We held a Master Mason degree last night for two Brothers. There were a lot of Masons on hand for the degree, the officers did a fine job, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. All in all, a very good night. I assigned a Past Master to sit in the East for this particular degree as his son was one of the candidates to be raised. There is something special about seeing a father raise a son in these degrees. We also presented Bibles to our newly raised Brothers, signed by the Craft, which they greatly appreciated.
This degree was also used as a prelude to an outdoor degree we are planning for next month (April 29th) which will be held jointly between my Lodge, Dunedin, and my old Lodge, Sutherland Lodge No. 174 in neighboring Palm Harbor. The Worshipful Master and I are old friends (I took an ACTIVE role in his MM degree years ago). He is also a good businessman with a lot of street smarts. Consequently, the two Lodges are starting to work together in degree work, including tonight's MM degree where the Sutherland Master served as Senior Warden for the degree.
If all goes according to plan, we will raise five Brothers in the outdoor degree (four short, one long). We are anticipating a fair turnout for it as well, about 75-100 people. Needless to say, we have devised a checklist denoting responsibilities of each Lodge and person. Because of the logistics of this degree, it will be important for several people to participate in its execution, not just the same few people who usually carry the load. We will also be holding some rehearsals prior to this in order to give the best degree we can. Should be interesting.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Monday, March 30, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
March 25, 2009 - INTRO TO THE INTERNET
As we continue our on-going training on the use of the PC, as you may remember we covered Word Processing last month. This month I presented an introduction to the Internet. Here was my outline:
Historical Background
Protocols - http: mail: ftp: golpher:
- How addresses are made
- Use of .COM, .ORG, .NET, .GOV, .TV, etc.
Hardware setup
- Telephone lines
- Cable & Ethernet
- Satellite
- Modems & Routers
How it works
- ISP & Networks
E-Mail
- Address Books
- Where to get an e-mail account (Yahoo!, G-Mail, etc.)
- How to address e-mails TO someone, CC, and BCC
- Attaching files to an e-mail
- Composing text using Word Processing techniques
- Inclusion of graphics and web links
Web Broswers
- types - Netscape, MS IE, Firefox, Chrome, Safari
- search engines
FTP
I primarily focused on e-mail as everyone is somewhat familiar with it, yet do not fully capitalize on its capabilities. Plus, with their Word Processing instruction in place (from last meeting), they were now able to couple the two together.
Next month, we'll kick it up a notch and talk more about Web browsers, including discussion groups (social groups), search engines, shopping (including PayPal), YouTube, and special tools available on the Net.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Historical Background
Protocols - http: mail: ftp: golpher:
- How addresses are made
- Use of .COM, .ORG, .NET, .GOV, .TV, etc.
Hardware setup
- Telephone lines
- Cable & Ethernet
- Satellite
- Modems & Routers
How it works
- ISP & Networks
- Address Books
- Where to get an e-mail account (Yahoo!, G-Mail, etc.)
- How to address e-mails TO someone, CC, and BCC
- Attaching files to an e-mail
- Composing text using Word Processing techniques
- Inclusion of graphics and web links
Web Broswers
- types - Netscape, MS IE, Firefox, Chrome, Safari
- search engines
FTP
I primarily focused on e-mail as everyone is somewhat familiar with it, yet do not fully capitalize on its capabilities. Plus, with their Word Processing instruction in place (from last meeting), they were now able to couple the two together.
Next month, we'll kick it up a notch and talk more about Web browsers, including discussion groups (social groups), search engines, shopping (including PayPal), YouTube, and special tools available on the Net.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March 23, 2009 - MARCH FESTIVE BOARD
On Monday we held our third "Festive Board" off-site at a restaurant. I've talked about the purpose of these meetings in the past and they appear to be picking up momentum. The Secretary from our Lodge was the after-dinner speaker who spoke on "Famous Masons." Interestingly, he used a game-show format to encourage audience participation which appeared to work quite well. In a nutshell, he did a great job with the presentation and we'll be holding more "Festive Boards" in the months ahead.
As has become customary, I took photos of the event and posted it on our Lodge's web site. Following this, I broadcast the news clipping to the Craft which appears to be welcomed by the Craft, particularly those Brothers who live far away and cannot attend Lodge regularly. To illustrate, one Brother e-mailed me this message:
You have no idea how much I value your emails, it makes me feel I'm in my Dunedin Lodge, even though I am 300 miles away from it.
This tells me a regular diet of Masonic News to the Craft from the Lodge is welcomed and is conducive for supporting the Lodge. In other words, it tells the Craft we are active and stimulates their interest to attend or send a donation.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
As has become customary, I took photos of the event and posted it on our Lodge's web site. Following this, I broadcast the news clipping to the Craft which appears to be welcomed by the Craft, particularly those Brothers who live far away and cannot attend Lodge regularly. To illustrate, one Brother e-mailed me this message:
You have no idea how much I value your emails, it makes me feel I'm in my Dunedin Lodge, even though I am 300 miles away from it.
This tells me a regular diet of Masonic News to the Craft from the Lodge is welcomed and is conducive for supporting the Lodge. In other words, it tells the Craft we are active and stimulates their interest to attend or send a donation.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Sunday, March 22, 2009
March 21, 2009 - ADOPT A STREET
Shortly after becoming Worshipful Master, it was brought to my attention that the Lodge had adapted a street but had not tended to it in quite some time. The "Adopt-a-Street" program is commonly found in the States whereby an organization agrees to periodically pickup debris along the road. In exchange, your organization is well recognized as the sponsor of the street. Basically, it's a win-win situation for everyone involved; the city gets a clean street, and your organization gets public recognition.
In our case, someone had signed up the Lodge a few years ago to adopt the same street where the Lodge is located. Unfortunately, the Lodge had forgotten about it over time and had neglected the street. In looking over the rules of the program, I discovered the organization must periodically clean the street or lose their recognition. Consequently, I scheduled a cleanup which we did on Saturday.
To motivate the Craft, I volunteered to feed them breakfast at the Lodge early in the morning (8:00am). I was fortunate to get eight Brothers to come forward to help out. After breakfast, I distributed safety vests and garbage bags. Most of the Brethren also wore a hat or shirt with the square and compasses for P.R. purposes. We had one Brother volunteer as the taxi driver and deposited Brothers on the opposite ends of the road. The whole project took about an hour.
From my perspective, it was a great event. In addition to some Brotherly camaraderie, the public saw the Masons in action, and the street was cleaned. I am hoping to continue this program either every other month or on a quarterly basis.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
In our case, someone had signed up the Lodge a few years ago to adopt the same street where the Lodge is located. Unfortunately, the Lodge had forgotten about it over time and had neglected the street. In looking over the rules of the program, I discovered the organization must periodically clean the street or lose their recognition. Consequently, I scheduled a cleanup which we did on Saturday.
To motivate the Craft, I volunteered to feed them breakfast at the Lodge early in the morning (8:00am). I was fortunate to get eight Brothers to come forward to help out. After breakfast, I distributed safety vests and garbage bags. Most of the Brethren also wore a hat or shirt with the square and compasses for P.R. purposes. We had one Brother volunteer as the taxi driver and deposited Brothers on the opposite ends of the road. The whole project took about an hour.
From my perspective, it was a great event. In addition to some Brotherly camaraderie, the public saw the Masons in action, and the street was cleaned. I am hoping to continue this program either every other month or on a quarterly basis.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Friday, March 20, 2009
March 19, 2009 - CORN BEEF & CABBAGE
Last night we held a Corn Beef & Cabbage dinner at the Lodge which was well attended (70+ people which is a good size crowd for our Rec Hall). Our Treasurer headed up this effort and did an outstanding job of organizing the effort and selling tickets. The food was excellent, the camaraderie warm, and we even had a two-piece combo for entertainment.
In hindsight, we should have had more people help in the preparation, the serving, and the cleanup (at least five people each). There should have also been an official greeter (which I did as Master) and a Master of Ceremonies. Nonetheless, we did well and actually made a few bucks for the Lodge. As for me, I ended up washing every knife, fork, spoon, plate, cooking utensil, pot, and pan used that night. Although I had help drying everything, it would have been nice to have more people help out (such as an EA/FC or two). In a way, it reminded me of my college days when I used to work in sorority kitchens.
However, it was asked a couple of times, "Where are our younger members? How come they are not participating?" Actually, it's a no-brainer. Yes, it was a good function, but unfortunately, such dinners have become associated with the older generation and the younger men beg off from participating. Because of the mix of younger and older members, it is difficult to find the right event that will appeal to everyone. It should therefore come as no surprise that you cannot satisfy everyone. It also means you have to find different venues and programs for the different people in your Lodge. As our dinner demonstrated, what may be of interest to your older members will not necessarily be of interest to your younger members, and vice versa.
In hindsight, we should have had more people help in the preparation, the serving, and the cleanup (at least five people each). There should have also been an official greeter (which I did as Master) and a Master of Ceremonies. Nonetheless, we did well and actually made a few bucks for the Lodge. As for me, I ended up washing every knife, fork, spoon, plate, cooking utensil, pot, and pan used that night. Although I had help drying everything, it would have been nice to have more people help out (such as an EA/FC or two). In a way, it reminded me of my college days when I used to work in sorority kitchens.
However, it was asked a couple of times, "Where are our younger members? How come they are not participating?" Actually, it's a no-brainer. Yes, it was a good function, but unfortunately, such dinners have become associated with the older generation and the younger men beg off from participating. Because of the mix of younger and older members, it is difficult to find the right event that will appeal to everyone. It should therefore come as no surprise that you cannot satisfy everyone. It also means you have to find different venues and programs for the different people in your Lodge. As our dinner demonstrated, what may be of interest to your older members will not necessarily be of interest to your younger members, and vice versa.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Thursday, March 19, 2009
March 18, 2009 - MASTERS & WARDENS
We held our Masters & Wardens Association meeting last night in downtown St. Petersburg, which is a bit of a drive for me as I live in the northern part of the county (about a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic). Nonetheless, I happily made the trek as I am a big proponent of the Association which represents all of the Masonic Craft Lodges in our area.
I got involved in the Association early in my Masonic career, shortly after I was raised. The DDGM at the time was a Past Master of my Lodge and he encouraged me to come to a meeting with him where I was quickly recruited to design the Association's web page. I attended Association meetings regularly even as I moved through the chairs of my Lodge. I found this to be a great way of meeting new Brothers and contemporaries in other Lodges.
In 2005 I was elected President of the Association and I like to believe I had a good year. We made money for various charities, and had a lot of fun in the process. This year I am serving as the Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, but I am better known as the sponsor of the annual Trap Shoot Competition which I started years ago. This is our ninth year of holding the Trap Shoot and we have generated quite a bit of money for the scholarship fund as a result. Frankly, it's a no-brainer; the gun club sets it all up, collects the money, runs it, and gives us the money at the end. This sure beats sweating over a pancake breakfast or spaghetti dinner where you make just a couple of bucks. Here, we make money while having fun in the process.
I tend to believe the more dedicated Masons belong to such Associations as they are trying to better themselves and their Lodges. Others refuse to participate. I'm not sure why. I can only speculate they have a rather myopic view of Freemasonry whereby they cannot imagine it beyond the four walls of their own Lodge. Sad, very sad. I tend to see Freemasonry as a universal concept, something that transcends Lodge and Jurisdictional boundaries. I always learn a new trick or two by visiting another Lodge, and I hope visitors do likewise at ours. When I was in college, I learned that "We enjoy life through the help and society of others." And that's what groups like the Masters & Wardens Association are all about.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
I got involved in the Association early in my Masonic career, shortly after I was raised. The DDGM at the time was a Past Master of my Lodge and he encouraged me to come to a meeting with him where I was quickly recruited to design the Association's web page. I attended Association meetings regularly even as I moved through the chairs of my Lodge. I found this to be a great way of meeting new Brothers and contemporaries in other Lodges.
In 2005 I was elected President of the Association and I like to believe I had a good year. We made money for various charities, and had a lot of fun in the process. This year I am serving as the Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, but I am better known as the sponsor of the annual Trap Shoot Competition which I started years ago. This is our ninth year of holding the Trap Shoot and we have generated quite a bit of money for the scholarship fund as a result. Frankly, it's a no-brainer; the gun club sets it all up, collects the money, runs it, and gives us the money at the end. This sure beats sweating over a pancake breakfast or spaghetti dinner where you make just a couple of bucks. Here, we make money while having fun in the process.
I tend to believe the more dedicated Masons belong to such Associations as they are trying to better themselves and their Lodges. Others refuse to participate. I'm not sure why. I can only speculate they have a rather myopic view of Freemasonry whereby they cannot imagine it beyond the four walls of their own Lodge. Sad, very sad. I tend to see Freemasonry as a universal concept, something that transcends Lodge and Jurisdictional boundaries. I always learn a new trick or two by visiting another Lodge, and I hope visitors do likewise at ours. When I was in college, I learned that "We enjoy life through the help and society of others." And that's what groups like the Masters & Wardens Association are all about.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March 16, 2009 - AWARDS
Wow, busy night, last night, at our monthly Stated Communications which we designated "Awards Night." Among the business of the Lodge was:
* Two Brothers successfully passed their FC catechism examination (and will be raised next month in an outdoor degree).
* I recognized our Lodge instructors for the fine job they have done with our new members.
* The Secretary and I both gave brief presentations on Masonic Education.
* Three Brothers were awarded Honorary Memberships by ballot of the Craft. All three are fine men who have served the Lodge over the years; so much so, they are already treated as members.
* A 40 year Masonic Service Award was presented.
* Two 50 year Masonic Services Awards were presented (with Grand Honors). Assisting me was the Grand Marshall of Vermont who was a personal friend of one of the Brothers.
* The Secretary presented the Marshall with a new, hand carved, Marshall's baton.
* Plus all of the other peripheral business that normally goes along with a Stated Communications.
Although we had a lot of business to tend to, we got through it all rather fast as I kept the pace moving along.
I tend to believe presenting the awards is more rewarding than receiving them. On the surface, they may seem like some small tokens of appreciation, but they also represent tokens of endearment between Brothers, and I think this is why Masons appreciate such awards. It means their actions have not gone unnoticed by the Craft.
In particular, the Grand Marshall of Vermont greatly appreciated the honor of pinning the 50 year pin on his friend and Brother (they have known each other for years). To me, it's important to provide a role for family and friends in presenting such awards, it makes the moment extra special for the Brother. The presentation of any award should not be conducted coldly or seemingly repetitive, but, instead, should be presented warmly with a personal touch in order to stress its significance. I have learned it is the little things that true Masons remember, such as a warm greeting, a hearty congratulations, sincere eye contact, a personal call or note to check on a Brother, etc. It's not magic, just a little thoughtfulness.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
* Two Brothers successfully passed their FC catechism examination (and will be raised next month in an outdoor degree).
* I recognized our Lodge instructors for the fine job they have done with our new members.
* The Secretary and I both gave brief presentations on Masonic Education.
* Three Brothers were awarded Honorary Memberships by ballot of the Craft. All three are fine men who have served the Lodge over the years; so much so, they are already treated as members.
* A 40 year Masonic Service Award was presented.
* Two 50 year Masonic Services Awards were presented (with Grand Honors). Assisting me was the Grand Marshall of Vermont who was a personal friend of one of the Brothers.
* The Secretary presented the Marshall with a new, hand carved, Marshall's baton.
* Plus all of the other peripheral business that normally goes along with a Stated Communications.
Although we had a lot of business to tend to, we got through it all rather fast as I kept the pace moving along.
I tend to believe presenting the awards is more rewarding than receiving them. On the surface, they may seem like some small tokens of appreciation, but they also represent tokens of endearment between Brothers, and I think this is why Masons appreciate such awards. It means their actions have not gone unnoticed by the Craft.
In particular, the Grand Marshall of Vermont greatly appreciated the honor of pinning the 50 year pin on his friend and Brother (they have known each other for years). To me, it's important to provide a role for family and friends in presenting such awards, it makes the moment extra special for the Brother. The presentation of any award should not be conducted coldly or seemingly repetitive, but, instead, should be presented warmly with a personal touch in order to stress its significance. I have learned it is the little things that true Masons remember, such as a warm greeting, a hearty congratulations, sincere eye contact, a personal call or note to check on a Brother, etc. It's not magic, just a little thoughtfulness.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Monday, March 16, 2009
March 15, 2009 - COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Prior to starting a Stated Communications, I like to come down from the East and meet the Craft on the Level. I use this opportunity to welcome the Brethren and discuss current events. I also review some Masonic Education. For March, I prepared the following article which I will review with them on Monday night. I hope you enjoy it:
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS by Tim Bryce
It's difficult to maintain a positive perspective in these troubling economic times. People are frustrated, despondent, even angry. But I have learned over the years, that no matter what disaster I may be faced with, there is always someone in worse shape than I am, such as a starving, uneducated third-world child who doesn't have a roof over his head, or his father who earns pennies a day to support his family. So, we should actually count the blessings we have got as opposed to banging our heads against the wall.
If you've got a job, thank your lucky stars you do, and renew your effort to make your company as successful as possible. Now is the time for cooperation as opposed to petty competition, teamwork as opposed to individualism. And by all means, take nothing for granted. Otherwise you might be the next one in the unemployment line.
If you are unemployed, be grateful we have unemployment programs to lend you a helping hand. But remember, there is no honor in becoming a ward of the state. Sharpen your skills, change with the times, and hustle for the next job.
If you are married, be thankful you are not going through a costly divorce now (which is horrible timing for doing so). Perhaps it is time to renew your devotion to your spouse and improve your family relationships.
If you have any savings, remind yourself there are many others out there without a safety net. Now is the time to wisely invest your money. It's hard to say who to trust in this regard, but perhaps a loan to a family member or neighbor who needs a helping hand is in order.
If you have a good credit record, consider the millions who do not. Try to keep your record as clean as possible, you will undoubtedly need it some day.
If you have some free time to participate in nonprofit organizations, consider yourself lucky, but remember, such groups will probably need more support as people's obligations are shifting and their participation declining.
If your Masonic Lodge building is structurally sound and in good condition, be grateful you are not looking at a major repair bill, such as a new roof or replacing the heating and air conditioning system. Consider there are Lodges out there that are in need of major repairs or, even worse, are closing their doors. It might be wise to start tucking a few dollars away for a rainy day so your Lodge doesn't end up in the same condition.
If you have people wanting to join your Lodge, make sure they are welcomed warmly and made to feel an important part of the Craft. There are some Lodges desperate for new members and are dying on the vine. Encourage the young Masons and challenge them to participate; the effect of a young man's enthusiasm can be contagious and a powerful agent for future growth.
If the administrative processes of your Lodge are performed like clockwork, thank your officers for making this a natural part of the Lodge's culture. There are some Lodges operating in organizational disarray, where paperwork and finances can be easily misplaced. This creates distrust and suspicion between the officers and the Craft.
If you have harmony in the Lodge, be grateful you are among men where their word is their bond, who believe in teamwork and cooperation as opposed to personal glory and political maneuvering. We have all seen enough of this in the outside world. Let us be men and let us rejoice in the spirit of Brotherhood.
If there is a silver lining in our current economic recession, I believe it is we will emerge from this mess stronger, more resilient, and hopefully smarter. Now is the time to stop whining and start believing in ourselves. The government is not going to solve all of our problems, nor is it their job to do so. To paraphrase Bro. Winston Churchill, "Nothing can save us if we will not save ourselves. If we lose faith in ourselves, in our capacity to guide and govern, if we lose our will to live, then indeed our story is told."
I admonish you not to despair; but to stay positive instead, to stay connected, to stay tuned in to what is going on, and become more proactive as opposed to reactive in our future. Just remember, the glass is half full, not half empty. Positive thinking is just as contagious as negative thinking, maybe more so. As we said back in the 1970's, "Keep on truckin'."
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS by Tim Bryce
It's difficult to maintain a positive perspective in these troubling economic times. People are frustrated, despondent, even angry. But I have learned over the years, that no matter what disaster I may be faced with, there is always someone in worse shape than I am, such as a starving, uneducated third-world child who doesn't have a roof over his head, or his father who earns pennies a day to support his family. So, we should actually count the blessings we have got as opposed to banging our heads against the wall.
If you've got a job, thank your lucky stars you do, and renew your effort to make your company as successful as possible. Now is the time for cooperation as opposed to petty competition, teamwork as opposed to individualism. And by all means, take nothing for granted. Otherwise you might be the next one in the unemployment line.
If you are unemployed, be grateful we have unemployment programs to lend you a helping hand. But remember, there is no honor in becoming a ward of the state. Sharpen your skills, change with the times, and hustle for the next job.
If you are married, be thankful you are not going through a costly divorce now (which is horrible timing for doing so). Perhaps it is time to renew your devotion to your spouse and improve your family relationships.
If you have any savings, remind yourself there are many others out there without a safety net. Now is the time to wisely invest your money. It's hard to say who to trust in this regard, but perhaps a loan to a family member or neighbor who needs a helping hand is in order.
If you have a good credit record, consider the millions who do not. Try to keep your record as clean as possible, you will undoubtedly need it some day.
If you have some free time to participate in nonprofit organizations, consider yourself lucky, but remember, such groups will probably need more support as people's obligations are shifting and their participation declining.
If your Masonic Lodge building is structurally sound and in good condition, be grateful you are not looking at a major repair bill, such as a new roof or replacing the heating and air conditioning system. Consider there are Lodges out there that are in need of major repairs or, even worse, are closing their doors. It might be wise to start tucking a few dollars away for a rainy day so your Lodge doesn't end up in the same condition.
If you have people wanting to join your Lodge, make sure they are welcomed warmly and made to feel an important part of the Craft. There are some Lodges desperate for new members and are dying on the vine. Encourage the young Masons and challenge them to participate; the effect of a young man's enthusiasm can be contagious and a powerful agent for future growth.
If the administrative processes of your Lodge are performed like clockwork, thank your officers for making this a natural part of the Lodge's culture. There are some Lodges operating in organizational disarray, where paperwork and finances can be easily misplaced. This creates distrust and suspicion between the officers and the Craft.
If you have harmony in the Lodge, be grateful you are among men where their word is their bond, who believe in teamwork and cooperation as opposed to personal glory and political maneuvering. We have all seen enough of this in the outside world. Let us be men and let us rejoice in the spirit of Brotherhood.
If there is a silver lining in our current economic recession, I believe it is we will emerge from this mess stronger, more resilient, and hopefully smarter. Now is the time to stop whining and start believing in ourselves. The government is not going to solve all of our problems, nor is it their job to do so. To paraphrase Bro. Winston Churchill, "Nothing can save us if we will not save ourselves. If we lose faith in ourselves, in our capacity to guide and govern, if we lose our will to live, then indeed our story is told."
I admonish you not to despair; but to stay positive instead, to stay connected, to stay tuned in to what is going on, and become more proactive as opposed to reactive in our future. Just remember, the glass is half full, not half empty. Positive thinking is just as contagious as negative thinking, maybe more so. As we said back in the 1970's, "Keep on truckin'."
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Sunday, March 15, 2009
March 14, 2009 - MASONIC SCAVENGER HUNT
We held our first Masonic Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, the purpose of which was to provide Masonic Education pertaining to the Lodge itself. The Brothers were divided into teams and were sent off around the City of Dunedin following clues as provided by the Worshipful Master.
Among the sites visited by the Brothers were the sites of earlier homes of the Lodge, the Dunedin Cemetery, which is the resting place for the founding fathers of Dunedin Lodge as well as the City itself (a veritable "Who's Who" of the movers and shakers of Dunedin), and a sports complex named after a Dunedin Past Master (and Past Mayor).
The hunt ended at the home of the Lodge's Secretary Emeritus where the Brethren were treated to a cookout featuring brats and refreshment. Although the group was small, everyone enjoyed the hunt and could see the educational and social value associated with it.
This was an interesting experiment for us, and I think the participants found it worthwhile. It also makes me think about establishing a test or roadmap for Entered Apprentices initiated into our Lodge. I think it is very important that they understand there is more to Freemasonry than just their catechism practice; they need to understand how the Lodge was formed and its impact on the community. Perhaps we give them an assignment of finding a lot of the Masonic historical markers around our city. Such a test would, hopefully, give our people a better sense of our history, not just our Lodge, but our community and the fraternity overall.
Until next time.All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Thursday, March 12, 2009
March 12, 2009 - COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Here's a photo I want you to see:
In the upper left-hand corner is Dunedin Lodge's Senior Warden, W:.Ken Giesow, reading a book to a first grade class at Dunedin Elementary. The occasion was the school's "Read Across America" program and W:.Ken was invited to read Dr. Seuss books to Ms. Morrison's first grade class, the same class Dunedin Lodge sponsors. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel ) was selected as Bro. Ken read the books on the author's birthday (March 2nd) which he read wearing an iconic "Cat in the Hat" hat.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
In the upper left-hand corner is Dunedin Lodge's Senior Warden, W:.Ken Giesow, reading a book to a first grade class at Dunedin Elementary. The occasion was the school's "Read Across America" program and W:.Ken was invited to read Dr. Seuss books to Ms. Morrison's first grade class, the same class Dunedin Lodge sponsors. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel ) was selected as Bro. Ken read the books on the author's birthday (March 2nd) which he read wearing an iconic "Cat in the Hat" hat.
Said Bro. Ken, "I don't know who enjoyed it more, the kids or myself; probably me!"
W:.Giesow is also the Chairman of the Lodge's "Bikes for Books" program at the school where the Lodge is providing bicycles to the top readers in grades K-5, both boys and girls. The bicycles will be presented at the end of the school year.
We're very lucky to have Brothers like W:.Ken who generously give of themselves back to the community. It's not only good for our schools and neighborhoods, but for the fraternity overall. If every Brother would volunteer their time in some small capacity like this, think of the difference we could make. "IMAGINE: If every Mason did just one thing!"
Until next time.All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March 9, 2009 - SICKNESS & DISTRESS
Last night the Lodge was dark as we had no degree work planned. As such, many of the Brothers took the opportunity to go visit a Brother at a local assisted-living facility. This particular Brother served the Lodge for many years as our Chaplain. In real life, he was a Minister and had a great voice for our degrees. I remember his distinct voice at my initiation, passing, raising, and installation as Worshipful Master in 2003. But he also has a great personality and fervent belief in the fraternity.
Unfortunately, his health has been slowly declining over the last two years and he is now confined to a wheelchair. This frustrates him greatly as he no longer has the freedom to visit Lodge anymore.
Since our Brother couldn't come to Lodge, we decided to take the Lodge to him by assembling a group of Brothers to pay him a visit at his assisted-living facility. After we arrived, the staff arranged for us to meet with him in a spacious meeting room upstairs. When the nurse wheeled him in the room, a big smile burst on his face as he was delighted to see so many familiar faces.
We sat and discussed with him what was happening in the Lodge and we discussed such things as membership, the condition of the building, social events, and news in general. To me, it was important that we didn't dwell on his health, but made him feel an important part of the Lodge. He seemed to greatly appreciate our banter about the Lodge and he asked a lot of questions. It seemed to me that his spirits were lifted considerably.
He is hoping that the Doctor will give him permission to attend Lodge, at which time we will have to make arrangements to pick him up and drop him off. One Brother offered him the use of a new wheel chair while at Lodge, which was greatly appreciated.
I don't think he wanted to see us leave but we could tell he was getting tired so the nurse took him back to his room. More importantly, I think all of us enjoyed the visit, not simply as an act of kindness, but because we genuinely care about our Brother.
When I was first becoming Worshipful Master in 2003, one of the best pieces of advice I received was to make sickness and distress a priority. I learned this from another Past Master from a neighboring Lodge and I believe it to be some very sage advice. Being a member of the Craft should be more than just paying dues and attending meetings, the Brothers like to know they matter to the Lodge. As such, it should behoove all Worshipful Masters to care for the Craft. If you cannot visit a brother in sickness or distress, a simple phone call or note can work wonders.
AS AN EPILOGUE, I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING NOTE FROM THE DAUGHTER OF OUR BROTHER THE NEXT DAY:
As I replied to her, it was just as much our pleasure as it was his.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Unfortunately, his health has been slowly declining over the last two years and he is now confined to a wheelchair. This frustrates him greatly as he no longer has the freedom to visit Lodge anymore.
Since our Brother couldn't come to Lodge, we decided to take the Lodge to him by assembling a group of Brothers to pay him a visit at his assisted-living facility. After we arrived, the staff arranged for us to meet with him in a spacious meeting room upstairs. When the nurse wheeled him in the room, a big smile burst on his face as he was delighted to see so many familiar faces.
We sat and discussed with him what was happening in the Lodge and we discussed such things as membership, the condition of the building, social events, and news in general. To me, it was important that we didn't dwell on his health, but made him feel an important part of the Lodge. He seemed to greatly appreciate our banter about the Lodge and he asked a lot of questions. It seemed to me that his spirits were lifted considerably.
He is hoping that the Doctor will give him permission to attend Lodge, at which time we will have to make arrangements to pick him up and drop him off. One Brother offered him the use of a new wheel chair while at Lodge, which was greatly appreciated.
I don't think he wanted to see us leave but we could tell he was getting tired so the nurse took him back to his room. More importantly, I think all of us enjoyed the visit, not simply as an act of kindness, but because we genuinely care about our Brother.
When I was first becoming Worshipful Master in 2003, one of the best pieces of advice I received was to make sickness and distress a priority. I learned this from another Past Master from a neighboring Lodge and I believe it to be some very sage advice. Being a member of the Craft should be more than just paying dues and attending meetings, the Brothers like to know they matter to the Lodge. As such, it should behoove all Worshipful Masters to care for the Craft. If you cannot visit a brother in sickness or distress, a simple phone call or note can work wonders.
AS AN EPILOGUE, I RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING NOTE FROM THE DAUGHTER OF OUR BROTHER THE NEXT DAY:
How can I ever begin to thank you for the joy you brought to my Father last evening!!
I spoke with him this morning and he was totally amazed that you brought the Lodge to him (I was too!) What an awesome gift you gave him, allowing him to once again participate in a Masonic meeting. He so misses the meetings, and the friendships with his Masonic brothers. He was still so excited when I spoke with him and full of emotion!
Once again thank you for taking the time the time from your busy lives and for the making the effort to make him so so happy!!!
As I replied to her, it was just as much our pleasure as it was his.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
March 2, 2009 - THE SENIOR DEACON & BAGPIPES
We held an Entered Apprentice degree last night and all went well except we were without the services of our deacons. One had legal papers to sign for an adoption, and the other, who is a member of the Coast Guard, was involved in a search for some lost boaters (one was found clinging to his boat, his three other companions appear to be lost).
Because of this, we had to change some of the chair assignments for the degree and I ended up at Senior Deacon. I actually like Senior Deacon and consider it the best seat in the house. A good Senior Deacon can be an invaluable asset to a Worshipful Master simply by keeping the program moving along with crisp floor work and well delivered lines. The Senior Deacon's deportment materially affects the tone for the meeting, be it Called or Stated. He can either do it professionally (well rehearsed with a positive personality) or can be a slob who stumbles through everything; either way, the Senior Deacon has high visibility and can impact the attitude of the Brethren in attendance. If done poorly, don't expect visiting Brethren to return, but if done well, watch attendance increase at Lodge meetings.
On this particular evening, we also tried something different (go figure). At my Lodge it is customary for the Lodge officers to march in at the start of the meeting. This time, we were led in by a bagpiper who did a wonderful job. We are fortunate to have a very good piper serving the Lodge as Junior Steward. Since Dunedin has strong ties to Scotland, the use of the bagpipes was well received by the sideliners. True, we have an excellent organist in the Lodge, but our bagpiper was a particularly nice touch which seemed to be appreciated by just about everyone.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
Because of this, we had to change some of the chair assignments for the degree and I ended up at Senior Deacon. I actually like Senior Deacon and consider it the best seat in the house. A good Senior Deacon can be an invaluable asset to a Worshipful Master simply by keeping the program moving along with crisp floor work and well delivered lines. The Senior Deacon's deportment materially affects the tone for the meeting, be it Called or Stated. He can either do it professionally (well rehearsed with a positive personality) or can be a slob who stumbles through everything; either way, the Senior Deacon has high visibility and can impact the attitude of the Brethren in attendance. If done poorly, don't expect visiting Brethren to return, but if done well, watch attendance increase at Lodge meetings.
On this particular evening, we also tried something different (go figure). At my Lodge it is customary for the Lodge officers to march in at the start of the meeting. This time, we were led in by a bagpiper who did a wonderful job. We are fortunate to have a very good piper serving the Lodge as Junior Steward. Since Dunedin has strong ties to Scotland, the use of the bagpipes was well received by the sideliners. True, we have an excellent organist in the Lodge, but our bagpiper was a particularly nice touch which seemed to be appreciated by just about everyone.
Until next time.
All the Best,
Tim Bryce, PM, MPS, MMBBFMN
timb001@phmainstreet.com
Dunedin Lodge No. 192 F.& A.M.
http:/www.dunedin192.org/
Dunedin, FL, USA
"For the Good of the Order"
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