February is far from being history, as I prepare the March Trestleboard for printing, we have yet to enjoy the dinner with which we celebrate the birthday of our Charter Master, George Washington, and will receive the Grand Master, Most Worshipful Brother Oscar Wood Tate. However, if our Lodge supports the events of February the 22nd as they have those that preceded it, it will indeed be a most memorable month.

The officers of Alexandria-Washington Lodge and I have enjoyed the activities of February and we thank you for the privilege of representing you. The Grand Lodge at Richmond provided fellowship, instruction, and progress. Most Worshipful Brother Oscar Wood Tate was installed in the Grand East, and I am pleased to share with you my pride, that our brother, Right Worshipful Donald M. Robey was installed as Deputy Grand Master, and our brother Right Worshipful Odie R. Howell was installed as District Deputy Grand Master for Masonic District 1A. A report of other Grand Lodge activities was given by your Senior Warden at the first stated in February when we welcomed home of DDGM. At Mt. Vernon our Lodge was again afforded the privilege of being the first to lay a wreath at the tomb of George Washington in a ceremony well attended by Lodge brethren and many visiting eminent masons. On that same day it was my privilege and honor to welcome the members of The George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association once again to the national home of masonry.

In March, your Lodge will continue to be busy with degree work at two called meetings and at the first stated, all within a cable tow's reach will wish to be present as we receive Right Worshipful Brother Odie R. Howell on his official visit as DDGM. On the second stated we will be pleased to receive Worshipful Brother Harry G. Lutz, District Instructor of Work. Please note the other events of interest on the schedule and mark your personal calendars accordingly.

It is with regret that I have accepted the resignation of our Junior Deacon, Brother Michael J. McLaughlin, Jr. Mike will postpone his activities in line for those of a father. The election for the office of Junior Deacon will be held at the first stated in March.

Some time ago my youngest son asked me what it is that Masons do? He said he knew of my many meetings and he knew we memorized many things, but what was it that we accomplished? I spoke of many things, but on reflection, I am not pleased with my answers. I wish I had said, "I go to my lodge to be with my friends and together we try to become better men".

Fraternally,

Wayne L. Gilbert
Worshipful Master