As I sit down to write this article, I am thinking somewhat about the May Breakfast held the day before on May 3rd. The event was very successful, and it was rewarding to see the Nobility pitching in and working together. Camaraderie is one of the basic principles of our Fraternity. If we can work well together and/or attend and support this Temple event, why can't we do the same at every Temple function?

     Is it because the May Breakfast is a “tradition,” or is it because we just “like” that particular event?

     In all likelihood it probably is a little bit of both. Let’s use the camaraderie and fellowship shown at the May Break-fast as an example for future events. The May Breakfast has shown that by working to-gether we can be successful in what we do. By working together, who knows what we may be able to accomplish!

     During the summer months much of our focus will be on the parade season and the upcoming Full Form Ceremonial on August 22 at Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet. We need candidates to offset the losses in membership as a result of deaths, demits and drops. The last couple of years, our Creations of new Nobles have been close to our losses from deaths and demits. With a little effort we can probably hold our own if we work diligently in recruiting new members. Therefore, if you know of a Master Mason who would make a good Shriner, try to get him to sign an application and join us at the Ceremonial. The more candidates we have that day the more interesting the day will be. Young men make great candidates for the Shrine as they are usually physically fit and raring to go.

     Nobles, it is the drop in membership we experience every year as a result of non-payment of dues that is really hurting us. Relative to the Nobles we drop for non-payment of dues, there is a trend that I see when I look at their membership records. A majority of these Nobles have been members for less than ten years with a good percentage having been members for less than five years. This seems to indicate that we are not offering these Nobles what they want or are looking for from Shrinedom. This is a situation that needs to be addressed with time being of the essence. If you have thoughts on this subject let our Ill. Potentate, any Temple Officer or me know what you think.

     Finally, I hope all have a great summer, and for you Snowbirds, welcome back home to the friendly North.  Looking forward to seeing and being with many of you this summer while you are home in little old Rhode Island participating in Rhode Island Shrine activities