On May 3rd, SW Hackett Lodge again, sponsored the Sequoia Elementary School Spelling Bee.  Sequoia's Principal, Mr. Kissel was warm and welcoming as usual.  Even though, because of travel and jobs, we has a small contingent from the lodge this year, the reception was great and as always, the students, teachers and parents all appreciated our support.  The winners of the two grades, fourth and fifth, were presented with medallions and then Wor. Jim Achenbach, PM, and the Partnership in Education representative, presented monetary awards.  $75 for 1st place, $50 for 2nd place and $25 for the 3rd place winners of each grade.

Because it is so important, I will again repeat the statement below:

Although you are encouraged to support the Partnership in Education Program when you receive your dues notice, you are again asked to contribute at any time.  Our Teacher of the Year Award night, food and presents during the holiday season, and sponsorship of the Spelling Bee are worthy and wonderful events.  The money used does not come out of Lodge funds – it is a separate account that is funded by the generosity of the Brethren.  Please consider donating today!

Sincerely & Fraternally,
Bro Jim Achenbach, PM
Chairman, Public Schools Committee

The 4th graders are seated and ready.  The kids work hard to prepare for this event and the possibility of winning an award.
But know that win or lose, all the kids were great and we are proud of all of them.

And the winners of the 4th grade.  Left to right, 3rd, 2nd and 1st place.

And now, it's the 5th grader's turn.

The 5th grade winners are presented.  Note, the young man in center and the young lady on the right were also
both winners last year in the 4th grade.

The proud winners pose.

All the kids that participated and all were fun and all were great in their work.  Also in back are the Judges, the Principal and
the Lodge Brothers that attended the event.

Principal Kissel with Wor. Jim Achenbach.