The 95th Annual Charity Ball 2009 was a great success. We must have had like 120 Brothers, Sisters and dignitaries present. Most of all, it was a very happy crowd. There was lots of laughter, dancing and joking. A few toasts, some small some large.. especially the Lady's toast was huge. The speeches were kept short, but to the point and interesting.

Special recognition however is in order to attending Grand Lodge officers, Deputy Grand Master Vincent Libone and his wife Ginny, as well as Deputy Grand Marshal RW Robert Servidio and his wife Marge. Especially honoring were the words of RW Vincent Libone in recognizing the 9th Manhattan Distirct and noticing that we are getting "younger".

The Charity Ball is held annually to support the German Masonic Home Corporation (most popularly called 'our Home in Dumont'). So while we are all still happy to support the Home, it is with tears in the eye's as we are in the process of selling the Home that we have been supporting for 105 years. Finally, Government cost cutting and other considerations has brought us down to our knees on the subject. However, we are looking forward towards the future and seeking new means and opportunities to do good, and help people in need as our fraternity dictates..

The event was well planned and executed. Most Lodges of the District managed to send their representatives and it was a good time to meet old friends (some of whom we have not seen for some time) and, likewise, meet and make new ones  (Like we need a party for that----come to think of it, I hope not!)

This was also the last Dinner- Dance event before the conclusion of the masonic year. By the way, this is also the last month for  contributing to charity and giving your contributions to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund (BHF) of the Grand Lodge of New York. I  would like to take this opportunity to ask all brothers of all Lodges in the district to make a final push to support the BHF and send your donations to the BHF Chairman of your lodge. This years Fund Drive officially concludes May 31st (please allow time for mailing).

See you all at the Masters Picnic on June 7, 2009 at Tappan Park.