Key Lodge No.7 Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Transcription

1 Key Lodge No.7 Siloam Springs, Arkansas 2011 Twain Award Report Patrick C. Carr, WM Key Lodge No. 7, F. & A.M. M. W. Grand Jurisdiction of Arkansas 200 N. College Siloam Springs, AR 72761

2 Table of Contents Introduction and Goals for Key Lodge No Overview and Reflections Siloam Springs High School Band Fundraiser... 4 Thank You Breakfast for Emergency Services... 8 Dogwood Festival Open House Scholarship Fund Catfish Fry Master Masons Degree and Festive Board Masonic Education Initiative Masonic Poetry Reflections Masonic Music Program Website Design Initiative Trestle board Publications International Order of the Rainbow for Girls Outreach Addendum A. Pictures/Newsclipping from SSHS Band Fundraiser B. Pictures from Emergency Services Breakfast C. Pictures from Dogwood Festival Open House D. Pictures from Scholarship Catfish Fry E. Pictures and Partial Script for Festive Board F. Masonic Education from Stated Communication G. Masonic Poetry from Stated Communication H. Masonic Music Listing for Each Stated Communication I. Website Home Page Printout J. Trestleboard Sample K. IORG Public Relations Photos and Article... 47

3 Introduction and Goals 2011 Iniatives for Key Lodge No.7, F. & A.M. Key Lodge No. 7 has embarked upon several different initiatives to increase awareness of Freemasonry in our general area and to increase participation and interest among the Brethren. These initiatives for public outreach included several meals which allowed individuals to visit our lodge and have an opportunity to hear more about Ma<;onry in general. The Lodge. along with the local DeMolay and Rainbow Girls groups assisted in the events. The events held were: Siloam Sprin~s High School Band Chili Supper Fund raiser (January I 1) The Siloam Springs High School Marching Band was selected to participate in the 2012 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. While this is an extremely great honor, it did require the band to raise $362,000 in only 375 days. We decided that a Chili Supper fundraiser would be a good idea to help the band get started with their fundraising efforts. Flyers were placed around Siloam Springs, the newspaper ran public service announcements concerning the event and a large part of the corrununity assisted in selling tickets. On the evening of the event. over 400 people came out to eat chili and support the band. We were able to raise $2,000 for the trip and to also show people that Masonry is working to make the community a better place. The Rainbow Girls assisted in serving and the members of the Lodge took care of the cooking and set up for the event. Thank You to the Emergency Ser\'irc' \Vorkers (M~u ch 19, 20 Jl) Key Lodge embarked upon an initiative to invite all of the local Emergency Workers to a free pancake breakfast. The Police, Fire, Emergency Medical and Rescue, Department of Emergency Management and local dispatchers were included in the invitation. The event was advertised in the local paper and a personal invitation from the Worshipful Master was sent to the leaders of the City and to each of the leadership in these organizations. After breakfast was completed, the Worshipful Master thanked each of the departments represented for their service to our community. Dogwood Festi\'al Open Housl' (April 29 & 30, 20 I 1) The annual Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce Dogwood Festival was another opportunity for the Lodge to be in the public eye. l'he Lodge sells lunches to people who are attending the fest

4 tival. Almost 30,000 people ancnd this annual downtown festival and the Lodge is in the middle of the parks where the festival is held. During this time an open house is hosted in which visitors can come in and see the Lodge and hear a brief explanation of Masonry. Visitors can then venture into the fellowship hall where a display is set up from each of the appendant bodies in Arkansas Masonry. These include the Scottish Rite, Blue Lodge, Shrine, Grotto, Eastern Star, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Arkansas OeMolay, Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, Council of Royal and Select Masters, Knight Temp Iars and several of the honorary and invitational bodies through the York Rite. Each table has mementos and flyers from each of the bodies, as well as a brief description of who they are as well as their individual charities. Catfish Fry for the Schola.-ship Fund (Au~ust 13. 2tHI) The Lodge held its second annual catfish fry for the scholarship fund. Our scholarship fund is set up to provide monetary assistance to the children and grand children of members of Key Lodge No. 7 Also. we initiated a secondary scholarship tier for two members of the High School, one young man and one young woman, to have a scholarship for their entrance into college. During the first fish fry in 20 I 0, we were able to raise $800 to contribute to our scholarship fund. 100 l\1astcr Masons Degree & Festive Board (I'Jm ember ) Key Lodge invited all Master Masons in the state to attend a Master's Degree. At the degree we were seeking to have a minimum of 100 Master Masons present. The Lodge was opened on the Master's Degree by the officers of Key Lodge No. 7. The first section of the degree was performed by the sitting Worshipful Masters of the several Lodges in North West Arkansas. The second section was organized by the current and past Grand Lodge Officers of the MW Grand Lodge of Arkansas, F. & A.M. After the degree, everyone retired to the fellowship hall for a traditional British festive board. While we were anticipating the minimum of 100 Brothers to be in attendance, there were actually 45 Brothers who were able to attend the event and participate. Masonic Eduation Initiative (20J 1) The Lodge decided to implement Masonic Education for each stated communication. There was a time set aside before the closing of each meeting at which a different example of Masonic Education was presented by one of the Brothers in the Lodge. These times were well received by the Brethren and a time was held after each of the topics for discussion. 2

5 Masonic Poetr y Reflections (2011) --.. After the time for Masonic Education, the Worshipful Master read a short Masonic Poem for the Brethren. This was intended to engage the Brethren yet again in the concepts of Masonic Education and to also spend some time listening to the incredible works that many talented Brethren have produced. Masonic Music Program (2011) Before each closing of the Lodge, there has been a time set aside for Masonic Music. This music was played while all lights in the Lodge were off. except for the altar light. This was meant as a time not only for silent refl ection, but also to appreciate the work that our Masonic Brethren of the arts have done in the past. It was also intended to be yet another form of Masonic Education and was well received and enjoyed by all. \\'cbsite Design lnitati\.'c (2011) A new website was designed for the Lodge. Its purpose was to not only inform the Brethren about upcoming events that were scheduled at the Lodge. but also to inform those who may visit the site about Masonry in general and how to contact someone for more information. Trestlcboard Publications (2011) For the first time in the history of the Lodge, a Masonic Trestleboard was produced and distributed to the Brethren. Copies were printed out and placed on the sign-in desk before each meeting. Also, the publication was available on the website for all to download and read. It consisted of reflections from the Worshipful Master, a calendar for the month~ and a bit ofmac;onic Education. It was well received by the Brethren and visitors to the Lodge. lnternalional Order of the R~linbow fo Girls Outreach (20 II ) Key Lodge No. 7 is blessed to have a local Rainbow Assembly who meets and is sponsored by the Lodge. These young ladies are sometimes the best face forward that the Lodge can have, in that the) are a service organization, and are very active in the local community. They are constantly in the newspaper and have increased the awareness of both their Order and the Lodge in general by their untiring efforts to provide service to the community. They truly make us look good! 3

6 - Reflections Siloam Springs lligh School Band Chili Supper Fundraiser Planning Process What was the planning process? A committee was formed by the Worshipful Master to take care of organizing and advertising the event. The committee took care of the ticket pdnting, sales, distribution to the band members and the high school and acquiring donations of food for the meal. The committee met several times in order to get everything planned and in process. What were the goals? The primary goal was to raise money for the Siloam Springs High School Band and their upcoming trip to the 2012 Tournament of Roses Parade. A secondary goal was to open the Lodge Hall to people from the community so that they could see what was inside the building and to do some much needed and long neglected public relations in the community. What was the estimated budget? The estimated budget, before donations, was $500. Fortunately for the Lodge, donations of chili supplies and desserts came from several of the companies in the community. Final cost to the Lodge was onjy $160 for paper goods and drinks for the event. How many brothers would it involve? This event was worked by a large cross section of our Lodge, both younger and older members included. A total of 15 members of our Lodge, as well as another 12 members of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Siloam Springs Assembly No. 11, were working the event. Who are the intended beneficiaries? The Siloam Springs High School Band was the intended beneficiary since this was, in principal, a fund raiser for their trip. The Lodge raised $2.000 for this group. 4

7 - - Execution/1 mplementation Bow did it generate Masonic energy and ideas? This was the first attempt in many years for the Lodge to do something public for the community. Since a large number of our local membership was in attendance, it helped to increase the camaraderie of our Lodge in general. Also, several brothers!rom other Lodges were in attendance and were amazed at the local turnout. It is always a good event if you can have 400 people from the general community in the Lodge Hall. It also strengthened our membership to get ready for our other public events during the year. What was the activity schedule'? The pre-planning was completed during several weeks leading up to the event. The committee was organized in late December, after installation and the planning meetings continued up to the event date. The Lodge Hall was opened at 3:30PM to complete the set-up for the event, which included heating the chili for serving. People were planned to arrive at 6:00PM. however several arrived early at 5:30PM and were welcomed and seated for the meal. The event lasted until 8:00PM and the clean up of the fellowship hall and the Lodge was held at that time. The building was closed at 9:30PM after it was cleaned. How were communications managed? Communications between the Worshipful Master and the committee was held at the stated communication of January, as well as by phone and as the event was in the planning stages. The newspaper was given a press release prior to the event. The band received 400 tickets to sell to assist in the fundraising process. Communications between the band and the Lodge were held by the Worshipful Master and the chair of the committee. Members of the committee and the Lodge distributed flyers and posters throughout the community to inform the public about the event. Bow were brethren involved and bow often? The committee met several times in order to plan and implement the event. The brethren were also involved in the execution of the plan, as well as in the marketing and the clean up. Brethren were involved throughout the entire process. up until the presentation of the check to the - High School Band. s

8 - How many people outside of the Lodge were involved? Since it was open to the public, over 400 people from outside of the Lodge were in attendance. Also, several ofthe brethren's wives assisted in making the event a success, either by selling tickets or by assisting in the set up of the facility for the meal. Evaluation/Reflections Who were the beneficiaries? The Siloam Spring High School Marching Band received the funds from the chili supper fundraiser. What did the Lodge accomplish? The Lodge was able to kick off the fundraising for the band's trip, as well as to let the public see that the Lodge, and Masonry in general, is indeed active in making the world a better place by assisting in the community. Also, by having people see the Lodge Hall from the inside, they were able to ask questions concerning the fraternity. Many saw pictures of Uncles and Grandfathers hanging in the hall. What did the Lodge learn? We learned that people will visit our facility. and are willing to ask questions and discuss Masonry. We also learned that there is still a misconception about Mac;onry in general and what it is about. What would the Lodge do again? Yes. we would host another event like this! Jt was an excellent fundraiser and friend raiser event for our Lodge. We hope that it will spur more public events and to let more people see the good things that Masonry docs for the general public. What would the Lodge do differently? We would hopefully get radio station coverage or possibly purchase a newspaper ad and not rely on the public service announcements. Also. we would have the chili prepared at least two hours prior to the event to insure that there is virtually no wait time to heat chili for the massive amount of people who showed up at the Lodge. 6

9 How did this affect or change Masonic identity? First and foremost, it allowed the community to see that Masonry is indeed alive and well in our town. Also, it showed that the Lodge is concerned in matters that benefit our community. Another benefit was having people physically in the Lodge who have never darkened our doors. And by having the Lodge Room opened, we could conduct tours and explain Masonry to the public. People left feeling more at ease about our ""secret" society and its general perception. How did the Lodge participation affect the Lodge members? It was able to encourage the members to do more in our community. The amount of people from outside of our Lodge was an inspiration that there are still many, many people who may look to our fraternity for membership. We need to let them know that we exist, first and then they may seek the door. How did the activity serve the community through Masonry? It was a way to show that Masonry cares for the community. We were able to raise more funds than we estimated originally and we were able to show our Lodge Hall, and more importantly our fraternity, to people who may otherwise never have entered the doors. 7

10 Reflections Thank You Breakfast for Emergency Services Workers Planning Process What was the planning process? The committee was appointed after the installation of officers in December, The committee met several times over the next 60 days to decide how best to communicate with the Emergency Services employees. The committee also decided what food was best to serve on the morning of the breakfast. What were the goals? The goal was two-fold. First, it was to simply say thank you to the many unheralded emergency services workers (i.e. Fire Department, Ambulance, 911 Dispatchers, Police and Department of Emergency Management) for their service to our community. Secondly, since this demographic makes up a large part of the members of the Fraternity, it was a way to get them into the Lodge Hall and to be able to give tours of the building and to introduce them to Freemasonry in general. What was the estimated budget? The budget was approximately three hundred dollars. Due to donations the Lodge only spent two hundred dollars to serve pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee, juice and milk to those in attendance. How many brothers would it involve? Being a small event, only six Brethren were involved in the planning and implementation of the event. This included the committee members as well as those who were at the event cooking and assisting in serving. The local Rainbow Girls chapter was also on hand to assist with the refilling of drinks and the clean up. 8

11 Who are the intended beneficiaries? The Emergency Workers of the City of Siloam Springs were the intended beneficiaries. This was an event primarily to say thank you to them for their service. However. their families were invited and some did manage to bring their wives and children to the event with them. Execu tionllm plementation How did it generate Masonic energy and ideas? Once we had the event. and posted the pictures on Facebook, a social networking site, several Lodges in the Northwest Arkansas Region have decided to do the same type of event. In our Lodge specifically, it gave us better ideas on how to do the same event again, but for another demographic of our community. possibly the Boys and Girls Club. It also energized our members to continue in the community outreach of the Lodge and to discuss other more public events that we can do. What was the activity schedule? The members of the committee and the other volunteers gathered at the Lodge Hall on Saturday morning at 5:45AM to start the cooking and preparatory process. The night before the committee purchased the supplies that we would need. At 7:00AM the doors were opened and the local Emergency Services workers and their families attended the event in a drop in style. There were people entering the Lodge HaU from 7:00AM until we closed at 9:00AM. The clean up from the event took approximately 45 minutes to complete and the building was cleaned and vacated by 10:00 AM. How were communications managed? The committee sent s to the department heads of the City to inform them of the event. Flyers were posted in the several locations to make the Employees aware of the event. The Mayor and City Manager were briefed about the event. On the morning of the breakfast, another communication was sent out via text to those members of the community who were invited. The committee also reported to the Lodge at each stated meeting concerning their plans for the event and the assistance they would need in order to make the event a success. 9

12 How were brethren involved and how often? The brethren were involved by planning and implementing the breakfast. They were involved at each step of the process, from the initial concept until the final clean up and report to the Lodge. How many people outside of the Lodge were involved? The breakfast served approximately forty people from the community. Another six people were involved who were fonn the Order of the Eastern Star and the International Order of the Rainbow for G iris, both from our area. Evaluation/Reflections Who were the beneficiaries? The bnergeney Services Workers of the City of Siloam Springs and their respective families. - What did the Lodge accomplish? We were able to bring forty people into our Lodge who had never been there beiore and to say thank you for what they do but also to introduce them to Freemasonry. One individual in the Fire Department said that he had been in the community twenty years but had never entered the Lodge Ilall. He had many questions about the Fraternity which were answered during the tour of the building. What did the Lodge learn? The Lodge learned that no matter how well you advertise it, the first year of any public endeavor is not as well intended ac; hoped for. Also the Lodge learned that these workers were indeed touched that the Lodge would host a public thank you for the work that they continue to do in the community. What would the Lodge do again? We would absolutely do it again and the Senior Warden is discussing it for his plans as Worshipful Master for the next term. 10

13 What would the Lodge do differently? The committee would make personal appearances at the meetings of these departments to insure that all who desired to come would be notified of the event. This would insure a better attendance at the event for the ensuing years. How did this affect or change Masonic identity? This event let people enter the Lodge Hall and the Lodge Room who would never have been into the Lodge on other occasions. It also showed the community at large that the Lodge is a part of the community as well. It was an opportunity to communicate the goodness of Freemasonry to those who attended. How did the Lodge participation affect the Lodge members? The participation was another step in getting the Lodge to reach out to the community and to let the community know that we are alive and doing well. It also energized our members to do more in the community. Other events are now being planned by our line officers for their terms of office. Our members enjoyed giving tours and it also inspired them to continue working in the Lodge to help the community at other events. How did the activity serve the community through Masonry? The breakfast was a way for the community to see that Freemasonry is an active participant in the community through its actions and charities. The Lodge was able to talk about the different appendant bodies and their individual charities during the tours of the Lodge Hall. It also allowed the members of the Emergency Services to see that the Lodge, and more importantly the community as a whole, appreciates them for their sacrifices and for the job that they continue to do each and every da). l1

14 Reflections Dogwood Festival Open House Planning Process What was the planning process? The Worshipful Master presented the idea to the members at a stated communication. It was then approved by the Lodge to host the event and to also use the event in a two-fold manner. First it was to bring people into the Lodge Hall through the open house to educate them on the different appendant bodies and their charities and duties in the world. Second it was decided that we would continue selling hamburgers and hotdogs to the festival goers as our Eastern Star Chapter used to do before merging and moving to another Lodge. The local Rainbow Girls Assembly also sold snow cones and popcorn to those who visited. The committee then met several times to plan the menu and to schedule Brethren to work the evenl It was also decided that tours would be hosted by well informed Brethren during the event as welj. What were the goals? The main goal was to open the Lodge Hall and bring a positive light to the Fraternity. This was accomplished by the several displays for each appendant body, and its charity, that was set up on each table. There was one for each Masonic appendant body including the Scottish Rite, Shrine, Grotto, Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, Council of Royal and Select Masters, Comrnandery of Knights Templar, Eastern Star, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, and DeMolay International. Members of each of these bodies were on hand to speak with visitors about their respective bodies, goals and charities. What was the estimated budget? The budget was four hundred dollars which was to purchase food and supplies for the event. How many brothers would it involve? This activity would involve approximately fifteen Brothers to host tow s, explain the appendant bodies and charities and to cook food to be sold at the event outside of the Lodge Hall. It also involved approximately fifteen Rainbow Girls and their sponsors. 12

15 Who are the intended beneficiaries? The intended beneficiaries are the community at large, since this was done predominately to raise Masonic awareness and to education the public on the many bodies and charities that Freemasonry has to oiler. In a way, the Lodge itself, as well as its appendant bodies, would be another beneficiary of this event. Execution/Implementation How did it generate Masonic energy and ideas? It encouraged the Brethren to get more up to speed on the activities of each of the appendant bodies and their individual charities. It also motivated the Brethren to come to the event so that they could be active in the community as relating to the Lodge. Several Brothers came up with ideas to make it better next year with more information. What was the activity schedule? The Lodge was opened at 8:00AM on Friday and Saturday. The event lasted until6:00 PM on both days. Brethren were cooking and greeting those who visited the Lodge Hall during those times. How were communications managed? Information was posted in the local Chamber ofcommcrcc Dogwood Festival schedule which was passed out to all who attended. Also there were several signs showing the food offerings to those who passed by the Lodge, as weu as a banner that encouraged people to visit the Lodge. The traditional and telephone calls were handled by the Worshipful Master and the Committee to insure that all who were involved would be communicated to. How were brethren involved and how often? The committee members, which included three Brethren, as weu as four other Brothers were involved in the planning process at the weekly discussions for the event. How many people outside of the Lodge were involved? The event generated close to five hundred people visiting the Lodge Hall and approximately another one hundred receiving tours and explanations. 13

16 Evaluation/Reflections Who were the beneficiaries? People who purchased food were able to receive good food on a smaller budget than the typical vendors oit<;;red. Also the Lodge was a beneficiary in that it was able to show the public what Masonry and its charities are about. What did the Lodge accomplish? The Lodge was able to have yet another team building event but more importantly the Lodge was able to do effective public relations concerning Masonry in the conununity as a whole. What did the Lodge learn? The Lodge learned that it takes a lot of Brethren to put on an event of this magnitude. Also, we learned that there will always be people with their own pre-conceived notions of Masonry regardless to the truth of the matter. What would the Lodge do again? We would continue to host this event much in the same manner as we have previously. This is the fourth year that we have hosted an open house during the Dogwood Festival and we will continue to do so. What would the Lodge do differently? More signage would help attract more people into the actual Lodge HaJl to take the tours of the building. We will spend more money on signage for the next year's event. How did this affect or change Masonic identity? There were several people who came into the Lodge I Iall who had no ideas or pre-conceived notions of Freemasonry. This was an effective tool to explain the Fraternity to these visitors. Also it was a good event in that it showed people that the building itself is no great secret and that they were allowed to view the Lodge Room without being members. It did help to strengthen our public relations and good will throughout the community of Siloam Springs

17 How did tbe Lodge participation affect the Lodge members? It encouraged and energized our membership to talk openly about Freemasonry to those who visited the Temple. It also encouraged some of our members to look into the appendant bodies for membership. It was also a fun event lor those who were able to attend and work the event. How did tbe activity serve tbe community through Masonry? Tt was effective as a tool to show the community that Masonry is not what they have always perceived it to be. The Festival also was an opportunity to let others know that there are resources (i.e. Shriner's Hospitals, KTEF, etc.) available for people who are in need of assistance. 15

18 Reflections Scholarship Catfish Fry Planning Process What was the planning process? The committee met several times over the past year to plan the menu. The menu was decided to be catfish, chicken tenders) french fries, cold slaw and cornbread along with brownies and tea. During this time the committee informed the Lodge of their plans and it was approved to carry forward. What were the goals? The goal was to raise funds for our annual scholarships that are given to children and grandchildren of members of the Lodge, as well as to a young man and young lady from the local high school. What was the estimated budget? The budget for the event would be $500 which would cover the printing of the tickets, posters and the food and food containers. How many brothers would it involve? The fish fry involved 12 Brothers from the planning stages to the final implementation ofthe project. Who are the intended beneficiaries? Our beneficiaries are three fold in number. First, it was to raise money for our scholarship fund. Second, it was to bring more people into the Lodge building from the community and third, it was to get our Brethren involved in a project that benefits the community rather than the Lodge in general. 16

19 Execution/Implementation How did it generate Masonic energy and ideas? The fish fry generated Masonic energy among the Brethren due to the opportunity to work together frying the fish and serving the public. It was also a lot of fun as we worked together outside in the heat and then sitting down at various intervals with each other and the public to discuss our Lodge and its history in the communit). What was the activity schedule? The committee reported to the Lodge that we would start arriving at 3:00PM to prepare the Lodge for the evening. As usual, several Brothers came the evening before and early that morning to volunteer their time and the Lodge dining hall was prepped and ready to go well before the arrival of the main body of the Brethren at 3:00PM. When the rest of the group arrived we started the process of preparing the food to be served. By the start of the event at 5:00PM, we had enough food prepared to start the evening. When we finished at 7:00PM. it was another two hours before we closed the Lodge hal1. Cleaning always takes a long time, especially with this sized event. How were communications managed? The committee went door to door in the community to distribute flyers. Also, 250 tickets were printed for pre-sales to the community. The newspaper ran an ad for the event in their local news section. Several Brothers visited the Lodges in our area and sold tickets and distributed flyers. How were brethren involved and how often? As for any major event, the majority of the Brethren. about twelve, were involved heavily in the event at the meal itself. But, during the planning process, another five Brothers were involved in the committee. These Brethren were also part of the twelve that attended and worked the event. How many people outside of the Lodge were involved? Between 75 and 100 people from outside of the Lodge were involved in the actual event, since our event is open to the public and they are the intended aucitencc:. 17

20 Evaluation!Reftections Who were the beneficiaries? The Siloam Springs Higb School Scholarship Fund was the intended main beneficiary. However, several men asked for more information about the Lodge and becoming a Mason while they were at the dinner. Another beneficiary was the Lodge and the Brethren, since this was a fun time for the Brothers to be together and enjoy fellowship together. What did the Lodge accomplish? We were able to raise an additional $500 for our scholarship fund. This was short of the goal that was set of $1,000 but still we were able to supplement our funds and we enjoyed the company of the Brethren and the community while doing it. What did the Lodge learn? We learned that our choice of a date for the event this year made the turnout less than optimum. since there were a lot of things going on in the community. While we scheduled this event back in January before a lot of the community set their calendar, we were competing with a full day due to this being the weekend before school started. What would the Lodge do again? We will still plan to have another fish fry next year for the scholarship fund. That will be our third annuaj one and we hope to do it much the same way we did this year. What would the Lodge do differently? We will set the date earlier in the summer so as not to conflict with the last weekend before school starts. This should enable us to have a better turnout for the event. How did this affect or change Masonic identity? It affected our identity in the community because it showed that the Lodge was not only interested in the well being of the community and its students, but that we were committed to continuing to provide financial support to the students through the scholarships that we provide each year. 18

21 How did the Lodge participation affect the Lodge members? As per usual. our Lodge members enjoyed the fellowship that comes with an event of this size. We had a good time during the planning and it was continued throughout the implementation. Our Brethren enjoy being together. especially when it is for such a worthy cause. How did the activity serve the community through Masonry? Once again it allowed people to enter the building who had never been in before. This shows the community that we have nothing to hide from the outer world, since many believed that the building was off limits to the public. Also, another benefit was that the community was able to see our commitment to our students financially through the fund raising that was accomplished. - 19

22 Reflections 100 Master Masons Degree and Festive Board Planning Process What was the planning pl'ocess? The committee met during the year to plan for food preparation and serving for the event. They also worked towards getting the festive board and toasts in order. The Worshipful Master contacted the sitting Worshipful Masters of the Lodges in the Northwest Arkansas region to assign parts for the first section of the degree. lie also contact the Grand Master to be assured that the MW Grand Lodge would be organizing and participating in the second section. What were the goals? The goal was to provide a fun and educational day of Masonry to the Brethren in our State by participating in a traditional festive board along with a Masters Degree. What was the estimated budget? The budget for the event was negligible since everyone in attendance for the meal would pay the $10.00 fee. How many brothers would it involve? We were hoping that the event would involve at least 100 Brothers from around the State. Who are the intended beneficiaries? The intended beneficiaries of the event were the Brethren of the State of Arkansas and the candidate. 20

23 Execution/1m plementation How did it generate Masonic energy and ideas? It generated Masonic energy in our Lodge due to the fact that we were attempting to do several things which, in recent memory. had not been done before. First, the attempt to get l 00 Master Masons into the degree was an ambitious task. Second, it was a great example of fellowship and brotherly love to see the sitting Worshipful Masters of the several Lodges in the region working together for the good of the Craft. Third, it was a great experience for all to see the Grand Lodge officers working alongside the rest of the Brethren to confer the second section. And last, it was an educational evening to see the festive board and its toasts put forth. What was the activity schedule? Everyone was to gather at the Lodge Hall in Siloam Springs at Noon for a light snack lunch. The Lodge was opened at 1:00PM and the Degree was conferred. Afterwards. the five course meal and toasts were to be served before dismissal. - How were communications managed? Faccbook, Twitter and s were sent to the Brethren across the state to infonn them that the event was to take place and to invite them to be in attendance. An RSVP notice was set to insure that there was sufficient food for all in attendance. How were brethren involved and how often? Brethren were involved in both the planning, communications and the actual working of the event. They were involved at all levels and at all times. How many people outside of the Lodge were involved? Since Key Lodge No.7 is a small Lodge, the majority of those in attendance were from outside of the Lodge. 21

24 - Evaluation/Reflections Who were the beneficiaries? The intended beneficiaries were Lhe Brethren of the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Arkansas. as well as the newly raised candidate. Wbat did the Lodge accomplish? 1 he Lodge was able to get 45 Brethren from around the state to attend the degree and festive board. Also. all the Worshipful Masters of the First Masonic District were in attendance and worked the first section of the degree. It was a great time to bring the Brethren from the area Lodges together to work and fellowship. What did the Lodge learn? The Lodge learned that an event of this magnitude is quite a feat to accomplish. We were able to garner half of the attendance that was expected. We also learned that there were many in attendance who did not know what a festive board was comprised of. What would the Lodge do again? The Lodge would host another regional degree and festive board since there were several young Brothers in attendance who have contacted their Worshipful Masters to inquire as to doing one in their own Lodges. What would the Lodge do differently? The Lodge but would send out letters through the Grand Lodge Secretaty to all of the Lodges in the State to apprise them of the dates and times to enable better attendance. Also, it woujd be held earlier in the calendar year and not so close to the end of everyone's terms of office. How did this affect or change Masonic identity? lt was able to introduce the Brethren in attendnace to another type of Lodge atmosphere. This was extremely foreign to most of the Brothers in the room, but was received well. They were able to see another side of Masonic life that they were unfamiliar with. 22

25 How did the Lodge participation affect the Lodge members? Our members were excited to do something different. This was an opportunity for them to participate in a traditional UGLE type of event after the meeting. Several have asked the incoming Worshupful Master if he would like to do one in the future. How did the activity serve the community through Masonry? The only community that was served was the Msonic community, since it was a tiled meeting. Nevertheless. it was an exciting time for the Brethren to be served by the Rainbow Girls at the Festive Board and they were truly happy to have done something different in Masonry. - 23

26 Reflections Masonic Education Initiative As the new Worshipful Master of Key Lodge No.7, I met with several of the Brothers in the Lodge who had expressed an interest in bringing Masonic Education to the meetings as a way of not only educating the Brethren, but also as a means to get discussions started concerning different Masonic topics. Several Brothers were selected to research, find or write different three to five minute presentations for each of our meetings. A sample of one of the papers and have been included in the addendum of this document. The committee on Masonic Education came up with several different papers, topics and sometimes the Masonic Service Associations Short Talk Bulletins as a way of starting Masonic Education and discussions. lt was well received by most of the Brethren, but still, there were those who did not see it as necessarily useful. We learned that there will always be those who are not interested in learning more about the Fraternity, but are rather comfortable with just attending the meetings and opening and closing. Nevertheless, our meetings continued to have the time set aside for Masonic Education and discussion of each topic being presented. Tt is my hope that the incoming Worshipful Master will continue this program with the Brethren who have an interest in it. 24

27 - Reflections Masonic Poetry Selections Since Key Lodge No.7 had embarked upon an initiative concerning Masonic Education, it was decided by the Worshipful Master that Masonic Poetry was the next natural progression. At each stated communication, after business was concluded and before closing, the Masonic Education was presented followed by a small bit of Masonic Poetry. These selections were read from the East and included everything from original works of Masonic Poetry written by Brothers across the globe, to more well known works by Bro. Robert Burns. Each was selected and read by the Worshipful Master, who then provided a short commentary afterwards to expand upon the poetry that was shared. It was welcomed by those in attendance, as it was sometimes, funny, sometimes somber but was always done with enthusiasm towards the subject matter and with sincerety for the Brethren. The addendum to this document contains one sample sofa election of Masonic Poetry that was read in open Lodge at each Stated Communication of Key Lodge No.7. 25

28 - Reflections Masonic Music Prog1 an1 1 wish that I could take full credit for this idea. but I must admit I borrowed it from another Worshipful Master. Several years ago I was at the Masonic Libraries and Museums Assocation meeting in Washington, D.C. and we were blessed to be offered a chance to see the Bristol work of the Entered Apprentive degree at!\ lexandria-washington Lodge No. 22. Worshipful Brother Andrew Hammer takes time at the end of each meeting for reflection while a piece of music is played. 1 enjoyed this so much that I decided then and there when I was in the East that 1 would adopt such a program. After all the business of the Lodge is conducted, the piece of music that is selected for that evening's closing is presented to the Brethren, with a small bio about the Brother who either wrote of composed the music. The lights in the lodge arc then turned o1i except for the light over the altar. The music is played and when completed, the lights are turned back on. I was surprised that the Brethren responded so positively to this small time of reflection before the closing of the Lodge. They applauded and asked questions both before the closing and afterwards about the piece that was chosen. It was another way for the Lodge to embark on yet more Masonic Education and to continue to reach out to the Brethren by doing new and exciting things in Masonry. The Masonic music selections for each month can be found in the adendum. 26

29 - Reflections Website Design lnitative A website should be used as a tool of effective communication. There are too many websites. especially Masonic ones, that are rarely if ever updated with accurate information. At Key Lodge No. 7. it was decided that the website would have an updated look. but also it was important to keep it updated as to current events. The website. contains a quick read calendar of events on the side of the screen. a picture of the Lodge on the home page and several links on the top and hottom which would guide the visitor deeper into the array. Some of the pages include the monthly meal for our Family Night gatherings held on the third Tuesday of each month. Other links lead to pictures and contact infonnation for each of the officers of the Lodge. There is also a linked page for pictures of events and a links page for other important Masonic pages. The monthly Trestleboard is also linked from the main page and is able to be downloaded and read by any person who visits the site. The most important pages of all are those that explain what Masony is and what it is not. It is a way for visitors to find out more information about Freemasonry in the privacy of their own homes before contacting someone to ask about the Fraternity. We have had several petitions and inquiries from men who found us using our website. Screen shots of the website can be found in the adcndum. - 27

30 Reflections Trestleboard Publications Key Lodge No. 7 produces a monthly Trestleboard, appropriately called the Trestleboard Key. It is published on the first of each month and is available either at the Lodge in a printed fonn or from the website as a PDF file available for download. The Trestleboard Key is a quick way to communicate with our members and other Brethren who are visiting our Lodge or our website. It contains a greeting from the Worshipful Master and some information from him as to what is happening, or ha"> previously happened in the Lodge during the next month. It also contains the same calendar that is published on the website. At the end of this single page front and back newsletter is a small bit of Masonic Education entitled Did You Know. This is intended to whet the appetities of those who are seeking more light through Masonic Education. It contains factoids from both the Grand Jurisdiction of Arkansas as well as from other Grand Jurisdictions. An example of one of the monthly Trestlcboard Keys can be found in the addendum. 28

31 Reflections International Order of the Rainbow for Girls Outreach Literally the best face forward for Key Lodge No.7 is the Siloam Springs Assembly No. 11 of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. These yow1g ladies are constantly either out in the community serving through their various community service projects or being recognized in the local newspaper, The Herald Leader. for the things that they are doing. Whenever they are recognized, it is almost always with the notification that they are sponsored by the Masonic Lodge, Key Lodge No. 7. Some of the different public events that they were invited to participate in this past year include: Stuff the Bus for the United Way: Whjch provides school supplies for school children who will not be able to receive them from their parents due to financial constraints. Dogwood Festival Hope House: The young ladies of IORG staff a table and give tours of the Lodge as well as explain their Order to perspective young ladies and their parents. American Cancer Society Relay for Life: Our young ladies serve dinner for the cancer survivors the evening of the walk. Tt has been another great way for them to be seen in the community. Downtown Holiday Clean Up: Siloam Springs has a very large Christmas Parade and decorated old tmvn each year. The young ladies of lorg are invited to come and assist in removing the greenery at the end of the I Ioliday season. Rainbow Sale on the Lawn: While this is intended as a fundraiscr for Siloam Springs Assembly No. 11, it has been a good public relations event as well. The Lodge is opened to the public and both the Brethren of Key Lodge No.7 and the young ladies oftorg are in attendance to conduct tours of the facility and answer questions. 29