Welcome back Brethren! I hope you all had a fine 4th and took some time out for refreshment and repose during the month of July.As we “wind-up” for the remainder of the second half of our Masonic year, I shall be “pitching” to a few of you some extra special needs to make this year a “hit”. Perhaps, even a “Grand Slam”. It is my hope that some of you who have not seen the insides of the “dugout” for some time will come down and enjoy a little friendship and brotherly love. The grass is green, the drinks are cold and we would love to see you again. It is time for the guys on the “bench” to get into the game for some “late inning relief” and strong “plate appearances”.Some of the highlights for the month of August will be a live Saturday degree for Brother Joshua Lentz, whom as many of you know is the new son-in-law of Worshipful Carl Cupp. I understand that many VIP’s and Past Masters have been invited to participate so it should be an exemplary event. We will also have a live second degree for Brother Jeffrey Rogers at the end of the month. This will be a great opportunity for qualifications as well. Remember that the dress code is Hawaiian shirts and slacks for the Stated Meeting and all degrees.As far as extra curricular activities, I direct your attention to two special events which are the VA Classic Car Show and Rally on August 22nd and the annual Long Beach VA Hospital BBQ on the 29th. Flyers for both events are posted on our website and at the Lodge. I hope to see you there.Looking forward, some upcoming events of interest will be a second Masonic Information Night in September. In October, we have the Annual Grand Lodge Communication and a Hiram Award and Banquet and the annual election of officers in November.See you soon!Fraternally,

Chuck Hayes, WM