Ancient Free and Accepted Masons

April Trestle Board
   

FROM THE EAST        

                

     I’ll start this message with a highlight that the City of Aberdeen is looking to accelerate the purchase of our building, meaning we may be moving out as soon as this summer.  Here’s a rundown of current discussions:

-       On 24 March, we held a committee review of the purchase agreement wherein the Lodge would agree to sell the building upon the City’s security of funds by grant.  The contract is “as is, where is” and includes mostly reasonable terms.  We are recommending clarification of the “$1 lease back” terms; ensuring the Lodge nets the cited purchase price (ergo, the City cover/waive all closing costs); and, relieving the Lodge of any new tax burdens by becoming a temporary tenant.

-       Separately, BGE and the City plan to run underground electrical to the new brewery next door to us: this will temporarily impact our rear parking and accesses.

-       Within 2 months, the city is also planning to close and pave Cypress Lane, the alleyway where our rear entrance into Dula Hall is located – this would force all who park there (including handicapped members) to park in the adjacent lots or at the front of our building as this would become a pedestrian area.

-       As a reminder, Watchtower Brewing is moving into the former dry cleaner property, and Edgewood Creamery is moving into the museum. The city intends to transform our building into a complementary downtown dining/social venue.

 

     To this end, I am calling on the Lodge to discuss these updates and impacts, review the terms of an updated purchase agreement from the City, and vote on accepting such agreement.  This discussion will be at the 7 April meeting – we will move Brother Radish’s EA catechism and FC degree to 21 April (or a special communication).  Regardless of our acceptance, the City will be proceeding with the closure of Cypress Lane and redeveloping our block to revitalize downtown appeal.

 

     On a related note, I have been reviewing available venues downtown as alternate places to hold our meetings, either temporarily or as a long-term lease.  The TB3 Event Center, owned by PHA Br Terrell Booth, is nice but has no handicap-friendly access.  I am reconnecting with Dr Mohammed Chaudry who is renovating the former Aberdeen Grade School building regarding the gymnasium space there.  Br Dan Lambrose, who leads the City’s Economic Development Committee, is also investigating options for us.  I also have calls into Susquehanna, Stephenson, and Mt Ararat Lodges to determine potential options at their locations.

 

     I want to thank the brothers who participated in our 3 March meeting, especially PM Jared Gwaltney of Harmony #53 for his presentation on the “Roman Eagle.”  On 17 March, we reviewed the EA charge: I enjoyed hearing each brother’s personal reflection on the ritualistic meaning.  Also, we had a great time entertaining the residents and guests at the Maryland Masonic Homes on 14 March.  And, our 7am Tuesday breakfasts at the Aberdeen Diner continue to be my favorite way to start the day!  We truly have a strong Brotherhood at #187!

 

     Thanks for your trust this year as we navigate some choppy water ahead.  This is a team effort, so please plan to provide your inputs, trucks, and backs as we gear up for a likely move out of our 20 Howard Street home.  And yes, we will surely have a big party to celebrate all of the memories made at this location, and to launch us into our next chapter!

     

                                                                                                                       Sincerely and fraternally,

                                                      Michael J. Bowen, PM

                                                   Worshipful Master

 

"When you visit Please bring one can of food to help the needy in our  community"        

 

 FROM THE SECRETARY

 According to the By-Laws dues shall be paid to the Secretary, annually in advance of the first regular communication in January.  Dues cards for 2024 are now available.  $76.00.

  Pay Pal is also available for 2024 Dues.  https://www.paypal.me/Aberdeen187

If you use Pay Pal be sure to update your payment amount to $76.00 and include $2.50 for fee.

If you would like to receive the trestle board by e-mail, send your e-mail address to the secretary at the lodge e-mail address.

 

 TRESTLE BOARD

Stated communication of Aberdeen Lodge No. 187 will be held, Mon April 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Regular Order of Business

Discuss updates and impacts, review the terms of an updated purchase agreement from the City, and vote on accepting such agreement. 

Stated communication of Aberdeen Lodge No. 187 will be held, Mon April21, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Regular Order of Business

EA catechism and FC degree

 

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      April  Birthdays

   
6th Justin W. Winney, Jr.
2nd Charles D. Crockett
12th William Conzalesz
12th Bryon C. Hardaker
13th Michael J. Bowen
17th Andrew K. Friedel
 
 

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DATES TO REMEMBER

 

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April 3, 2025

 

County School of instruction starting at 7:00 pm.

Esdrealon Lodge # 176

Working on Fellow Craft Degree.

 

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GRAND LODGE ACTIVITIES

 

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 Grand Lodge Bull & Oyster Roast

 

April 27th

 

2-5 Food

 

2-6 bar

 

$50.00 Per Person

 

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Semi-Annual Communication Grand Lodge

 

May 17, 025

 

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

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Family Day Picnic

 

June 7, 2025

 

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

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Grand Master's Ball

 

July 26, 2025

 

6:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m.

 

 

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Harvest Home Day

 

October 4, 2025

 

6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

 

 

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Annual CommunicationGrand Lodge

 

November 15, 2025

 

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

 

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    For information about any of the Grand Lodge activities contact the Grand Secretary’s Office  (410) 527-0600.

 

 Grand Lodge of Maryland e-mail:

office@glmd.org

 Grand Lodge of Maryland Website:

http://www.mdmasons.org/

  

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