On April 1, 2012, Ubar Grotto held it’s April stated session at the Spring Garden Conference Center in Middletown, PA. It was another great evening of food and fellowship shared amongst the more than two dozen members in attendance, including Pro. Ray P. Suarez, Supreme Council District Deputy.
Pro. David Labagh deserves a special shout out for attending this meeting, as earlier in the day he joined with the women of Harrisburg Area Roller Derby to run the Capital 10 Miler for the Arts in Harrisburg. Prophet Labagh finished in well under two hours. David is still recovering from a sports injury, so this was a big mile stone for him. Congratulations, David!
The Grotto had a full plate of business to conduct on top of their important visitor. Due to a resignation, the Monarch appointed Pro. Mark Mattern to fill the role of Enchanted Lantern Coordinator; he is a welcome addition the to the Ubar leadership team. The members also had a chance to view their new parade banner, which will be used for public functions of all varieties. A similar banner was given to HARD to be displayed at their bouts. Several committee and event reports were also given, much to the chagrin of the Prophets.
The most important piece of business was left until the end of the meeting, when the Monarch discussed the benefits of Ubar becoming a member of the Pennsylvania Grotto Association. After some discussion on what Ubar’s role would be, the group decided that PGA membership would be a benefit and approved joining the association. The PGA plans on holding its Annual Meeting, held October 5 & 6, 2012, near Elizabethtown in support of the recent addition of Ubar.
With business taken care of, Pro. Suarez was called on to talk about the programs of the Grand Monarch and received a hearty welcome from the Ubarians in attendance. With all the business completed, the Monarch closed the Grotto and many members retired to enjoy a smoke with the Pipes and Papers Unit – a fitting end to an enjoyable evening!