We had a great time at George Mason University Saturday. Thanks to those friends and brothers who showed up despite the cold weather.
Patriot Lodge Mentioned in VA Masonic Herald
The Virgina Masonic Herald posted an article written by Wor. Jon Shelton, Charter Member of the Patriot Lodge, U.D. Â In this article, Brother Jon gives a brief overview of the history of the Patriot Lodge and a vision for moving forward.
Happy birthday, Robert Burns
Robert Burns was born today, January 25th, 1759. Â Burns was a famous Scottish poet who contributed much to Scottish culture and Freemasonry as well. Â In modern times, many people honor his life via a Burns Supper.
Mendis Mentioned in Scottish Rite Article
Our very own Patrick Mendis was published in the November-December edition of the Scottish Rite Journal. He extensive research on the founding of our nation led to some interesting Masonic revelations. This is an excerpt of his book which was presented at our Under Dispensation ceremony.
December/January Trestleboard
The December/January Trestleboard is now online. Â You may locate it by clicking here, or by navigating to the Trestleboard link at the top of the page.
Happy Birthday, Albert Pike
Albert Pike would have been 201 years old today (born December 29, 1809). Â Popularly known as the modern founder of the updated Scottish Rite degrees, he made several other contributions to Masonry in general.
Tonight’s meeting canceled
Due to inclement driving conditions, tonight’s meeting is canceled. Thank you.
December stated communication
UPDATE: Tonight’s meeting has been canceled. It has been tentatively scheduled for the 21st.
Date:Â Thursday, 16 December 2010.
Time: Â 7:00 p.m.
Place: Â The Mason Inn at George Mason University, Fairfax, VA (same building as Nov mtg)
The Lodge will begin labor at 7:00pm; go to refreshment for dinner; reconvene after dinner to finish business and close.
To Our Veterans
The Patriot Lodge wishes a happy birthday to the Marine Corps and an honorable Veterans Day to all those who served. Â Thank you all for your service.
The Patriot Lodge’s First Ever Stated Communication
We also have a guest speaker - Paul Evancoe. He will speak on what Masonry means to him and the Scottish Rite in particular.  His bio follows:
Paul Evancoe is a retired, career Navy SEAL with significant combat experience. Following his military career, he continued government service as the Director for Special Operations in the Office of the Coordinator for Counter-terrorism at the U.S. Department of State. Paul next took a position with the National Nuclear Security Administration where he later headed the Office of Emergency Response which had responsibility for world-wide nuclear and radiological accident and incident response. After 37 total years of government service he became the Vice President for Military Operations at Fabrique Nationale d’HerstalUSA. Paul is the founder and president of International Security Strategies and Operations, Inc. ISSO specializes in emergency management, risk assessment, vulnerability assessment and facility hardening.
Paul’s significant military service awards include the Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star with “V” for valor, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal (3 awards), Cross of Gallantry with gold star for heroism, Navy Commendation Medal with “V” for valor, Navy Combat Action Ribbon (3 awards), Navy Achievement Medal (4 awards), along with 12 other lesser medals and ribbons. Paul holds a BS in Industrial Technology and advanced degrees and certifications in Human Resource Development, Political Military Strategic Planning and Weapon Systems Engineering.
Paul is the author of numerous feature articles in various national and foreign journals and magazines. He regularly is quoted as a counterterrorism, weapons and non-lethal disabling technology expert in various newspapers and magazines. In addition, Paul has written numerous security-related policy and procedural documents for both government and commercial customers. “Own the Night” is Paul’s first novel.