Brethren,

The last day of 2024 has arrived. Looking forward to 2025 and all the hopefully happy days ahead. I hope all the Brothers of Riverhead Lodge and all Brothers in general have a wonderful new year.

Much has been happening at the Lodge and lots still to do. If you haven’t been to the Lodge in a while, the Lodge room as been completely renovated and it came out beautiful. There are still few more items to complete with this, but I am very happy with the results so far.

I am also looking forward to the first meeting of the new year, Tuesday January 7^th, 2025. Before we all enjoy New Year’s Day, a few reminders of upcoming events and dates.

On Jan 8^th  ,2025– V:.W:. Stu Smith is holding a AGL’s School of Instruction at Smithtown Lodge, collation 6:30 PM, Meeting begins at 7:00 PM

On Jan 17 & 18^th ,2025– The 1^st Annual Masonic Con will be held at the Grand Lodge of New York. The 17^th is the Mariners Lodge Beefsteak festive board, and the 18^th will be the Masonic Con. You can get tickets for these events on the Grand Lodge of New York Website, https://nymasons.org

On Jan 21, 2025 – Riverhead Lodge will hold its annual Summoned Communication. This Summoned Communication is a rollcall as well as reports from all committees are to be presented to the lodge and spread upon the minutes. So, this means all committees please submit your reports. If you cannot attend this summoned communication, please make sure your committee report is sent to the Secretary prior to the meeting.

On Feb 4^th, 2025, we will be opening and closing and heading over to Amityville Lodge for their DDGM visit. We’ll discuss the logistics at next Tuesday’s meeting.

On Feb 18^th, 2025 – This is Riverhead Lodge’s Official Visit of the DDGM & GLSO to our Lodge. There will be a short rehearsal for all officers prior to the 18^th. Please know your opening/closing ritual without any books or written material. If we need to brush up on that we can do that during the DDGM rehearsal.

I am currently planning a 3^rd degree either late March or early April.

Finally, for those who like to donate Blood to the NY Blood Center I have agreed to 3 more dates for them to hold Blood drives at the Lodge. These will be announced as soon as I get a bit more information.

All dates and events are posted in several locations, the Suffolk District BAND, Riverhead Lodge BAND, Riverhead Lodge website, and Suffolk District Website. If you need the addresses for any, please let me know and I’d be happy to get them to you.

Again, may you and your families all have a Happy and Healthy New Year. See you in 2025!

Fraternally,

V:.W:. Bill Arnold

Master

Riverhead Lodge #645