Ann Arbor Fraternity No. 262

What's Happening at 262?

Thu, 24 May 2012 18:10:38 -0400

We’ve had a busy Spring season at 262. There are 8 new Master Masons this year so far and we are on track to begin initiating new Entered Apprentices this June. It is truly important and good work!

Besides our busyregular meetings and degree work, we’ve been enjoying our monthly “Master’s Table” events on each 4th Wednsday of the month. This dinner takes place at a different restaurant each month. It’s great to try out different venues, some better than others (last month’s location shall remain nameless) but the fellowship and discussion is always the best! If you haven’t attended this event recently you are missing out, and it will continue throughout the Summer even when the lodge is dark. Keep your eye on the Trestlboard. Happy Birthday WB Cors!

The lodge had been storing some of it’s historic artifacts in the basement of our Illustrious Brother Justin Krasnoff PM 33rd. Necessity has caused us to move them to a climate controlled storage facility for safe keeping. There are many intersting items that someday we’ll all get to see. Here are a few gems:

Officer Line 1920. See the flag with stars? It is a Service Flag

75th Lodge anniversary presentation from Golden Rule Lodge

Brothers who served (WWII?)

The tools of a Past Master

Our Past Master from 1898, we have a long and great history here at 262!

Next month, the Brothers will gather for a very special event called the “Table Lodge” on June 23. From time immemorial, Freemasons have enjoyed meeting about a “Festive Board” loaded with the fruits of their labor. Our Table Lodge places a special emphasis on the Summer Solstice, and the day of a patron Saint of Masonry, St. John the Baptist. Be sure to save the date and check the this site for upcoming details.

See you at lodge…

UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard

MAY 30 - Book Club- “A Pilgrim’s Path” | Location: Br Clark’s house
JUNE 6 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
JUNE 13 - Family Game Night | Zal Gaz Grotto
JUNE 20 - Special Communication [EA] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
JUNE 23 - Table Lodge | Zal Gaz Grotto
JUNE 27 - Master’s Table Dinner | Location: TBD

Master's Letter | April 2012

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 23:04:00 -0400

Dear Brethren and Friends,

Ann Arbor Fraternity Lodge No. 262 has been busily engaged in Masonic activities as of late. Last month we raised two brothers to the sublime degree of Master Mason, and we raised three more brothers to the sublime degree in March. Also in March we held our annual Past Master’s and Membership Recognition dinner. This year the event was held at Carson’s American Bistro where we ate a sumptuous dinner replete with delicious appetizers and decadent deserts. Special thanks should be offered to Erik Harclerode for organizing the dinner and to Justin Krasnoff PM for acting as the MC for the event.

Justin offered a moving and funny tribute to our outgoing Junior Past Master recalling the leadership that Brian Cors has shown over the years and he paid tribute to the numerous brothers who have joined our lodge due to the example of Brian Cors PM. I would like to thank my dear brother for the privilege I have had to serve with him over the past several years. Additionally, his guidance since I have taken the chair has proved extremely valuable. Brother Cors is truly a gentleman, a scholar, and a good judge of beers.

This year brother Oscar Ortiz was chosen to receive the Mason of the Year award. Brother Ortiz is truly deserving of this award. Oscar’s first step into the lodge began when he saw a Masonic ring on the finger of Brian Cors PM, upon which Oscar excitedly and exuberantly stated, “Hey I want to be a Mason!!!” Last year Oscar served very diligently as a steward who repeatedly stepped up to plan, prepare, and serve our lodge’s repast in the absence of our JW. Brother Ortiz has always been an active participant of lodge, and his smiling face is always present at every regular, degree, and practice session. I know that Oscar is a man on which the lodge can depend. Congratulations to Brother Oscar Ortiz on earning this distinguished award.

Last but definitely not least, the Membership Award this year was given to Justin Krasnoff PM for his long-standing service to the lodge. Brother Krasnoff has not only served as Master of the lodge, but he has served in the office three times, thus earning him the distinctive title of Justin Triemegistus. When I recollect my first visit to Fraternity Lodge, it is the joyous and jovial voice of Brother Krasnoff that first comes to mind. Brother Krasnoff made me feel like I belonged in the lodge and like I was among friends. Thank you Brother Krasnoff for your distinguished service and devotion to the craft. This award has been a long time in coming, and it is well deserved.

Thanks to all the brothers who participated in the awards dinner, and for all of your contributions to the lodge.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Clinton Bartholomew WM

UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard

APR 18 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
APR 25 - Master’s Table Dinner | Location: Roger Monks
MAY 2 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
MAY 11 - Family Game Night | Zal Gaz Grotto
MAY 16 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall

CONCERT | Works by Bro. Steven Simpson

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:56:00 -0400

Brethren and Friends,

This Sunday at 7:30PM, our Musician - Dr. Steven Simpson - will have his works performed at the Kerrytown Concert House. Matthew Coley and Sonic Inertia will be performing, and it should be an evening not to be missed!

Come support our Brother at this event that is showcasing his original work. And for those who haven’t been to Lodge lately - Brother Steven also continues to compose and perform original music for our Lodge ceremonies.

EVENT INFORMATION:

Matthew Coley and Sonic Inertia
Performing works of Dr. Steven Simpson
Kerrytown Concert House
Sunday, April 15th 7:30PM
CLICK HERE FOR INFO AND TICKETS!

Master's Table Dinner | March 28 2012

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:47:00 -0400

Brothers and friends,

Wednesday March 28 6:30pm - Ann Arbor Fraternity No. 262 will be having our monthly Master’s Table Dinner. This monthly, casual dinner is open to Masons of all degrees, and to those that are interested in joining a Lodge.

This month, the Master’s Table dinner is at THE WURST BAR! This is a new bar/grill in Ypsilanti - where Theo’s Bar used to be. It’s a vibrant, fun new place - and they make ALL of their sausages and burgers in-house! It’s vegetarian-friendly, as well. There is also an amazing selection of beverages there.

LOCATION:
The Wurst Bar
705 West Cross Street
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
734.485.6720
http://www.wurstbarypsi.com

CALENDAR INFORMATION:
http://bit.ly/masters_table_2012_03

Please come out for a great evening of fellowship and relaxation.

Master's Letter | March 2012

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 12:02:00 -0500

Dear Brethren and Friends,

The first two months of this year have been busy ones for the Lodge. We held our first degree in Dearborn at the Scottish Rite Center, on Saturday, January 21st. The ceremonies began that 10 AM, and seven brothers were passed to the degree of Fellow Craft. The leadership of our Lodge encourages brothers to travel to other lodges: and in order to facilitate this, our Lodge endeavors to hold our Fellow Craft Degrees at one of the surrounding lodges. Both before and after the degree the brothers enjoyed touring this historic Lodge building, whose cornerstone was laid in 1925, and in which Masonic work has been performed continuously for over eighty five years. We were delighted to have several visiting brothers attend the degree. Immediately following the degrees, the brothers retired to Cheli’s Chili Bar, which is owned by the former Detroit Red Wings defenseman Chris Chelios, to enjoy a meal together and to toast our new Fellow Crafts on their advancement in Masonry.

Four days later the members of the Lodge met at the Grotto to celebrate the life of the famous Scottish poet in Freemason Robert Burns. The “ploughman poet” was initiated a Freemason on July 4th, 1781 in St. David Tarbolton Lodge at the age of 23. For those not familiar with the quote “Bard of Ayshire”, he is considered the national poet of Scotland. His writings and poetry from the Romantic movement include the song “Auld Lang Syne” and the poem “A Red, Red Rose”. Lesser well known are his Masonic poems, of which the following entitled the “Presentation of the Pillars” is my favorite:

Long latest live in prosperity shined
In his member still vie with each other
In spreading the light of our order design
In relieving the wants of a brother.

May envy and malice ne’er enter that door
That is aye closely tyled to the cowan
But peace, love and harmony aye be in store
More abundant the older you’re growing.

May our Master who presides like the Masters of old
In wisdom excel and astonish
May he never be heard erring brothers to scold
But with brotherly love aye admonish.

May our Warden in the West, like the sun’s setting rays
Illumine the golden horizon
May his strength never fail with the burden of days
But increase every moment that flies on.

And to our Warden in the South, like the beauty of day
May he gladden the worn, tired and weary
Inspire with his smiles as they rest by the way
The toilers, and make them feel cheery.

And to you whom or Master is honoured to rule and instruct
Be ye always sober and steady
Expert in the use of each working tool
And aye hae them handy and ready.

Thus will the Temple we seek to upraise
Be completed when all do their duty
And our voices unite in a chorus of praise
To Wisdom, to Strength and to Beauty.

An enjoyable evening was had by all, replete with bagpipes, tartan clad dancers, and an ode to the haggis. Of course a fair amount of scotch was drunk in toasting the bard and our fraternity. Thanks to the hard work of Brother Scott T. Wilson, this event was a resounding success. I would like to also extend a warm thank you to all those who participated in the program.

In February, at our Regular Communication we were pleased to welcome back our dear Brother Peter Dietrich who has been living in Seoul, Korea for a number of years. This year Peter is serving as the Worshipful Master of a lodge in Korea. During the education portion of the meeting, or Worshipful Brother regaled us with stories about the various differences between the ritual and rainment within the Korean lodges. The discussion was enlightening and enjoyable, and we love to welcome our returning brothers with open arms.

Also in February we held our first Master Mason Degree of the year in which two brothers were raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason. We would like to extend our congratulations to these two new Master Masons. Making its premier at this degree was a new prop for the degree assembled and built by Brother Tom Hathaway. I would like to thank the many participants in the degree.

This month we also had to say a temporary goodbye to Brother Scott Graf who is being mobilized for active military duty. Brother Graf served last year as our lodge’s Junior Warden; and he has been a very active and engaged participant in the lodge. We will miss him at our meetings, and he will be in our thoughts until he returns safely.

Please mark your calendars for next months roast of Past Master Brian Cors at our Annual Past Master’s Award Dinner to be held at Carson’s American Bistro on Friday, March 16th. RSVP here!

We will also be raising several more Brothers to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason on Wednesday, March 21st.

I look forward to seeing our Brethren at these upcoming events.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
Clinton Bartholomew

UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard

MAR 7 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
MAR 9 - Family Game Night | Zal Gaz Grotto
MAR 10 - Junior Deacon Day/Trip | Masonic Pathways, Alma, MI
MAR 16 - Past Masters Roast & Awards Dinner | Carson’s American Bistro
MAR 21 - Special Communication [MM] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
MAR 28 - Master’s Table Dinner | Location TBA
APR 4 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
APR 13 - Family Game Night | Zal Gaz Grotto

SATURDAY: Special Communication [FC] | Dearborn, MI

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:07:00 -0500

Brethren and friends,

Our usual Special Communication held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month is instead happening this Saturday, January 21st in Dearborn at the Valley of Detroit Scottish Rite Center.

The Fellowcraft Degree will be conferred on our anxiously-awaiting Brethren - and we hope that you can attend if at all possible. This event is open to our FC candidates as well as Fellowcraft or Master Masons. This is not open to the public.

The meeting begins at 10:00AM sharp, with lunch afterward at a local dining establishment.

MEETING LOCATION:
Valley of Detroit Scottish Rite Center
907 Monroe Street
Dearborn, MI 48124-2309

PARKING NOTE:
Be sure to bring change for the parking meters, directly to the right of the Scottish Rite Center.

As usual, all details about our meetings and events can be found on our Trestleboard, located on our website. | http://aaf262.org

We hope to see you all there, to assist these Brothers with furthering their journey!

TOMORROW: Regular Communication

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:03:22 -0500

Greetings and Happy New Year!

As you may be aware, tomorrow is our first Regular Communication of the new Masonic year. We would love it if you could join us and our new officer line as we welcome 2012. Dinner will be served at 6:00PM, with the meeting to begin promptly at 7:00PM. Please also feel free to bring refreshments for our afterglow and fellowship.

Any and all Entered Apprentices are welcomed to attend the meeting. Any visitors who are not yet Masons are also invited to attend the dinner, but will have to depart once our meeting begins. If you are a visitor, please enter the building from the back door.

MEETING LOCATION:
Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Road Ann Arbor, MI, USA 48108

We hope to see you all there!

Ann Arbor Freemasonry - A Chain Unbroken

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:31:37 -0500

Here you see Brian Cors preparing for his last meeting as the Worshipful Master for 2011. Thank you, Brother Cors, for a job well done. The lodge is forever grateful for your year in the East. Interestingly this view to the East contains all Past Masters of the lodge: Blackburn, Cors, Krasnoff and Davidge. We are lucky indeed!

The year draws to a close with fond memories of the good work done in our quarry, and the great times shared amongst brothers and family. December brings a changing of lodge officers, our 2011 Worshipful Master Brian Cors, passes the gavel to our new WM, Clinton Bartholomew. The chain of men who have sat in our East is renewed, as it has held strong for 143 years.

The Installation of Officers for 2012 took place last December 8, at the Zal Gaz Grotto Club. We are proud to present this fine group of gentlmen as our officers for the coming year:

2012 Officer Line:
Worshipful Master - Clinton R. Bartholomew
Senior Warden - Bob Hospadaruk
Junior Warden - Erik Harclerode
Treasurer - Arthur W. Davidge, PM
Secretary - Bob Blackburn, PM
Chaplain - Steven Moazami
Senior Deacon - Charles Nagy
Junior Deacon - Oscar Ortiz
Marshal - Thomas Hathaway
Tiler - Peter Scott
Musician - Steven Simpson
Senior Steward - Douglas Rottmann
Stewards - Chris Ballard, Jason Bryce, Albert Defluri,
Lewis Donofrio, Mike Shehan

Here are some of the highlights from our Installation Ceremonies.

First, the newly installed Master, Clinton Bartholomew receives “the football” (don’t ask!) from Brian Cors, Immediate Past Master.

That being accomplished WB Clinton is presented with one of badges of his office - the “master’s hat” from his wife Janet.

Next, WB James Lakin of Golden Rule Lodge #159, presents the famous “Tri-Lodge Sounding Board”, while one of the kids escapes.

Looking on is the father of the escapee, our new Junior Warden, Erik Harclerode, shown with his Stewards Doug Rottmann (left) and Mike Shehan (right).

And guarding the Western Gate is our new Senior Warden Bob Hospadaruk, shown with (from left to right) Musician - Steven Simpson, Junior Deacon - Oscar Ortiz, Stewards - Chris Ballard, Jason Bryce & Lewis Donofrio, and our Tiler - Peter Scott.

Congratulations to the all the members, family and friends of #262 and blessings for the new year! If you’ve read this far, you deserve a holiday present: Worshipful Brother George Washington’s own Egg Nog Recipe!

Installation of Officers | An Invitation

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:13:52 -0500

You are invited to an Installation! Help bring in our 2012 officer line with style. We’re having a public event: open to family, friends and loved ones. Please bring them along for the installation - then stay for the dinner and celebration!

When: Friday, December 8, 6:30pm
Where: Zal Gaz Grotto Club, 2070 W Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, MI, 48103 map
Note: Zal Gaz Grotto bar will be open for various beverage choices and is a CASH-ONLY establishment.

2012 Officer Line:
Worshipful Master - Clinton R. Bartholomew
Senior Warden - Bob Hospadaruk
Junior Warden - Erik Harclerode
Treasurer - Arthur W. Davidge, PM
Secretary - Bob Blackburn, PM
Chaplain - Steven Moazami
Senior Deacon - Charles Nagy
Junior Deacon - Oscar Ortiz
Marshal - Thomas Hathaway
Tiler - Peter Scott
Musician - Steven Simpson
Senior Steward - Douglas Rottmann
Stewards - Chris Ballard, Jason Bryce, Albert Defluri,
Lewis Donofrio, Mike Shehan

facebook event page here

Master's Letter | December 2011

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 20:45:29 -0500

Dear Brethren and Friends,

How quickly time passes! I now find it to be the end of my year as Worshipful Master of our Lodge. There have been times that were difficult, challenging, amazing and inspirational. As has been said, one’s time in the East as Worshipful Master is another degree in and of itself. I have done everything that I can to make this a year of growth and improvement with learning, fellowship and ritual. We’ve done quite a bit of work on the administrative end of the house as well - and I can assure you that AAF262 is in a very good state as I depart the East. Our new officer line, under the guidance of WM-Elect Clinton Bartholomew will be stellar! Our annual installation will take place at Zal Gaz Grotto on Friday, December 9th at 6:30PM. We hope to see you, your family and friends there to welcome them into office.

Our Food Gatherers annual benefit was a smashing success. With the help of our friends, family, community, and matching funds from the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation, we were able to raise over $3700 in one evening for this worthwhile cause. Our evening at the Corner Brewery was full of fun!. We even needed to ask the amazing DJ to stop playing, as we surpassed our allotted time! I am proud that we are able to continue this tradition, and thanks to all that made this event possible. I think it was the best one yet!

Several of our members also made a day trip this month to the Michigan Masonic Museum & Library in Grand Rapids (PDF). This is an institution that our own W. Bro. Seymour D. Greenstone helped to create. While there, we were given presentations about what the Museum & Library does, examined many impressive artifacts and texts and took part in a detailed tour of the building. It’s truly an incredible resource for our Brothers across the state, one that I know we will be visiting again in the future.

I want to thank all of you. There is absolutely no way any of the accomplishments of this year could have happened without the hard work of our officers, Past Masters and the members of our Lodge. Always remember - this is YOUR Lodge. Your ideas, input and assistance are always welcomed and needed! Finally, I want to acknowledge the assistance, sacrifice and patience of my amazing wife, Debbie. She has lent many hours of support to me and the Lodge in numerous ways during these past 12 months. I am deeply indebted and truly thankful for everything that she has done during my time as Worshipful Master.

As I depart the East and my sun sets in the West, I wish you and yours the happiest of holidays and an incredible New Year!

Warmest fraternal regards,
Brian Cors
Worshipful Master

UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard

DEC 7 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
DEC 9 - Officer Installation | Zal Gaz Grotto
DEC 28 - Master’s Table Dinner | Location TBA
JAN 4 - Regular Communication | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
JAN 11 - Degree Rehearsal [FC] | Bro. Erik Harclerode’s House
JAN13 - Family Game Night | Zal Gaz Grotto
JAN 18 - Special Communication [FC] | Pittsfield Union Grange Hall
JAN 25 - Robert Burns Birthday Dinner | Zal Gaz Grotto

Freemasons Party for Food Gatherers - Success!

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 17:40:00 -0500

The 3rd Annual Freemasons Party for Food Gatherers is now legend! Last Nov 5th this fantastic happening took place at Ypsilanti’s Corner Brewery. Freemasons from around the area and many community members were out in force for a night of fun, food and fundraising for Food Gatherers. A small army of volunteers: masons, family, friends, plus our volunteer DJ Todd - made it all possible!

With matching funds to be provided by the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation (MMCF), the event raised a record amount of…

$3755.00 - Yes, a new record!

In 2010 more than 43,900 people — including more than 14,000 children and 6,500 seniors—received emergency food each year through Food Gatherers’ network of emergency food pantries and meal sites.You can be proud of the part YOU played in helping others.

A special THANK YOU to our local business sponsors. Be sure to support them, like they support us!

Freemasons Party for Food Gatherers, Nov. 5

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:50:24 -0400

You, all your friends, and EVERYONE are invited to a fundraiser party to benefit Food Gatherers - an Ann Arbor food agency that works to prevent hunger. Food Gatherers does this by collecting and delivering over 7 tons of food per day to those in need in the greater Ann Arbor area.

Due to hard economic times, Food Gatherers needs our help - with either financial or non-perishable food donations. This party is how you can help this important local effort that directly affects our area, and have a great time doing it! Last year we raised almost $4000 that was then converted into TONS of food. Let’s see if we can do even more for Food Gatherers this year - bring a cash or non-perishable food donation to help make a difference.
Your donation will be MATCHED by the Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation!

Saturday, November 5, 7:30-11:30 pm

This year we’re at the fabulous CORNER BREWERY in historic Ypsilanti!

Corner Brewery, 720 Norris Street, Ypsilanti, MI Map

Fun ~ Food ~ Music ~ Friends ~ Fighting Hunger!

Facebook event page, invite your friends!

Download, print and post a flyer for the event: http://ow.ly/6Mxv9

Master's Letter | November 2011

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:08:00 -0400

Dear Brethren and Friends,

The Masonic year is swiftly coming to a close! I and the officers of Ann Arbor-Fraternity No. 262 would love to see you in Lodge at our next Regular or Special Communication, before the busy holiday season is upon us. Our next Regular Communication on November 2nd will be productive, including our annual memorial service and Lodge officer elections.

Degree work will continue on November 16th - as we bring at least two more Brothers into the Craft. This year, we have been privileged to raise 12 Master Masons, and bring another 9 men into our Brotherhood. Our Brothers are learning, growing, staying and contributing to the Lodge, bringing new ideas and energy to our Fraternity. In October, our Musician, Bro. Steven Simpson debuted music that he has specially written for our degrees at AAF262. It was breathtaking!

Masonry is everywhere you look or travel. Our Brothers have visited Lodges all over the Midwest and beyond this year, and we have had visitors from at least 2 other countries visit our own Lodge. Our visit to Redeemer Lodge No. 53 PHA was incredible - building upon a relationship that continues to grow through the years. By being a “traveling man”, you truly get to experience the universality of our Brotherhood - and learn that Masonry is lot more than the four walls you are used to seeing at meetings.

On November 5th, we will be having our 3rd annual “Freemason Party for Food Gatherers” at Corner Brewery in Ypsilanti. In our current economy, any assistance we can lend to our own community is vital. This event allows us to directly help those around us. Please bring a check and/or a food donation, and come out to have a great time! Last year we were able to contribute almost $4000. Let’s see if we can beat that!

Finally, please save the date of Friday, December 9, 2011 for our 2012 Officer Installation ceremony at Zal Gaz Grotto. It will prove to be a fun and festive evening!

From our Lodge to you and your families, we wish you the very best of health and happiness.

Warmest fraternal regards,

brian cors
Worshipful Master

UPCOMING EVENTS - From our Trestleboard

NOV 2 - Regular Communication | Memorial Service | Lodge Elections
NOV 5 - Freemason Party for Food Gatherers | Corner Brewery, Ypsilanti
NOV 12 - Day Trip | Michigan Masonic Museum & Library, Grand Rapids
NOV 16 - Special Communication [EA]
NOV 23 - Masters Table Dinner | Location TBA
DEC 7 - Regular Communication
DEC 9 - Officer Installation | Zal Gaz Grotto

Master's Letter | September 2011

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:04:36 -0400

Dear Brethren and Friends,

I hope this summer has treated you all well! I know that I for one will be glad to be back in Lodge, after a short summer break. Please remember that our Regular Communication is the first Wednesday of each month, and our Special Communication is on the third Wednesday of each month. If you’ve not been to Lodge lately, please come join us - we have much going on!

This summer’s social events have been spectacular. Our families and friends have joined us at German Park picnics, a Tiger’s Game Outing - and of course, our 2nd Annual Tri-Lodge Picnic. Our annual September Masters Table dinner at Knights Steakhouse approaches on September 28th (Ladies too!). Please notify W. Bro Justin Krasnoff if you will be in attendance. It’s always a great night for us and our loved ones to reconnect after the summer break.

On September 7th we officially get back to work with our Regular Communication. I am pleased to announce that we have several new candidates joining our Lodge - which will take us through the end of this Masonic year. We will be having a rehearsal for the EA degree on September 14th - as it will be conferred on three new candidates on September 21st. I expect October and November to also be busy with EA degrees. Brothers, remember the night you began your journey. Please come and personally give these new Brothers a warm welcome into Masonry.

Please keep October 8-9 open on your calendars - as we will be assisting in a Child ID program event to be held at Briarwood Mall. This is a great way for us to help families in our community, and to also let them know we are present and active. I personally assisted with one of these events and can tell you the families really appreciate what Masons do.

I am attempting to arrange a few outings for our Lodge. Destinations include Cincinnati, Ohio, a Saturday trip to Grand Rapids to visit the Michigan Masonic Museum and Library - and visitations to our Brothers at Redeemer Lodge No. 53 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan and to Windsor Lodge No. 403 of the Grand Lodge of Canada to watch them confer degrees. By traveling we see how much is the same, and always learn fascinating things from the differences between our traditions. Details about these outings will be announced as they develop.

Finally, I wish to thank Brother George Lucero for his contributions both as Senior Deacon to our Lodge and his duties to other various Masonic organizations in the Ann Arbor area over the years. Brother George has been transferred to New Mexico for his job and is currently settling in at their new home. Our Lodge will deeply miss this Brother, as he begins this new chapter far away from us.

From our Lodge to you and your families, we wish you the very best of health and happiness.

Warmest fraternal regards,

brian cors
Worshipful Master

UPCOMING EVENTS from Our Trestleboard

September 7
Regular Communication - Pittsfield Grange
September 9
Family Game Night - Zal Gaz Grotto Club
September 20
Book Club - Location TBA
September 21
Entered Apprentice Degree - Pittsfield Grange
September 28
Masters Table Dinner - Knights Steakhouse
October 8-9
Child ID Program - Briarwood Mall

What 262 did on its Summer Vacation

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:10:00 -0400

In the calendar of many lodges, the summer months are “dark”, that means: not much happening. AAF262 was only dark this year for the month of August, but by no means did we lack activity!

First off, Brother Erik Harclerode organized a lodge trip to Comerica Park to see the Tigers. And what’s better than an evening at the ballpark with our brothers and family? The same, with the Tigers trouncing the Cleveland Indians 10-1! Yes!

Next came the Master’s Table dinner, at the Corner Brewery in Ypsilanti. It was pouring rain while we sat outside under the back awning. Nevertheless, the craft was not dampened as we enjoyed masonic discussion over great brews and food. Good times.

On August 28th we participated in the 2nd Annual Tri-Lodge Picnic. This Event brings together the three best lodges in Michigan, Ann Arbor-Fraternity #262, St. Mary’s #4 PHA and Golden Rule #159. There was family fun and fellowhip, BBQ, games and our Brother Scott Yoders masonic pretzels! Who else has that?

On August 30, the Scottish Rite Northern Jurisdiction had it’s annual meeting of the Supreme Council in Chicago. Our Worshipful Brother Justin Krasnoff was one of two Valley of Detroit members to receive the 33rd degree. Achieving the 33rd is an honor that can only be bestowed and it is granted solely by the Supreme Council. “A 33° Mason is a Master Mason who has exhibited knowledge, passion and sacrifice to his craft”. Congratulations Illustrious Brother Justin!
Far right: Justin F. Krasnoff, 33°

If thats not enough, some of our members have be filling their spare time reading Septembers Book Club selection, “Observing the Craft” by Andrew Hammer, PM of G.W.’s lodge: Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22. From his book site: “Observing the Craft is a manifesto of sorts for the observant Mason, who seeks quality over quantity in every aspect of Freemasonry.” An interesting read for sure, it’s not too late to get your copy and join the book club on September 20.

See you in lodge as 262 kicks of an exciting September!

Tri-Lodge Picnic | Sunday August 28

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:29:00 -0400

Sunday, August 28, 3:00pm-7:00pm
Join ALL the brothers, friends, and families for a summertime tradition! This picnic is sponsored and hosted by Ann Arbor’s 3 great lodges:
Ann Arbor-Fraternity # 262 ~ St. Mary’s Lodge # 4 ~ Golden Rule # 159
Food will be provided, games and prizes!

The lodges will be providing a meat entree of roast pork and chicken! the rest is POTLUCK. What to bring? If your last name begins with:
        A-I Dessert
        J-Z Side Dish or Salad
        Bring your own beverage and place setting.
We have a permit for adult beverages, so you can bring that too!

Where: Gallup Park, in the “Old Wooden Picnic Shelter” here is a MAP

Download a flyer for the event HERE Facebook event HERE

A well-stated Masonic venn diagram.

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:02:38 -0400

A well-stated Masonic venn diagram.

Master Mason Degree: Wednesday, July 20

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:46:00 -0400

We will be raising 3 Brothers to the sublime degree of Master Mason. Given the state of the weather - and the heat we are expecting, tuxedos are NOT REQUIRED or suggested for the evening’s events.

SUGGESTED ATTIRE
- Collared shirt [long or short sleeve]
- Pants [no jeans]
- No suit coat required.
- Shorts are ACCEPTABLE!

The menu for this Wednesday’s degree will be a variety of subs from DiBella’s Old fashioned submarines…Also Pop, milk, water, and a desert will be provided. Sorry about not grilling, but not only would it reduce your faithful Steward to a pool of sweat!

If you like, bring a beverage of your choice for our afterglow!

Time: Wednesday, July 20, Dinner 6:00pm, Degree starts at 7:00pm
Location: Pittsfield Union Grange 3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor, MI

Report | July Regular Meeting

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:45:00 -0400

Ann Arbor-Fraternity Lodge always has a great monthly meeting. This last meeting was no exception! We had a special visit by a brother fellowcraft, who traveled all the way from Chile:

Here you see our new friend, Carlos González from Derechos Humanos (Human Rights) Lodge # 100, Valle de Santiago, Gran Logia de Chile. Carlos is seen here presenting some gifts to our WM Brian Cors. Brother Carlos, thank you for your visit and we hope to share more light in the future!

Masonic Disaster Relief for Joplin Missouri
We received a communication from our Grand Master Fredrick Kaiser Jr, which is an appeal for monetary relief for the victims of the tornado disaster in Joplin Missouri. The appeal for relief funds come via the Masonic Service Association (MSA). Our lodge voted to contribute $200 to the fund. If you would like to make an individual contribution send a check payable to “MSA Disaster Relief Fund” with “Missouri” in the memo line to:

MSA Disaster Relief Fund
8120 Fenton Street, Ste. 203
Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785

Lodge Social Life
A reminder was given out about our fantastically fun upcoming social events. Be sure to check our trestleboard for details on these and other important and fun happenings: July 27 - Masters Table Dinner @ Joes Crab Shack, August 20 - Tiger Game with family & friends (RSVP for tickets NOW!), and August 28 - Tri-Lodge Picnic with all of our families and friends. Can’t really say that this lodge ever goes dark can you?

Masonic Education
After the meeting (afterglow!) Brother Clinton Batholomew gave a fascinating presentation on the historical connections between Masonry and Mormonism, with an interesting focus on codes and cyphers. Clinton’s groundbreaking research was enjoyed by all and we hope to hear more from our scholar in the future.

Visit our lodge at the next regular meeting on September 7!

Master's Letter | July 2011

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:07:00 -0400

Greetings to all Brethren and Friends!

Greetings from the island of St. John, of the U.S. Virgin Islands! I am currently traveling for my brother’s wedding – and found myself in this amazing place, at exactly the right time.

As all Brothers have learned, Masonry has long held a strong connection to our patron saints - St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. Over the centuries, there have been celebrations surrounding each of these days that memorialize these two saints – one who represents zeal, and the other - knowledge. It is also a time for us to come together to remember our past and to plan for the future.

It just so happens that June 24 is Saint John the Baptist Day – and incredibly, I find myself in St. John. To make this day all the more interesting - I discovered that my godfather is also my Brother. Incredible indeed that a lifelong spiritual connection grows even stronger on the day of St. John the Baptist.

Brothers, look for Masonry wherever you may be. Whether you search close to where you live, or in lands far away. Whether you search within your own being, or look to those around you - you will surely find it in the most amazing and unexpected places.

Please remember that we will be having both a regular communication and a special communication in the month of July. There will be an afterglow presentation consisting of very interesting Masonic research that our Senior Warden, Bro. Clinton Bartholomew, recently presented at the Mormon History Association.

Finally, please save the date for our Ann Arbor Tri-Lodge picnic, happening on Sunday, August 28th at Gallup Park. More details will be coming from your Lodges about this great event.

From our Lodge to you and your families, we wish you the very best of health and happiness.

Warmest fraternal regards,

Brian Cors
Worshipful Master

UPCOMING EVENTS from Our Trestleboard

July 6
Regular Communication - Pittsfield Grange
July 20
Master Mason Degree - Pittsfield Grange
July 22
Family Game Night - Zal Gaz Grotto Club
July 27
Masters Table Dinner - Location TBA
August 17
Master Mason Degree - Pittsfield Grange
August 20
Tiger Game - Comerica Park
August 28
Tri-Lodge Picnic - Gallup Park„ Old Wooden Picnic Shelter