The Three Links Odd Cast

Spring is here and many jurisdictions are having their Sessions, which means electing new Grand Masters who will be traveling around to visit lodges.  In response to a listener's question, we discuss the process and protocols involved in a Grand Master's visit.  Should you feed the Grand Master?  When does he or she get introduced?  Where should they sit?  When do they speak?  Who else gets introduced with the Grand Master?  There are a lot of questions to answer and we do our best to get to all of them.  The Shoutout goes to yet another new Encampment, Razorback No. 100 of Oregon.  That's TEN new Encampments during the five years of this podcast!  In the Odd Podge, Ainslie shares his lodge's new mode of transport, Toby shares receiving is 25-year pin for Sons of Norway (and can't resist an impromptu history lesson about the group), and Mike talks about his most recent experience participating in the Pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia.

Not everyone understands fraternalism or takes the groups at face value.  The suspicion of Freemasonry by the Roman Catholic Church is well known.  Lesser known is the skepticism of so-called "secret societies" by Evangelical Christians.  In response to a listener question, we asked Paul Michaels (not his real name), an Evangelical pastor, to come on the podcast and shed some light on why some Evangelical Christians are highly suspicious of Odd Fellowship and other fraternal groups.  By keeping him anonymous we were able to get candid and honest answers about why Evangelicals distrust Odd Fellowship as an institution.  Some of the answers were apparent but others were quite surprising!  The Shoutout goes to a new Canton in Florida: General George Washington #70 of Miami.  In the Odd Podge, Mike shares the publication of his new book, Paul talked about his passion for cemeteries and "The Good Cemeterian," and Toby recalled his visit to the Easter Egg Hunt at the Olympia Odd Fellows Park.

Brothers Aiden Brink and Will Sparks both joined their respective lodges in the past couple of years.  Each have become very active and spurred growth in their areas.  They were both kind enough to join us to discuss their perspective on Odd Fellowship: what we get right, what we get wrong, and what we can do to build a solid future for our Order.  Some of the answers may be surprising, especially to long-time members, but they are incredibly insightful and provide a very appealing pathway to future growth.  Hint: newer members see a lot of value in our history and traditions!  The Shoutout goes to *another* new Encampment, Faro Fraternal #70 in Miami, Florida.  In the Odd Podge, Ainslie reflects on watching a new streaming drama through Odd Fellow eyes, Will cherishes some of his most recent Odd Fellow gifts, Mike announces his newest side project, Odd Fellows Today, Toby recounts the story of meeting listener Michael Crile of Four Creeks Lodge #94 of Visalia, CA during his recent vacation, and Aiden gives thanks to those who listened to him and Ray Jackson of Illinois in particular.

Although it's tempting to think that Odd Fellowship has been handed down from the past completely unchanged from some visionaries at an ancient building site, that's not the case.  Odd Fellowship has adapted and changed through its history to meet the needs of members and the Order as those needs have changed.  In this episode, Kris Gratz of Virginia shares his research into the developments in Odd Fellows' regalia through the ages and how that has coincided with changes in our ritual and also various cultural cross-currents.  For example, gold fringe on a collar used to indicate that a member had taken the Encampment Degrees.  The number of stars on a collar had a meaning as well.  Joining Kris is his friend and previous podcast guest Nick Curry to talk about some legislation he's working on regarding the future of regalia and suppliers.  The Shoutout goes to the newly-revived River Raisin Encampment #154 of Michigan (our first Shoutout from Michigan!).  In the Odd Podge, Toby previews his upcoming trip to the Northwest IOOF Meeting in Canada, Nick talks about the importance of mentorship in lodges, Mike announces his latest book (available at www.duminiak.com), Kris clues us in to his deep dive on the Odd Fellows' Tartan, and Ainslie updates us on the project to get a stairlift in his lodge hall, as well as reminding us of the upcoming Tattoo Event at Sovereign Grand Lodge.  For those interested in seeing some of the regalia examples discussed in this episode, head over to The Odd Fellows' Guide to see Kris' article and pictures. 

In 2016, an exhibit opened at the American Folk Art Museum showcasing various artifacts from American fraternal orders, most notably the Odd Fellows and Freemasons.  The collection shared the best of fraternal folk art with the wider world.  One of the curators of that exhibition, Dr. Aimee Newell, joined us to talk about the collection and give us some background and history on where the items came from, their significance, and their influence into culture at large.  Once again, the Shoutout goes to a new Encampment, this time the re-chartered Santa Paula #118 of California.  In the Odd Podge, Toby announces the new recording he's working on, Ainslie shares his story of helping save a lodge with an Initiation and meeting a listener, Dr. Newell contemplates returning to her former employer, the Scottish Rite Museum in Lexington, MA, and Mike talks about his most recent publication, an epic poem.

Most of us know about our local lodge and may be familiar with a couple other lodges in our area.  However, Odd Fellowship is global in scope and scale—or is it?  Brother Chuck Hillberry of the State Of The Order Committee of Sovereign Grand Lodge joins us to discuss exactly how much global reach Odd Fellowship has and how various overseas groups are connected to the Sovereign Grand Lodge.  The truth is a lot more complicated than most members realize and Brother Chuck shares the necessary background with us to have the right understanding of the situation.  The Shoutout goes to a newly-rechartered Encampment, Halifax #3 of the Atlantic Provinces in Canada.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie promotes the upcoming Tattoo Session at this year's Sovereign Grand Lodge session, Mike previews the releases of his new books (info at www.duminiak.com), Chuck encourages members to visit other lodges and learn, saying, "Your dues card is your ticket to learn," and Toby thanks a friend and listener in Sweden for a recent gift.

We think we all know the story of how Odd Fellowship began in North America: five brave souls, led by Thomas Wildey, held the first meeting in Baltimore in 1819 and, from there, Odd Fellowship exploded across the continent spreading friendship, love, and truth from sea to shining sea.  The reality, though, has a lot more detail and challenges than what we know.  Mike, Ainslie, and Toby delve into the history of the founding of our Order a couple centuries ago.  They reveal some of the challenges of the young lodge and structure and highlight the members who helped build and grow Odd Fellowship beyond that first meeting, including the authors of the Rebekah Degree and the Patriarchs Militant Degree.  The Shoutout goes to *another* new lodge, this time Citrus #118 in Florida.  Owing to the length of this episode, the hosts decided to skip the Odd Podge but it will return in future, shorter episodes.

Thirty years ago, in a small town in Washington State, a young twenty-something man stood surrounded by five elderly men in a leaky, damp building doing something that would change the trajectory of his entire life.  In that moment, Kelly Hughes made a commitment that would shape his destiny and give him a new purpose in life.  From that time forward, as an Odd Fellow, Kelly would work tirelessly for the betterment of his community, his lodge, and his jurisdiction.  Through his work, Skookumchuck Lodge No. 129 was able to get their building renovated (no more leaky roof!) and they were able to grow and sustain themselves.  That spirit of hard work and leadership eventually propelled Kelly to the top office in Washington, serving as Grand Master for 2017-18.  His mid-life crisis brought him to Florida where he eventually joined a lodge and became Grand Secretary.  During his time in Florida the jurisdiction has chartered two new lodges with another one scheduled for institution in the coming months.  In this long-ranging interview, Brother Kelly shares his story with us and gives us information about what has been successful in Florida and lays out his vision for the future of Odd Fellowship.  It's a lengthy interview, but definitely worth listening to all the way through as Kelly has an incredible insight into the current state and future of Odd Fellowship.  The Shoutout goes to a lodge which has reclaimed its charter after going dormant for a few years, Richland #338 in Washington State.  In the Odd Podge, Toby recounts his gig at a former Odd Fellows Hall in Bellingham that has been beautifully preserved, Kelly talks about the musical legacy of the lodge in Lynn Haven, Florida, and Ainslie gives a sneak preview of the tattoo gathering that he's planning for Sovereign Grand Lodge this year in Charleston, WV.

Every lodge wants to grow—but how many lodges are actually able to incorporate new members successfully in such a way that the new members feel valued?  Brother Matthew Thornton, NG of Houston Heights Lodge #225 in Texas, joins us to talk about how his lodge maintains a healthy lodge culture with a mix of everyone from oil workers to urban hippies.  Spoiler alert: their secret is holding a lot of events that give people an opportunity to do something.  Brother Matthew goes into more detail with us to talk about how that all comes together and how it turns out.  The Shoutout goes to yet another new lodge, Vandalia Rebekah Lodge #9 in West Virginia.  In their Odd Podge contributions, Toby gives an update on the wedding gifts he and his new bride received for the Vanderlinden-Sheppard Adult Visual Aid Fund, Ainslie shares an update on his hand tattoo, Mike announces the publication of his new book, and Matthew gives his thanks for a wonderful year and looks forward to the next one.

Based on the classic holiday film "It's A Wonderful Life," this year's Christmas episode is an Odd Fellows' retelling of the old favorite in which George Bailey is the harried Past Grand of Bedford Falls Lodge #310.  Straining under the weight of his lodge's expectations, he finally breaks and wishes he had never been an Odd Fellow.  The ghost of Thomas Wildey visits him to give him a glimpse into the world where he never joined the lodge.  This episode features an all-star cast including Gil T. Rodello, Kyle Fuller, Mason Wolf, Matthew Thornton, Fran Carris, Kaitlyn Osman, Ian Love-Jones, Steven Cross, Michael Greenzeiger, Joseph Benton, Elizabeth Keena, and Toby Hanson.

Eating together is an integral part of Odd Fellowship and has a long tradition of inclusion within our Order, from formal banquets at Grand and Sovereign Grand Lodge meetings to sandwich platters during a Degree Rally, to tried-and-true fraternal staples like spaghetti feeds, pancake breakfasts, and pie auctions.  Mike, Ainslie, and Toby discuss these various modes of eating and other ways that food helps bolster the fellowship of Odd Fellowship.  The Shoutout goes to another new lodge in Florida, this time the re-chartered Suncoast #69.  Word has it that another lodge institution will be taking place in Florida early next year.  In their Odd Podge, Toby shares the story of a wedding guest who asked for an application to the lodge, Mike previews the chartering of a Rebekah Lodge in Charleston, and Ainslie tells the somewhat winding tale of two tattoo artists from New Orleans who went to Winston-Salem and discovered Odd Fellowship in the process.

In high school, Dustin used to wander past the dusty old Odd Fellows Hall in Wenatchee, Washington.  Intrigued by the music blaring out on to the sidewalk one evening, he went in to find an all-ages punk rock concert.  Joel was the producer of those concerts and made sure the teens and young adults of Wenatchee had a safe, fun place on Friday nights.  Now, nearly thirty years later, they are both members of the lodge where those concerts were held and they are putting on the concerts themselves.  Prosperity Lodge #301 nearly died in 2018 and was saved, only to die again during Covid and get revived yet again.  Now thriving and growing, Prosperity Lodge has become a template for other lodges looking to grow by attracting newer members with activities.  The brothers talk about the punk shows, vinyl record expo, plant sales, parties, and other events which have built their lodge up in the past two years.  The Shoutout goes to another new lodge, Concordia #383 in Tazewell, Tennessee.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie previews the tattoo portion of the Tuscola Odd Market, Toby reveals that another of his nephews is joining the lodge, Mike shares about meeting his riding goals for the season, Joel talks about a former member of the lodge, and Dustin is thankful for everyone who helped out.  Pictures of the Prosperity Lodge and its events can be found at https://photos.app.goo.gl/4i5oapveHq1rJkzL6

Our Sovereign Grand Master, the Honorable Gerald V. Workman of West Virginia, sat down with us for a wide-ranging discussion about his path in Odd Fellowship and how it led him to the top job in the Order.  He tells about his early days joining the Junior Lodge, his many years working in his local lodge, his eventual path through the chairs of the Grand Lodge of West Virginia, and his journey into the Sovereign Grand Lodge.  Along the way, he has been guided by his strong belief in the principles of Odd Fellowship and his religious faith, both of which work together to guide his world view.  He shares some amazing insights gathered during his time going through the chairs of the Sovereign Grand Lodge and has plenty of inspiration to share.  The Shoutout goes to Durant Lodge #57 of Oklahoma, which is now meeting.  We featured them on Episode Three of this season and it's great that they are getting the lodge functioning.  Toby gave an update on the Christmas Episode and asked listeners what Three Links Odd Cast merch they might like (hint: tote bags and luggage tage!) if we were to offer some.  In the Odd Podge, Toby gave a preview of his double-dip of Degrees hosted at his associate lodge, Ainslie gave an update on the Odd Market in Tuscola (complete with fezzes), Sovereign Grand Master Workman thanked us for inviting him on the podcast, and Mike showcased his new project, the Odd Times.

As has become tradition at the Three Links Odd Cast, we like to take a turn to the spooky for Halloween and talk cemeteries.  We're joined by Brother Michael Duplantier to discuss the progress on restoring New Orleans' famous Odd Fellows' Rest Cemetery.  Brother Duplantier does a wonderful job of giving us the history and background on the cemetery and how it fell into disrepair along with the recent efforts to restore it and make it an attractive place to honor our deceased brothers and sisters.  The interview covers a surprising amount of history and culture of New Orleans and the travails of restoring a cemetery that's nearly two centuries old.  The Shoutout goes to Manuel Bosakewich Lodge #70 in Florida, a new Spanish-speaking lodge in the Miami area.  In the Odd Podge, Mike shares the Odd Fellows' connection to West Virginia's Flatwoods Monster, Ainslie previews the tattoo fundraiser at the upcoming Tuscola Odd Market, Michael marvels at how the antiquity of Odd Fellowship is one of its best aspects, and Toby shares a story of his associate lodge helping a brother in need.

Usually, by the time we at the Three Links Odd Cast hear about a new lodge being chartered, it's already meeting regularly.  However, in this instance, we got to talk to Brother Garrett Hite of Oklahoma as he's in the process of re-chartering Durant Lodge #57.  Brother Garrett shares his story of how he first came to join the Odd Fellows, his time away from his home lodge, and the eventual need to form a new lodge in his new home town in Oklahoma.  He gives a great amount of insight into the process of chartering a lodge, from finding a meeting space to rounding up new members.  The Shoutout goes to a new lodge in Arkansas, Heber Springs #17, which was recently re-chartered.  In the Odd Podge, Ainslie talks about his lodge's visit to the drive-in movie theater, Garrett promotes the upcoming car show his home lodge in Texas is working on, and Toby reveals a major life change in the works.SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Auditions are now open for the Christmas Episode of the Three Links Odd Cast, entitled "It's A Wonderful Lodge."  Anyone interested in auditioning can request a script excerpt and record an audition.  Excerpts can be requested at our email address, 3linksoddcast@gmail.com.  All auditions are due by October 28th so be sure to get the script and record your audition!

Mike, Toby, and Ainslie are all safely home from their trip to Pittsburgh and back to their usual lodge activities.  The brothers got together to discuss their experiences at Sovereign Grand Lodge and how they felt the Order was progressing as a result.  They all had wonderful experiences at the event and enjoyed the fellowship and are energized with all kinds of great ideas for the future.  They discuss all those ideas in this episode and give some thoughts about how they may be implemented as soon as next year's session.  The Shoutout goes to another new lodge, this time Sioux Falls #56 in South Dakota.  It's the second lodge in that city, having formed in response to those who wanted to attend lodge earlier in the evening right after work.  In the Odd Podge, Toby talks about attending the Oregon Encampment Weekend, Ainslie previews his Odd Fellows Tattoo Summit in November, and Mike gives some insight into his writings as the new Sovereign Grand Chaplain, including a recurring submission to the IOOF News and work on a new Chaplain's Manual.

The 2024 Annual Communication of the Sovereign Grand Lodge was noteworthy for many reasons, not least of which was our live recording of the first episode of Season Five of the Three Links Odd Cast.  We had a packed meeting room full of members from jurisdictions all across the US and Canada on hand for this lively discussion of the state of Odd Fellowship today.  Mike, Ainslie, and Toby had a great time directing the discussion and responding to the audience members' questions and comments.  We heard about new lodges in Nova Scotia and South Dakota, the hot air balloon in New Mexico, learned to pronounce "Skookumchuck," and generally had a great time.  The Shoutout for this episode goes to the newly rechartered Lone Star Encampment #1 of the Jurisdiction of Texas.  

One might think that after four seasons and over 30,000 downloads of the Three Links Odd Cast that there would be nothing left for the hosts to talk about.  Au contraire, mon frère!  Mike, Toby, and Ainslie are very opinionated and love hearing themselves talk so it was easy for them to take some time to talk about the highlights of the previous season's work.  The main highlight was their Christmas episode which featured a radio play written by Toby and acted by a cast of talented members from around the country.  Other highlights were the on-location recordings of interviews with members including Sovereign Grand Master John Cupp.  Ainslie loved the episode about the film Join Or Die! where we got press credentials to watch the movie and then interview the filmmakers.  Mike loved the stories of lodges that were saved or revitalized.  The Shoutout went to Mineral Lodge #102 of West Virginia which was saved by an effort to get new members and restore the charter.  Toby pulled back the curtain on the show to reveal some personal challenges that have affected production and also shared some big news in his personal life.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie gave a double helping, talking about his lodge's fundraiser efforts with Fez-o-rama to make Odd Fellows fezzes and his recent trip across the country to attend the Washington Sessions with Toby.  

Our recent episode on inclusion of the Lord's Prayer in the lodge opening generated some of the greatest volume of feedback from listeners we've ever received.  We went through dozens and dozens of listener emails, Facebook posts, Instagram messages, and other communications and read them all and then came up with our responses.  This is a long episode but we think it's worth hearing all the way to the end because of the careful, detailed discussion.  The Shoutout goes to a new Rebekah Lodge in Illinois: Gem City Doves #27.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie recounts recent lodge social activities, Mike tells us about the records from various lodges in West Virginia going to the Center on Fraternal Research in Indiana, and Toby shares his recent musical trip to Idaho which, of course, included Odd Fellowship.

The Grand Jurisdiction of Texas is on an upswing.  Its membership is growing and getting younger and they are chartering new lodges.  Grand Master Charlie Stephenson and Brother William Plotts join us to talk about the chartering of Brazos Valley Lodge #76.  They share how the Grand Lodge supported their efforts, how what they learned from the failure of the new lodge in El Paso helped their efforts and how the experience of re-chartering Plano Lodge #114 provided a helpful template.  The Shoutout goes to the aforementioned Plano Lodge #114 for their upcoming car show in June.  In the Odd Podge, Toby updates everyone on the success of the recent Fraternal Fair held in his jurisdiction, Mike tries to contact the Odd Fellows Riders Association in Ohio, Ainslie previews the updated District Deputies' Guide from Heart In Hand Institute, William shares his lodge's first fundraiser event, and Grand Master Charlie reveals how Odd Fellowship helped him build his confidence as a leader and public speaker.  NOTE: we are still collecting feedback about our Lord's Prayer episode and want you to contribute your opinions.  Be sure and email us at 3linksoddcast@gmail.com or hit us up on Insta or Facebook to share your opinion.  We're putting your opinions together for our next show when we'll discuss them and respond.

Odd Fellowship is non-political and non-sectarian.  But why, then, do we recite the Lord's Prayer as part of the opening of the lodge?  Ainslie and Toby dig into some of the history around this observance and discuss whether it makes us truly non-sectarian or if that was just a thin veneer applied to the top of Odd Fellowship to make it appeal to more people.  Hint: there are no right answers and a lot of different opinions.  The Shoutout goes to Nampa Lodge #40 of Idaho for their efforts to bring in a new, young member.  In the Odd Podge, Ainslie tells us that spring in Illinois means his lodge is picking up trash along the highway and Toby shares his recent trip to the Northwest Odd Fellow and Rebekah Association Meeting in Idaho.

Like many lodges, True Fellowship No. 52 in San Jose, CA had seen better days.  As members got older, the focus of the lodge became more insular and they were less interested in connecting to the outside community.  That all began to change when a new member with an interest in building community joined.  Since that time, the lodge has become a dynamo in San Jose and has not only become a thriving place itself, it is beginning to share its success with other lodges in the area.  They share their recipe of social events, food events, and volunteerism that has made them successful.  The Shoutout goes to Atlantic Lodge No. 107 of the Atlantic Provinces of Canada for their new charter.  In the Odd Podge, Andrew promotes the Foundation for Ontological Education, Debbie W shares her experience of working with Braver Angels to bridge the partisan divide in their community, Mason gives breaking news about the Cave in Yreka and the rededication ceremony on July 7th, Ainslie recounts his experience installing his original home lodge as District Deputy, Toby lauds his home lodge in Seattle for their excellent Degree work, and Debbie S encourages all Third Degree members listening to take the Encampment Degrees.

A remarkable convergence of events led to the revival of Friendship Lodge No. 50 in Northfield, Minnesota.  A Mason in Red Wing, Minnesota started an educational program for his Masonic lodge and then reached out to the Odd Fellows to request them give a presentation about Odd Fellowship.  Four of the Masons present decided to check out Odd Fellowship.  One person turned to Reddit and podcasts (like ours and Modern Goat Rider) to do some research before joining a group.  The lodge in Northfield dropped down to the remaining five members.  When all of that came together, the new members were excited to join the lodge which needed them and now the lodge is thriving.  Through the efforts of an active, engaged Grand Lodge and PGM David "Ace" Adams, all of the energy was channeled into reviving a historic lodge.  This episode's Shoutout goes to another revived Encampment, this time Green Mountain Encampment #3 of Burlington, Vermont.  In the Odd Podge, Mike announces that he has been asked to serve as Sovereign Grand Chaplain for Gerry Workman, Ainslie shares the news about his new van which he used to drive a group to a recent Degree Day in Illinois, Nick lets us know that he's included Odd Fellowship on his blog, Ace gives us a preview of his efforts to use online registration for his Degree Weekend, Sunny expresses gratitude for the older, long-time members who have kept Odd Fellowship alive, Gary offers his respect for the traditions and heritage of Odd Fellowship, and Toby talks about the upcoming Northwest Odd Fellow and Rebekah Association Meeting in Idaho in April.

Billy and Tara from Modern Goat Rider joined us for a thorough and in-depth discussion about leadership in the Odd Fellows.  The first half of the episode is available on their feed on your favorite podcatcher or directly from their podcast host.  In this episode we discuss the leadership at the Grand Lodge and Sovereign Grand Lodge levels and specifically ponder the question of whether we need to have an organizational structure with a stronger central executive and what the possible ramifications of that would be.  The Shoutout goes to another new lodge, this time Bluegrass #416 in Kentucky.  In the Odd Podge, Toby talks about his preparations for the upcoming NW IOOF Meeting in Idaho, Billy commends those who have helped organize the historical collection in his lodge hall in Victoria, BC, Tara shares her ideas about improving the web presence of Odd Fellowship, and Ainslie shares his latest Odd Fellows book find.

A recent email from a listener prompted this episode's discussion about what happens when a lodge sells its building.  A lot can happen, but only a very few things should happen.  We dig into the question and examine the process and what knowledge members should have when dealing with major lodge property.  The Shoutout goes to Prestonsburg Lodge #293 in Kentucky for their impressive growth and revival in the past couple of years.  For the Odd Podge, Toby talks about his first time in twenty years not being part of an Installing Team, Ainslie shares his experience getting a milestone tattoo, and Mike doesn't have an Odd Podge—except that he does once we coax it out of him.

This year, for our Christmas episode, we present this adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol."  Listen along as an all-star cast of Odd Fellows presents this unique Odd Fellows take on the classic story.Ebeneezer Scrooge: Gil T. RodelloThomas Wildey: Steven CrossBob Cratchitt: Joseph BentonTim Cratchitt: Ainslie HeilichGhost of Odd Fellowship Past: Michael GreenzeigerGhost of Odd Fellowship Present: Mason WolfGhost of Odd Fellowship Future: Mike DuminiakWritten, directed, recorded, and edited by Toby Hanson.  Music by Toby Hanson.

Our Sovereign Grand Master, John Cupp, is a very busy man.  We were very fortunate when he made some time at the West Virginia Grand Sessions to sit down and talk with co-host Mike Duminiak about his time as Sovereign Grand Master and some of his experiences in Odd Fellowship.  He was joined partway through the interview by his wife Emilie who also shared some experiences and observations.  Both are very intelligent and articulate leaders in our Order and we feel very fortunate that they made the time to speak with Mike.  The Shoutout goes to the newly-revived Reno Encampment #5 of Reno, Nevada.  In the Odd Podge Toby recounts his trip to Lake Tahoe for an Odd Fellows Thanksgiving, Mike previews the upcoming 175th Anniversary Dinner of Kanawha Lodge #25, and Ainslie shares the success of his lodge's open house and potato bar.

Pueblo Lodge #8 was down to just four members after the passing of one of the five who was maintaining the quorum that kept their charter.  John Jones had recently moved to Colorado from another state and was looking to join a lodge.  One day, a man with a letter from the Grand Secretary showed up on his doorstep to meet him and possibly bring him into the lodge.  That man was Vernon Wolf, Past Grand Master of Colorado.  Brother Vernon did show up on John's doorstep and brought him into Pueblo #8.  John, in turn, helped the revival of the lodge which has continued to this day.  Unfortunately, Brother Vernon is not around to see the fruits of his labors in full bloom as he passed away.  However, his spirit lives on in the thriving lodge he left behind.  Brothers John Jones and JT Wessel join us to share memories of Vernon Wolf and talk about the many ways in which Odd Fellowship is thriving in Pueblo today and how that all stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of Brother Vernon Wolf.  The Shoutout goes to Rushmore Lodge #39 of Rapid City, South Dakota for their efforts to welcome Ukrainians into their community with a picnic.  In the Odd Podge, Toby celebrates 25,000 downloads of the podcast, Ainslie recaps the Odd Market and Masquerade, John talks about having held his wedding reception in the old Pueblo Odd Fellows Hall,  and JT previews the next Scribes' Meeting at the Colorado Grand Sessions.

We always like to do an episode about cemeteries around Halloween and this year is no exception.  Given our command to "Bury The Dead" as Odd Fellows, and how many lodges have administered cemeteries throughout our history, it's no surprise to find a lodge engaged in activities related to a final resting place.  For this episode we are joined with Past Grand Master Carol Woltjer and Brother Matt Rock of Sioux Falls Lodge #9 in South Dakota to talk about their "Remember Me" project.  Their lodge is raising funds and placing markers on the graves of indigent burials in Minnehaha County, South Dakota.  Carol tells the touching story of how she learned about the burials and got the program started.  Matt tells about how his family has become involved with the program and the lodge.  The Shoutout goes to another lodge in South Dakota, Gregory #189 for the wonderful involvement of younger people in their lodge.  For the Odd Podge, Toby tells about his visit to the Idaho Grand Sessions, Mike talks about his experience at the West Virginia Grand Sessions, and Ainslie previews the upcoming (at the time of the recording) Odd Market hosted by his lodge in Tuscola, Illinois.

A life of academic wandering and creation has brought Dr. Heather Calloway to her present position as Executive Director of University Collections  and Director of the Center for Fraternal Collections and Research at Indiana University.  Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and having grown up in a fraternal family, Dr. Calloway was destined from an early age to make her way to the hallowed halls of academia and bring her fraternal knowledge and experience with her.  She was kind enough to share some of her time with us to talk about the collection, how it came to be, what they are doing to preserve it, why such a collection is important, and how they are making it available to the public.  The Center for Fraternal Collections and Research has a great Instagram feed available at @fraternalcollections.  The Shoutout goes to Four Creeks Lodge #94 of Visalia, California for their recent regeneration.  In the Odd Podge, Mike talks about the time-consuming work of preparing for the West Virginia Grand Sessions, Ainslie tells about his budding Odd Fellows tattoo empire at the Illinois Grand Sessions, and Toby talks about planning the District Meeting for his district in Washington.

In a secluded corner of the wilderness around Mount Shasta in Northern California, a secret rite has been taking place for generations.  No, it's not something from the latest thriller novel, it's the Cave Degree!  In a natural cave that faces east toward Mount Shasta, Odd Fellows (and before them, Knights of Pythias) have been performing degree work.  The Odd Fellows of Yreka Lodge No. 19 bought the cave from the Pythians in 1962 for $10 but had been using the cave for the Second Degree since 1940.  The Cave Degree has become one of the most cherished traditions of Odd Fellowship in California and Oregon, with generations of members having made the trek out to the cave for the ceremony.  For this episode we are joined by PGP Brian Riehl, RA VP Debra LaVergne, and NG of True Fellowship Lodge #52, Mason Wolf as they discuss the history and tradition of the Cave Degree, and one of its greatest champions and caretakers, Richard Brouse.  The story of the Cave Degree has many twists, turns, and stories.  We also discuss the current state of the cave and the efforts underway to rehabilitate the facility so it can again be used for the Second Degree of Odd Fellowship.  The Lodge Shoutout goes to Friendship Lodge #50 in Northfield, Minnesota which was recently revived by a group of Masons who discovered Odd Fellowship and joined.  In the Odd Podge there was definitely a theme of Odd Fellows helping one another out.  Toby told about his lodge brother Matt in rehab and all the Odd Fellows of his lodge who had visited him.  Debra shared the exciting news about a new baby born to members of Mountain View #244 in California.  Mike gave the dates for Gerald Workman's Testimonial in Charleston, West Virginia in 2024.  Ainslie mentioned the new article for the Heart In Hand Blog about the Hahn Farm Degrees written by Brother Mason Wolf.  Brian also shared a story of visiting members in sickness and distress and also mentioned the Oktoberfest hosted by St. Helena Lodge which sent Toby into a near frenzy of desire to get one of their beer steins.  To close the Odd Podge, Mason talked about his experiences going to Portland to render aid to a brother in need.

Tucked away in a secluded corner of Oregon's rolling farmland northwest of Portland sits the Hahn Farm. Owned by Gary Hahn, a third-generation Odd Fellow and fourth-generation owner of the farm, it has become a beacon for Odd Fellowship in the jurisdiction of Oregon.  Every year since the early 1990s, on the third weekend of September, the farm hosts a Degree Weekend unlike most others in Odd Fellowship.  Candidates take the Initiatory and Three Degrees on Saturday and then the Encampment and Canton Degrees on Sunday.  The setting for the Degrees could not be more amazing.  The Degrees are performed next to a pond in a grove of trees planted especially for the occasion.  The dramatic elements of the Degrees becomes immediate and tangible to the candidates as they literally live through the experiences of the Degrees rather than watching them acted out in a stuffy lodge hall, watching the video of the Degrees, or having the lecture form read to them.  Gary Hahn sits down with Toby to tell the story of the Degrees on the Farm.  We're also joined by Brother Mason Wolf of San Jose, California who traveled to Oregon to experience the perils of the Rough Road as he took the Encampment Degrees.  He shares a compelling account of why live Degrees are so crucial to Odd Fellowship.  The Shoutout goes to Bay View Lodge #109 of Redwood City, California for their efforts to remodel their hall and become a popular music venue.  In the Odd Podge, Toby talks about a new member in Arkansas who posted about joining on Reddit, Ainslie shares his recent trip to Montana and his Odd Fellows discovery, Mike introduces us to his new car (after his old one died with 400,000 miles on it), and Mason recounts his visit to a Portland brewpub for some good music and a very successful event at his home lodge in San Jose.

Civic life in America has been in decline for decades.  A prescient few, including noted author Robert Putnam, have chronicled that decline.  In his book "Bowling Alone," Putnam explored the link between civic engagement and the function of government and described the nature of the decline in participation in clubs, churches, and other groups.  Pete and Rebecca Davis, a brother and sister team, made a film based on Putnam's book: "Join Or Die!"  Their film opens with a visit to one of our superstar lodges, Waxahachie #80 in Texas.  Throughout the course of the film we get to learn the story of how Putnam did his research, how he's shared his findings, and how he's put those findings into action.  The film ends up as a kind of "love letter" to Odd Fellowship as it opens and closes with brilliant scenes of fellowship at Waxa #80.  Brother Tom Wright from that lodge joined us along with Pete and Rebecca to talk about the film and their experiences.  Our Shoutout this episode goes to a new lodge of the Grand United Order—New Northwest #2554 in Portland, Oregon.  In the Odd Podge, Toby talks about his "souvenir" from Sovereign Grand Lodge, Mike shares his joy at Charleston being awarded the 2025 SGL Session, and Ainslie recounts his random meeting with members from his jurisdiction on his way home from the Session.

Odd Fellowship has found many spaces in which to adapt its Degree work.  Our beginnings were in pubs and taverns so Degrees were originally performed there.  Eventually we built lodge halls but we still looked for more interesting and unusual places to perform Degrees.  Caves became a popular choice in the 20th Century.  California's Cave Degree near Yreka is the most well-known, but other locations have done outdoor and underground Degrees, including Dead Horse Cave in Idaho.  Located near the town of Gooding, Dead Horse Cave first hosted the Second Degree in 1947, a tradition which continued until 2004.  Brother Donnie Marvin, PGM, PGP, and PDC of Idaho gives his recollections of the Dead Horse Cave Degree as well as some great stories from his musical career and some other historical tidbits from Idaho Odd Fellowship.  The Shoutout goes to the newly-rechartered Brazos Valley Lodge #76 of Texas.  For the Odd Podge, Toby tells about his enjoyment of the Sand Drags at Mountain Home, Idaho and Ainslie prepares for his trip to Sovereign Grand Lodge.

Hard to believe, but it's been three years since the launch of the Three Links Odd Cast.  Way back when, Sergio, Ainslie, and Toby could hardly imagine the cultural touchstone this podcast would become.  Here we are at the beginning of Season Four and we're just as excited to make new episodes as we were when we started in 2020.  We take a look back at the episodes that made Season 3 special, including talking with the Historian from the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library, the "kitchen table" episode, the episodes about new lodges that were chartered, and some of the other highlights.  The hosts welcome a new sponsor, the Heart In Hand Institute, and look ahead to some of their projected topics for the upcoming season.  The Shoutout goes to another new Encampment, Allen #5 of Quincy, Illinois.  In the Odd Podge, Toby thanks everyone for their support during his recent challenges, Ainslie shares his special award (another new one for him), and Mike talks about the benefits of Odd Fellowship for his family.

Insurance can be a touchy subject that's all too easy to avoid.  There are multiple different reasons to avoid it including cost, complication, and just a general desire to not think about bad things that might happen.  Those bad things are a fact of life, however, and lodges need to be prepared for whatever kind of bad things may occur.  Fortunately, Sister Malia Murchison of Morning Star Lodge #20 in Placerville, California is a Past Grand and a professional insurance agent.  She joined us to go through all the various problems that may arise and how to make sure your lodge can recover from them with the assistance of insurance.  Not only is insurance prudent for your lodge, it's also mandated in the Sovereign Grand Lodge Code, Chapter V, Section 19, Subsection E.  (No, really... look it up!)  With Sister Malia's wise guidance no lodge should feel apprehensive about insurance.  She makes the whole process approachable and informative.  There's no lodge Shoutout in this episode but we do recognize one of our listeners who just joined a lodge in Oklahoma.  For the Odd Podge, Toby shares his experience talking Odd Fellowship at the Rose City Accordion Camp, Ainslie anticipates becoming a Samaritan, and Malia tells about the fire fundraiser her lodge is holding with Sacramento Lodge #2.

Take one seventy-year Odd Fellow, his great grandson, a twenty-year Odd Fellow from Indiana, a guy from the neighborhood looking for a "thirty-year project" and a few other new folks and put them together and you have the recipe for reviving a lodge that had become profoundly inactive as they retreated from the community and membership had shrunk.  They had become a "kitchen-table lodge," content to meet casually around the kitchen table.  With the involvement of the new members and the guidance of the older ones, the lodge has successfully moved from being complacent to vibrant.  Now a hive of activity, Queen City Lodge #1 of Burlington, Vermont is the place to be for all kinds of activities, from collecting food for the food bank to tabletop gaming.  We talk with Ryon, Alex, Everett, Brandin, and Dylan about how they remade the lodge culture and took what was otherwise a nondescript lodge and made it a hub for community participation.  Along the way they brought back the ritual and regalia (and are still looking for Third-Degree collars for all their new members) and are now functioning as a traditional Odd Fellows lodge.  There's no Shoutout for this episode but we did want to share the fundraiser by Osage Lodge #712 in Pennsylvania.  They are selling bicentennial pins for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.  They can be ordered be emailing osagelodge712@gmail.com.  This episode's Odd Podge has Alex telling a classic fraternal joke, Ryon complimenting Alex on being appointed District Deputy Grand Master, Toby talking about presenting a scholarship on behalf of the Grand Lodge and Rebekah Assembly of Washington, Ainslie previewing his lodge's garbage pickup and movie night, and Mike talking about an upcoming wedding with a lot of Odd Fellows involvement.  PS—in case anyone has collars to donate to Queen City Lodge #1, email Alex at alexanderkensington@icloud.com.  

Like many western jurisdictions, Nevada is small.  The bigger cities—Las Vegas, Reno, Carson City—have lodges and there are a few scattered around the rest of the state as well.  Recently, though, activity and interest has been building in the Silver State as younger members have joined and been appointed to various jobs to help build Odd Fellowship.  Our guest, Brother Jonathan Wettig, is an enthusiastic young Odd Fellow who just took the job of promoting Odd Fellowship on social media for the Grand Lodge of Nevada.  One of the exciting things he's promoting is a new lodge being formed at Lake Tahoe.  The Shoutout goes to Jefferson Lodge #38 in North Carolina for their great community engagement and charitable work.  We are also helping to spread the word about a big fundraiser headed by Cedar Valley Lodge #233 in Iowa for a community member with a rare, incurable disease.  Those wishing to donate may do so at www.cedarvalleyoddfellows.com.  In the Odd Podge Ainslie talks about his latest eBay find, Toby previews his trip to Oregon for the retirement celebration for their Grand Secretary, and Mike tells about his milestone birthday.

Odd Fellowship, like many fraternal groups, is predominantly full of older members.  For retirees and others in the later stages of life, our traditional focus on things like death benefits makes sense.  However, for younger members, it's a lot harder to see the value of a benefit they may not take advantage of for decades.  In this episode, Mike and Toby are joined by Brother Brandon Clark as they discuss the concept of implementing benefits for younger members.  Brandon shares his invaluable insight as a young member raising a family and talks about what has been the most meaningful and helpful to him in his first year of membership.  The Shoutout goes to Queen City Lodge #1 of Burlington, Vermont for their excellent efforts to interact with the community and the general revitalization of their lodge.  In the Odd Podge, Brother Brandon shares his excitement for the upcoming lodge night at the baseball game, Brother Mike talks about his new database and order tracking system for the Grand Lodge of West Virginia, and Brother Toby takes us into the mysterious world of accordion camps.

For the past couple of years, despite the challenges of the pandemic, something has been brewing in Upstate New York.  Two Masons and and Odd Fellow, all beekeepers, found themselves together on a mission to charter a new Odd Fellows Lodge.  Brother Kevin, a member of Wawayanda Lodge #34, was ready to fulfill his destiny as "lodge curmudgeon" with nearly thirty years of membership.  Brothers Todd and Kris journeyed to the recently re-chartered Washington Irving Lodge #20 in Saugerties, NY to join the Odd Fellows and get their Degrees.  Together, they have chartered Leatherstocking Lodge #945 in Schoharie County.  Along the way they shared the usual challenges of joining the Order, such as finding the right people to contact.  They persisted, however, and have created a dynamic, growing lodge that is working on all kinds of exciting things, from local fundraisers for the community to the possibility of chartering a new Encampment.  Each member has a unique story of their journey into Odd Fellowship and shares some valuable advice gained in the process.  This episode's Shoutout goes to a new Encampment, Hippolito Roman #118 of New Jersey.  In the Odd Podge, Mike talks about his efforts to bring Odd Fellowship to the upcoming Scout Jamboree in West Virginia, Kris talks about joining with the local Masons to tend the grave of Isaac Mann, a historic local Odd Fellow and Mason, Todd shares a story of brotherhood and bravery, Toby talks about his application to the local Speakers' Bureau to talk about Odd Fellowship, and Kevin talks about the strength of the bonds of Odd Fellowship.

Music enriches every aspect of life so why should it not enrich our lodge meetings as well?  Brother Mike has been adding music into the meeting of his lodge—Kanawha #25 in West Virginia—to great success.  Obviously, music can be used in all the places indicated in the ritual, like singing the Odes, but this episode goes further and talks about some of the musical background of Odd Fellowship and also gives suggestions for other places to have music, like the Initiatory Degree, various other public ceremonies, and even just in some of the slow parts of lodge meetings.  Our previous episode about music, The Musical Heritage of Odd Fellowship, is available here.  The Members Resources page mentioned in this episode is accessible here.  The Shoutout goes to Union Lodge #16 of St. Catherines, Ontario, for their fine work getting active and doing more to engage their community.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie tells about his lodge's bowling trip, Mike tells about his lodge's upcoming baseball game (and matching shirts), and Toby shares a new balloting Ode written by Bro. Stephen Coulson of British Columbia.

Brother George Glover III, Past Sovereign Grand Master, joins us on this episode to pull back the curtains on the inner workings of the Sovereign Grand Lodge and share how legislation makes its way through the Legislative Committee and onto the floor for a vote by the Sovereign Grand Lodge as a whole.  Brother George has over thirty years' experience working at the Sovereign Grand Lodge, much of it on the Legislative Committee so he's definitely an expert on the function of the process.  Along with the overview, George shares some excellent stories from his time as an Odd Fellow, discusses some of the ways in which the Legislative Committee has changed course while considering legislation (including the decision that opened membership to women), and talks about some of the conflicts that arise with ritual when the Code is changed.  The Shoutout goes to Cedar Falls Lodge #233 of Iowa for their efforts to get active and incorporate more ritualistic work into their meetings.  For the Odd Podge, Ainslie shares his Medallion Award which he received for designing a banner for Doc Malin of Virginia, Mike talks about the Past Grand of Kanawha Lodge #25 who brought Odd Fellowship to South America, Toby gives a preview of a very meaningful application which will be read in his lodge at the next meeting, and George talks about the many blessings which Odd Fellowship has bestowed upon him in his life.

As a special for the Presidents Day Holiday in the US, we interviewed Dustin McLochlin, PhD of the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums.  Brother Rud is frequently maligned in popular imagination (if he's remembered at all).  Tagged unfairly with nicknames like "His Fraudulency" or "Rutherfraud" by detractors, he has earned a reputation as a self-interested, lazy president who made a crooked deal to end Reconstruction in exchange for the Presidency.  In reality, he was a highly principled and pragmatic leader who did his best to help unite a country where the scars of the Civil War were still very fresh.  His Presidency encountered many controversial situations with echoes that still reverberate in contemporary America, like the legitimacy of elections, government intervention in labor disputes, and political enfranchisement.  This episode provides a fascinating and thorough look at the life and career of our Brother, President Rutherford B. Hayes.  The Shoutout goes to Palacky Lodge #630 in Illinois for their remarkable activity and community engagement.  In the Odd Podge, Brother Ainslie talks about his latest artistic project, Brother Toby shares his excitement at the return of the Northwest Odd Fellow and Rebekah Association Meeting, Brother Mike shares a little history of Kanawha Lodge #25 on the occasion of it's 175th Anniversary, and Dustin talks a little bit about some of the firsts that Brother Rud established as President.

What do backpacks for the homeless, a late 70s Chevy Nova, and a "Sausage Grind" have in common?  Earnie Taylor of Chester Lodge #281 in Virginia, that's what!  Brother Earnie joins us to talk about how he's been able to apply his skills of bringing people together for various charitable projects to building Odd Fellowship in the Jurisdiction of Virginia.  One of the current projects he discusses is the effort to help a lodge in a town far away be able to meet in their hall again after years of not doing so.  Along the way we gain some invaluable insight into how lodges can come together and "bundle their sticks" to build stronger communities and stronger lodges.  The Shoutout goes to Wisconsin Lodge #14 of Janesville, Wisconsin for their excellent work of holding activities in the community which raise the profile of Odd Fellowship.  For the Odd Podge, Toby talks about the recent trove of listener emails, Ainslie shares the insight from his newly-acquired District Deputy Grand Master's handbook, Mike talks about the fancy magazine he receives from another of the groups he belongs to, and Earnie gives a little more of his wisdom.

Inspired by a recent series of emails from a listener, Ainslie and Toby discuss the phenomenon of "kitchen table lodges"—those lodges which don't do any ritual or hold formal meetings.  Instead, they meet informally around a table to do the minimum amount of business.  As more and more people are finding their way to Odd Fellowship, more new members are running into the discouragement of a kitchen table lodge.  The hosts discuss the situation and offer some suggestions to help members who find themselves in such a lodge.  There's no lodge Shoutout this episode because none has been nominated, which just means that we would love to hear about your lodge and what you're doing to make it thrive.  The Odd Podge is all about the Odd Fellows' Primer and its two new formats: eBook and audiobook.  

What happens when a barber in an old river city on the Mississippi finds a bunch of Odd Fellows collectibles?  He starts a lodge, of course!  That was the genesis of the newly-rechartered Gem City #357 in Quincy, Illinois.  Members Matthew Roegge and Jacob Bertram joined us to talk about the beginning of their lodge which was chartered in June 2022.  They tell some great stories of learning, camaraderie, and fellowship.  They also outline the incredible amount of support they have received from the Grand Lodge of Illinois.  The Shoutout for this episode goes to a lodge recently saved by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Foster #333 in Rew, Pennsylvania.  For the Odd Podge, Toby mentions the Illinois Polka Fest (appropriate since this episode is all about Illinois), Jacob asks listeners to email the lodge to share ideas and suggestions (gemcity357ioof@gmail.com), and Ainslie looks forward to his first installation of officers serving as District Deputy Grand Master.

Our annual Christmas episode has become the place where we look back on the year in Oddcasting and this year was certainly delightful.  We brought on a new co-host, Mike Duminiak, and continued our tradition of making meaningful and relevant episodes for our Odd Fellow brothers and sisters.  This particular episode includes a greeting from Brother Torbjörn in Sweden, a Hanukkah message from Brother Michael in Virginia, a holiday message from past co-host Christopher McHale, and, for the first time ever, we have the honor and privilege of presenting a holiday message from the Honorable Michelle Heckart, Sovereign Grand Master.  The Shoutout goes to a brand-new lodge in Italy, Resilienza No. 3 of Milan.  Sit back, relax, fix a big mug of hot cocoa and enjoy the Christmas Episode!

Despite recent growth, Odd Fellowship is still predominantly full of retirees.  While they present a wealth of knowledge and experience, they can also be resistant to change and adaptation.  That can become even more of a challenge when young leaders emerge and try to work with entrenched members.  In this episode we talk to PGM Buddy Goetsch of Colorado and DGM Erik Fearing of Massachusetts.  With Buddy having completed his term as Grand Master and Erik preparing for his, they share very useful insights into their experience as young leaders in Odd Fellowship.  That youth can be a hindrance when it clashes with established members and customs but it can also be an advantage as it encourages new thinking and possibilities.  The Shoutout goes to a brand-new Encampment, Ridgely #2 in Pocatello, Idaho.  For the Odd Podge, Mike tells the harrowing story of Odd Fellows from Poland who ventured into war-torn Ukraine to initiate twenty-one new members; Erik talks about his plan to connect with the Odd Fellows Brewery in Nashua, NH to create a special connection to Odd Fellowship; Buddy shares the restoration process of his aging lodge hall in Leadville, CO; Toby previews his somber duty to participate in the memorial service for a passed Past Grand Master; and Ainslie enlightens us about the new gaming night his lodge is holding every month.

With the Thanksgiving holiday here in the US, we thought it would be an excellent time to talk turkey about one of the great New Year's Day traditions—The Tournament of Roses in Pasadena, California.  The celebration includes the famous college football game The Rose Bowl and the accompanying Rose Parade.  Brother Mel Astrahan, PGM of California, joins us to give an exhaustive look at the history of the float, the process to build it, and a look behind the scenes of how it all happens.  The oldest documented Odd Fellows float was from 1908, sponsored by Crown City Lodge of Pasadena.  Now, the float is a major undertaking coordinated by the Rose Float Committee and staffed by dozens of amazing volunteers.  Follow along as Brother Mel gives us a tour of everything Rose Float.  The Shoutout goes to a newly-resurrected lodge, Prosperity #301 of Wenatchee, Washington.  In the Odd Podge Ainslie shares a ghost story sent to him by a friend of the show in Australia, Mike tells about the Veterans Day Parade and bowling night in Charleston, Toby talks about his experience helping revive Prosperity #301, and Mel shares his favorite story about Brother P. T. Barnum.

Our colleagues Billy and Tara from Modern Goat Rider join us to continue the crossover begun on their show.  If you've not heard it yet, you'll want to hit up the URL above and listen to it so you've got some continuity.  The episode rolls on with more comments about marketing Odd Fellowship in unconventional ways, discussion of the impact that podcasting is having on Odd Fellowship, and a look at our motivations for doing the two shows.  The Shoutout goes to another brand-new lodge, Leatherstocking #945 in New York.  In the Odd Podge, Ainslie shares his reaction to being awarded the Meritorious Service Jewel, Toby talks about the impending revival of Prosperity Lodge #301 in Wenatchee, Washington, Mike tells about how much he enjoys going to his active, engaging lodge meetings at Kanawha #25 in West Virginia, and Billy gives us the inside scoop on his lodge's upcoming appearance on local TV in Victoria, BC.  All that and some important news about Modern Goat Rider's future production plans!

Just in time for Halloween, we take a look into the death care industry through the eyes of Sister Kait Osman of Emerald Bay Lodge #50 in California.  Sister Kait had a somewhat roundabout way of getting to the funeral world, going through studies of forensic anthropology and other subjects along her way.  Eventually she found herself in California with an interest in helping people as they face the challenges of handling a funeral.  Sister Kait provides a candid look at what it's like to learn everything from various religious traditions and social customs to the nuts and bolts of doing funeral work like embalming and retrieving bodies.  As Odd Fellows we are constantly reminded of our own mortality and Kait gives us a view that is compassionate and supportive.  The Shoutout goes to Prokop Valley Lodge #708 of Glenwillow, Ohio for their recent Oktoberfest celebration.  In the Odd Podge, Toby shares the exciting news he learned at the recent Idaho sessions, Kait showed off her Jermaine Soto shirt (available from the Grand Lodge of California), Mike read a resolution recently passed by the West Virginia Grand Lodge, and the hosts shared the news of Ainslie's recent Meritorious Service Jewel, awarded at the Illinois Grand Sessions.