Message from the Secretary

My Brothers, another year has nearly passed. It was busy; it was fun; it was rewarding; it was fulfilling. We presented scholarships, conducted Kids ID, raised funds, socialized and took care of business.

The year is now winding down, but there is still much to do, and so much more for next year. Thank you to all who have pitched in. The list is long, but there is room for more. Come to Lodge, and bring a Brother.

Fifty Years and Counting

Two of our Brothers reached the 50 year mark in 2007. Dave Muller of Windom reached the milestone in January and Claude Bennett of Sonoma CA makes it this month. Dave will receive his pin in Lodge on November 15 and Claude’s will be mailed.

Building Update

The main floor of our building continues to be rented out. In front is the Minnesota Department of Corrections. In the back is the Sally Larson Farm Bureau Agency and Linda Vortherms Accounting. And we have donated space in the basement to Operation Minnesota Nice for their monthly packing parties.

They tolerated this summer’s street project and now enjoy the new concrete pavement. The sidewalk is new, too, and will be heated so no one needs to shovel snow. Improvements were also made to the back door that should save heat and make the offices more comfortable.

The trustees are considering a few more projects in the near future such as replacing some light fixtures, repairing ceiling tile and moving the electrical service. Our thanks to the committee: Duane Pingeon, Bob Turner and Mike Simon.

Scholarships Awarded

Prudence Lodge teamed up with the Grand Lodge of Minnesota last spring to award three scholarships to area students. Jacob Grages of Lakefield, Kelsie Pederson of Storden and Andrew Salzwedel of Lakefield each received $500 from Prudence Lodge which was matched by Minnesota Masonic Charities. Steve Clark and Kjell Turner were co-chairs for this annual endeavor.

Outdoor Lodge is a Success

In June we held our second Outdoor Lodge. We were honored to have in attendance the Grand Master, two Past Grand Masters and the Area Deputy,

along with Brethren from Lodges throughout the area, 38 Masons in all. They enjoyed a meal of brats and burgers This will be an annual event for years to come. Put it on your calendar for next June, the first Thursday.

Kids ID Continues

A new date was added to the Lodge’s Kids ID calendar. We participated in Windom’s version of the National Night Out in August. This was in addition to the Farm and Home Shows held in March in both Windom and Jackson plus the Family Night in Jackson during the month of May.

Parents receive a computer disc with photos of their child, along with a card to record essential information and instructions for collecting DNA. In case of an emergency, this information can readily be given to authorities.

Fraternal News

Our newest Master Mason is B Audi Nickel of Mt. Lake. Audi was raised during the One Day to Masonry class in St. Paul.

In January we learned of the passing of B David Davies. He had lived in St. Paul and most recently was a resident at the Masonic Home in Bloomington.

B Ron Richards spent over a year in Iraq on active duty with the Army Reserve. He returned last spring. Ron is a Trooper with the Minnesota State Patrol. We are proud of Ron for serving his county, and grateful for his safe return.

B Duane Garber requested a demit in January. He lives in Bloomington, MN.

B Russ Vieregge has returned to Minnesota. He and wife Elsie have moved to Mankato. B Secretary has the contact information if you would like it.

In October the Brethren elected Leon Steen of Windom to receive the degrees. The work will begin as soon as we can coordinate schedules. Brethren who can perform the work and the lectures are always valued.

Officers for 2008

Who will be the officers for 2008? Hopefully that question will be answered at the Stated Communication in December. Listed at the end of this newsletter are the five elected officers of the Lodge. There are also eight appointed officers.

Have you wondered what it would be like to sit in the East? Start your journey by taking a chair in the Lodge. It takes some time and effort, but it isn’t all that difficult. It is a learning experience, and the support structure is excellent. If you are curious, any Past Master would be happy to answer your questions. Come to Lodge and take a role in its leadership.

2007 Coming Events

November 12 – School of Instruction. We will be traveling to Libanus Lodge #96 at St. James for this Monday night event. Brethren will depart from Prudence Lodge at 5:30 p.m. Supper will be served at 6:30 followed by the school. Please join us.

November 15 – Past Masters’ Night. Once again a dinner arranged by the Senior Warden 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 of the elected officers and we will arrange something.

November 30 – 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 5:30 and catered dinner will be served at 6:30. A separate mailing will be coming out for this event.

December 9 – Holiday Poinsettia Delivery. We will meet at the Lodge at 1:00 p.m. and then fan out to bring colorful plants and holiday cheer to Brothers and Sisters in the area. Our focus has been on shut-ins and recent widows.

December 20 – Stated Communication with Election of Officers. How about you? 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. We will begin at 6:00 p.m. If all goes well, officers for 2008 will be installed in a public ceremony after the meal.

2007 Elected Officers

Worshipful Master – Duane Pingeon 831-3882

Senior Warden – Bob O’Connor 847-5933

Junior Warden – James Nesseth 831-3094

Secretary - Allen Peterson 831-0212

Treasurer – Kjell Turner 831-0136