Independence Day 2007

thanks to WB Fred Van Dyk

The weather certainly cooperated this year! The tradition of Fidelity Lodge in the 1990's was to march in the parade in tuxedo. With the weather being conducive to this, we decided to bring back the old tradition. WBs John and Lou DeSocio sported tails for the occasion and as the banner carriers set the tone for the delegation. Our turnout of marchers was disappointing but we had four marchers in tux and one in business suit. We received many compliments along the route. We also had occasion to have representatives from Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star along with DeMolay and Rainbow with us in the parade. Photos from the parade were taken by Jennifer Andrews a petitioner for Ridgewood Chapter #39. We thank Don and Dan Mueller for again providing the tractor and flat bed and to Bill Dietsch, Bob Buck, and Harry Kramer for helping assemble the float.

Worshipful Brothers John and Louis DeSocio carried the lodge banner.

(l-r) RW Ed Archbold, Bro. Frank Williams, WB Fred Van Dyk, Bro. Mike Firkser

Ridgewood Chapter's Worthy Patron Phil Brustlin with a novel approach to carrying the banner!

Ridgewood Chapter members (l-r) Elaine Diamond, Samantha Van Dyk, Maria Gramuglia, and Worthy Matron Sue Brustlin

L-R, Linda Westerhoff from Ridgewood Chapter, Diane Schmolze Grand Associate Conductress, Susanne Wells Associate Grand Matron, Betty Ann Carter, Charles Carter Jr. Worthy Grand Patron, Marvin Wyant and Elizabeth Wyant Worthy Grand Matron.

Young men and advisors of De Molay Leaders of NJ from Lincoln Park, Clifton and Skylands Chapters

Young ladies from Mt. View and Clifton Assemblies of Rainbow for Girls

Most Worshipful Grand Master John S. Ryan and Worshipful Master Fred Van Dyk

An overflow crowd from the parade returned to the lodge for our annual 4th of July barbecue.

Thanks to WBs Wayne Woogen, John and Louis DeSocio for cooking to make the bbq a great success

Illustrious Brother Walter M.D.Kern

Most Worthy Grand Matron Elizabeth Wyant (seated), Most Worthy Grand Patron Charles Carter Jr. and Ridgewood Chapter Associate Conductress Samantha Van Dyk