Dear Dedicated Members for Change,
It is my pleasure to forward to you a monthly message from Grand Master Peter Sellars, one of the charter members, a strong supporter, and a frequent contributor to DMC. He has had a very active and busy first month in office as Grand Master.
F – L – T
Dave Rosenberg
Past Grand Master
GRAND MASTER’S MONTHLY MESSAGE
Brothers and Sisters:
One month is past me, now. This position of Grand Master is certainly one of great responsibility. I am honored to have the attention of so many members. I can already speak from a position of experience, having already visited FIFTEEN lodges in the past four short weeks. Any Past Grand Master will tell you this is a lot of work in itself.
I have also attended two board meetings (RCS and GL), a IOOF funeral event, and a handful of social events. I have written letters and emails addressing matters concerning our Order. It is managing time, which is the most important aspect of this position.
The work has paid off in terms of raising monies for the projects I have decided to support:
1. The RCS Culinary Academy in Gilroy. I feel this is the number one program we have in the jurisdiction of California. Offering young people a means to support themselves and gain a trade is as important as anything else in today’s world.
2. The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Float. This is now an independent tax exempt entity, which brings attention to our Order each January and offers members a lifetime memory of a fun and rewarding experience. Decorating the float is fun and friendships are made at these kinds of events. As an Order, we need things we can rally behind and be involved. You have an opportunity to decorate a float and tell everyone you were involved with the Rose Parade.
3. The Educational Foundation. This is one of the best benefits available to members and non-members alike. Loans, Scholarships, and Grants are there for all members of all ages who wish to seek an education or continue with an education.
So far, by keeping busy, we have raised over $2,000.00 in the first four weeks of my taking the office of Grand Master. I don’t plan on slowing down, yet. I want to do the very best job I can.
I want to thank those lodges I have visited to date, that have come through and purchased my fundraising bronze coin and pins. (I do have more pins on order). Without the support and kind donations of our lodges, we could not have a successful year.
I have 11 more months to go in this term. If it is anything like the first 4 weeks, it should be an interesting trip.
My message to all of the lodges: Be fraternal and act respectfully toward your fellow members. Respect the vote of the majority and move on.
Peter V. Sellars
Grand Master of California
Independent Order of Odd Fellows