Message from the Master

Brothers of the Lodge, it has been a very busy year since my work schedule was changed. It seems I have been scheduled to work most of the Lodge nights. Although we have been separated by circumstances, the work of the Lodge goes on. I would like to thank all those who worked on all of the Lodge events through the year. Some you will read about in this newsletter.

As you know, it takes the participation of the members to make a Lodge and its events successful. The greater the participation is, the easier the task will be for everyone.

Please consider what you could do to increase your participation. We need people to lead and work on projects, put on degree work, hold Lodge offices, make meals before Stated Communications, organize social events and send out newsletters.

Not only will you benefit from the sense of accomplishment, you will enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship. We hope to see you soon.

Rod

Lodge Conducts KidsID

Parents of some 750 children took advantage of the KidsID program run by the Lodge this year. The event was run three times in Jackson and twice in Windom. Law enforcement agencies in both communities lent a hand to the Masons. Plans are to make KidsID a regular part of our Masonic calendar.

Hospital Foundation Breakfast

The Masons of Prudence Lodge #97 assisted the Windom Area Hospital Foundation with two breakfast fundraisers this year. On Sunday, March 21, and again on Sunday, October 24, Dad’s Belgian Waffles were served to several hundred appreciative customers at the Eagles Club in Windom. The Lodge took its share of the proceeds last Spring and used them to purchase a TV/VCR unit which we donated to the Hospital’s OB unit.

Fraternal News

Brethren passing to the Celestial Lodge since the last newsletter were: Robert Hotzler of Okabena on April 5; Dana Zimmerli of Jackson on August 1; Mier Chozen of Jackson on August 17.

Betty Gudmestad, wife of T. K. “Ken” Gudmestad of Windom, passed away on July 21.

Word has been received of a number of brothers who recently entered the hospital or nursing homes including Lloyd Hawks, Curt Langley and Bob Therkelson. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers, and visit when you can.

Dues are Due

Enclosed with this newsletter, Masons will find one of two items. Those with prepaid memberships will find their 2005 dues card signed and sealed. The rest will find a statement of dues owed along with the convenient blue envelope to return your payment.

At the 2004 Annual Communication, the Grand Lodge per capita was raised $4.75 to $29. Prudence Lodge dues for the year are still $15 for a total of $44. Please mail your check, including any contribution you wish to make to the MSA Vets Hospital, at your earliest convenience.

Coming Events

November 18 – Past Masters’ Night. Once again a dinner catered by the Eastern Star will be served at 6:30 p.m. in the Lodge Hall. Lodge will open at 7:30 p.m. with Past Masters filling the chairs. If you need a ride, feel free to call one the of the elected officers and we will try to arrange something.

November 20 – Fall Festival. A series of breakfast events called Fall Festivals was announced in the Minnesota Mason recently. These are opportunities to introduce worthy non-Masons to the Craft with an informational program led by a Grand Lodge Officer. The festival for Southwest Minnesota will be held at the Happy Chef Restaurant in St. James from 10:00 am until noon. Invite that prospect you have been thinking of. Cost is $7 for Masons and free for guests.

December 10 – Christmas Party. Join your Brothers and Sisters for a holiday celebration at the Bingham Lake Senior Center, and bring a guest. The Oasis will open at 5:00 and catered dinner will be served at 6:30. Please bring an unwrapped toy for a needy child.

December 16 – Stated Communication. Election of Officers. How about you? It takes some time and effort, but it isn’t all that difficult. It is a learning experience, and the support structure is excellent. Come to Lodge and take a role in its government. Supper will be served at 6:30 and Lodge opens at 7:30.

December 27 – St John’s Supper. This annual event will once again be a pot luck meal at the Lodge. Guests are welcomed and encouraged.

2004 Elected Officers

Worshipful Master - Rodney Deuel 847-5706

Senior Warden – Frederick Benson 853-4779

Junior Warden – James Nesseth 831-3094

Secretary - Allen Peterson 831-0212

Treasurer – Kjell Turner 831-0136