I would like to welcome each and everyone here.  And hope your stay will be a pleasurable one; and we look forward to seeing each of you next year. When in worry, When in doubt, Run in circles, Scream and shout! Did you know that the largest steam locomotive on the railroad could be held in place with one-inch blocks of wood placed in front and behind each of its driving wheels? However, when moving at open throttle, it had the momentum to break through a five foot thick wall of reinforced concrete. The question is "when should we step forward and offer ourselves for service.  .  .  . to work with projects that strengthens the foundation of our councils and develop the spirit of our existence?"  The time is now! Stagnant councils are hard to get moving; but once on a roll, they're hard to stop! We need a vision! If there is no vision and no plan, nothing is going to happen. If there are no activities, interest begins to die. No one feels it is worth their time to show up except for a handful of faithful and dedicated members. We need to make some changes - Some new ideas. Let's not say we never did it that way before.  I would like to suggest that the councils in areas, on the shore, western area, and Baltimore area form their own degree teams.  Not just for festivals, but everyday conferrals in their areas; and moving around to the meeting places of the councils.     You also know that -Attitude Matters Let's build positive leadership and work to harness negative energy to generate useful power. Remember a gentle tongue can turn away wrath. If we speak in positive thoughts about our councils and fraternity, we convey an attitude that this organization is worthwhile. If we whine and complain to everyone about everything, who will want to participate (much less join)?  I have seen letters sent out by the council/lodge which say something like, "if we can't get a better turnout for a meeting we're going to shut the doors. The Power of Image Building. Truth is, few people want to join a dying organization. If the organization is perceived as not viable, very few will want to participate. Older members are often happy with the way things are. They're not looking for change. So, what's the solution to rebuilding - attendance and membership? The answer is simple. The process is a bit more difficult. It takes finding new members. New members will bring new life into any organization. They do it with enthusiasm and excitement. While not everyone who joins will become involved, enough will get active to make a difference. I would suggest that our secretaries appoint a mentor to each of our new members; hopefully, someone who lives near them. The first line signer should also to be a mentor. Their job is to call the new member remind them of the next meeting, see if they need a ride, would they help in some small way in a degree. Show them around; go over the signs, make sure they attend the degrees as assigned. Let's also have some fun. At least once or twice a year, have a short meeting, a small talk, and have better refreshments or go and have dinner together. Part of belonging to an organization is the fellowship that should go along with your membership. Plan on getting a bulletin out at least every two months to let your members know what's going on.  We all forget dates and what's going on.  Send a postcard or a telephone call to remind them. Remember, to start a fire it only takes a small spark!  We have a challenge ahead of us - we can do this. We may not be the largest locomotive on the railroad, but remember the little engine that could. I think I can, I think I can. I think we can. I think we can. I know we can! So let's go out and do it. Thank you. M.I. Grand Master of R&S Council of Maryland, Ronald L. Aughenbaugh