Monday, August 15th was a perfect evening for the annual Scottish Rite family picnic. Over 100 Scottish Rite Masons and their families – with many children and grandchildren – turned out at the Omaha Home for Boys Cooper Farm for burgers, hotdogs, brats, potato salad, chips, and of course, s’mores!
The weather was a cool 84° - warm enough to still be summer, but with enough breeze to discourage mosquitoes. This year, Jeffrey Coleman, 32° KCCH, Venerable Master of the Lodge of Perfection, had a bouncy house delivered for the kids. In addition, Christina Muska, whose husband Andrew is also in the Lodge of Perfection, brought members of the Omaha Ukelele Club who played during the evening.
Attendance was about 100, a great turnout for a Monday evening. It was, however, down from prior years. Two of the four Masters were present, and of 33 installed line officers, only 10 were present. Since the picnic is hosted for the enjoyment of the membership, John Maxell, 33°, General Secretary for the Omaha Valley, invites members to brainstorm about ways to make the evening more inviting for the membership. One idea was bingo for the early arrivals. In the past, we have had horseshoe tossing and other games. Anyone with ideas is invited to reach out to John at maxelljt@scottishriteomaha.org.
Jeffrey drew raffles prizes for “kids under 17” and “kids over 17,” and nearly everyone went home with a prize this year.
A more perfect evening of great food, great company, and great weather could not be asked for, and everyone enjoyed a relaxed evening at Cooper Farm. Mark your calendars now for next year’s Scottish Rite Family Picnic on August 21, 2017 and join us for a great Scottish Rite tradition!