As we start a new Masonic year and the Decade of the 90's, let me thank you for electing me Worshipful Master of this most historic and prestigious Lodge. I will do my absolute best to continue the programs and traditions that have been beneficial over the years. I will also start new programs in areas where we need improvement. In this regard, I have two immediate questions for your consideration and hopefully a quick response:

1. What can "we" do to cause the Brethren who have not attended Lodge in sometime to return to Lodge and become active members?

2. Can I count on you to help out with Lodge Ritual work and candidate training; i.e., will you become a "Mentor?"

The installation ceremonyon December 27th, was superb. Words alone cannot begin to express my sincere feeling of gratitude for the hard work and dedicated effort on the part of the Past Masters, Officers, and Brethren who helped with the ceremony in both preparing for it and executing it flawlessly. Thank you all very very much for a job exceedingly well done.

My special thanks also to the members of Martha Washington Chapter #42, Order of the Eastern Star, for the excellent reception which they provided following the ceremony. And last, but, certainly not lease, on behalf of the Lodge Officers and members, I extend our sincere appreciation to all who attended.

My theme for this year is "Let's Light a Candle for Masonry by Our Actions." This caption may have different meanings for each of us, but, for me it simply means that if each of us will "conduct our actions" in a manner whereby we keep the principles of Freemasonry in mind in all things we do, we will be better people for having accomplished it the Masonic Way. It can also be taken one step further, and hopefully, each of us will be willing to "initiate a new action" for the express purpose of helping a Brother Mason or a fellow man in general. I will be expressing this theme throughout the year and I hope you will also.

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Wardell H. Thomas
Worshipful Master

January 18, 1790 - The Lodge Secretary was directed to send the Initiation Fee or one candidate to the Grand Secretary. (At that time there was no per-capita tax. The Grand Lodge had set the Initiation fee of one candidate as the annual donation) This was our first annual payment of dues to the Grand Lodge of Virginia. (One Pound Sterling)

WILLIAM A. BROWN
Lodge Historian