As we begin the new year together, let me take this opportunity to thank you for electing me as Worshipful Master of this most prestigious Lodge for its Virginia Charter Bicentennial Year.

I know I speak for all of the officers when I say we will endeavor to serve in a manner which will accord honor to the fraternity, stimulate your interest, and promote dignity and decorum for the Lodge. We look forward to a year of hard work and good fellowship, one during which we sincerely hope all the Brethren, their ladies, and friends will be inclined to enjoy.

I wish to thank the Past Masters and Brethren who performed as the installing team for the 1988 Lodge Officers. They did a superlative job, performing before a large gathering of Brethren, family and friends.

Our appreciation also to the members of Martha Washington Chapter #42, Order of the Eastern Star for the scrumptious food, and beautiful decorations in the dining hall, for the installation reception.

Last, but not least, on behalf of the Lodge Officers and members I extend our sincere appreciation to all who attended.

During this new year, when we will enter the Lodge's third century under the Virginia Charter, we will embrace a colonial theme in our activities and focus much of our attention on the history of the Lodge, and its Virginia Charter Master, Illustrious Brother George Washington.

Next month, from the 7th through the 9th, many of us will be with the Brethren and ladies attending the Grand Lodge Communication in Richmond. On the 15th we will be visited by the Grand Master of Masons in Virginia, when we celebrate George Washington's Birthday.

Fraternally,
William A. Jones
Worshipful Master

Jan 10, 1788 - Washington wrote General Knox to inform him not to take sides in the dispute between France and England, emphasizing that our Government was in no position to become involved beyond our borders. Later, while the people in the streets were in riot to have the United States back France, Benjamin Franklin, Grand Master of Pennsylvania; Livingston, Grand Master of New York; and Randolph, Grand Master of Virginia and the Masonic Brothers rallied support for Washington