The Nome Nugget

Wednesday, May 6, 1942.

I.O.O.F. Anniversary Celebration Is Pronounced A Grand Success

The one hundred twenty-third anniversary celebration of the founding of Odd Fellowship in America which was held in the Nome School Gym was a grand success, on the appointed time before the beginning of the program, the members marched in and assumed their stations and places, meanwhile the Chairman, Mr. A. Polet, together with Mrs. Merle Roberts, Mr. Chas. D. Jones, Mrs. Andrew Nerland, Mr. Chas. J. Clasby and Mrs. Allan Lee assumed their places on the stage. Noble Grand Mrs. Rosa B. Hagen directed that Wardens and Conductors of both Lodges to retire and present the American Flag, which was done with a dignified and touching exhibition. The bearer of the flag, in the uniform of the U. S. A., Paul Dryden, Warden of the Odd Fellows lodge, and two guards of honor, Mrs. Gertrude Mazen, Warden and Mrs. Betty Alexander, Conductress of the Rebekah Lodge. Both ladies were dressed in white and wore the regalia of the Order. The Flag, on being presented to the Noble Grand, in turn handed it over to Chairman A. Polet, who placed it in the proper place on the stage. He then requested all to salute the flag, and at the same time to join him in repeating the Oath of Allegiance to the Flag, concluding with singing "America."

Anniversary Ceremonies

The Anniversary Ceremonies in accordance with the ritual were carried out effectively and with dignity. Mrs. Merle Roberts with much feeling read the proclamation of the Grand Sire, after which "O Columbia the Gem of the Ocean" was enthusiastically sung.

Chairman Polet introduced Mr. Chas. D. Jones, who in a well prepared address, exemplified the principles and ideals of the Order.

Mrs. Allan Lee rendered God Bless America in a very artistic manner, which was received with prolonged applause.

Mrs. Andrew Nerland next introduced, spoke on the Rebekah Order. She pointed out the benefits, aspirations and teachings of the degree. The homes of the Order, for the care of the aged and orphans under the Rebekah's supervision is a wonderful undertaking.

The subject of patriotism which was entrusted to Mr. Chas. J. Clasby was, with conviction and loyalty, presented. The address was received with much enthusiasm.

Distinguished Visitors

Chairman Polet introduced two distinguished visitors, who were presented: Mr. Claude Hirst and Mr. Mize. Mr. Hirst is Superintendent of the Office of Indian Affairs in Alaska and Mr. Mize is construction engineer for the Office. Mr. Hirst responded on invitation that he was glad to be in Nome after an absence of three years.

The balance of the evening was spent in dancing. Refreshments were served during the evening. The Hall was decorated and "V," the emblem of Victory, was used as the motif.

The Nome High School Band rendered quite a concert, first to begin the entertainment and during the program a number of selections were played. Director Bernie Knudsen is entitled to a whole lot of praise for the pains taking efforts in maintaining and training the players. The members of the band are to be congratulated with much appreciation for their musical talent developed and we hope that the band may continue to remain organized during the summer to furnish music should the necessity arise.

To the leader, Mr. Knudsen, who is to make a change, we wish to extend to him the thanks of the community and wish him all kinds of luck in whatever new field he may embrace.