Message from the East
Greetings brethren,
I hope you had a great Thanksgiving with families and friends.
It was a very eventful November for the lodge, and we celebrated many things together
as friends and families. First, we hosted our annual charity fundraiser, the Cigar Night,
with both smoking and non-smoking options. This twist was inspired by Wor. Joe Camara
and it was well received by the members. We had 45 participants in this event, with a
great number of non-smokers who enjoyed the food and fumes with the rest. Particularly,
the profit we made from the Cigar Night ($4,600+) will enable us to continuously support
local charities, fulfill our commitment to the community and to our distressed and worthy
brothers. I want to give thanks to all who supported this event with time, talent, and
treasure, especially to my counterpart Wor. Donald Hayes, who co-hosted this event, and
Bro. Benjamine Wheat, who served as a skilled and popular bartender.
Second, at the regular communication in November, we had several surprises in store for
one of our brethren, who served the lodge, his community, and God on several occasions
with great depth. R.W. Thomas Berry, the District Deputy Grand Master, issued the most
distinguished honor of Massachusetts Freemasonry - Dr. Joseph Warren Service Medal
to Wor. Donald Hayes. He was truly surprised after been instructed to give a lecture on
the history of Thanksgiving, wondering why the sideline was filled with district attendees
and families. This award was long overdue for the many contributions Wor. Donald Hayes,
who not only led the lodge through the most challenging time of COVID-19 pandemic, but
also made the best out of it during and beyond. I am deeply honored to be the sponsor
of this award to Bro. Hayes.
After the meeting, the families and members enjoyed a delicious Thanksgiving meal
prepared by Bro. Josh Davila and his wife Tara, and by Bro. Chris Grimes. We filled up the
dining room with more than 30 people and it felt really good to see so many brothers and
families together, celebrating and cheering for each other.
In the end, I hope to see you at the December meeting, where we will make plans for the
events and activities in 2025. If you want to bring families, come to our joint Holiday
Celebration with the Scottish Rite on Sat, Dec 14th.
Fraternally,
Bro. Fang Zhang, Ph.d.
Worshipful Master