thirty, of our members are exempt from paying Grand Lodge dues because they have reached their 50-year plateau. Duvall has not asked them to pay the Lodge portion, but they are not exempt from doing so by the By-Laws of Duvall Lodge. Your obligation to your Lodge doesn’t stop when you become a 50-year member. Several of our senior members understand this and voluntarily send in a donation when they receive their dues card. Enough about dues, and on to more pleasant things.

We will be electing officers at our Dec. 6 meeting. There will be a shuffle of sorts, as some officers will not advance for various reasons. Please try to be present and vote for the good of your Lodge. Installation of officers has been scheduled for Dec. 27th. This will be an open installation with the families invited.

I sincerely hope that each of you will have a Happy Holiday, and a prosperous New Year. Merry Christmas.
 

Fraternally,
Bill Riggs, PM - Secretary