Worthy Grand Patron, “We always have fun when we come up north!”
What a beautiful day for a meeting and counting yesterday’s weather that was two specular days in a row. Nice break for those who were traveling.
Grand Officers visitation at Chittenden Chapter No. 59 in Milton started out with members gathering to register with Sister Jerri Riegler, PGM. There were guest books to sign and John Hoyt also had tickets for our upcoming Turkey dinner in October.
At three pm we started the afternoon off with the entertainment portion of the day. . . . As I looked around the room, I had a good feeling everyone was enjoying the program. We were treated to several pieces of music performed by Hannah Crary and her fiddle. An intense quiet by the audience during the first piece, was a concern to Hannah (she explained) until we followed with a loud ovation.
Hannah added commentary between her numbers and won the group over with her bubbly personality.
After Hannah was finished, the Worth Patron had a surprise for the Worthy Grand Patron. The WGP was asked to join the WP in the West for ride on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
After mechanical issues were addressed, the bike was ‘pushed’ toward the East!
As this was an open meeting the officers of Chittenden Chapter No.59 entered the chapter room and took their places. The Bible was opened and The Lord’s Prayer offered. The American Flag was presented with escorts.
WGM Patty and WGP Richard were escorted and remained in the East where they were afforded the Grand Honors.
The presentation of General Grand Chapter Committee members was special as the newest GGCC member; Roland ‘Bud’ Godin was introduced. Congratulations Bud!
This was followed by the presentation of the Past Grand Officers, which included Chittenden Chapter member; Most Worshipful Phillip W Morton, Grand Master of Vermont.
After the presentation of the Grand Officers, WGM Patty spoke and shared a story about ‘choices’ and ended with; “And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance” The WGP spoke about the Special Project: Vermont National Guard Charitable Foundation and was pleased to add that the Grand Chapter raised over $6000.00 as of today. Great job by all, and we are not finished yet!
The WGM asked the WGP to join her on the North side of the East and as he approached from the West, she asked him to bring ‘reinforcements’ as he may need them. So he gathered up Sister Nancy Gross and continued his journey. The WGM said he better bring someone who can protect him, maybe someone in security. At this time he asked Brother Dan Gross to follow him to the East. When we arrived, the WGM and WGP had a special presentation to recognize Sister Nancy and Brother Dan for their dedication and talents as they (we) maintain the OES website for the Grand Chapter of Vermont. It is our pleasure!
Phillip Morton spoke on behalf of the Grand Lodge and spoke about the work being done around the state by our fraternal Brothers and Sisters. Very moving and we were glad to have heard of all the great work being done.
PGP Donnie Chamberlain spoke on behalf of the Past Grands, and to sum it up. . . .”He’s Back!” A special WOW to Sister Fay who still knows how to reel him back!
AGM Bunny spoke on behalf of the Grand Officers and mentioned that dinner was starting to smell pretty good. . . . . We all were starting to smell the treats from the kitchen.
Our silver collection, the special project was $102 and the report of the registration committee was 70 members present.
The meeting was closed and the Grand Chaplain offered grace before heading down to the dining room. Dinner was a beautiful assortment of hot dished and salads, rolls and beverages. The table favors were maple cotton candy for all! The dessert was this gorgeous cake, and was yummy!
Next meeting scheduled: September 25th, Rainbow Girls: Grand Officer Reception, 2 pm – Morrisville.
September 26th, Vermont Night in Granville, NY
See you all on the Star trail!
Brother Dan Gross, DDGI#4
