Dear Brethren,

"The end is near." My time as Worshipful Master of this Lodge is rapidly coming to a close. It was, to say the least, a very interesting, educational and sometimes very amusing two years. We had plenty of "Atta Boys" as well as a few "Oh! Boys!" But I must say, I enjoyed every minute of it. Our rehearsals for degree work at times were scary, but in the end it seemed to always end up near perfect. When help was needed, you were there. If other Lodges needed help, we were there. We made one helluva team.

The cooperation and help must continue to go on. W.B. John Lacki is, if elected, going to be our new Worshipful Master. This will be his third year and it was generous of him to step up again. I hope you will give him the same kind of support you gave me in my two years, both moral and physical (mental support? We won't go there!). The Lodge is only as strong as its Brethren, and brethren, you all were a great help. A Master cannot do it alone.

I would like to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your time and help. I thank you families for lengthening your cabletow and lending you to me a couple of nights more a month. I appreciate the guidance and "Light" given to me by my Past Members. Your experience really showed throughout the years. To my Officers, thanks for "being there" when I needed you and for doing your job to the fullest. As for my "white apron" brethren and "sideliners," thanks for jumping in a chair to fill a vacancy or pitching in to help with collation or clean up. My secretary deserves a special thank you. If it weren't for his daily "countdowns" and friendly "nagging," I'd probably still be writing January's Trestleboard! You ALL made my two years a pleasure and a success. I am going to miss the East. I'll still be there, just sitting in a different place and looking in a different direction. Again, THANK YOU ALL, and have a very safe and enjoyable holiday this year.

Fraternally Yours,

W.B. Edward T. Gasior W.M.