RULES FOR WRITINGTRESTLEBOARDS
1. Remember, bad grammar don’t read good.
2. Be sure to proofread your writing to see if you any words out.
3. In your April trestleboard, as a courtesy to your brethren, remind them that “Spring is upon us.” There might be some who are unaware of this interesting annual phenomenon.
4. Be sure to get their names right, as in Jhon Smith.
5. Remember, coreckt spelling is esential.
6. Your June trestleboard should include this message: “Summer is upon us.” Some of your members might be aware of this, but don’t take chances.
7. Remember, don’t use no double negatives.
8. When referring to annual Lodge picnics, always say: “A good time was had by all,” even if there was some spoil sport who didn’t.
9. Don’t write run on sentences they are hard to read.
10. Don’t use commas, which aren’t really needed, unless, you just want to work on your comma drill.
11. In your October trestleboard remind the brethren that: “Fall is upon us.” This is a courtesy to your members living in high rise condos who don’t rake leaves, and who might not be aware of changing seasons.
12. In your final trestleboard (December) be certain to include the following: “Here it is December. It’s hard to believe that my year has gone by so fast.” Even though your year didn’t really go by so quickly, these words help fill up a little space – and besides, all other Masters will say the same thing.
Of course, this is all in fun, but it shows us some importantpoints.
1. Incorrect spelling or grammar in any written document doesnot show that the writer is “one of us” or a “normal”person. It shows that he either doesn’t know how to write correctly, or isn’twilling to get assistance from someone who knows how to edit. Of course, it’s agood idea to be sure that someone who knows how to edit should insure thatall the words in Lodge bulletins are spelled correctly, and that the grammar iscorrect, so educated people will feel this Lodge cares about the use ofproper English.
2. Avoid cliches, such as comments about the season orthe weather. These comments merely demonstrate that the writer doesn’t haveanything interesting to say. If you don’t make your Bulletin interesting, don’tbe at all surprised when you find that the Brethren are not bothering to readwhat you’re sending them. Go out of your way to make your Bulletinginteresting.
3. Be honest in what you say in Lodge bulletins. Youdon’t have to say you’re surprised that your year is concluding “soquickly.” Instead, talk about what you have accomplished, what youhave learned, what your advice is to the Brethren.
