1990

January 9th, 1990 The Worshipful Master donated $100 for the Lodge and the members donated $405 to Jason Minnell, 14 years old who received 3rd degree burns over his body. WB Larry Patton referred him to Yaarab Shrine Temple and he was flown to the Burn Center in Cincinnati. The Lodge made a profit of $502.11 from the sale of pre-cooked hams. A motion carried to place the money into a fund to apply to the $2000 fee to sponsor a room at Henry General Hospital. Motion was made to place a one year time limit on holding the money.

January 16th, 1990 called communication. It was reported that Jason Minnell is holding his own in the burn center in Cincinnati. Brother Erman T. Golladay passed away on January 13, 1990.

February 27, 1990 the mother of Jason Minnell reported that he is doing very well in the burn center and that the Lodge and Shrine had really helped them during this time.

March 13th, 1990 Brother Cerelle Spraggins was presented his 25 year pin.

April 10th, 1990 the Lodge voted to donate $200 to the girls at the Masonic Home to help them refurnish their rooms.

May 8th, 1990 Lodge voted to purchase a vacuum cleaner. A chest type freezer will be donated to the Lodge if the Lodge can use. Scholarship committee reported this years recipient was Helen Colliers.

May 22nd, 1990 the burn victim Jason Minnell is home and seems to be getting along ok. It was reported that Miss Helen Colliers was very happy to receive the scholarship. Motion carried to give Special Olympics $2885. Motion carried to give $502.11 to Henry County Hospital.

June 12th, 1990 Lodge voted to send $100 to McCaysville Lodge to help with repairs due to water damage due to flood.

October 9th, 1990 the newly formed Eastern Star Chapter was given permission to use the Lodge meeting room. Their first meeting will be on November 4th, 1990.

December 11th, 1990 motion passed to purchase a new hot water heater. It was reported that one brother was serving in Korea and another in California. This being the last meeting of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1991:

Fred Simmons-Worshipful Master

Jerry Cook-Senior Warden

Wm. Edwin Strom- Junior Warden

Pop Frazier-Treasurer

Chuck Crocker-Secretary

Bill Strom-Senior Deacon

Mike Gilmer-Junior Deacon

Bruce Gilmer-Senior Steward

Luther Evans- Junior Steward

Jerry Beddingfield-Tyler

Ronnie Simmons-Chaplain

Ed Shaw-Director of Work

January 8th, 1991 Discussion on water heater again. Motion carried to install new instantaneous hot water heater. Brother Ronnie Simmons made the Lodge aware that the Lodge donated $100 and 2 hams to help feed the hungry at Christmas.

January 22, 1991- Visit from WB Bill Jones, DDGM. He extended greeting from Grand Master Bill Hutchinson and all other Grand Officers and gave a short talk touching on the situation in the Middle East. He also announced the appointment of WB Ed Shaw as District Custodian. Motion carried to appoint a committee to check on the feasibility of the Lodge participating in Old Stockbridge Days. WB Larry Patton to carry more firewood to the widow in Riverdale and Brother Bruce Gilmer to furnish the truck.

March 12th, 1991 Visit from Grand Senior Warden James Underwood. Reported that flag pole was installed. Water heater is in the Lodge but not yet installed.

March 26th, 1991 WB Arthur Cosby noted the Lodge has a problem finding a place to coach due to all the organizations meeting or having practice. Reported that the Lodges cabinet in the preparation room is locked up.

April 9th, 1991 motion made, seconded and withdrawn to build 3 rooms onto the side of the Lodge. Committee appointed to check into the feasibility of this and to report back to the Lodge at the 5/21/91 meeting.

April 23rd, 1991 It was reported that if we were to do any major work on the Lodge, we would be required to bring the building up to County Code. Motion carried to check into and purchase the required number of fire extinguishers to bring us up to code.

May 28th, 1991 WB Cliff Thompson gave a very detailed report on the needs and costs to remodel the Lodge. After much discussion, a committee was appointed to draw up changes to the by-laws to allow the Lodge to apply fund raiser monies to a building fund. Brother David Thackston to check into the availability of temporary building for coaching classes.

June 11th, 1991 Brother David Thackston reported that the price for a 10' X 20' portable office building with heat, A/C carpet is $4500. Reported that Jeff Adkins was the scholarship winner of $1000.

June 25th, 1991 motion made and defeated to purchase the portable office building. The Lodge voted to donate $100 to the city to help with the July 4th festival expenses at Cochran Park.

August 13th, 1991 WB Briggs read for the first time the changes proposed by the By-laws committee; the changes the appointment of a board of trustees and the financing of our building fund.

August 27th, 1991 Official visit of DDGM Bill Jones. He spoke on the Masonic Home appreciation and New Master Mason orientation day in Macon. Second reading of the proposed changes to the by-laws. Motion made to amend the changes to read that at the first meeting of each February, the Lodge will designate which fund raiser monies will go to the building fund. The proposed changes were tabled until the Committee gets the wording correct and changes re-written. WM asked that all Brothers watch their language while in Lodge.

September 10th, 1991 The proposed changes to the By-laws were read and will layover until the September 24th meeting to be voted on.

September 24th, 1991 Question was raised "when the new hot water heater was to be hooked up?"

November 12th, 1991 The Lodge voted to donate hams to help feed the hungry to the Hungry Fisherman Restaurant. The Lodge voted to buy lumber, doors, and heater to close in the back porch for use as a coaching room.

November 19th, 1991 Called Communication. It was reported that Brother Royce Rentz and Brother Lewis Hurd both passed away on November 18th.

December 10th, 1991 this being the last meeting of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1992:

Jerry Cook- Worshipful Master

Wm. Edwin Strom-Senior Warden

Bill Strom-Junior Warden

Robert H. Frazier-Treasurer

Charles F. Crocker-Secretary

Jimmy Satterfield-Chaplain

Mike Gilmer-Senior Deacon

Bruce Gilmer-Junior Deacon

Luke Evans-Senior Steward

Gerald E. Wread, Jr.-Junior Steward

Jerry Beddingfield-Tyler

Ed Shaw-Director of Works

January 14th, 1992 Discussion on smoking in the Lodge. The WM appointed WB Cliff Thompson and WB Fred Simmons to check cost and materials to vent smoke outside and report back to Lodge. WBs Cliff Thompson, Fred Simmons, Ed Shaw, Bill Medlock, Edsel Walden, Max Anderson, Art Cosby, Bro Butch Hester, Bro Fred Parker were elected to the Lodge Board of Trustees.

January 28, 1992 WB Roy Creasey, DDGM made an official visit and presented the Lodge with some of the highlights of the Grand Masters program for the coming year, among these: Send Grand Lodge a list of members suspended the past 2 years; the WM to visit all suspended brothers and find reasons for non payment of dues and report to Grand Lodge; The Grand Master issued an edict that there was to be no games of chance or raffles, etc; work day at Masonic Home; and if the Lodge receives a tax bill, do not pay but forward to Grand Lodge.

February 11, 1992 WB Cliff Thompson reported on Board of Trustees: (1) go through old minutes and put in a secure place (2) motion to change by-laws to incorporate Lodge & Board of Trustees as a non-profit organization.

March 10th, 1992 The committee is still working on a method to get smoke out of Lodge. WB Richard J. Lee passed away on 3/9/92. He will be buried in Burkes Cemetery in Stockbridge. Masonic services will be conducted by WB Larry Ellenburg. WB Lee was the 3rd Master of Stockbridge Lodge. Brother Balance on behalf of the OES presented the Lodge with $500 to spend in any manner as we see fit. It was voted to purchase a Lodge Register and also to give each new Master Mason a tube to put his apron in.

April 14th, 1992 Bro Bruce Gilmer announced that the winner of this years $1000 scholarship winner was Christine Maddock. The Lodge voted to purchase an all weather United State Flag.

April 28th, 1992 It was reported that Bro Mack Walden had a stroke and passed away. He is to be buried on April 30th, 1992. The Henry County EMS donated the Lodge a dunking tank.

July 28th, 1992 Brother Spraggins is reported as being deceased.

August 11th, 1992 At the July 28th meeting, it was reported that the lawn mower was worn out and needed replacing. The WM asked Bro Gilmer to get prices on a new lawn mover and weedeater. At this communication, Brother Jim Kendall gave the Lodge a price of $150 for a new mower. The Lodge voted to purchase one. WB Cliff Thompson still working on solution to get smoke out of Lodge.

September 6th, 1992 Lodge voted to send $100 each to the States of Florida and Louisiana to help with the problems caused by Hurricane Andrew. Brother Eli Bundrick received his 25 year Certificate.

September 22, 1992 It was reported that 4 to 6 ceiling fans and an ozone generator would be the easiest & most economical method to remove smoke and other odors from the Lodge.

October 13th, 1992 the Lodge voted to purchase 6 ceiling fans at $30 each.

December 8th, 1992 it was reported the PGM Horace Whitlock passed away on 12/1/92.

This being the last meeting of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1993:

William Edwin Strom-Worshipful Master

Bill Strom-Senior Warden

Mike Gilmer-Junior Warden

Pop Frazier-Treasurer

Neal Maddock-Secretary

Bruce Gilmer-Senior Deacon

Luke Evans-Junior Deacon

Gerald E. Wread-Senior Steward

David A. Thackston-Junior Steward

Jimmy Waldroup-Director of Works

January 12th, 1993 motion carried to purchase a cotton candy and popcorn machine for $800. Bro. Waldrip stated he would donate his TV to the Lodge to use in conjunction with a VCR on Masonic Education. Raleigh Hightower passed away before Christmas.

January 26th, 1993 Thanks given to WB Cliff Thompson and Bro Fred Parker for installing the ceiling fans. WB Jimmy Waldrip donated a TV. Bro. Steve Poole will donate a VCR if it is repairable. WB Larry Patton said he could donate a microwave.

February 22nd, 1993 Called communication to open a Lodge of Sorrow and will remain open until the next annual communication. The Lodge was opened for Bro. Byron Floyd who died February 20th, 1993.

February 23, 1993 - WB Ed Shaw reported on the death of Bro. Byron Floyd and said he had Masonic graveside services with over 30 Masons in attendance. Bro. Fincher from Forest Park Lodge officiated at the services. Motion carried to purchase 12 pair of white gloves and 48 black armbands. Bro. Poole reported his VCR is beyond repair. WB Raiford Chambers stated that we need to get with other area Lodges and work with the Funeral Team. WB Chambers stated his wife could make the armbands for the cost of material.

March 9th, 1993 Bro. Wheeler donated a trailer and a generator for use in Old Stockbridge Days so that the Popcorn machine and Cotton Candy machine could be used.

March 23rd, 1993 Visit of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Georgia, James E. Underwood. 25 year pins were presented to Brothers Lloyd Mincey, Raford Chambers, and Charlie Phillips. The Grand Master gave a talk touching on several subjects among them is that Masons are of all Faiths. He then presented Grand Master Coins to Bros. Cowart, Bray, Bundrick, Parker and Ward.

March 30, 1993 it was reported that Bro. Mellard passed away. Bro. D. M. Pridmore passed away on March 25, 1993.

April 27th, 1993 WB Chambers wife, after completing the armbands has donated them to the Lodge. Motion carried to sponsor a Little League Baseball Team (Pirates).

July 27th, 1993 Bro. Howard Stephens passed away on July 27th, 1993 and will have a Masonic Funeral. Services to be held at Rainer FH in Stockbridge on July 29th.

September 14th, 1993 it was reported that a good outdoor flag would cost between $30-$40. Motion carried the purchase an American and a Georgia flag.

December 14th, 1993 it was reported that WB George Briggs passed away on December 9th and was buried on December 10th. Several brothers attended the funeral. This being the last meeting of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1994:

William W. Strom-Worshipful Master

Mike Gilmer-Senior Warden

Bruce Gilmer-Junior Warden

Robert Frazier-Treasurer

Neil Maddock-Secretary

Luke Evans-Senior Deacon

Gerald Wread-Junior Deacon

David Thackston-Senior Steward

Jimmy Walker-Junior Steward

Jimmy Waldrip-Director of Works.

January 11th, 1994 Pops Frazier stated the need for a safety deposit box or a safe to store Masonic records in. Vote taken to cease smoking in Lodge. Defeated 23 to 20.

WM asked smokers to keep it to a minimum.

January 25th, 1994 Bro Pops Frazier again stressed the need for a safety deposit box or safe for records. Bro Mike and Bruce Gilmer are to check into these and report back to the Lodge.

February 8th, 1994 official visit of District Deputy to Grand Master WB John Perry. He made several points for the Grand Master Tommy Irvin among these: That we should take pride in being Masons; We should be more visible in our community; Peace and Harmony in our Lodge meetings; Masonic Education; Charity to Masonic Home, community and to distressed brethren.

February 22nd, 1994 WB Max Anderson reported through continuing education on the history of Stockbridge Lodge. It began as Harmony Lodge #56 but was closed many time due to wars and the depression. When the Lodge was reopened in 1948, it was given to opportunity to accept the old Harmony Lodge #56 but it was decided to change to the present #691. The Lodge met in the old Baptist Church until 1958 when our present Lodge was built. Masonry has existed in Stockbridge for 140 years give or take.

March 8th, 1994 Bro Charley Tarpley reported the death of Brother Doug Benefield. WB Raford Chambers reported the death of Brother Charles M. Tomlin. A need for a bulletin board was requested. Motion carried to purchase a bulletin board. A need for a display case was announced by Bro Fred Parker to store Masonic items. Bro Tommy McKeithan is to check into the availability of securing a case. Bro Mike Gilmer stated that we needed to start a library. Motion carried to purchase a book "101 Ways to Improving Membership". A Masonic Memorial Club has been established in the area and our participation through retired or non-working brothers is encouraged.

March 22, 1994 WB Ed Shaw reported the need for a sign on the building identifying the Lodge. WM Cliff Thompson is to investigate and report back to the Lodge. Motion carried to sponsor the same Little League team as last year (11/12 year Pirates).

April 26th, 1994 Bro Michael A. Goodwin passed away on April 23rd, 1994. Funeral services will be at Conway, South Carolina.

May 10th, 1994 It was reported that Adam Colter has been selected as the receiptient of this years $1000 scholarship.

June 14th, 1994 WB Max Stokes died May 28th, 194. A Masonic Funeral was given on May 30th, 1994.

June 28th, 1994 motion carried to purchase a sign to read "Stockbridge Masonic Lodge 691".

July 5th, 1994 Brother Butch Hester pased away on June 29th, 1994 and a Masonic Funeral was held on July 2nd, 1994. More than 70 brothers were on hand to pay their last sad respects.

July 12, 1994 The sign is to be installed on the building at a cost of $470.

August 9th, 1994 Purchased display case from Moyes Pharmacy for $50.

September 27th, 1994 Brother John Fox received his 25 year pin.

December 13th, 1994 it being the last communication of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1995:

Bruce Gilmer-Worshipful Master

WB Cliff Thompson-Senior Warden

WB Raford Chambers-Junior Warden

WB Chuck Crocker-Treasurer

Neil Maddox-Secretary

Jeff Goodwin-Senior Deacon

David Thackston-Junior Deacon

Trenton Swanson-Senior Steward

Tommy McKeithan-Junior Steward

Ed Shaw-Director of Works

January 10th, 1995 dispensation to elect a new treasurer was received from Grand Lodge. WB Chuck Crocker having resigned the position of treasurer, a special election was held and WB Robert "Pops" Frazier was elected and installed. A suggestion was made that the Lodge keep a medical box with first aid supplies and over the counter medicines such as aspirin in the Lodge. WB Cliff Thompson indicated that he would donate such a box.

January 24th, 1995 Brother James Henry presented the Lodge with a first aid kit and will be placed at the Junior Wardens station.

February 14th, 1995 Br. Ray Smith reported that the cost of enclosing the stairwell and install a 36 inch door would not cost the Lodge over $250. Br. Smith said he would donate his labor. It was mentioned that the exits need to be properly marked and the stairway when completed should have an alternate source of lighting (battery). Motion carried to proceed with the construction.

February 28th, 1995 it was reported that Herman Hall was buried on February 27th, 1995. Motion carried to place gold stars on the pictures of deceased Past Masters. Motion carried to build a serving/cook trailer for Lodge functions and Old Stockbridge Days. A limit of $2000 in materials was stipulated. A committee was appointed to write and present guidelines governing the receiving of flowers upon the death of a loved one. WB Raford Chambers submitted and read a letter about Lodge business and Masonic responsibilities of each Brother. The WM then proceeded to appoint committees for 1995 including a Past Masters Committee. Each Past Master is a member of the committee and is to secure the history of the Lodge. The WM listed his long range goals for the Lodge. These are: Panel the Lodge (upstairs and downstairs), Re-build the water tower; privacy fence in front of the BBQ pit. Building the stairwell and door; close in the back parch for use as an additional coaching room; parking lot by city hall to be paved; new windows and doors in the Lodge; new carpet and sets all the same color; replace space heaters; paint outside of Lodge; replace shrubbery in front of lodge replacing same with smaller bushes and white rock surrounding them; move large bushes to back of Lodge.

March 14th, 1995 WB Andrew King and WB John Holt spoke on the Scottish Rite. The Order of the Eastern Star donated $500 to be used in constructing the fence in front of the BBQ pit. A work construction committee was assigned.

April 11th, 1995 Bro Fred Parker presented the Lodge with a check in the amount of $500 from the Order of the Eastern Star with the money earmarked for landscaping and the construction of a new front door. Br. David Thackston reported the cost of the door would be between $200 and $1500 depending on the wishes of the Lodge. Motion made and seconded to raise the dues to $60 per year. The motion and by laws were held over until the next meeting.

April 25th, 1995 Bro David Thackston reported that the cost of a standard 6 x 30 door with a glass panel and hardware would cost $535. WM asked the Brethren to consider and vote would be taken at the next meeting.

May 9th, 1995 motion carried to approve the purchase of door mentioned in 4/25 meeting. Motion carried to raise dues to $60.

May 15th, 1995 called communication to confer the Fellowcraft Degree. This degree was conferred by oil lamp and candle light due to a power failure. This degree will probably remain in the hearts and minds of all in attendance, especially the candidates.

Date unknown called communication to open a Lodge of Sorrow. Its purpose is to pay the last sad tribute of respect to the memory of Brother Frank Brown who died on May 21st, 1995. A Masonic funeral was held with about 40 Brothers in attendance.

May 23rd, 1995 Bro. Robert Rehberger reported that the cost of transferring the cemetery lots to the Lodge would be $150. Thank you notes from Justin Waldroup and Jason Moss who were the recipients of this years scholarship jointly funded by the Lodge and the OES. Motion carried to pay the $150 to have cemetery lots transferred to the Lodge. The WM asked that we consider spending $500 toward new tables and chairs for the Lodge.

June 13th, 1995 WB Raford Chambers preferred charges on a Brother for GROSS UNMASONIC CONDUCT. Motion carried to procede with the charges.

June 27th, 1995 the WM appointed a committee to investigate the options the Lodge will have concerning the repair and/or upgrading of the air conditioning system.

July 5th, 1995 called communication for the purpose of paying our last sad tribute of respect to our deceased Brother Allen Dewitt Fincher who died on July 2nd, 1995.

July 25th, 1995 the air conditioning system was repaired by installing a liner and replacing boards on the tower. A letter from the Grand Lodge of Georgia reporting the death of Harris Bullock, Most Worshipful Past Grand Master of Georgia. WB Shaw reported that a picture presented by MWPGM Bullock needs a brass name plate as was agreed on years ago. It was reported that to carpet the Lodge from the stairway and upstairs would cost the Lodge $1540. Further investigation will be ongoing.

August 8th, 1995 It was reported that the cost of purchasing 8 tables and 40 chairs would cost $651 including tax. It was reported that the cost of buying/replacing 6 small windows, 2 large windows and 1 huge window in the Lodge to be $987 including tax.

Motion carried to purchase the windows.

August 15th pretrial hearing against a member of the Lodge. Charge: Gross UnMasonic Conduct. The pretrial hearing was held with WB Bill Lemacks, 6th District Trial Commissioner presiding. WB Lemacks having heard the evidence presented suspended the member with the recommendation of Expulsion from Masonry. The Member has 30 days to appeal this judgment.

August 23rd, 1995 Windows have been ordered.

September 12th, 1995 motion carried to reimburse Brother for a Compass to be used in degree work. Motion carried to reimburse Brother for kitchen utensils. Motion made to give $200 to OES to complete purchase of a deep fryer

September 27th, 1995 it was reported that Westview Cemetery is to send the deeds to the lots transferred to the Lodge. WB Riggins reported on the purchase of a trailer frame to construct a portable unit for Old Stockbridge Days.

October 10th, 1995 Motion carried to pay $473 toward construction of trailer. Motion carried to purchase a meat chopper not to exceed $650 if one can be obtained.

November 4th, 1995 called communication for the purpose of paying our last sad tribute for respect to our deceased Brother Warren Myron Owens. Graveside services conducted by WB Bill Jones.

November 28th, 1995 Bro. Wayne Reynolds donated a 4X10 foot lighted sign to the Lodge. It has a retail value of $900. Brother Philip Ward said he would donate the letters to the sign. Brother Philip Smith donated a new set of Lodge aprons to the Lodge.

December 12th, 1995 motion carried to reimburse Brothers Thackston and Smith for the cost of windows and materials need in the installation. It being the last communication of the year, the following were elected/appointed as officers for 1996:

WB Cliff Thompson-Worshipful Master

WB Raford Chambers-Senior Warden

David Thackston-Junior Warden

WB Robert Frazier-Treasurer

Mike Gilmer-Secretary

Jeffrey Goodwin-Senior Deacon

Trenton Swanson-Junior Deacon

Neil Maddox-Senior Steward

Phillip Ward-Junior Steward

WB Ed Shaw-Director of Work

January 9th, 1996 Official visit of DDGM Stanley Wootton who brought greetings from the Grand Master and reminded us of the Grand Lodge Slogan of "Let Brotherly Love Prevail". WB Thompson spoke on the issue of smoking in the Lodge. He stated that it is unfair for the non-smokers to ask smokers to stop and unfair for the non-smokers to smell smoke. To solve this problem, the WM designated the North side of the Lodge for smokers and the South side for non-smokers. The air returns will be reworked to better draw the smoke out. The cemetery lots that were donated are valued at $950 each and we could sell for between $500-$700 each. We are trying to get someone connected with the cemetery to sell them for us. Motion carried to give Stockbridge Middle School $100 for the chorus to go to Disney World and perform. Painting the Lodge and a new roof were brought up for discussion. Motion carried to roof the Lodge and the cook shed with the addition of a ridge vent on the Lodge. Cost estimated to be $2000. Motion carried to purchase enough paint to paint the upstairs and downstairs with the upstairs to be finished before the Grand Masters Official visit on February 10th. Brother Smith was thanked for making new aprons and donating them to the Lodge.

January 23rd, 1996 Brother Phillip Wayne Byrd was presented his 25 year pin as a courtesy to the Grand Lodge of Alabama. Motion carried to donate $25 to Lydia Siciliano, Grand Poet Laureate who is running for Miss Rainbow. Brother Weeks has a steam table that was to be used in the trailer but it is too nice and needs to be used somewhere in the Lodge. Motion carried to purchase 20 picture frames to display Past Master Pictures.

January 28th, 1996 called communication for the purpose of paying the last sad tribute of respect to our deceased Brother Johnny W. Thackston. Graveside services were conducted by WB Bill Jones. Burial Eastlawn Memorial Gardens. Over 60 Masons attended.

February 13th, 1996 it was reported that the Memorial Club is spreading word that the cemetery lots are for sale. Two (2) will be held to be used for a Brother to use if he is distressed and does not have a lot. Motion Passed. Brother Weeks reported that Wal-Mart had been approached about them donating their old snack bar equipment. Brother Wayne Reynolds has donated a sign but it needs to be moved from where it is. It will cost $250 to paint our name on it and put tracks for the letters. Motion carried to have this done. Installation must conform with County Code. Recommendations from the Building Committee were read and these are: 1. Paint Outside of Building in back; install restroom and preparation room windows; replace side door to open outward. 2. Complete and plant flower beds. 3. Paint/downstairs and ceiling. Add additional shelves in ante-room. 4. Close in porch. 5. New seats in Lodge; panel inside Lodge; Gravel/Pave parking areas.

March 12th, 1996 it was reported that Wal-Mart is going to donate some of their old snack bar equipment.

April 23rd, 1996 Brother Weeks presented to the Lodge a proposal for signs for the Lodge. The City of Stockbridge will install the signs. Motion carried to purchase the signs and the City to install them. These signs are 30" in diameter and carries an 8" by 30" Lodge ID box.

May 14th, 1996 WB Gilmer reported that this years scholarship award will go to Michael Cook.

May 28th, 1996 it was reported that Bro Ira Monis died May 19th, 1996. Due to the lack of notification, a donation will be made in his name to the Masonic Childrens Home.

June 26th, 1996 it was reported that the 1996 Olympic Torch would be passing through Stockbridge on July 17th between the hours of 7:00 and 7:30pm. The City of Stockbridge has asked the Lodge to handle all vendors. Much activity has been planned for the city.

July 23rd, 1996 - it was reported that we may have or not have made money on the Torch Run but even if we did not make money, we received several things we could use in the future, such as a large tent. Hope #4 Assembly of Rainbows requested the use of our Lodge as the Lodge they currently use is moving to Clarkston. Motion carried that they be allowed to use the Lodge.

August 13th, 1996 it was reported that Bro Jack Green passed away.

August 27th, 1996 A bid has been obtained to enclose the back porch in the amount of $1189.55. After much discussion, a motion carried for the contractor to extend and enclose the room while at the same time getting the best price. Brother Verner Burton to haul off unusable or broken equipment donated to Lodge by Wal-Mart.

September 10th, 1996 motion carried to purchase Coles Masonic Encyclopedia and the Little Masonic Library for our Lodge Library.

December 10th, 1996 it was reported that work has started on the porch. Motion carried to purchase a heat pump/air conditioner for the porch for $250. This being the last communication of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1997:

WB Raford Chambers-Worshipful Master

David Thackston-Senior Warden

Trenton Swanson-Junior Warden

Robert Frazier-Treasurer

Mike Gilmer-Secretary

Neil Maddox-Senior Deacon

Phillip Ward-Junior Deacon

Brian Chambers-Senior Steward

Jeff Norman-Junior Steward

Ed Shaw-Director of Work

January 2nd 1997 called communication for the purpose of paying our last sad tribute of respect for our deceased Brother Lieutenant Commander Willis Mack Goodwin, USN (Ret). Graveside services were conducted by WB Bill Jones. Interment Jackson City Cemetery.

January 14th, 1997 WB John Antonides from Oleeta Lodge #145 Miami Springs, Florida was presented his 25 year pin. Bro. Thackston reported the porch has been enclosed and the wiring should be done by the end of the week. Then the sheet rock can be installed.

January 28th, 1997 it was reported that the sheet rock has been installed on the porch.

March 11th, 1997 called communication for the purpose of paying our last sad tribute of respect for our deceased Brother Benjamin Lafette Powell, Jr. Services held in Ranier Chapel in Stockbridge. Internment was to be at the National Military Cemetery in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

May 13th, 1997 the scholarship committee announced the $1000 scholarship was going to Brandi Poole.

May 27th, 1997 The WM reported that Bro. Phillip Ward has resigned as Junior

Deacon due to increased business responsibilities. All Officers will move up one station to fill that station. Brother Benji Chambers was appointed Junior Steward. Also Brother Lamar Hamblin has stepped down as Tyler. An appointment will soon be made.

July 22nd, 1997 The WM reported that Faith Assembly of the Rainbow which currently meets at Riverdale is looking for a new sponsor. The Eastern Star would like to co-sponsor if we approve. Decision tabled until further investigation to find out why they are leaving Riverdale.

August 12th, 1997 the Lodge was called at ease and Martha Hardison, Supreme Inspector of the Rainbow Assemble addressed the Lodge. A lengthly talk on the Rainbow Girls and the possibility of our Lodge having an Assembly. After she left the Lodge, the Lodge was called to order and a brief discussion was had. Motion carried that we co-sponsor with the Eastern Star Chapter. Motion carried that we fix a sign for the new Rainbow Assembly.

September 9th, 1997 WB Patton reported that his son has some folding chairs that came out of a church for sale. They are $5 each. A motion carried to purchase for the Lodge.

October 14th, 1997 called communication for the purpose of paying our last sad tribute of respect for our deceased Brother James Willie Driver. Masonic graveside services were conducted by WB Ed Shaw. Burial Stockbridge City Cemetery.

October 14th 1997 Brother James Gordy was presented his 25 year pin. Brother Clinton E. Ward was presented with his 40 year pin on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Florida. Brother Stephen Mitchell donated 2 old books to the Lodge Library. One is a 1906 edition of Morals and Dogma the other is a 1907 edition of the History of Freemasonry and Concordant orders. Due to the age of the books, they will not be kept on the shelf but will kept under the control of the Secretary and will not be allowed out of the Lodge. Brother Baxter Bedell donated a new American Flag for use in front of the Lodge.

November 11th, 1997 motion carried to purchase a new heater for the downstairs area. Cost $300.

December 9th 1997 This being the last communication of the year, the following were elected/appointed as Officers for 1998:

David Thackston-Worshipful Master

Trenton Swanson-Senior Warden

Neil Maddox-Junior Warden

WB Robert Frazier-Treasurer

Mike Gilmer-Secretary

Brian Chambers-Senior Deacon

Jeff Norman-Junior Deacon

Benji Chambers-Senior Steward