To ascend the East of this venerable Lodge is indeed a special honor and privilege. I thank you for your support in bringing it about and ask for your continuing support in the twelve months ahead. I also thank the distinguished team of Past Masters that performed so outstandingly at Installation and the fine team of officers you have elected to serve with me through 1984. All systems are "go"!

I am proud to be a member of Alexandria-Washington Lodge as I know each of you to be. The programs I have planned for the year ahead are intended to enhance that pride and to bring joy and gladness as well as to advance ourselves in Masonic growth. Look over the Master's Plan for 1984, which is inclosed with this trestleboard, and let me, or one of the officers, know how you might contribute. If you have ideas or suggestions, pass them along. This is your Lodge.

As Masons we have all proclaimed our faith in God. As citizens of these great United States of America we have pledged it our support. Thus, in this year of 1984, as our Lodge enters into its third century of Masonic service, I have adopted as our theme, "God and Country". It is emblematic of Masonry's highest ideals.

Let us begin this new year most appropriately by attending Masonic church services on January 8 at First Christian Church, carrying on one of our fine traditions. Bring your families and show that Alexandria-Washington Lodge is a caring Lodge. Then follow up by filling the Lodge room for our first stated on January 12. Our own Right Worshipful Brother Donald Robey, Grand Senior Deacon, will tring us a rededication message you'll not wont to miss. For the second stated, Worshipful Brother Cumbee has prepared an educational program for the edification of us all. Two called communications are scheduled for the reception and advancement of new brothers. Your presence in the Lodge will reaasure them that they have made the right choice in petitioning this Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.

This month, and every month, forget not the sick and the widows. Support them by your visits, your phone calls, your cards, and your prayers. We care. Encourage, too, our youth who are the hope of the future. Pledge now to attend at least two events of DeMolay, Job's Daughters or Rainbows during the year. You'll be glad you did. And remember, brethren, our Masonic home. We have pledged to support its construction fund by $27,000, of which we have ao far contributed $22,000. We will observe Founders Day on April 12. Let us set a target of meeting that goal by that time!

My thanks again to each one. We shall move along together.

Fraternally,

Archibald W. Lyon
Worshipful Master