ODD FELLOWSHIP

Wairarapa Times-Age, 29 March 1939, Page 7

ODD FELLOWSHIP

LOYAL MASTERTON LODGE. BRO. P. M. SMITH ELECTED SECRETARY. A special summoned meeting of the members of Loyal Masterton Lodge, Manchester Unity, Order of Oddfellows was held in Masterton on Monday night Sister P. J. Wilton, N.G., presided over a very large attendance of members. The meeting was convened principally for the purpose of discussing the appropriation of the surplus accruing from the 1929-1934 quinquennial period. The valuation disclosed that after meeting all future liabilities to the sick and. funeral fund, there remained a surplus of £1822, brought about mainly through the most careful and judicious investments made by the past and present trustees of the lodge, and who were highly complimented for the excellent services they have, and are still, rendering. It was unanimously decided that after devoting a small sum to management, to apply the balance to a reduction of contributions of members whose membership dated back 12 months prior to the end of the above period.

Bro. C. Sutherland was unanimously elected a lodge trustee, eulogistic references being made by members of the capabilities of the brother. Bro. Sutherland suitably replied, emphasising that he deeply appreciated the very kind sentiments expressed.

P.D.G.M. Bro. J. H. Langley was then called upon to duly install Bro. P. M. Smith into the important office of financial secretary, and in doing so made particular reference to the splendid services Bro Smith has rendered to the lodge and the Manchester Unity covering a period of 35 years. His remarks were endorsed and amplified by P.G. Bro. R. Krahagen, Bro. F. H. Wright and Bro. F. C. Davey, of Loyal Albion Lodge, Dunedin. In replying, Bro. Smith expressed the deep appreciation he felt for the great honour conferred upon him. He said that he fully realised the very high standard set by his predecessors, and the very difficult task' that lay ahead in emulating their deeds, but promised, with the co-operation of the members, to endeavour to still further the interests of Loyal Mfisterton Lodge and the great Manchester Unity. Splendid tributes were paid by members to the acting-secretary, P.G. Bro. A. P. Smith, for the excellent services he has at all times rendered to the lodge. Although a visiting member, Bro. Smith’s services are always at the command of the lodge and have been given most freely and generously. It was unanimously resolved to recognise such splendid service by presenting Bro. Smith with a Past Grand's jewel suitably inscribed. It was reported that a Wellington district M.U. cricket team would visit Nelson at Easter and that three playing members of Loyal Masterton lodge were included in-the team.