From The South
April 14, 2008
From the South
Well, it’s that time of year and I just submitted my annual forms to the IRS. My forms are compiled by a professional so asked him about charitable miles during my new capacity as an elected officer in a Masonic lodge.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2008, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (including vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:
- 50.5 cents per mile for business miles driven;
- 19 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes; and
- 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations.
The new rate for business miles compares to a rate of 48.5 cents per mile for 2007. The new rate for medical and moving purposes compares to 20 cents in 2007. The rate for miles driven in service of charitable organizations has remained the same.
The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile; the standard rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs as determined by the same study. Runzheimer International, an independent contractor, conducted the study for the IRS.
The mileage rate for charitable miles is set by law.
So, now my question is, why are charitable miles only 14 cents per mile and medical or moving purposes only 19 cents per mile when business miles are up to 50.5 cents. Doesn’t it cost the same for fuel and maintenance regardless of the purpose? And if the rates are set by law, why can’t the law be changed to reflect the change in recent costs?
W.B. Jerry Biddle prepared a mouth watering ham dinner at our stated April 16. W.B. Sam Jalandoni is scheduled to prepare something for our May 21 stated meeting which coincidently is our Armed Forces Night.
For the latest Genesis news, check out our web site at genesis305.com. VWB Chris Pedersen has been diligently working to keep it up to date. But then, if you don’t peek. you’ll never know.
Ellis (Nick) Nichols, JW
It sure would be nice if we knew who was coming for dinner. A reservation could be the difference between fillet mignon or a left over dinner roll.
Call me two days in advance @ 425 288-3113 to save your place -Nick-
March 8, 2008
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From the South
A funny thing happened on our way to a couple 1st degrees on March 7. Both candidates pulled out and we were left with a practice session instead. Well, word got out that the degree was cancelled and nearly everyone then assumed there was nothing going on and they stayed home. We still had a few Genesis officers, an EAM from Ashler Lodge and a Grand Lodge Officer attend fellowship and enjoy a great Dagwood sandwich (big enough to feed twenty) with all the trimmings. Our youngest Entered Apprentice, Paul Cartwright volunteered to provide dinner on March 19. If you remember, Paul has been in the culinary business over 15 years and owned his own catering company. He currently owns Cartwright’s American Broiler on the Mukilteo Speedway at 108th. Paul says he’s working on a menu for the March dinner and he’s confident we won’t be disappointed. Our affiliated WB Jerry Biddle is scheduled to provide repast on April 16. When I ask what he has planned, he just gives me the big Biddle grin. You know you’re going to like it. The Grand Worthy Advisor for Washington and Idaho Rainbow Girls is Miss Sammi Jo Elwood and she is being honored by her Rainbow District 19 at Richmond Highlands on April 26. The girls have planned a craft and carnival theme for the reception and are requesting $$ to support the activities. More important, your presence if possible. Checks can be sent to Rozalynne Weinberg, Mother Advisor, 19516 5th Ave NE Shoreline, WA 98155 Don’t forget, VWB Bob Nygren’s visit to Richmond-Haller Lake #248 on April first. You don’t want to miss this one. ` For the latest Genesis news, check out our web site at genesis305.com. VWB Chris Pedersen has been diligently working to keep it up to date. But then, if you don’t peek. you’ll never know. Ellis (Nick) Nichols, JW It sure would be nice if we knew who was coming for dinner. A reservation could be the difference between fillet mignon or a left over dinner roll. Call me two days in advance @ 425 288-3113 to save your place -Nick- |
February 8. 2008
Brethren;
Our pre-lodge dinner on February 20 will be provided by our Worshipful Master, Bert Tcruz. Bert is also expecting an official visit from our Second to None District Deputy VWB Bob Nygren. Bert says the dinner will be a surprise but I suspect it will be a sumptuous Asian fare. There will probably be plenty but reservations are always recommended.
The Grand Master’s visit to District 2 is March 1, 7:00 PM at Edmonds #165. Ladies are very welcome. Dinner is a choice of Pork Loin Roast or Roasted Chicken for $10. Please contact me for tickets.
Our youngest Entered Apprentice, Paul Cartwright volunteered to provide dinner on March 19. Now, Paul has been in the culinary business over 15 years and owned his own catering company. He currently owns Cartwright’s American Broiler on the Mukilteo Speedway at 108th. I can hardly wait to taste what he has in store for us next month.
The Order of DeMolay is celebrating their 89th birthday this year. March 18 is regarded as the official anniversary in the fraternity and they generally set aside the whole month of March on their calendar for special activities. Theodore H. Little Chapter (named after a past Executive Officer in Washington and personal friend of Dad Land) still exists and meets at 7:30 PM on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at Ashler Temple in Bothell. March is a good time to visit and they can use our interest and support all the time.
Another item to put on your calendar is VWB Bob Nygren’s visit to Richmond-Haller Lake #248 on April first.
For the latest Genesis news, check out our web site at genesis305.com. VWB Chris Pedersen has been diligently working to bring it back up to date.
Ellis (Nick) Nichols, JW
January 9. 2008
Brethren;
Wow, what a great response from my last month plea to fill the lodge night dinner schedule.
The following brothers have volunteered to showcase their culinary specialities:
Jan 16 John Williams Jun 18 Julius Monroe
Feb 20 Bert Tcruz Sep 17 Laszio Cser
Mar 19 Paul Cartwright Oct 15 Bill Harker
Apr 16 Jerry Biddle Nov 19 Ray Lavadia
May 21 Sam Jalandoni Dec 17 Available
The Grand Master’s visit to District 2 is March 1, 7:00 PM at Edmonds #165. Ladies are very welcome. Dinner is a choice of Pork Loin Roast or Roasted Chicken for $10. Please contact me for tickets.
Another item to put on your calendar is District Deputy (VWB Bob Nygren) visit to Richmond-Haller Lake #248 on April First. ‘nuff said.
Ellis (Nick) Nichols, JW
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It sure would be nice if we knew who
was coming for dinner. A reservation could be tIt he difference between fillet mignon or a left over dinner roll. Call me two days in advance @ 425 288-3113 to save your place -Nick-
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