Dear Brother,

      You have often seen our American Flag throughout your life. You may have even heard the traditional story of Betsy Ross sewing the flag for Brother George Washington and his army. However, most of us tend to forget Brother Francis Hopkinson, of New Jersey, who designed the first American Flag that was adopted for Congress on June 14, 1777. He went on to generate several official seals including the New Jersey Seal. He also had a hand in creating the design on the currency for his time and some of his ideas are still printed on our paper money today--you will recognize one symbol as the Unfinished Pyramid.

      Francis Hopkinson was the one who proposed the red and white alternating stripes for our flag to represent the Original 13 Colonies. The Field of Blue in the upper left and the stars were created to form a New Constellation for our new country.

      So, my brother, when you see the Flag of our Country remember Brother Francis Hopkinson and also that all of us stand free under this great symbol of Liberty

Sincerely andFraternally,

Patrick J. Jordan Jr., P.M., W.M.

Dear Brother,

      If you haven't been on the internet lately you will be happy to know that our Lodge now has a website at www.audubon-parkside.com It was created by WB Richard Turner, PM, who has recently added a slideshow of the then--Audubon Lodge hard at work transforming the Highland Movie Theater into Audubon Masonic Temple. The slideshow demonstrates the unity and hard work that went into creating this Lodge Building as we know it today. The efforts of these brethern are a great inspiration and we now enjoy the results of their labor. As time passes, certain things in our building need to be cared for and maintained. So, I am inviting any brother who has the skills or the time to please contribute to the beautification of our Temple. If you would like to participate, please contact Bro. Joseph Brit, JMC. He is now in the process of getting a work schedule together for the specific dates during the summer.

      This is the first time in many years that we have had the opportunity to march in the 4th of July Parade in Audubon. The Parade will start at 8:30 AM and we will meet at the Lodge at 8 AM. We are planning to wear our new white polo shirts with the new Audubon-Parkside Lodge logo, which was designed by WB Richard Turner, PM. Slacks to be worn should be khaki. We are asking for dispensation to wear our aprons and jewels. This would create and impressive image and will hopefully leave a feeling of goodwill in our community. In addition, we are planning an Open House in our Temple following the Parade for the public to attend and where they can ask questions about Freemasonry and tour the building and learn its history. Light refreshment of lemonade and cookies will be served.

      Once again it is time for our Annual Picnic. Our host this year will be Brother Steven Kelly, our Senior Warden. Brother Kelly has asked for all those who wish to attend the picnic to please bring a side dish. Please let him know in advance what you plan to bring. He also has a swimming pool, so be sure to bring your swimming gear. Directions to brother Kelly's house are on the DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS PAGE. Also, in the mailed Trestleboard. Please RSVP by Saturday, July 12. All are invited--your family and your friends--to this wonderful event.

      There are tentative plans to organize a trip to see the Philadelphia Phillies play the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday, August 8. Right now tickets are $20 per person. A group rate would be much better and we would need a minimum commitment of 25 for a group rate. If you are interested, please contact the Worshipful Master. Your family and friends are welcome to attend.

Patrick J. Jordan, Jr., P.M., W.M.

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