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Bus Trip & Hospitality Suite To Grand Lodge Salmon Arm
RECAP: The annual communication of Grand Lodge was held on June17th, 18th and 19th 2004. The adventure started at 6 AM on the morning of the 17th
when we arrived at our departure point and started to load the bus. Stops
were made along the way to pick up our Richmond brethren at Fantasy Gardens,
then on to Freemasons Hall in Whiterock and finally to Langley where we
boarded the remaining brethren. We were on our way by 7.15 AM. |
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The weather was perfect for traveling. We proceeded to make our way to Salmon Arm via the Coquihalla Highway, making several enjoyable pit stops along the way. A one hour break for a quick lunch in Kamloops was taken and then we resumed our travels. During the trip we were entertained with jokes, stories and a few songs by those more talented brethren among us. W. Bro. Tony Carveth acted as Steward on the bus, and
kept the brethren aboard entertained as well as ensuring that all of their
snaking and beverage needs were fulfilled. |
| A raffle was held on board, and a large stuffed
doll, donated by W. Bro Tony Carveth was awarded as the prize. |
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All of the brethren, who traveled on the bus, had a wonderful time. Spirits were high and new friendships were made. It was obvious that this was going to be a good trip to
Grand Lodge. |
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We arrived in Salmon Arm, and checked into the beautiful Podollan Inn. This hotel was chosen due to its convenient proximity to the Grand Lodge event and for its first class accommodations. Thursday night was the Grand Master’s Banquet. This
function was well attended by brethren from all over the province. |
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Thursday was also the first night of the Langley Lodge Hospitality Suite. We worked hard, unpacking all of the goods from the bus, getting them to the room, and preparing the suite to receive visitors. We were ready and opened at 5 PM. The food was great, the beverages were cold, and the members of Langley were eager to show their hospitality
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One of the highlights of the suite was when we heard the sound of Bagpipes approaching from outside. W.Bro Tom Browning and company completely surprised us as they entered the suite unannounced and proceeded to entertained us with half a dozen lively tunes. It was a memorable event and a highlight of the evening.
Friday brought the first day of the Communication. All Brethren attended the communication where many issues were brought forward and voted upon. Some of the issues were general housekeeping, while others were that of fundamental changes. (Report given by Bro. Jr. Warden)
After Friday's communication ended, the brethren returned to the hotel for a second evening of hospitality at the suite.
The second night was very special to the Brethren of Langley Lodge. Those who attended the suite were fascinated by teachings on how to play the page pipes, and by stories told by the brethren attending. The experience created a bond between the brethren.
Saturday morning brought with it the second day of the communication. The unfinished business of the first day was completed and a vote for the new Grand Junior Warden was held.
After lunch, the New Grand Master, Bill Unrau and his officers were duly installed and the communication ended.
It was time to head back home. We boarded the bus and started on our return journey - another Grand Lodge complete. The brethren enjoyed similar entertainment to what they had on the way up.
There were a couple of delays on
the trip home, due to some minor problems with the bus. The brethren
were very understanding about these setbacks, and some eagerly helped Bro.
Jeff Boulet to repair the problems, while others took the time to relax and
enjoy the beautiful scenery.  |
 There is no doubt that all the brethren who attended enjoyed themselves, and are looking forward to next year's bus trip to Grand Lodge in Penticton |
