The brothers, spouses, and guests of Arts and Sciences Lodge held their first annual Spring Family Picnic.  The afternoon began with a time of fellowship to become more familiar with our families in a relaxed atmosphere.  In the spirit of learning, a program was presented featuring Dollmaker and Swimming Fox, two interpreters of the Native American tradition of telling stories.  Dollmaker, also known as Lisa Hrinko, is the wife of Dan Hrinko, Master of Arts and Sciences Lodge and is an established Teller of Stories of the Woodland Indians in the traditions of the Iroquois and Shawnee people.  She offered examples including the story of how Laughter came into the world, the story of how stories began, and the story of the No Face Dolls.  Swimming Fox, also known as John Maxwell, is a Past Master of Clark Lodge No. 101 in Springfield, Ohio and is a Storyteller in the tradition of the Cherokee people. He offered stories about how the bear lost his tail, the Rough Faced Girl, and a brief version of the Creation of the world.

Their presentations were followed by questions and discussion about the universal nature of the themes of stories and the importance of stories in preserving history, culture, and teaching lessons of life and moral living.  It was also pointed out that stories have many sources including as gifts from Kiji Manito (God) to particular individuals with the responsibility to tell them to others to teach valuable lessons.  The use of stories in the ritual work of the various Masonic bodies was clearly evident and pointed out.

Following the program, all enjoyed dinner featuring Barbecue Smoked beef brisket and pulled pork.  All who attended had an excellent time with opportunities for conversation and the strengthening of relationships within our Brotherhood and our families.