Feast of St. John Summer Solstice Party 2012

Hello Brethren!

It's my privilege to report to you that the Ronald J. Keel Fellowcraft Club hosted yet another Summer Solstice picnic; serving dual duty as the celebration of The Holy Saints John Day as well.  In true RJKFC style, the festivities were well attended by Brethren and Fellows, and good times were had by all.  Very special thanks go out to Brother Ben Kaminski for his delicious contribution of his signature smoked "Bacon Explosion" served with a generous side of smoked bacon wrapped jalapeno and cheese finger-food appetizers.  Additionally, I want to extend heart felt gratitude to Brother Steve Kelly for donating a wonderful charcoal grill to the RJK Fellowcraft Club.  The grill proved to be perfect for our needs, and the Club will get years of use from his generous gift.

Aside from fantastic conversation, the day was filled with clear skies perfect for frisbee and a Nordic lawn game that W:. Daniel J. Di Natale introduced us to.  Plenty of cold beverages kept us cool, and in addition to Bro. Kaminski's culinary treats, delicious Rib-eye Delmonico steaks were served with tasty sides.  A fine selection of premium cigars procured by Brother Andre Pigeon rounded out the day's offerings, and no one went away dissatisfied.

The Feast of the Holy Saints John, celebrated in conjunction with the Summer Solstice was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with Brothers we haven't seen in a while, and a great way to meet new Fellows seeking to be members or The Craft.  It's one of my favorite events of the year, and holds a special place in my heart... and belly too!

Thanks to all for attending, and for making this year's event a success!  Stay tuned, as 2012 will surely be a fun filled year!

Bro. Dennis McMullen
President, RJK Fellowcraft Club

Masonic Restoration in Chautauqua County

On June 21st W:. Daniel J. Di Natale was invited to speak before the District Council of Chautauqua. W:. Di Natale was invited by R:. W:. Raymond Gordon, Past DDGM of Chautauqua Masonic District, to speak on Masonic Restoration movements and the efforts of Harmonie Lodge. The presentation was well received with representation for every Lodge in the district in attendance. It was a truly humbling experience as word of what Harmonie Lodge's efforts of renewal have inspired men even before the presentation was given, as expressed by many in attendance.

Congratulations to our 2012 Officers

On June 13th Harmonie Lodge installed its 143rd officer line. The officers where installed by W:. Nathan A. Shoff as the Installing Master and assisting him was W:. Robert Coe as Marshal. This night was a smashing success with well over 40 Masons and and guests visiting Harmonie. The Brothers of The Lodge of the Ancient Landmarks No. 358 attend in force and presented the newly installed W:. Daniel J. Di Natale with a gift. A wonderful piece of Harmonie history, as toasting mug made by Buffalo Pottery during the Pan American Exposition.  W:. Fredrick G. Clark, our out going Master, was presented by W:. Daniel J. Di Natale with a Past Master's Jewel and apron once owned by W:. Ronald J. Keel. The state of the apron was so poor that it had to be restored to is original appearance by Brother William Ellis of BrotherhoodAprons.com. The restored sections of the apron are identical to the original apron worn by W:. Keel.  After Installation the first Festive Board of the new year was shared by the Members and guests. 

Our 2012 Officer Line 

(Pictured left to right) : Front Row: Bro. Joshua Keim – Junior Deacon, Bro.  Donald Monheim – Senior Steward, Bro. Andre Pigeon – Marshal,  Bro. Eric Seward – Junior Steward ,W:. BRo. Fredrick G. Clark II – Trustee, Bro. Jeffery Keagen – Tiler – Middle Row: Bro. Christopher L. Samul – Treasurer, Bro. Michael Hacker – Musical Director, Bro. Dennis McMullen – Senior Deacon, William Chapin II – Trustee/Chaplian – Top Row: Ryan S. Bonnett – Senior Warden, W:. Daniel J. Di Natale – Master, Bro. Micheal Guzak – Junior Warden – Not Pictured: Bro. John Budowski – Secretary, Bro.Benjamin Kaminski – Senior Master of Ceremony, Bro. Zachary Burgess – Junior Master of Ceremony, Bro. Stephen P. Kelly – Trustee.