I just returned from our National Convention in Charlotte, NC where I represented our lodge. I learned about our many programs and voted on several propositions to change the statutes. One thing that was stressed was public relations – telling people about the good things that we do; like sending packages to servicemen and helping veterans at the Oxford veterans home, parking cars at Dick’s open and the Spiediefest, honoring our local police, supporting out community’s youth, etc. Expect to hear more about this and more information about the convention in a future newsletter.

Since the last newsletter, quite a lot has been going on at our lodge and quite a few people have been pitching in to help out. I do appreciate everyone’s efforts. A few of the people who I have noticed are:

Al Jochum, who pitched in and cooked TWO dinners in July: his famous Pulled Pork on one night and his special chicken dinner the other night.

Jeff Babuka, who accepted the position of Inner Guard and did an excellent job at his first initiation.

Terry Jones, who is working hard on lodge activities and membership and volunteered to serve as Loyal Knight.

John Pooler, Steve Twinam, and others who helped install a new fireplace.

Jim Wilson, who always seems to be helping with one cooking crew or another.

Walker Starner, who filled in on a Monday night (and helps out other times).

Gary Reardon, who learned how to run the dishwasher and did whatever else was necessary on a steak night and Friday night.

And Jack and Joann Gutshall and all of their helpers with the Dick’s Open parking.

My thanks to all of you and the many others who also helped.

A little special note of thanks for Ed Sledziona. He asked me what he could do to help. We had a white board that was rarely being used and now Ed updates that twice a week with reminders about our upcoming events. Thanks, Ed.

Please save Saturday, September 15th, on your calendars. Our State President, Bruce Hidley, is coming to Vestal for breakfast on that day and he is looking forward to meeting you. Yes, he would like to meet YOU. Please stop down that day and say, “hi”. Watch for more details in the September newsletter.

Enjoy the summer and don’t forget to stop by your lodge.