Hello, all!
We have launched a new website, which you can find at aaf262.org. This Tumblr site will serve as an archive of our previous website and activities.
Master’s Letter | December 2016
Brothers, Family and Friends,
I hope this letter finds you all warm and toasty, as Old Man Winter seems to have finally looked at the Calendar! This is my last letter as Worshipful Master of Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge #262. It has been an amazing year! Although it does feel as though it has gone by in the blink of an eye. I had heard it said that being Worshipful Master is like earning another degree. Its true. But like the other degrees it has taught me a great deal:
First, that you really don't run things. Sure you make some decisions here and there, but ultimately the path determines itself.
Second, you are only as good as your officers and the members of your Lodge. Fortunately, I have had the blessing of having a superb Officer Line. Especially my Secretary and Treasurer. The amount of behind the scenes work that Worshipful Brother Bob Hospadaruk, and Worshipful Brother Art Davidge do, cannot be overstated. I feel that sometimes that work goes thankless. So I want to say to you both, Thank you very much! The Wardens, Deacons, Stewards, Marshall, Tyler, Chaplain and Musician have all made significant contributions throughout the year. For that I also thank you! Our Lodge Education officers Paul Uslan, and Peter Dietrich PM, have ensured that our Regular Communications were not just a business meeting, but an opportunity for all of us to grow in our knowledge of our gentle Craft. Our Masonic Book Club Chairman Wes Krumel, has provided the Brothers an opportunity to read and discuss Masonic Literature in his basement that has been finished to look like an Old English Pub. He also organized a very successful movie night at the Grotto. Thank you Wes! The Past Master's of our Lodge have also been invaluable this year. Their good and wise counsel has been so very helpful to me this year. Last but certainly not least, is the motivation, diversity, and Love for the Craft that our Membership has shown throughout the year! It is such a pleasure to see so many wonderful Brothers regularly attending Lodge. Thank you all so much!
Third, It has taught me a lot about myself and what I am capable of. I have to admit that last year I was a little scared to take on the task of being Worshipful Master. So much doubt in my mind of my ability to memorize, running a business meeting, running our degree work, just to name a few. But with the support from the Lodge and my friends and family, I managed to have a wonderful year that I certainly will never forget!
That all being said, I am also happy to step down knowing that I leave the Lodge in the trustworthy hands of our Worshipful Master Elect Steven Moazami. Steve has been my strength and the Spock to my Kirk throughout the year. Our Senior Warden Elect Randolph Fitzpatrick will be his second in command and will bring all his support and enthusiasm, that he always demonstrates, to help the new Worshipful Master.
Please join us at our 2017 Officer Installation which will be held this Saturday December 17, at Zal Gaz Grotto. We will gather there at 3:30pm with the Installation beginning at 4pm. This is open to the public so please feel free to bring the whole family. Beverages are available at the Zal Gaz Grotto Club bar. The club only accepts cash. Snacks will be provided following the ceremony.
I can't thank the Lodge enough to have allowed me the honor to serve as Worshipful Master, in the best Lodge in the Universe - Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge #262! I want to wish you and yours a safe and happy Holiday Season!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
The Master's Last Prayer - Author Unknown The day's labours done My journey's end has come. A new guide, now lead us on. The path may be the same, But the style, is his own: A new post, will soon pass, Another mark, will be reached. Let us all pray, he will lead us, To an even brighter day.
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard DEC 17 - Installation of Officers 2016 | Zal Gaz Grotto Club, Ann Arbor JAN 4 - Regular Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
Installation of Officers | An Invitation
The principle tenets of Freemasonry are Faith, Hope, and Charity. Since 1870, our lodge has kept those tenants here in Ann Arbor. Be part of our annual renewal - the Installation of Officers for the 2017. This is a public event and family and friends are invited. We gather at 3:30 then start the installation at 4:00PM - stay for the celebration afterward, including delicious hors d'oeuvres. The Grotto also has a bar and please note that it is a cash only venue. NOTE: Officers are expected to be wearing a tuxedo or a dark suit with black tie.
When: Saturday, December 17, 3:30pm Where: Zal Gaz Grotto Club, 2070 W Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, MI, 48103 map
2017 Officer Line:
Worshipful Master - Steven Moazami Senior Warden - Randolph Fitzpatrick Junior Warden - David Bunn Treasurer - Arthur Davidge, PM Secretary - Bob Hospadaruk, PM Senior Deacon - Cody Dunn Junior Deacon - Kristopher Kuehn Tiler - Chaplain - Christopher Haynes Marshal - Garry Lewis Musician - Donald Wilson Stewards - Eric Bettner, Robert Cullip, Jesse Dzombak, Jeffrey Lorch, Chris McCormick, Jason Porter, James Raynak Lodge Historian - Andrew Hoffman Lodge Librarian - Wesley Krummel Lodge Education Co-chairs - Peter Dietrich and Paul Uslan
Hope to see you all there!
Lodge of Sorrow 2016
Brothers, family and friends,
I hope that this letter finds you all well after a busy Thanksgiving week with friends and family. I wanted to make you all aware of our annual Lodge of Sorrow. For those of you who don't know, the Lodge of Sorrow is a public ceremony where we take time to honor the memory of our Brothers who have passed on to the Celestial Lodge this year. The event is formal, so a dark suit and tie or tuxedo is preferred. It will be held this Wednesday, November 30th, at Zal Gaz Grotto. The Ceremony will begin at 6pm with Hors d'oeuvres to follow. Please feel free to bring the family. Beverages of your choice may be purchased from the Grotto. Please note that the Grotto only accepts cash. Looking forward to seeing you all there.
When: Wednesday, November 30, 6:00pm Where: Zal Gaz Grotto Club, 2070 W Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, MI, 48103 map
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard NOV 30 - Lodge of Sorrow | Zal Gaz Grotto Club, Ann Arbor DEC 7 - Regular Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall DEC 17 - Installation of Officers 2016 | Zal Gaz Grotto Club, Ann Arbor ll
Master’s Letter | October 2016
Dear Brothers and Friends, One thing that has always impressed me about our Lodge is how we all pull together to help and support each other. This past month was no exception. Brother Randolph Fitzpatrick, had a recent work opportunity which took him away from our September Special Communication and the October Regular Communication. In addition, our acting Marshall, Scott Wilson was unable to attend. Charles Nagy PM, stepped up and took over duties in the South. Brother Matt Beste took over as Marshall. Brian Cors PM also assisted with key degree work. The Stewards especially Chris Haynes, and Chris McCormick assisted WB Charles Nagy with the meal and cleanup. At the October Regular WB Charles Nagy and Stewards McCormick and Haynes oversaw the annual 262 Chili cook off which was a resounding success! Congratulations to Brother David Bunn, our Junior Deacon, and WB Peter Dietrich, our Lodge Education officer, for preparing the first and second place winning chili respectively! The success wasn't just due to the Brothers mentioned here, Past Masters, other officers and Brothers all stepped up their game to produce these wonderful meetings when we were short. I can't thank you all enough. We are truly blessed to be the best Lodge in the Universe through all your hard labor. On Tuesday September 20th, some of the Brothers, including myself, attended an EA degree in Ypsilanti at St, Andrews No.7 PHA. We were graciously invited by their Worshipful Master Darius Randolph. In return, he joined us the following evening for our Special Communication where he witnessed us raise two fine Brothers to the Sublime degree of Master Mason. Behold how good and pleasant it is when Brethren dwell together in Unity!
A very special thanks to Brother Bob Cullip and his Son, who have installed our new grill! I look forward to breaking it in very soon! September 28th we held our annual Ladies night Master's Table at Knight's Steakhouse in Ann Arbor. The event was well attended and the food and fellowship was superb! This month, on October 19th, we will be raising a fine young man to the Sublime degree of Master Mason. If you haven't been to Lodge in a while please come out and help make this a special night for this Brother. As usual we will have dinner at 6pm and Lodge will open at 7pm. October 26th will be our monthly Master's Table to be held at The Session Room in Ann Arbor. All current members of AAF262 of any degree are welcome, as well as future candidates, or other men who are interested in Masonry. Please join us for fun, food and fellowship. November 2nd will be our Regular Communication, where we have much business to discuss and the election of our 2017 Officers. Please join us! I hope this letter finds you and yours well. Stay warm as the weather turns cooler and the leaves start changing color. See you in Lodge!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard OCT 19 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall OCT 26 - Master’s Table Dinner | Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina , Ann Arbor NOV 1 - Bros of Literature Book Club | The Craftsman’s Arms (ask Bro Wes) NOV 2 - Regular Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
Master’s Letter | September 2016
Dear Brothers and Friends,
Summer is winding down and September is here which means that it is time for us to go from Darkness to Light and resume our labors in the Quarry. However, just because we were Dark during the months of July and August, does not mean we were idle. Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge #262 marched in the annual Jaycees fourth of July parade along with the Brothers of St. Mary's #4 PHA, members of Zal Gaz Grotto, Sisters from Saline #311 OES, and members of Ypsilanti's Rainbow Girls. We passed out 500 American flags to the community. Our annual picnic was well attended with members of several area Lodges present. The food provided by our Junior Warden, and Past Master Rich Wilcox was exceptional, along with the sides that people brought. In August, Brother Wes Krumel organized a movie night for the Brothers of Literature book club which turned out to be a huge success and quickly sold out! The August Masters Table was held at Side Track in Ypsilanti's Depot Town and was attended by over 40 friends, Brothers and Sisters. The September Regular Communication was well attended, with one very special guest. We were honored by the visit of Worshipful Brother Thomas Kadantot of St. George Lodge No.7763 EC in Blantyre, Malawi. WB Thomas was traveling with his son who was accepted in the Engineering program at The University of Michigan. We look forward to his safe return and to spending time with his son.
Monday the 12th we bid a fond farewell to our beloved Musician Steve Simpson during our bon voyage event at the Zal Gaz Grotto . Steve has written and performed the music for our degree work for many years and will be sorely missed. I hope you were able to join us in toasting him and wishing him well on this new adventure. On Tuesday September 20th, we are invited to attend an EA degree hosted by the Brothers of St. Andrews No. 7 PHA. Doors open at 6:30 Lodge opens at 7pm. Attire is black tie and dark suit. The lodge is located at 327 South Adams St. Ypsilanti, MI. We have invited the Brothers of St.Andrews No. 7 PHA, to come to our Special Communication which will be on Wednesday, September 21. It will be a Master Mason Degree. Dinner at 6pm, Lodge Opens at 7pm. Please come and make this a very special night for our two Brothers. On Wednesday September 28th at 6:30pm we will have our annual Ladies Night Masters Table at Knights Steakhouse. Please feel free to bring that special loved one in your life and enjoy food and fellowship with the Brothers. This event is by RSVP only. Watch your email, details will be sent out soon! There are many things going on in your Lodge. If you haven't been to a meeting or event in a while, please come out and enjoy the fun, friendship, and fellowship that Ann Arbor Fraternity has to offer. You will not regret it!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard SEP 20 - Visit St Andrews #7 EA Degree | Ypsilanti MI SEP 21 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall SEP 28 - Ladies Night Dinner | Knight’s Steakhouse (original location) OCT 8 - Ann Arbor Craft Brewery Tour - Zal Gaz Grotto Club
A Brother's Passing.
Brothers,
It is with a heavy and sad heart that I am informing you of the passing of our dear Brother and Friend, Yves-Laurent Muls to the Celestial Lodge. He passed away unexpectedly at his home in College Point, Queens over the weekend. Yves was in NYC to complete his advanced studies. His parents are on their way from Belgium, and his girlfriend Bruna has returned to NYC Please keep Bruna and Yves's family in your thoughts and prayers. I will keep you all posted with details as I am made aware of them.
I first met Yves at a Master's table in the summer of 2012. He was the type of person that when you met him, you instantly liked him. He was warm, friendly and engaging. He was a very intelligent and thoughtful person. Well traveled throughout his life he spoke many languages.
Yves first petitioned the Lodge on September 7, 2012. He was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on October 17, 2012 Passed to the degree of Fellowcraft on November 17, 2012 Was Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason on February 20th, 2013
Brother Yves knew that it wasn't required, but did all his proficiencies in the Long Form, Including his Master Mason Proficiency on June 5th, 2013. By the way, English was not his first language, and he did them all completely from memory.
After moving to New York City, Brother Yves, Became a member of The Mystical Order of Prophets of the Enchanted Realm and joined Azim Grotto No. 7 where, of course, he made many dear friends and enjoyed the fellowship of NYC Masons.
Brothers, on a personal note, I am in complete shock and saddened by his passing. He was one of the friendliest, and most charming people I have ever known. I consider myself lucky to have known him for the brief time that I did. I know that those of you who knew him feel the same way. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace my dear friend and Brother.
Virtus Junxit, Mors Non Separabit...
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
Dinner & Movie: “The Man Who Would Be King” - Aug 11
Our "Brother's of Literature" group invites you to the Zal Gaz Grotto Club for a Dinner and a Movie night featuring the 1975 Sean Connery film “The Man Who Would Be King”, on our two HDTVs with awesome surround sound system!
THIS BRITISH THEMED EVENT IS OPEN TO ALL.
Thurs Aug 11 - Zal Gaz Grotto, 2070 W Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 map
- 6 pm: Happy hour with GIN & TONIC SPECIALS, British tea sandwiches, and live music.
- 7 pm: Sheppard’s pie dinner with salad and roll. Deserts available à la carte.
- 7:30 pm: Movie screening - The Man Who Would Be King.
Cost: $10 in advance or $12 cash at the door – ATM available. Wow! The Grotto is a CASH ONLY club!
PURCHASE HERE TICKETS NOW, or sign up at the Zal Gaz Grotto bar.
The Movie: “The Man Who Would Be King” - Legendary director John Huston adapts Rudyard Kipling's short story about Daniel Dravot (Sean Connery) and Peachy Carnehan (Michael Caine), two bored British soldiers stationed in India who travel to a mountainous Middle Eastern kingdom in search of riches and power. Embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, they con their way into becoming deities in Kafiristan before losing it all. The film earned four Oscar nominations.
REPORT: Brothers and Sisters March in July 4th Parade!
Our Brother Masons, Order of the Eastern Star Sisters, Zal Gaz Grotto Prophets, and Rainbow Girls all joined in to march in the Annual Ann Arbor Jaycees July 4th parade. Our WM Oscar let the contingent and we handed out American flags to the eager children who lined the Parade Route
We schmoozed with our local Congresswoman Debbie Dingell !
We had Brothers from our Lodge, St Marys No 4 PHA, and Golden Rule No 159 all showing Masonic Pride!
What it’s all about:
Masons on the march - July 4th!
All Masons, Grotto, Shrine and OES Sisters are invited to represent the Craft by marching in the Ann Arbor 4th of July Parade, organized by the A2 Jaycees.
BRING YOUR APRON. Also, per Grand Lodge rules, if you are a member of the Grotto or the Shrine you may also wear your fez. Wearing dark slacks and white or light colored shirts is encouraged.
When: July 4, be there by 9:00-9:30. Parade starts at 10, should be over by 11 Where: Our mustering point will be on Maynard St between Williams and Jefferson. Look for our lineup number 15 marked on the street.
Please enter the Parade staging area at the E. Jefferson & Thompson intersection barricade from the south to enter the lineup area.
Show the community it’s oldest and most respected Fraternity - march!
AAF262 Annual St. John's Day Table Lodge | June 25
The Brothers of Ann Arbor-Fraternity Lodge will gather to celebrate Freemasonry and St. John’s Day at this very special event. This event is open to Freemasons only, of any degree.
The old tradition of Table Lodge includes dinner, toasting, education, all done the ancient Freemason way! Be sure to wear a dark suit or tuxedo! And as a memento, all Brothers who attend the Table Lodge will take home a cool firing glass!
GUEST SPEAKER- Clinton Bartholomew, PM “ Speculative vs Spurious Masonry: Early 19th Century Mormon - Masonic Interpretations and the Causes of the Morgan Affair ” Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge No. 262
COST $15.00 [Advance Sales] $20.00 [Will Call/At The Door]
Ticket price includes meal and refreshments.
DATE & TIME Saturday June 25 5:30PM In-gathering 6:00-9:00PM Table Lodge!
LOCATION Zal Gaz Grotto Club of Ann Arbor 2070 W Stadium Blvd Ann Arbor, MI, 48103 [MAP]
WILL CALL/AT THE DOOR TICKETS Available in VERY limited quantity and only through prior arrangement. Contact the Junior Warden [juniorwarden@aaf262.org] to make arrangements.
Master’s Letter | June 2016
Dear Brothers and Friends,
May was a very busy Month for Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge. We had our Regular Communication, which was well attended with superb Lodge Education from Brother Paul Uslan. Brother Jason Bryce organized a Child ID program where many Brothers pulled together to assist.
We had a VERY Special Communication at the Detroit Masonic Temple, where we passed 4 Entered Apprentices to the Degree of Fellowcraft in the Egyptian room. This was followed by a Lodge tour of this magnificent Temple conducted by Brother Rob Moore.
Then yours truly was off to Traverse City, Michigan for the annual Grand Lodge Communication. It was here that our new Most Worshipful Grand Master William Finkel, and all the other Grand Lodge officers were officially installed.
Our Grand Master Bill Finkel PM, had a very good message that he wanted passed on to all the Brothers in the State. That message was of Masonic Pride. Please don’t misunderstand that statement. He was speaking of the ideals and lessons that Masonry teaches us. How these ideas challenge each and every Mason to strive to be better. Not better than anyone else. Rather the challenge to ourselves to be better than the day before. By taking pride in that challenge to be better than we are, we show the world through our example the good that Masonry offers society.
The June Regular Communication was held last Wednesday and was very well attended. We presented our annual Lodge Scholarship awards. This year the awards were presented to Sister Amanda Rothman, Past Matron of Saline #311 Order of The Eastern Star, and Brother Jesse Dzombak. Congratulations to both of you! Thanks also go to the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation (MMCF) for matching grants that make this scholarship possible!
During the meeting, we also started a Masonic Pride committee headed by Brother Scott Wilson. He will soon be taking orders for AAF 262, T-shirts, hoodies, and hats! More information to follow. Lodge Education was presented by WB Justin Krasnoff. He discussed historic Masons from the North and South, who had interesting interactions with each other during the Civil war.
We will be having our Special Communication [MM] on June 15th, where we will be raising a fine young Man to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. This will be a very special night for him, so please come out and join us! You won’t want to miss it, because all the officers will be moving up a chair that night!
Despite going dark after our June meetings, we will most certainly still be very active! June 22nd will be our Monthly Master’s Table which will be held at Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina at 7pm. On June 23rd Myrtle Lodge in Belleville will be performing a courtesy FC degree for a Brother who could not attend the FC degree in Detroit last Month. Food will be served at 6pm and Lodge opens at 7pm. Please head out and show your support for this Brother!
June 25th will be our Annual Table Lodge at Zal Gaz Grotto! This fun filled event is open to Entered Apprentices and above. BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW! We have a great speaker lined up for this event. Our very own Past Master Clinton Bartholomew, who will give an educational presentation on “Speculative vs, Spurious Masonry: Early 19th Century Mormon - Masonic Interpretations and the causes of the Morgan affair.” You will not want to miss this!
July 4th, the Lodge will be marching in the Jaycee’s annual July 4th Parade in downtown Ann Arbor. It takes place in the morning, only so plan on joining us before your family activities start!
On July 24th we will be having our all Masonic Family Picnic. This open to all Masons and appendant bodies, and families. It will be held at Olsen Park at noon. So bring the kids and friends! The Lodge will provide burgers and hot dogs. If your last name begins with A-M bring a side dish or salad. If your last name begins with N-Z bring a dessert. We have a permit for adult beverages so feel free to bring your own if you wish.
Lots of exciting events going on at the Lodge. If you haven’t been out to an event in a while, please come and join in on the fun and fellowship. You won’t regret it!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard JUN 15 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall JUN 21 - Bros of Literature Book Club | The Craftsman’s Arms (ask Bro Wes) JUN 22 - Master’s Table Dinner | Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina , Ann Arbor JUN 23 - Special Communication [FC] | Myrtle Lodge, Belleville JUN 25 - Table Lodge | Zal Gaz Grotto - Buy Tickets NOW JUL 4 - 4th of July Parade | Downtown Ann Arbor JUL 24 - Masonic Family Picnic | Olson Park, Ann Arbor
May 2016 at AAF262!
This May 21 the lodge made a road trip to The Detroit Masonic Temple for the purpose of holding a Special Communication in the temple’s fantastic “Egyptian” lodge room. We passed four Brothers to the Degree of Fellowcraft, congratulation to them all - they are proving to be valuable members of our lodge!
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard MAY 24 - Book Club | The Craftsman’s Arms (ask Bro Wes) MAY 25 - Master’s Table Dinner | Maize Mexican Cantina, Ypsilanti JUN 1 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall JUN 15 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
Master’s Letter | April 2016 - Family Ties
Brothers, Family, and Friends,
Greetings! This month I wanted to share with you all an aspect of Freemasonry that I have been thinking a lot about over the past month. We refer to each other as "Brother" and to our Eastern Star members as "Sisters and Brothers". Why is that? To me the answer is simple. We do not just belong to a fraternity. We belong to what I think of as a Masonic Family. After all, what stronger bond is there than the familial bond? When I look at my Masonic family, I see a group of Brothers and Sisters, all willing to come to the aid of a distressed Brother, their wives, widows and orphans. They are there to lift your spirit when you are down, or even support you in any of your laudable undertakings. It's what family does for each other. I have seen Ann Arbor - Fraternity Lodge do exactly that, time and time again, and it's wonderful! I have no doubt that we will continue to do as such in the future. So to answer my question, "What stronger bond is there than the familial bond?" The answer is a familial bond enhanced by a Fraternal bond. Last month I had the honor of watching a Father and Past Master of another Lodge, preside over the initiation of his Son into our beloved and gentle craft. It was a very moving experience, and one that I will not soon forget! Not only do they have the strong bond between a Father and his son, but they can also call each other Brothers in Freemasonry. Indeed part of a larger Masonic family as well!
In addition to initiating a new Brother last month, we had a very well attended Master's Table at Fraser's pub in Ann Arbor. Great food, beverages, and fellowship!
We also had ritual club last month where we all hone our ritual skills. We learned and practiced a few things that we haven't in a while. Ritual club is a very helpful tool that we all can use. It's very nice to see many of our newer members stepping up and taking on new roles!
Our Regular communication was very well attended. A delicious meal was prepared by WB Rich Wilcox, and our Junior Warden Randy Fitzpatrick. We were honored to have as a guest, Tiffany Fitzpatrick from the Boy Scouts of America. After dinner she gave an informational presentation on the Boy Scouts, and how they and we can possibly work together in the future.
The meeting itself was not your everyday business meeting. WB Art Davidge presented our Mason of the Year Award to Wesley Krumel. Wes, has helped out with many different projects, such as assisting in the installation of a new sign at the Grange, reviving the Brothers of Literature book club, and managing our Lodge engagement survey, to name a few. Congratulations Wes! We also had the honor of presenting WB Chuck Webster an Honorary Member to Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge. WB Chuck has been a Mason for over 60 years, and is a Past Master of Saline Lodge #133. Chuck regularly attends our meetings and I'm glad we were finally able to present him with this honorary membership!
Last month went by fast, and it seems like our momentum is only picking up speed! April 20th we will be initiating a fine man into our Lodge. Please join us as he begins his Masonic journey. April 27th is our Ladies night Happy hour. This is an informal get together for the Brothers to bring their significant others to meet and socialize. Location has yet to be determined so watch your email for the details. April 28th is the Brothers of Literature book club. May 4th is our Regular Communication. Brothers, please mark your calendars! Instead of having our Special Communication on the third Wednesday of the month, we will be having a Fellowcraft Degree Saturday, May 21st, in the Egyptian room of the Detroit Masonic Temple. We will be opening Lodge at High Twelve(Noon). Some of us will be meeting for breakfast at a local establishment. More details to follow!
As you can see we are very busy! Which is a great problem to have and one of the many things that I love about Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge! Please come join us and experience the energetic fun and fellowship!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard APR 20 - Special Communication [EA] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall APR 27 - Happy Hour - Ladies/Partners invited | TBA APR 28 - Book Club | The Craftsman's Arms (ask Bro Wes) MAY 4 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall MAY 21 - Special Communication [FC] | Detroit Masonic Temple
Master’s Letter | Mar 2016
Dear Brothers and Friends,
What does it mean to be a Mason? To me, one of the more important aspects of the Craft is in our dealings with humanity, but more especially a Brother Mason. Freemasonry is a place where all men can enter and be accepted for who they are. No matter your political views, religious specifics, race, creed, financial position in society. Freemasonry is about tolerance. To accept people for their flaws because we realize we have them as well. No one is perfect, we are all human. In other words, being a gentleman. A gentleman is tolerant. Tolerance isn’t about changing the opinions of others. Its about accepting them for who they are regardless of how you feel. We are Freemasons. We are to be true gentleman when the world needs us most. We are to treat all men and women as our brothers and sisters. And with the same level of respect that we insist to receive in return. Hopefully, If we lead by example, we will inspire other gentleman to join us. To those that don't wish to join us, perhaps we can inspire them to at least emulate that behavior, and maybe make the world just a little better.
It's hard to believe that It's already March. February went by fast, but was filled with great work from the Brothers of Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge! We had a well attended Regular Communication. We were able to send off our dear Brother Scott Graf, who is being deployed by the United States Navy to serve our Country. God speed Brother Scott and return to us safe and sound!
Our Special Communication was equally well attended and resulted in our bringing two fine young men to light and initiated them into the Fraternity.
At the March Regular Communication we had a very interesting Lodge education piece presented by Brother Jason Bryce, on the letter "G". Thanks again Brother Jason! As always, we had a delicious home cooked meal before opening Lodge, but this time we had the pleasure of WB Rich Wilcox preparing a delicious meal of Sloppy Joe's. Not just your typical Sloppy Joe, we had the traditional kind AND a fantastic pulled chicken gumbo Sloppy Joe. Hopefully we can coax the recipe out of him!
The Junior and Senior wardens, Randolph Fitzpatrick and Steve Moazami, had a very busy weekend dedicated to the Craft. They attended the Warden's leadership seminar held last Friday and Saturday in Grand Rapids conducted by the Grand Lodge of Michigan. We look forward to the valuable tools and information that they will be sharing with the Lodge.
On Saturday March 5th, after attending the Grand Lodge Seminar, both these Brother's rushed back to town to participate in our annual Past Master Roast/Awards dinner of our beloved WB Charles Nagy!
The night was wonderful as we had a little fun with WB Chuck. We also presented special Masonic Achievement Awards to 3 well deserving Brothers. Kris Kuehn, David Bunn, and Donald Wilson received the awards for their hard work and contribution to the Lodge.
We were blessed to be able to present an award for 70 Years of Masonic Service to our Brother Bob Mast! It was a pleasure to have finally met this Brother and see Secretary Bob Hospadaruk PM present him with his pin.
All in all I believe it was one of the best awards dinners I have ever attended!
As you can see the Lodge has been very busy, and we are going to continue the momentum!
On March 16th, we will be bringing a fine young man to light. Please join us.
Since we couldn't go there last month, our monthly Master's Table will be held at Fraser's Pub, on Wednesday March 23rd. Be there and be square!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard MAR 16 - Special Communication [EA] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall MAR 22 - Master’s Table Dinner | Fraser’s Pub, Ann Arbor MAR 30 - Ritual Club | (all degrees) | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall APR 6 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hal
2016 Past Master's Roast & Awards Dinner
Come join us at our annual Past Master's Roast and Awards Dinner for 2015!
This evening honors our immediate Past Master, Chuck Nagy - and those receiving Masonic accolades and awards for this past year. Your significant other is welcome to attend and participate in the celebration!
You are going to love our dinner venue: the famous Bona Sera restaurant in beautiful downtown Ypsilanti. Purchase your $15 dinner tickets here!
There will be a cash bar available.
Please join us for this chance to honor [and roast] our immediate Past Master - and show appreciation for those who have worked hard for our Lodge!
WHEN: Saturday, March 5, 2016 from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM (EST) -
WHERE: Bona Sera Cafe (we meet downstairs!) - 200 West Michigan Avenue Ypsilanti, MI 48197 map
Master’s Letter | Feb 2016
Dear Brothers and Friends,
It's February and so far it seems that Old Man Winter has been extremely kind to us. Too kind. I hope that he is not just biding his time and maintains his attention elsewhere.
Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge is off and running! We had a very well attended regular, and 2 weeks later we raised a fine young man to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason! Our Master's Table at Cultivate was very nice, and was attended by several candidates who are in the process of joining our fine Lodge. The Rudyard Kipling/Robert Burns dinner was lots of fun! We had waltz instruction, Indian food provided by Myrtle Lodge #89's very own Brandon Mullins, and Scottish dessert of ginger cake. Poems were read, toasts were made, and the whole evening was ended with a rendering of Burn's "Auld Lang Syne". Thanks to Brothers Scott and Donald Wilson for organizing this event!
This month we had a very well attended Regular! We were blessed by visitations from four different Lodges, and many of the Brothers stayed for the fellowship that follows all of our meetings.
Next week, February 17, we will be bringing two fine young men to light! Please join us as these men begin their paths in the Craft. As always, we will meet for a nice home cooked meal at 6pm, and Lodge will open at 7pm.
Our Master's Table will be at Fraser's Pub on the 24th at 7pm please come and enjoy the food, fun, and fellowship! Open to all Brothers of any degree, and any men out there interested in Freemasonry!
Finally, I want to invite you and your guest to the annual Past Master’s Roast and Awards Dinner. We’ll ROAST our beloved immediate Past Master Chuck Nagy, and recognize many of our other Brothers great achievements. This year our JW has secured the beautiful Bona Sera restaurant as the venue, you won’t want to miss it - click here to GET TICKETS NOW!
Before closing Lodge last week, I read from a post by WB Mathew Shelton, to a FB group called All Things Masonic. He was paraphrasing a bulletin that his current WM had written. While I don't believe this to be an issue in our Lodge, I do think that it's good for all of us to keep in the backs of our minds.
"All Masons have been given tools with which we are to hone our individual ashlars toward perfection. Additionally, we are charged with applying our tools to assist our Brothers with their ashlars by providing whispers of good counsel and being ever ready to teach and learn reciprocally from each other. As most are not completely familiar with the stone mason's trade, we sometimes choose the wrong tool for the job at hand.
To use some terms that most may be more familiar with, let's look at wood as opposed to stone. Most recognize that you choose the grit of your sandpaper based on how rough the wood is to begin with. The rougher the board, the more coarse the sandpaper you choose. If the sandpaper is too fine, it quickly becomes ineffective....too coarse and you risk damaging the wood. In many cases, we seem to choose very coarse sandpaper in attempting to correct the errors of our Brothers, when a finer grain would do a better job in achieving the finished product we are striving for.”
In interacting with our Brothers here, and in the Lodge, I ask that you choose your tools (and words) wisely and apply them with the kindness and respect we would all prefer. If someone is a little rough around the edges, don't reach for the 10 grit....try a finer approach first and use it gently. I think you'll find that the end results are better for all involved.
I want to stress that these are my words in paraphrasing another Brother's thoughts and words. I did not wish to directly quote him but felt his sentiments were very appropriate given some of the more recent discussions in the group.
These words really illustrate to me the way we ought to give each other wise counsel. So mote it be.
Looking forward to seeing all of you in Lodge soon!
Sincerely And Fraternally,
Oscar E. Ortiz Worshipful Master
UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard FEB 17 - Special Communication [EA] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall FEB 24 - Master’s Table Dinner | Fraser’s Pub, Ann Arbor MAR 2 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hal MAR 5 - Past Master's Roast & Awards Dinner | Bona Sera GET TICKETS NOW!