We had a great meeting on January 20th with Right Worshipful John Shroeder talking about research lodges and the many ways we can continue our Masonic education. Bro. Shroeder was at my first Lodge meeting I attended and helped me feel at home in the Fraternity early on, and for that I will always be grateful.

For our next meeting, on February 3rd, we will have Worshipful Andrew Hammer, Past Master of Alexandria-Washington Lodge #22. Bro. Hammer will present a talk titled "Observing the Craft: The Pursuit of Excellence in Masonic Labour and Observance." This will be based on his recently published book and he will bring a few copies, which sell for $16.00. You can also buy it online at Amazon.com if you prefer.

On February 17th we will have Worshipful John Bullach, who will talk about the York Rite bodies and their intimate connection with Ancient Craft Masonry. Bro. Bullach is very knowledgeable and a wonderful speaker. Please give him a hearty Cherrydale welcome.

I encourage all of you to support the charities our Lodge will be working with this year. Remember that every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. Here are some easy, low-cost things you can do to help. You can bring these items to the Lodge and I will make sure they get where they need to go:

• Canned goods and other non-perishable items, as well as reusable grocery bags for the Arlington Food Assistance Center.

• Used eyeglasses, hearing aids, inkjet printer cartridges and cell phones for the Lions Club.

• Old books - any type - for Lifeline International Foundation, which will use them to set up libraries in the Philippines.

• Can tabs for the Shriners Hospitals for Children. They sell the virgin aluminum used in the tabs.

We are looking at probably two degrees in February, and possibly more depending on the schedules of our candidates and lecturers. If Bro. Aughenbaugh asks you to take part in a degree, please try to help out as much as possible. Remember that the degree nights are some of the most important, and your help is crucial to the future of your Lodge.

Look for some other upcoming events, including a "rusty trowel" night, or perhaps more than one, depending on interest. This is an opportunity for brethren who have been gone for a while and forgotten what we do to come back and feel welcomed and not embarrassed to relearn a few things. We will also have a bring-a-friend night around the middle of the year and a few family activities as well.