My fellow prophets,
We are off to a great start for the new Grotto year!
Our first meeting was well attended, fun and productive, and even inspirational! It truly warmed my heart to see the many Prophets that attended and their genuine vision about the long term future of our Grotto.
As promised, I presented the three keys to success of any organization as recommended by the Prophets who attended the Officers Planning Brunch that met on the 3rd of December 2017 …
- Membership List
- Budget
- Calendar
All were approved at the January Stated Meeting and will be sent out as well as the by-laws by separate email in early February before our stated Meeting. It seems like this should be an easy job. We have been an organization that requires little and expects even less and thus is the beauty of it. But like any going concern even fun requires a little planning and attention to detail. Thus prompting the question, “do you want to sink or swim?” Our discussion resolved that we should swim hard and swim fast. So also in separate email I’ll send you the business details of our current State of the Realm which were discussed in our January meeting. Here are the highlights…
Membership
We can expect record new membership at our Ceremonial this year. It will be held locally at Old West Masonic Lodge and will include a BBQ hosted by the Western Grotto Association.
Budget
There were no changes made to our annual budget but it was decided to form a bylaws committee to look toward the future. Prophets we need you and we need you to pay your dues.
Calendar
It is helpful to have the year’s dates in advance but we can and should add a few more fun events. Several ideas were discussed including social, charitable and co-sponsoring events with other Masonic organizations. Your input is welcome and I hope to discuss in more detail at February Stated Meeting.
By-laws
Ralph Morton stepped-up to chair the by-laws committee and has already had the first meeting on Jan 25. Attendees included Dan Hood – Past Monarch and WGA President, Michael Schneider – Monarch, and Dennis Biondi – Prophet (Rising Star). The only changes recommended were regarding finances. The recommendations will be included and highlighted with the by-laws sent to your email. No permanent changes will be made without first discussing and voting in Stated Grotto Meeting as per by-law requirements and will not take effect until the next Grotto year. So come to the February Meeting to give your input and it is a good time to catch-up on your dues this year.
Fez, Shirts and Quarters required at all meetings!
Stay Thirsty Prophets,
Michael Schneider
Monarch – Cinema Grotto 2018
661-644-9835 cell/text
