CONOWINGO SCOTTISH RITE CLUB
by: Hon. Charles F. Ramsay, Jr., 32°, KCCH

Happy New Year to everyone!  It is a cliché to say that 2009 was a blur. Hopefully that means we were all having fun and enjoying life to the fullest. There is much to be thankful for besides being battered by bad news that surrounds us on TV and newspapers etc. The Scottish Rite and related families continue to support those that need our help and support. Unfortunately, good deeds often go unnoticed to the public, but we know better. So let’s be proud to be Masons and members of Blue Lodges, Tall Cedars, Boumi Temple, York Rite etc. as they continually go about the business of making those less fortunate lives a little better. This goes on in good times and bad.

2010 brings us a new leader at Scottish Rite in Baltimore. I am proud that Brother Marlin Mills, 33° has accepted the leadership role as Deputy of the Supreme Council. He was provided the prestigious position as of January l, 2010. Marlin is no stranger to the job as he has acted as Dr. Wilhelmsen’s Deputy for some time and knows the workings of the Rite and Blue Lodges as well. Marlin is a man of great energy, integrity, determination and brings enthusiasm to the position.  On a personal note, I am proud that he was my mentor and instructor in Esdraelon Lodge #176, in Cardiff Md.  Marlin served in all seats and as Worshipful Master many times.  In addition, he oversaw the renovation of our one hundred year old building, and updated our history in a manual. His other accomplishments are too many to enumerate here, but are well known with the brethren. I know that I speak for all of us in wishing him and Brenda well and providing our support in any way that we can. Marlin will speak to us at our February 26th meeting.

As Dr. Wilhelmsen steps into the next phase of his active life we wish him all of the very best.  We thank him for all of his encouragement, kind words and support. He with his wife Leah and guests were a constant at our meetings and much of our success is because of his direct attention.  Hopefully, we will continue to see him in the future. Thank you again.

We will continue to meet at the Bayou Restaurant, 927 Pulaski Highway, Havre de Grace, Maryland.  Cocktails are at 5:30 and dinner is at 6:00 p.m. Again, all members, friends, and guests are more than welcome. We will endeavor to keep our cost at $25.00 (which includes gratuity and tax).  The choice of entree includes appetizer, dessert, bread and beverage and good service. We will start on time, enjoy a good meal, hospitable visit and entertainment. Please inform me if you have someone or something in mind for our agenda. This is your group and your input is vital.  I look forward to another great year.

You will continue to receive a mailing on our meetings approximately one month in advance as will as a phone call reminder one week prior to our meetings. Please reply as promptly as possible as I need to provide a count to the Restaurant with menu choice. The next meetings are May 21, and October 15. We will try for a winter meeting if possible. I look forward to seeing everyone soon.